The U.S. State Department has updated its travel advisory for Americans planning to travel internationally this summer, particularly those attending the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The advisory, issued on May 29, applies to Mexico, one of the three host countries for the tournament alongside the United States and Canada. It maintains a 'Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution' warning due to concerns about terrorism, crime, and kidnapping.
Mexico will host matches in Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey. The advisory highlights that violent crime, including homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, sexual assault, and robbery, is a concern in certain areas. The U.S. government's ability to provide emergency assistance may be limited in remote regions.
Six states are under a Level 4 'Do Not Travel' advisory: Colima, Guerrero, Michoacán, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas, and Zacatecas. Other states, such as Baja California, Chihuahua, Guanajuato, and Jalisco, are classified as Level 3, indicating that Americans should reconsider travel. Mexico City and Nuevo León, home to Monterrey, are under a Level 2 advisory, while Jalisco, where Guadalajara is located, is designated as Level 3.
Travelers are advised to avoid traveling between cities after dark, use dispatched taxis or app-based ride services, and avoid traveling alone in remote areas. The advisory also emphasizes the importance of complying with security checkpoints. Americans are encouraged to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for security updates and emergency contact. Additionally, reviewing local laws and customs, monitoring embassy alerts, and purchasing travel insurance are recommended before departure.
