Tips for Entering Mexico

Tips For Entering Mexico

Before crossing the border into Mexico, take a minute to
consider whether you're prepared, by answering the following
questions:

Do you have all of the documents you need?
Are you sure there aren't any weapons or ammunition in
the vehicle?
Are you transporting goods for which you'll need to pay
customs duties?

Travel Advisory

Although in general Sonora has not had the problems and
violence that other border locations have experienced, there is
currently a State Department travel advisory for Mexico.

Required Documentation

In addition to being aware of the documentation you'll need to
enter Sonora, also consider the documentation you'll need to
return to the U.S.

Mexican entry document requirements
U.S. return document requirements

Don't Bring Firearms or Ammunition

Mexican officials take this very seriously, and many Americans
have been imprisoned in Mexican jails because they forgot
that they had a weapon in their vehicle.

Personal Items

There are limits on the personal items tourists are permitted to
bring into Mexico. According to the U.S. Department of State
guidelines for visiting Mexico, in addition to clothing, tourists
are permitted to bring:

a camera
a video cassette player
a personal computer
a CD player
five DVDs, 20 music CDs or audiocassettes
Up to 12 rolls of unused film, and
a cellular phone

Customs Declarations

Tourists are permitted to bring personal items into Mexico, but
there are limits to other goods that can be brought in to the
country duty free.

The limit for gifts brought into Mexico (excluding alcohol
and tobacco) is $50 per person if arriving by land, and
$300 per person if arriving by air or sea.
rule 2.
Mexico has regulations regarding the importation of goods
for donation by individuals and charitable organizations. If
you or your organization is planning to take a large amount
of donated goods, such as clothing, into Mexico, it's best to
work with a border customs broker in preparing the
required documentation.

Red light - Green light

When entering Mexico in a vehicle (or if entering on foot with
luggage or packages), you will encounter a two-light stoplight
that will randomly display either green (pase) or red (revision,
or inspection).

If driving, the light will be triggered by the vehicle, and if
walking you will be asked to push a button to activate the
light. A red light means a full inspection of what you're
bringing into Mexico. Actually the light is just a formality,
because you may also be inspected after receiving the green
light as well.

Be Courteous

If selected for a random inspection, obey the directions of the
customs official. If you are bringing a significant number of
things into Mexico you may be asked to remove all of them
from the vehicle for inspection. Smile, be courteous and do
everything you are asked.