Emergency Numbers
US State Department Travel Advisory
As of 2024, Mexico has a Level 2 (Exercise Increased Caution) overall advisory, with specific states rated higher.
State-by-State Ratings
Yucatan
Level 2 - Exercise Caution
Campeche
Level 2 - Exercise Caution
CDMX
Level 2 - Exercise Caution
Quintana Roo
Level 2 - Exercise Caution*
Jalisco
Level 3 - Reconsider Travel
Guanajuato
Level 3 - Reconsider Travel
Sinaloa
Level 4 - Do Not Travel
Tamaulipas
Level 4 - Do Not Travel
💡 Note: Travel advisories assess overall state risk. Tourist zones within "caution" states (like Cancun in Quintana Roo or Puerto Vallarta in Jalisco) often have strong security presence and lower crime than surrounding areas.
Areas to Avoid
🚨 Level 4 - Do Not Travel States: Colima, Guerrero, Michoacan, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas, Zacatecas. These states have extreme crime and kidnapping risk. Avoid all travel.
High-Risk Situations
- Driving at night between cities, especially in northern and western states
- Remote roads and highways known for carjacking
- Border towns outside designated crossing areas
- Certain neighborhoods in Mexico City (Tepito, Doctores at night)
- Flash protests and roadblocks - do not attempt to drive through
Common Crimes Affecting Expats
Petty Theft & Pickpocketing
The most common crime. Be vigilant in:
- Public transportation (Metro, buses)
- Tourist areas and markets
- Restaurants (bag snatching)
- Beaches (unattended belongings)
Express Kidnapping
Victim is held briefly while ATM withdrawals are made. Minimize risk:
- Use ATMs inside banks during business hours
- Avoid hailing taxis on the street - use apps (Uber, Didi, Cabify)
- Don't display expensive jewelry or watches
Virtual Kidnapping Scams
Phone scammers claim to have kidnapped a family member and demand ransom. Always verify by contacting the supposed victim directly before paying anything.
⚠️ ATM Safety: "ATM skimming" is common. Cover the keypad when entering your PIN. Use bank ATMs in well-lit, secure locations. Notify your bank of travel to avoid fraud holds.
Safety Tips for Daily Life
- Keep a low profile - Don't flash cash, jewelry, or expensive electronics
- Vary your routine - Don't take the same route at the same time daily
- Use ride apps - Uber, Didi, and Cabify are safer than street taxis
- Register with your embassy - STEP for Americans, equivalent for other countries
- Learn some Spanish - Basic communication helps in emergencies
- Don't resist robbery - Property is replaceable, you are not
- Share your location - Let someone know your plans, especially for road trips
- Carry copies - Keep copies of passport and residency card separate from originals
If You're a Crime Victim
Immediate Steps
- Ensure your safety first
- Call 911 for police (may need Spanish speaker)
- Contact your embassy for assistance
- File a police report (denuncia) at the Ministerio Público
- Get a copy of the report for insurance claims
💡 Tourist Police: In tourist areas, look for Policía Turística - they typically speak English and are trained to assist foreigners.