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Canada and Mexico Travel

What do I need to travel to Canada or Mexico?

Different countries may have different travel document requirements. It is best to check with the country you are visiting to determine the appropriate travel document requirements (for instance, whether you need a passport and/or visa). You can find out more by referring to the U.S. Department of State website.
 

Travel to Canada

For questions about travel to Canada contact the Canadian Border Services Agency.
 

Travel to Mexico

Warning: it's Illegal to Carry Firearms or Ammo into Mexico.

For border crossing information, tune into the port of entry’s Loop Radio on 1620 AM. To report drug and alien smuggling, call (956) 542-5811 in the U.S., 001800-0105237 from Mexico.
 

Prohibited/Permissible Items

  • All articles acquired in Canada and Mexico must be declared. There is an $800 exemption for gifts and personal articles, including one liter of alcoholic beverages per person over 21 every 30 days.
  • Check with State ABC laws and the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) regarding individual state requirements.
  • Cuban cigars are prohibited.
  • Check with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) about importing any medications prior to crossing into Mexico.
  • CBP has a zero-tolerance policy on illegal drugs. Any type, in any amount, may result in serious fines, seizure of vehicle, federal record and/or imprisonment.
  • Switchblade knives, sea turtle boots or any other articles of endangered species (i.e. spotted cats, coral, crocodile, elephant, etc.) are prohibited.

Prohibited/Permissible Agricultural Items

  • Most fruits, including oranges and apples are prohibited.
  • Do not take U.S. fruits and meats to Mexico. You cannot bring them back.
  • Before you go to Mexico, ask a CBP Agriculture Specialist for a list of items you can bring back.
  • Fines of $300 to $1,000 may result if you fail to declare agricultural items.

 

Last Modified: Oct 23, 2023