Customs

We have all the information about new passport regulations and the necessary forms for our clients. We would be happy to mail you a packet with all the info you need. For more information, please call us at 1-800-745-2226.

Before Departure Change in Entry/Departure Requirements
Effective June 1, 2009, all U.S. citizens are now required to present a passport book, passport card, or WHTI-compliant document when traveling to or from Mexico or Canada. Please visit the U.S. Department of State official Travel Initiative site for more detailed information.

Information on obtaining or renewing your passport can be accessed through the TIA Passport portal.

For more complete information on obtaining and renewing passports, including forms to renew by mail and expedited service options, see the U.S. Department of State Passport site.

Canadian Passengers Effective March 1, 2010, Canadian travelers to Mexico are required to present a valid passport as per the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. Visit the Canadian Passport Website for more information.

Minors
In addition to possessing one of the forms of documentation mentioned above, an unaccompanied U.S. or Canadian citizen under 18 years of age must have the following:

• If traveling alone, the minor must carry a notarized letter signed by both parents giving permission to do so.
• If traveling with one parent, he or she must have a notarized letter from the absent parent giving permission for the traveling parent to take the minor out of the country, or an original court order indicating that the traveling parent has full custody.
• If the minor is traveling with one parent, and the other is deceased, the deceased parent’s Death Certificate must be presented.

Immigration requirements are subject to change by the Mexican Government.

En route to Mexico, you’ll be given a baggage declaration form and asked to itemize what you’re bringing into the country. You'll also be provided a MEXICO TOURIST CARD - do not lose this as you'll need it to exit the coutnry.

All U.S. citizens bringing gifts to friends and relatives in Mexico should be prepared to demonstrate to Mexican customs officials the origin and the value of the gifts. U.S. citizens entering Mexico by the land border can bring in gifts with a value of up to $50 duty-free, except for alcohol and tobacco products. Those entering Mexico by air or sea can bring in gifts with a value of up to $300 duty-free.

Tourists are allowed to bring in personal effects duty-free. According to customs regulations, in addition to clothing, personal effects may include a camera, video camera, laptop computer, CD player, 10 DVDs, 30 music CDs or audio cassettes, 12 rolls of unused film, and a cellular phone. To avoid duty fees on valuable items upon return, you may find it beneficial to register these items with U.S. Customs. DO NOT bring firearms, meat, vegetables, plants, fruit, or flowers into the country. Be cautious about any in-airport timeshare pitches.

After checking out, make sure you head to the airport on time. Have proper documentation on hand, especially the MEXICO TOURIST CARD you received on the flight to Los Cabos. Prohibited Items – For Guests from the U.S.

Before you pack that papaya into your travel pouch, or adopt that friendly iguana, be sure to check out the U.S. Customs guidelines on items prohibited or restricted when entering the U.S.

For information on importing pets and wildlife, consult the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agency, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

U.S. Customs: The U.S. Customs Service currently permits U.S. citizens returning from international travel to bring back $800 worth of merchandise, including 1 liter of alcohol, duty-free. Additional amounts are subject to applicable duty fees. Some U.S. border states (most notably, Texas) also have imposed restrictions on liquor, wine and beer imports from Mexico. Inquire about restrictions with the liquor control office of the state through which you will return. It is illegal to bring Cuban goods into the U.S. Although some items are allowed, it is best not to bring back fruits, vegetables, meat or dairy products.