Mexico
The laws most likely to catch a visitor off guard. What is legal at home can be a serious crime here — each rule links to its official source.
Get alerted when this changesLawLert pings you if Mexico's laws change. Free.Get the free appDrugs
Do not get involved with drugs of any kind in Mexico — penalties for drug offences are severe and convictions carry sentences of up to 25 years.
Convictions for drug offences carry sentences of up to 25 years.
§ UK FCDO — MexicoCannabis
Marijuana is illegal in Mexico. Drug possession and use is a crime — including marijuana, even if its use is allowed in the U.S. state where you live — and importing drugs, including medical marijuana, is illegal.
Long jail sentences or fines (U.S. State Department).
§ US State Dept — MexicoMedications
Some common US over-the-counter medicines are illegal to bring into Mexico — anything containing stimulants such as pseudoephedrine (Actifed, Sudafed, Vicks inhalers) or codeine is prohibited.
Prohibited medicines can be seized; carry a Spanish-translated prescription for controlled prescription drugs.
§ US Embassy MexicoWeapons
Bringing ANY firearm or ammunition into Mexico without a Mexican permit is a serious crime — even a single round. U.S. carry permits are NOT valid.
Lengthy imprisonment and large fines.
§ U.S. Embassy MexicoIt is almost always illegal in Mexico to carry weapons such as knives, swords, brass knuckles, or fireworks and explosives - bringing them into Mexico without a Mexican government permit is a serious crime.
Large fines or imprisonment.
§ US State Dept - MexicoCustoms & Cash
You must declare to Mexican customs if you enter or leave Mexico carrying US$10,000 or more (or the equivalent) in cash or monetary instruments.
Undeclared cash can be seized and fined.
§ US State Dept — MexicoVaping / E-cigs
It is illegal to bring e-cigarettes, vapes, or vaping liquids into Mexico — do not pack them even for personal use; violations bring entry delays, fines, or criminal charges.
Entry delays, fines, or criminal charges (US State Dept).
§ US State Dept — MexicoLGBTQ+ Safety
There are no legal restrictions on same-sex relationships or events in Mexico, though there are occasional reports of violence against gay and lesbian people.
§ US State Dept — Mexico