Is a COVID Test Necessary for Traveling to Mexico?

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Americans have continued to travel to Mexico, despite worldwide travel restrictions and border closures. (The exception? The U.S.–Mexico border was only closed to land travel, not air travel.) Mexico remains one of the most lenient countries regarding travel requirements, so we anticipate that Americans will keep planning their Cancun getaways.

Even with the country's relatively relaxed regulations, there are still important considerations. Do you need a COVID test to travel to Mexico? Is vaccination required for entry? What are the rules for returning to the United States?

Most pertinent information can be found on the U.S. Embassy to Mexico’s website, but we’ll simplify it by summarizing the essentials. Here’s what you need to know about traveling to—and from—Mexico right now.

Fundamentals of Traveling to Mexico

Mexico is now welcoming travelers, and the land border between the U.S. and Mexico reopened for non-essential travel on November 8, 2021. This means you can reach the country by train, car, flight, cruise ship, ferry, and virtually any other means of transportation you can think of.

The Mexican government recommends that tourists wear face masks in public areas and maintain social distancing. Some states also impose curfews, so make sure to verify the specific regulations of your destination before planning late-night activities.

It’s important to mention that both the U.S. State Department and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) currently advise against traveling to Mexico. As of December 8, the U.S. Department of State issued a level 3 advisory, urging people to “reconsider travel” to Mexico. The CDC has also classified Mexico with a level 3 (high) travel advisory and recommends that everyone be fully vaccinated before traveling internationally.

Traveling to Mexico and COVID Testing

Is a negative COVID test required for entry into Mexico? In brief: no. However, you must still fill out a health declaration, which includes general questions about your health and recent possible exposures to COVID.

Health screening measures are in place at airports and other entry points, and individuals displaying symptoms may face additional restrictions. The U.S. Embassy states: "Passengers and crew arriving at Mexican airports may undergo health screenings, including temperature checks. Those showing symptoms may be subject to further health evaluations and/or quarantine."

However, a COVID test is necessary for re-entry into the United States. As of December 6, the State Department mandates a negative viral COVID test (PCR or antigen; an at-home test is acceptable if supervised by a telehealth service) taken no more than one day before travel. This requirement applies to all air travelers entering the country, including U.S. citizens and those fully vaccinated.

Vaccination Requirements for Traveling to Mexico

Mexico does not mandate vaccinations for entry, though the CDC strongly advises travelers to get vaccinated before crossing the border.

U.S. citizens do not need to be fully vaccinated to return to the United States by air. However, non-citizen air travelers must show proof of being fully vaccinated with an authorized COVID-19 vaccine.

While there are no strict vaccine mandates for re-entry, the CDC advises all travelers, regardless of their vaccination status, to undergo a viral test three to five days after their return and to monitor themselves for any COVID-19 symptoms. Additionally, if you are not fully vaccinated, the CDC recommends a self-quarantine for seven days post-travel.