Stay Informed. Sign up for the free Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive the latest travel updates and information! When you sign up, you will automatically receive the most current information we compile about the country where you will be traveling or living. You will also receive updates, including Travel Warnings and Travel Alerts (where appropriate). You only need to sign up once, and then you can add and delete trips from your account based on your current travel plans!
Mexico
Enrolling in STEP provides the State Department the ability to assist you better in the case of an emergency, such as if you lose your passport or it is stolen while you are abroad. They also assist U.S. citizens in other emergencies, such as in natural disasters. The travel and contact information you enter into STEP will make it easier for consular officers in U.S. embassies and consulates around the world to contact you and your loved ones during an emergency—including situations where your family or friends in the U.S. are having problems trying to contact you with important news.
U.S. Consulate General - Matamoros Calle Primera #2002 Colonia Jardín Matamoros, Tamaulipas, México 87330 Phones: From Mexico: (868)-208-2000 From the U.S.: 52 11 (868) 208-2000 E-mail: MatamorosUSCitizens@ state.gov or MatamorosACS@ state.gov
Consulate of Mexico Brownsville, TX 301 Mexico Blvd, Suite F-2 Brownsville, TX 78520 Phone: 956-542-4431 or 956-542-2051 conbrownsville@sre.gob.mx
60 spichamber.com
U.S. Department of Homeland Security Customs and Border Protection
There is an $800 exemption for gifts and personal articles, but all articles acquired in Mexico must be declared. 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. It is also illegal to carry firearms or ammo into Mexico. Switchblade knives, sea turtle boots or any other articles of endangered species (i.e. spotted cats, coral, crocodile, elephant, etc) are prohibited.
What types of documents are accepted for entry into the United States?
U.S. citizens can present a valid U.S. Passport; Passport Card; Enhanced Driver’s License; Trusted Traveler Program card (NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST); U.S. Military identification card when traveling on official orders; U.S. Merchant Mariner document when traveling in conjunction with official maritime business; or Form I-872 American Indian Card, or (when available) Enhanced Tribal Card. U.S. and Canadian citizen children under the age of 16 (or under 19, if traveling with a school, religious group, or other youth group) need only present a birth certificate or other proof of citizenship. The birth certificate can be original, photocopy, or certified copy. The Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) does not affect U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents, who are still required to present their permanent resident card (Form I-551) or other valid evidence of permanent residence status. Canadian citizens can present a valid passport, Enhanced Driver’s License, or Trusted Traveler Program card (NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST). Bermudian citizens are required to present a valid passport. Mexican citizens, including children, are required to present a passport with visa, or a Border Crossing Card. Travelers without WHTI-compliant documents will be delayed at the border as U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers work to verify identity and citizenship.
