Mexico customs rules & duty-free allowances

Last reviewed July 2, 2026·Official source

Mexico's customs uses a random traffic-light inspection system. The biggest risk for travelers is failing to declare cash over MXN 200,000 (approx. $10,000 USD), which can lead to seizure and fines. High-value electronics like laptops and cameras are often scrutinized, and the duty-free allowance is per person, not per family.

Duty-free allowances

Alcohol
1.0 L
1 liter of spirits over 22% ABV, OR 2 liters of wine/beer. Must be 18+. Duty-free value included in the $800 USD goods allowance.
Tobacco
200 cigarettes
or 50 cigars / 250 g
Cash to declare
$10,000
Declare if carrying MXN 200,000 or more (approx. $10,000 USD) in cash, checks, or money orders. Use the 'Declaración de Aduanas' form (SAT-01) on arrival.
Goods duty-free
$800
Duty-free allowance for personal goods up to $800 USD (or equivalent in MXN). Above that, 19% duty on the excess value. Does not apply to commercial quantities.

Prohibited — banned from import

  • Narcotics and psychotropic substances (including marijuana, even for medical use without a permit)
  • Firearms, ammunition, and explosives (except with special permit from SEDENA)
  • Counterfeit goods and pirated items (including fake designer clothing and electronics)
  • Endangered species products (e.g., ivory, sea turtle shells, crocodile leather) without CITES permit
  • Fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and dairy products (biosecurity risk)
  • Pornographic material (including child sexual abuse material, strictly illegal)

Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration

  • Medications containing controlled substances (e.g., codeine, diazepam) require a prescription and prior authorization from COFEPRIS
  • Drones and unmanned aircraft systems require registration with the Federal Telecommunications Institute (IFT) and a permit for use
  • Satellite phones and GPS trackers need authorization from the Ministry of Communications and Transportation
  • Cultural artifacts and antiques (pre-Columbian pieces) require an export permit from INAH
  • Cash or monetary instruments over MXN 200,000 (approx. $10,000 USD) must be declared

Arriving: red vs green channel

After collecting luggage, you'll pass through a traffic-light system: press a button, green means no inspection, red means a full baggage check. If you have nothing to declare, press the button and proceed. There is no separate customs declaration card for most travelers; the electronic form is filled out before arrival.

Tax-free shopping & VAT refunds

Mexico offers a VAT refund (IVA) for tourists on purchases over MXN 1,200 (approx. $60 USD) per receipt. Look for stores displaying 'Tax Free' or 'Global Blue'. At the airport, present the goods, receipts, and passport at the refund counter before check-in. Refund is 16% VAT minus a processing fee.

Bringing medication

Personal medications in original packaging with a prescription (in Spanish or English) for controlled substances. Narcotics, psychotropics, and some ADHD meds (e.g., Adderall) are strictly prohibited without prior authorization from COFEPRIS. Bring no more than a 90-day supply.

Food, plants & animal products

Declare all food, plants, seeds, and animal products. Fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and dairy are generally prohibited unless accompanied by a phytosanitary certificate. Processed, sealed commercial foods (e.g., canned goods) are allowed in small quantities for personal use.

Rules worth knowing

Traffic-light system

Mexico uses a random traffic-light button system. Press the button; green means no inspection, red means a full search. Do not attempt to bypass or tamper with the machine.

Per-person allowance, not per family

The $800 USD duty-free goods allowance is per individual traveler, not per family. Children under 18 have a reduced allowance of $300 USD.

Electronic goods scrutiny

Laptops, tablets, cameras, and smartphones are often inspected. If you bring more than one of each, customs may consider them commercial goods and charge duty. Keep receipts to prove personal use.

Cash declaration is mandatory

Failure to declare cash or monetary instruments over MXN 200,000 (approx. $10,000 USD) can result in seizure and fines up to 40% of the amount.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, but only processed, sealed commercial foods. Fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and dairy are banned. Declare all food items at customs to avoid fines.
No, but if you bring more than one laptop or tablet, customs may consider them commercial goods. Keep a receipt or proof of ownership to show it's for personal use.
You will undergo a full baggage inspection. If you have nothing to declare, it's just a delay. If you have undeclared goods, you may face fines or seizure.
Only with a valid prescription in English or Spanish and prior authorization from COFEPRIS. Without it, these are treated as controlled substances and can be confiscated.
No. The alcohol allowance applies only to travelers 18 years or older. Minors cannot bring any alcohol duty-free.
Yes, as long as they are for personal use and within the tobacco allowance (50 cigars). There is no embargo on Cuban goods in Mexico.
No, the declaration threshold is MXN 200,000 (approx. $10,000 USD). Below that, no declaration is needed, but you may still be asked about it.

Official source

Servicio de Administración Tributaria (SAT) - Aduanas

For guidance only. Customs allowances and prohibited-item lists change without notice — always confirm with Servicio de Administración Tributaria (SAT) - Aduanas before travelling.