When will international travel return? A country-by-country guide to coronavirus recovery

 When will international travel return? A country-by-country guide to coronavirus recovery

Mexico

Mexico City in August 2019. (Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)

Mexico began a slow regional reopening on June 29, 2020, and many coronavirus restrictions have been lifted. However, widespread community transmission remains a current concern and there is a federal “stoplight” system that limits activities in some regions.

Mexico eagerly flung open its doors to Americans — and has never required testing for entry. At first, it was just beach destinations such as Cancun, but now even Mexico City is open for tourism. 

Related: Mexico reopening its beaches

All Mexican airports are open to Americans. Tourists are advised that enhanced screening and cleaning procedures are in effect. There are also health checks at all airports, but no testing requirements. However, as of Jan. 26, everyone age 2 and older traveling to the U.S. from Mexico is required to show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed health care provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

Many Mexico resorts have begun to offer on-property rapid antigen and PCR tests for guests returning to the U.S.

Mexico saw a major surge in cases in late December 2020 and early January 2021 following an influx of tourists. The U.S. Department of State’s travel advisory for Mexico is Level 3: Reconsider Travel.

Related: Everything you need to know before visiting Mexico

According to the U.S. Embassy in Mexico, community transmission remains widespread. No states have been deemed “red” under Mexico’s stoplight system for the period ending July 4, but five states — including Quintana Roo, home to Cancun and Riviera Maya — is “orange,” requiring capacity restrictions of 50% in hotels and restaurants.

The U.S.–Mexico land border is closed to nonessential travel until at least July 21.

Related: What it’s like traveling to the Cancun area during a COVID-19 spike