COVID-19: What you Need to Know Before Traveling to Mexico

If you are planning to visit Mexico during the following weeks, here is a brief description of the basics you need to know and expect during this most recent COVID-19 wave.

The Basics

Mexico is open to travelers. At this time, it is not necessary to provide a negative PCR test or quarantine upon arrival, although most Mexican resorts ask guests to fill out a health questionnaire. In addition, there are different health screenings at airports.

Since December 6th, 2021, all American air travelers (ages 2 and older) returning to their home country must have a negative COVID-19 test result within one day of their departing flight, regardless of vaccination status. This is part of the general travel restrictions that the United States has implemented due to the Omicron variant.

Currently, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advise travelers to be fully vaccinated before traveling to Mexico, since our country is rated at Level 3 (“high” risk. Level 4 is “very high” risk).

Restrictions

Travelers to our country must complete a health declaration form and scan the QR code it generates on arrival.

There is no need to take a test before departure to Mexico or undertake any form of quarantine.

Some Mexican states or cities might have tighter restrictions. For example, here in Jalisco, where Puerto Vallarta is located, a vaccination certificate or a negative PCR test result taken within 48 hours is required to enter spaces such as casinos, bars, clubs, stadiums, concerts, event spaces, convention centers and large events.

Visitors may want to inquire with their hotels or resorts about any local directives before committing to plans.

COVID-19 Situation

During these two years of the pandemic, Mexico has had around 4.7 million cases of COVID-19. As of January 24th, 2022, our country had administered almost 160 million doses of vaccines.

What Can Visitors Expect?

Just like a traffic like, Mexico has a four-tier system of restrictions, with red signifying maximum restrictions, orange limiting capacity in public spaces and at work to 30%, yellow allowing for all work to resume and public gatherings to take place, and green meaning there are no restrictions in place.

Jalisco, home to Puerto Vallarta: yellow.

Visitors are likely to find situations differ depending on where in the country they travel, with local restrictions varying.

Source: MercuryNews.com.