Americans don't need to shelter in place in Mexico: State Dept
TL;DR
The U.S. State Department clarifies there is no nationwide shelter-in-place order for Americans in Mexico, but advises caution in specific high-risk regions due to security concerns. Travelers should avoid non-essential travel to these areas, enroll in STEP, and follow local guidance.
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Americans don't need to shelter in place in Mexico: State Dept
U.S. Embassy Clarifies Security Advisories for Travelers in Mexico
The U.S. Department of State has not issued a nationwide directive for Americans to shelter in place in Mexico, despite localized security alerts in specific regions. Recent advisories highlight targeted concerns in areas such as Jalisco, Tamaulipas, Michoacán, Guerrero, and Nuevo León, where ongoing security operations and criminal activity have prompted temporary precautions. These alerts emphasize avoiding law enforcement activity zones, monitoring local media, and adhering to emergency protocols, but they do not extend to a broad shelter-in-place order for all U.S. citizens in Mexico.
The State Department's broader travel advisory for Mexico underscores persistent risks, including violent crime, kidnapping, and drug-related violence, but encourages travelers to exercise caution rather than impose sweeping restrictions. U.S. citizens are advised to avoid non-essential travel to high-risk areas, enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), and follow local authorities' guidance. The advisory also notes limited U.S. government capacity to assist in remote regions and stresses compliance with road checkpoints to mitigate risks.
For investors and financial professionals, the Department of State's guidance highlights the importance of assessing regional security dynamics alongside economic opportunities. While certain areas face elevated risks, major tourist destinations and business hubs remain accessible with standard safety measures. Travelers are urged to review entry requirements, health protocols, and insurance coverage, as medical facilities and emergency services vary across Mexico.
In summary, the U.S. government's stance emphasizes situational awareness and targeted precautions rather than a universal shelter-in-place directive. Travelers are advised to consult official resources and real-time security updates, to make informed decisions aligned with their specific itineraries and risk tolerance.
Ongoing Security Operations – U.S. Mission Mexico (February 22, 2026)
Mexico Travel Advisory (February 24, 2026)
