(Last updated: 29 July 2012)
Security and health
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) provides advice for business travellers and tourists going to Mexico. This is regularly updated, and should be checked before planning travel.
It is strongly recommended that Australian travellers take out comprehensive travel insurance that will cover any overseas medical costs, before their departure. They should confirm that their insurance covers them for the whole time they will be away and check what circumstances and activities are not included in their policy.
It is also recommended for Australian travellers to register, before travelling, on the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade website, in case of an emergency.
Security
Street crime can be a problem, particularly in Mexico's larger cities such as Mexico City, Guadalajara and Monterrey. Visitors should exercise normal caution and always be aware of surroundings, especially when using banks and ATM facilities. Specifically, visitors should be aware of the following:
- Use ATMs only during the business day at large protected facilities, preferably inside commercial centres
- Carry only enough cash or credit cards for each outing
- Do not hail taxis in the street - only use taxis from authorised taxi ranks or hotels
- Keep car doors locked when in a car or a taxi and keep wallets/purses and valuables out of sight
- Always carry identification
- Avoid wearing expensive or obvious jewellery or watches
Health
No vaccinations are required when travelling to Mexico, however it is important to take normal, sensible precautions:
- Avoid drinking tap water
- Avoid eating at street stands
- Check that vegetables, salads and fruits have been disinfected before eating
- Raw meats and seafood should also be approached with caution
Top Business Risks
OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises
Multinational Enterprises should be aware of the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises that provide voluntary principles and standards for responsible business behaviour in a variety of areas, consistent with applicable domestic laws. These Guidelines are endorsed and promoted by the Australian Government. For more information, go to the AusNCP website.
APEC Business Travel Card Scheme
Managed by the Department of Immigration, the APEC Business Travel Card Scheme was developed to make travelling within the 21 APEC member countries much simpler and more efficient.