As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, the U.S. State Department has updated its travel advisory for Americans planning to attend matches in Mexico, one of the host countries alongside the United States and Canada. The advisory, issued on May 29, maintains a ‘Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution’ warning due to concerns about terrorism, crime, and kidnapping.

Travel Advisory Details

Mexico is set to host World Cup matches in Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey. The advisory specifically warns of violent crime in certain areas, including homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, sexual assault, and robbery. It also notes that the U.S. government’s ability to provide emergency assistance may be limited in remote regions where emergency services are unavailable.

Travelers are advised to avoid traveling between cities after dark, use dispatched taxis or app-based ride services, and avoid traveling alone in remote areas. Compliance with security checkpoints is strongly urged, as ignoring instructions can result in harm.

Regional Risk Levels

Risk levels vary across Mexico, with six states under a Level 4 ‘Do Not Travel’ advisory: Colima, Guerrero, Michoacán, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas, and Zacatecas. Several other states, including Baja California, Chihuahua, Guanajuato, and Jalisco, are classified as Level 3, meaning Americans should reconsider travel. Among the World Cup host locations, Mexico City and Nuevo León (Monterrey) are under a Level 2 advisory, while Jalisco (Guadalajara) is at Level 3.

Preparation and Safety Measures

Americans traveling abroad are encouraged to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for security updates and emergency contact. The State Department also recommends reviewing local laws and customs, monitoring embassy alerts, and purchasing travel insurance before departure. Those attending World Cup matches should review the latest guidance from the U.S. Embassy.

Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.