April 02, 2020

FAQs for US Citizens in Mexico


  • Should I stay in Mexico or return to the United States?
    • The answer to this question will be different for every person or family, depending on what resources you have available to you – including housing, money, and health insurance. If you live in the US and are in Mexico temporarily, the US State Department recommends that you return home as soon as possible unless you are prepared to stay in Mexico indefinitely.

  • I’m in Mexico on a tourist visa. Will the Mexican government extend my visa so I can avoid traveling?
    • The Instituto Nacional de Migración (INM) has not provided any information about coronavirus-related tourist visa extensions.

  • Is the US-Mexico border closed?
    • No. The US and Mexico governments have agreed to restrict non-essential travel across the land border between the two countries. You can read more about these restrictions at mx.usembassy.gov/wha-press-guidance
    • There are currently no government restrictions on air travel; however, many airlines are canceling flights due to low traffic, sometimes with little notice.

  • What if I need help from the US Embassy?
    • The US Embassy has suspended most routine services, however, appointments are still available for essential services including lost, stolen, or expired passports. Email [email protected] or call 55-8526-2561.

  • How can I get updates from the US Embassy or the US State Department?
    • Sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program at step.state.gov to receive email updates from the US Embassy and US Consulates in Mexico.

  • Where can I get information about coronavirus in Mexico?
    • Official updates from the Mexican government are available at coronavirus.gob.mx. For information specific to Mexico City, visit covid19.cdmx.gob.mx, text covid19 to 51515, or call (55) 5658-1111.

  • What should I do to stay safe?
    • Mexico is encouraging all residents to stay at home (#QuedateEnCasa) as much as possible. If you do need to go out, try to maintain a healthy distance (Sana Distancia) of at least 1.5 meters or 4 feet from other people. Avoid using public transportation, especially during peak hours. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

  • What if I think I have COVID-19?
    • You can use the diagnostic tool at test.covid19.cdmx.gob.mx (also available by texting covid19 to 51515) to determine whether your symptoms are consistent with COVID-19. The tool is available in English and Spanish and will generate a case number that you can use to call (55) 5658-1111 for further instructions. 
    • Your doctor’s office and/or insurance company may offer consultations via video or phone. You can also use Doctoralia to search for physicians in Mexico that offer virtual visits.
    • If you are exhibiting symptoms, make sure to call ahead before visiting any health care provider so they can instruct you on appropriate precautions to limit possible exposure to others. 
  • Am I eligible to receive the COVID-19 stimulus payment under the CARES Act?
    • US citizens living outside the United States are still eligible for the stimulus payment. Payments will be issued by direct deposit if you provided bank information on a 2018 or 2019 tax return, or if you receive direct deposits from the Social Security Administration. The IRS has also said they will set up a website to allow people to submit direct deposit information rather than receiving checks in the mail. Visit  IRS.gov/coronavirus for the latest information.

  • When do I need to file my taxes?
    • The deadline for filing and paying US tax returns has been extended to July 15, 2020. The deadline for FATCA reporting for US citizens with foreign bank accounts has also been extended to July 15, 2020.

  • Can I participate in the US Census?
    • Citizens living abroad are not counted in the census unless they work for the US government. If you live in the United States and are in Mexico temporarily, you should respond to the census based on where you normally live as of April 1. (Note that for security reasons, the online census form at 2020census.gov will reject attempts to complete the census from outside the US; however, you may be able to complete the form using a VPN, or on a US cell phone data plan).

  • Can I vote from Mexico?
    • Yes! Visit votefromabroad.org to register and request your ballot for the 2020 elections! Reach out if you need any help, and we’ll be happy to walk you through it!