Law and Culture
Laws and culture
You must abide by local laws.
Penalties for breaking the law in Mexico can be more severe than in Canada, even for similar offences.
Foreign nationals are often held in pre-trial detention and there can be lengthy delays before a trial.
Many petty crimes (such as public urination, failure to pay a bill or disorderly behaviour) can result in a 72-hour detention by police. Paying a fine can secure an early release from detention.
Detention conditions are below the standards of Canadian prisons.
Drugs
Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect lengthy prison sentences.
Tobacco
Smoking is prohibited in all public places except for clearly marked designated smoking areas. This includes but is not limited to:
beaches
parks
hotels
markets
restaurants
You may be fined if you’re caught smoking in public.
Electronic cigarettes
It’s illegal to bring electronic cigarettes/vaping devices and solutions into Mexico.
You could have these items confiscated by customs officials if you have them in your possession. You could also be fined or detained.
It is strictly prohibited to sell or distribute these devices and solutions in Mexico.
Artefacts
It’s illegal to possess archaeological artefacts or to export such items from Mexico.
Political activity
It’s illegal for foreigners to conduct political activity in Mexico, including participating in demonstrations.
2SLGBTQI+ travellers
Mexican law does not prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. However, homosexuality is not widely accepted in Mexican society, particularly in rural areas.
2SLGBTQI+ travellers could be discriminated against based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression or sex characteristics. Transgender and gender non-conforming individuals are disproportionately targeted for violence and can face discrimination.
Rental accommodations
Rental agreements between two individuals in Mexico are considered a private matter and are not regulated by the government.
If you encounter difficulties with a rental agreement, you must obtain the services of a Mexican lawyer.
Timeshares
Problems with timeshare arrangements occur.
Timeshare representatives may be very persistent. They use pressure tactics and offer free tours, meals, gifts or alcoholic beverages.
It's illegal for timeshare companies to ask you to sign a waiver that prevents you from cancelling a contract. You're legally entitled to cancel a timeshare contract without penalty within 5 working days. Contracts must be cancelled in writing directly with the timeshare company.
Before purchasing a timeshare:
gather as much information as possible
review carefully the contract; anything not included in the contract will not be honoured
provide your credit card only if you are sure you want to make the purchase
keep copies of all correspondence
If you suspect a fraud in the real estate procedures, contact the Federal Attorney’s Office of Consumer immediately.
Driving
You should carry an international driving permit.
Accidents
If you’re involved in a traffic accident, you may face serious legal problems, including imprisonment. You could be taken into custody until responsibility for the accident is determined and all fines are paid. You must report any accident you’re involved in to the police.