Gun Laws in Mexico: Can Tourists Carry Firearms Legally?

Thinking about a sunny vacation south of the border? Wondering if you can bring your gun to Mexico for protection? There’s plenty of reasons to load up the family car and head for one of Mexico’s famous beaches. But there are some things you should leave at home – and that includes firearms and ammunition.

Foreign citizens crossing the border to Mexico face arrest if carrying firearms or ammunition even if they legally possess them in the U.S. and routinely keep a firearm in their vehicle.

Mexico laws on possession and importation of firearms and ammunition are extremely rigid and do not allow citizens possession/importation/transportation of firearms and ammunition. These laws are enforced at border crossing, custom searches, military checkpoints, and on highways.

Another important law concerns car insurance. If you are driving to Mexico, be sure and purchase the required Mexico auto insurance. It is not legal to drive in Mexico with your U.S. car insurance only.

Introduction to Mexico Gun Laws for Tourists

Just as in the states, Mexican citizens have the right to keep and bear arms under Article 10 of the Mexican Constitution of 1857. Over the years, this has been amended a couple of times to further clarify that “keep” means within the home only and “bear” means only to those authorized by law. In 1972, the Federal Law of Firearms and Explosive was enacted, making it harder for citizens to have legal access to firearms.

In fact, there are only two places in the whole country where one can legally purchase a firearm and the paperwork is daunting. Citizens can own one handgun and up to nine rifles if they are a member of a hunting club. Mexico is not generally a carry legal country.

Tourists and Firearms: What You Need to Know

It is illegal and considered a crime to enter Mexico with a firearm or ammunition without a permit. Mexico’s custom agents at the border do not issue gun permits and anyone entering the country with a firearm or ammunition without a permit could face detention, high fines, confiscation of the firearms and vehicle, and up to five years of prison.

Tourists and Temporary Visitors with Guns

Regardless of whether you are spending a week with your family at the beach or staying little longer to explore historical ruins, tourists may not carry a gun unless they have a special permit issued by Mexico’s Secretaria Nacional de la Defensa (SEDENA).

Regulations on Importing Firearms as a Tourist

Mexico is famous as a destination for hunting enthusiasts, featuring a wide variety of game species. It is also considered more affordable than hunting destinations in other parts of the world. That said, tourists may only enter Mexico with a hunting firearm after they have received an invitation from a registered shooting or hunting club located in Mexico.

Restrictions and Prohibitions for Non-residents

If you choose to apply for a special permit, you’ll need to be able to prove your usage intention. For example, your occupation or employment, circumstances related to your place of residence or other grounds. Those involved in farming, communal farms, rural workers and others who may face dangers relating to wildlife may have legal handguns, .22 caliber rifles and shotguns with a license.

Consequences of Illegal Firearm Possession

If you are found to be in possession of an illegal firearm in Mexico (or any country, really), you face some steep consequences. This can include:

• Fines
• Confiscation of weapon or firearm
• Confiscation of vehicle
• Prison time of 5-30 years

These penalties may be enacted for a single round of ammunition. So, be sure and carefully scrutinize your luggage, especially if you use that same luggage for hunting trips in the U.S. Keep in mind the U.S. Embassy cannot represent you in court, pay your legal fees, fines or get you out of jail. They can assist you in contacting your family and helping you find an attorney.

Prepare For Your Next Trip to Mexico

Mexico is our friendly neighbor to the south, but it is still a foreign country with its own rules and regulations visitors must follow. Having a clear understanding of what is required will go a long way to making your trip the enjoyable visit it should be. Besides plenty of sunscreen and maps, your list of preparations should include:

• Having all your documentation ready, including your Temporary Import Permit (TIP) and your Visa (FMM)
• Bringing your passport
• Bringing a valid vehicle registration
• Purchasing required Mexico auto insurance

Mexican Auto Insurance

Your U.S.-based car insurance will not be valid in Mexico. The country requires you to purchase auto coverage from a carrier licensed to do business there. It’s simple to purchase this online before you go, eliminating one hassle early. Mexico car insurance requires liability in case you cause an accident.

If you are caught driving in Mexico without the required insurance, the consequences may be severe – especially if you cause an accident. You may face having your vehicle impounded, while you go to jail.

Buying your insurance from a long-standing and respected provider is the best bet. Sanborn’s Mexico Auto Insurance has been in business for 75 years, helping thousands of drivers travel safely to and from Mexico. Don’t forget to ask them about the added benefits of working with them. Give them a call at 800-222-0158 or simply find a fast and free quote through their website. They also have offices in three border states where you can visit in person.

Embassies and Consulates: Points of Contact for Legal Advice

There are numerous U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Mexico. They are there to provide a variety of services to Americans traveling there, including emergency services, vehicle recovery, travel alerts and much more. As part of your prep for your trip, make a note of embassies near your planned destinations.

Safety Tips for Tourists Traveling Without Firearms

Thousands of U.S. citizens travel to Mexico every year and have a great trip. There are some tips for tourists to make your vacation as safe as possible, including:

• Pay attention to Mexico travel advisories issued by the U.S. government and avoid these areas.
• Don’t flash a lot of cash and don’t wear expensive jewelry.
• Avoid traveling at night and don’t walk around at night by yourself.
• Don’t get drunk away from your resort or hotel. If you do, don’t drive. Have a sober friend with you who can get you back to your hotel.
• Common courtesy will go a long ways.
• Understand the Mexico travel documents you will need as a tourist.

If you are driving in Mexico, familiarize yourself ahead of time with some driving tips.

FAQs about Gun Laws in Mexico for Tourists

Whatever your reason for driving to Mexico, understanding the rules makes for a stress-free trip. Here are some common questions and answers around carrying firearms and ammunition into Mexico.

Can Tourists Bring Their Own Firearms into Mexico Legally?

For the most part, the answer is no. It is illegal for tourists to bring firearms or ammunition into Mexico.

Are There Any Circumstances Where Tourists Can Carry Firearms in Mexico?

Tourists who are going to Mexico to hunt may bring their firearms with a special permit issued by Mexico’s Secretaria Nacional de la Defensa (SEDENA).

What Should I Do If Stopped by Authorities While Carrying a Firearm?

Remain calm. If you do not have a permit, you will likely be arrested. You will be able to contact the U.S. Embassy from jail.

Where Can Tourists Find More Information on Mexico’s Gun Laws?

There are multiple places on the internet where information about Mexico’s gun laws exist, so it is important to make sure you are visiting a site with correct data. The U.S. government has information about all aspects of traveling in Mexico, including a page on travelers with firearms.