Is Mexico safe for FIFA World Cup 2026? US State Department issues new travel advisory

The FIFA World Cup 2026 is finally here and set to begin on June 11, 2026. The first match of the highly-awaiting World Cup will feature the host nation playing against South America at the Mexico City Stadium.

In the midst of fervour and enthusiasm surrounding FIFA, the US State Department has issued an updated travel advisory for Americans who are planning to go Mexico either for international trips or to attend World Cup matches.

The travel advisory is maintained at “Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution” due to ongoing risks associated with terrorism, crime, and kidnapping.

Besides Mexico, the host countries include the United States and Canada. The matches in Mexico will be held in Mexico City, Monterrey and Guadalajara.

According to advisory, the people must be careful while traveling in some areas due to prevalence of violent crimes, such as homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, sexual assault and robbery.

Among the host states, Nuevo León, home to Monterrey and Mexico City fall under Level 2.

Level 3 states include: Baja California, Guanajuato, Chihuahua, and Jalisco. Under this category, Americans can reconsider travelling to these states.

Among all, six states fall under the “Level 4” category which shows a “Do Not Travel” advisory. The states include: Colima, Guerrero, Michoacán, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas and Zacatecas.

In some remote regions and areas, the US government faces limitations to deliver emergency services.

According to the State Department, the traveler should avoid travelling after dark and if necessary, they must travel through app-based ride services and dispatched taxis. Traveling alone to remote areas could be dangerous for the public, the department warned.

"Fleeing or ignoring instructions can lead to you being hurt or killed," the advisory states.

To ensure better safety, Americans must comply with security checkpoints. US citizens traveling abroad should enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), enabling US Embassies to share important security updates and reach travelers directly during emergencies.

If one is planning to attend World Cup matches, the officials urge you to review the latest guidance from the US Embassy prior to your departure.