The warnings relate to drink driving, visa and entry requirements, travel insurance and more
The World Cup is set to kick off later this week(Image: Getty Images)
The UK Foreign Office has updated its travel advice for those planning on visiting Mexico for the 2026 World Cup, which is set to kick off later this week.
Several warnings have been issued by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) including visa and entry requirements, travel insurance, accommodation and drink-driving among others.
It comes as pubs and bars across England are gearing up for a major summer boost after the government announced that licensing hours will be extended until 2am during the upcoming World Cup knockout stages.
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The move, aimed at allowing football fans to support England and Scotland without interruption, will see opening times automatically extended depending on match schedules. Venues will be permitted to stay open until 1am for knockout matches kicking off between 5pm and 9pm, and until 2am for later matches starting between 9pm and 10pm.
Alongside the blanket extensions, ministers are issuing a direct warning to local authorities to show the “fun police the red card” and refrain from blocking special outdoor screenings or cut-off times in beer gardens.
But for those heading to watch the sport live in person, the UK Foreign Office has issued a series of warnings to keep people safe and on the right side of the law in Mexico. The full guidance can be found on the gov.uk website here.
Mexico travel warnings for 2026 World Cup
Drink-driving
The Foreign Office has warned that drink-driving is a serious offence in Mexico and checkpoints are often set up. If you’re caught driving under the influence of alcohol, penalties can include fines and short-term detentions.
Accommodation
There is expected to be very high demand for accommodation, so the Government warns people to plan ahead to ensure you have accommodation during your stay. You may be required to show evidence of your accommodation to immigration officials on arrival.
Travel insurance
For those who are travelling to Mexico, they should ensure that they have appropriate travel insurance covering them for the full duration of their journey.
The FCDO warns that insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency. Visitors should have comprehensive travel and health insurance before you travel, which covers medical treatment, hospitalisation and medical evacuation.
Visa and entry requirements
Those visiting Mexico for the World Cup should ensure they have checked the entry requirements, particularly regarding passport validity and visa requirements.
If you are planning to visit or transit through more than one country, including the use of land borders, check the entry requirements and Travel Advice page for each country. You may need to apply for an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) to enter the US.
Immigration Officers may request to see proof of your accommodation, return flight and visit plans. They may also conduct an interview.
Match tickets and stadium entry
The FCDO has warned people to only purchase tickets through the official FIFA ticketing platform, as no tickets will be sold at stadiums.
To enter the stadium, you will need an official ticket on the FIFA World Cup app. Printed copies or screenshots may not be accepted at stadium gates. Each ticket is linked to the purchaser’s details, and ID checks may be required upon entry.
Tickets sold on unofficial resale websites, social media, or through third-party vendors may not be genuine.
Transport to and from the events
People are being urged to plan their journey ahead of time and leave plenty of time for journeys, particularly on match days. Transport routes around the stadiums are likely to be very busy during the tournament, the Foreign Office warns.
If you’re using public transport, consider how you will pay:
- Mexico City’s public transport system accepts contactless payment and cash
- Guadalajara’s public transport system does not accept contactless payment. You can pay with cash or with a special card purchased in stations
- Monterrey’s public transport system does not accept contactless payment. You can pay via App Urbani or a card that you can purchase in local shops
The Foreign office warns: “There are likely to be increased police checks during the World Cup. Ensure you have your original identification document with you and be prepared for delays.”
Drugs, alcohol and smoking regulations
The laws relating to the consumption and purchase of alcohol and drugs can differ between states and countries, the FCDO warns. The national legal age for drinking alcohol in Mexico is 18, but it is illegal to drink in public places, including outside restaurants, theatres and stadiums.
Breeching this law could lead to a £200 fine or arrest.
It is also illegal to bring e-cigarettes, vaping devices and solutions into Mexico or to buy and sell them.
