10/17/2026
Our travel agency books a lot of travelers to Mexico with kids, so we feel compelled to share this new rule coming our way:
On October 7, Mexico’s Senate voted 104–0 to amend its General Tourism Law. Once the rule takes effect, adults traveling with minors may have to show official documents proving their relationship to the child, or their parental authority, custody or guardianship. They would show them before hotels, rentals, tour operators, transportation providers, restaurants and other tourism businesses will serve them.
If the paperwork isn’t there, businesses would be required to refuse service and report it to authorities.
What we know:
• It has passed Congress but is not in effect yet
• No start date has been announced
• Mexico hasn’t said which documents will be accepted
• It’s separate from Mexico’s existing immigration rules for minors
Until official guidance is released, we recommend that families pack:
• The child’s birth certificate
• Any custody or guardianship orders
• A notarized consent letter from any parent who isn’t traveling
This matters most for grandparents, relatives, family friends and divorced or separated parents traveling with children.
We're continuing to monitor developments and will be communicating with our travelers/clients as the situation develops.
