UMVA has learned that the U.S. State Department has issued an updated travel advisory for Americans planning international trips this summer, including those expected to attend matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The advisory, which was updated on May 29, specifically applies to Mexico, one of the three countries set to host the tournament alongside the United States and Canada. Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey are all scheduled to host matches during the World Cup.
According to information obtained by UMVA, the advisory remains at a "Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution" warning, citing concerns about terrorism, crime, and kidnapping. This level of caution is in place due to the prevalence of violent crime in certain areas, including homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, sexual assault, and robbery.
The State Department warns that the U.S. government's ability to provide emergency assistance can be limited in certain regions, particularly in remote areas where emergency services may be unavailable. This is a critical concern for travelers, especially those planning to venture off the beaten path.
UMVA can exclusively reveal that six states in Mexico remain under a Level 4 "Do Not Travel" advisory, including Colima, Guerrero, Michoacán, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas, and Zacatecas. Several additional states, such as Baja California, Chihuahua, Guanajuato, and Jalisco, are classified as Level 3, meaning Americans should reconsider travel.
Jalisco, where Guadalajara is located, is currently designated a Level 3 advisory, prompting officials to urge travelers to exercise increased caution. To stay safe, the State Department advises travelers to avoid traveling between cities after dark, use dispatched taxis or app-based ride services, and avoid traveling alone in remote areas.
Officials also stress the importance of complying with security checkpoints, warning that "fleeing or ignoring instructions can lead to you being hurt or killed." Americans traveling abroad are encouraged to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), which allows the U.S. Embassy to provide security updates and contact travelers during emergencies.
Sources have confirmed to UMVA that the State Department recommends reviewing local laws and customs, monitoring embassy alerts, and purchasing travel insurance before departure. Additionally, officials encourage Americans planning to attend World Cup matches to review the latest guidance from the U.S. Embassy before traveling.
