10/20/2026
This is important info, and not just as it applies to Mexico potential legislation.
💡ANY time a minor is traveling with a non custodial adult best practice is to have a notarized statement travel with them. Even domestically.
The legislation is about about preventing crime, but it comes into play any time someone has to take legal responsibility for or on behalf of a minor.
👉Think signing waivers for activities, getting medical treatment for altitude sickness, in case of an emergency, or a dozen other scenarios nobody thinks of until it happens.
I have a blurb about traveling with minors when clients book, and will be adding a bit more info it. I always try to have my clients prepared - as long as they read their information! 😉
Are you a travel advisor that books travel to Mexico with kids? There’s a new rule coming.
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 travel agency clients as the situation develops.