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Mexico's tourism sector experienced a historic, record-breaking year in 2025, with over 88 million international visitors (including border visitors) recorded through November, marking a 13.8% increase over 2024. Foreign exchange income grew by 6.7%, driven largely by U.S. and Canadian markets, cementing its status as a top global destination.

In 2025-2026, Mexico is implementing stricter regulations for tourism, particularly in Mexico City, with mandatory registration for short-term rentals (Airbnb) and a 50% annual occupancy cap on such properties. Key legal issues include tightened immigration checks on stay duration, enhanced customs requirements, and increased anti-money laundering compliance for property managers. 

Key 2025-2026 Legal & Regulatory Updates

Short-Term Rental Regulations (CDMX): Reforms introduced in 2024 and active in 2025 require platforms and hosts to register, with a 50% annual occupancy cap on properties. Properties in, or resulting from, reconstruction programs are prohibited from being used for short-term rentals.

Immigration and Entry: The default 180-day tourist visa (FMM) is no longer guaranteed; immigration officials are granting days based on the specific, proven intent of the visit.

Border and Criminal Records: Mexico is sharing more criminal record information with other countries, leading to increased denials of entry for tourists with prior offenses, even minor ones.

Customs Law Reform: A major reform approved in late 2025, taking effect in 2026, strengthens customs, increases joint liability for brokers, and enhances technological requirements for imports.

Anti-Money Laundering (AML): Hosts and property managers in high-value areas are under stricter legal obligations to verify the identity of foreign tourists.

Tourism Policy (PROSECTUR 2025-2030): The government is focusing on modernizing the General Tourism Law, promoting sustainability, and strengthening the "Magical Towns" program. 

Impact on Travelers and Investors

Reduced Supply: Stricter rules in Mexico City may reduce the availability of short-term rentals.

Compliance Costs: Increased legal and tax scrutiny requires property owners and tourism businesses to ensure full compliance with AML and tax regulations.

Security Focus: While tourism is booming, travelers should be aware of tightened border security. 

These legal adjustments reflect a broader, nationwide effort to manage the impact of tourism on local housing markets and strengthen regulatory control over foreign visitors and short-term accommodation platforms.

Source: International Bar Association