Travel Into Juarez Mexico

When the stay is less than 72 hours and travel into Mexico is not beyond an 18-mile limit, citizens of the United States or Canada are not required to show papers when entering Cuidad Juarez. However it’s always a good idea to carry a copy of a birth certificate or citizenship papers along with picture identification in case of questioning.

Citizens of other countries must carry a valid passport or alien registration card. Visitors that require a U.S. visa must be in possession of and present a passport with the remark “multiple entry visa” issued by U.S. Authorities together with the entry card received upon first entry into the U.S.

Duty-Free Transport of Goods
Once every 31 days visitors to Juarez may bring back personal or household articles not exceeding $400 in value. In addition, if over 21 years old, a visitor can bring up to one-quart of liquor and either one carton of cigarettes or 100 cigars (non Cuban).

Legal prescription drugs are dramatically less expensive in Mexico, but a few words of caution. Carry with you legal prescriptions written by your regular physicians and do not purchase more than a 30-day supply of a particular prescription drug. Although there are few problems when violations occur, there have been nightmare situations of arrest when prescription purchase laws are violated.

Do not attempt to bring back live animals, birds, potted plants, fruit, meats, vegetables or eggs. Do not purchase products made with animal parts that are on endangered species lists. Some agricultural products are okay to bring back from Juarez, but it is advisable to call (915) 633.7300 to verify which products are legal. The above limitations have more to do with U.S. law versus Mexico law.

Entry Points Into Juarez Mexico
There are four bridges across the Rio Grande River to Cuidad Juarez from El Paso. The most convenient area the Santa Fe and Stanton Bridges in downtown El Paso of which the most popular is the Santa Fe. Pedestrian and auto traffic is convenient and nominal toll fees apply both coming and going.

There are no toll fees at the Cordova Bridge but it is not as conveniently located as the Santa Fe or Stanton Bridges. The Zaragosa Bridge is quite a way from both downtown El Paso and Juarez. Auto toll fees apply at Zaragosa Bridge.

Expect delays at all bridge crossings.

Recommended Transportation Into Juarez
Particularly on your first entry into Cuidad Juarez, it is recommended that you cross the border as a pedestrian using the more convenient Santa Fe Bridge where visitors will end-up on popular Avenida Juarez, an active street in Juarez. Traffic is congested in Juarez and there is taxi service within Juarez. Having a traffic accident in Mexico particularly without separate Mexico Auto Insurance can become quite problem some.

Pedestrians can park cars in downtown El Paso near the Santa Fe Bridge and walk across conveniently. There are van, bus and tour operators that will take you over the bridge and back. Some hotels provide transportation to the bridge and will pick you back up at a predetermined time and location on the El Paso side.

The El Paso Trolley Company offers tour transportation from the Civic Center in El Paso to Juarez at 6th and El Paso Street on block from the Santa Fe Bridge. Trolleys run every 15 minutes everyday from morning to late evening. Visit the Trolley Company website for hours of operation which vary by the day of the week. The trolley makes stops at various points along the way and passengers may linger at each stop and jump on the next trolley included within the same nominal fee.

El Paso/Juarez Trolley Company
1 Civic Center Plaza in El Paso
(915) 544.0062

Warning & Caution
Safety precautions in Juarez are no different than within any major city in the U.S. Don’t travel alone and simply use common sense. Leave valuables secure at home or at your hotel safe. Bring only enough cash for duration convenience. We point out that the city of El Paso is the third safest major city in the United States.

Do not carry weapons into Mexico. They have stringent laws against weapons with harsh penalties. The same applies to illicit drugs. Have a great time at the abundant nightlife in Juarez, but do not over-indulge in alcohol and avoid causing conflict. The people and authorities of Juarez welcome visitors. Treat them with respect and adhere to the laws of the city and Mexico.

Helpful Links

U.S. Consulate General Cuidad Juarez

El Paso Trolley Company