The Mexican customs inspection involves a search for items the government restricts visitors from bringing into the country without paying import fees. Customs inspections are designed to promote fair international sales by preventing visitors from bringing items into Mexico from other countries and selling them without paying taxes. The Mexican customs inspectors also search for items that are allowed, but with restrictions, and for items that are prohibited, such as drugs.
All visitors to Cozumel who travel via either air or cruiseship are subject to Mexican customs inspection on arrival on the island.
Duties may be assessed if a visitor exceeds an allotted amount of certain items that may be brought into the country such as cigarettes, liquor, wine, cassettes of film and DVDs. For example, visitors may bring up to 20 packs of cigars and cigarettes, and up to three liters of liquor and wine. Produce, including plants and seeds, is not permitted. Medicine must be for personal use only. Those bringing in psychotropic medicine must carry a prescription in the visitor's name. Illegal controlled substances and drugs are not permitted under any circumstances. Firearms may be used only for hunting and a permit must be obtained from a Mexican consulate in advance of travel.
The Customs Declaration Form is usually given to air or cruise passengers en route to Cozumel. They may also be available near the baggage carousels at the airport. Visitors to Cozumel must declare certain items they bring into the country. All personal articles, including clothing, shoes and personal hygiene products, do not need to be declared. Visitors also may bring in up to $300 of duty-free gifts, not including items with certain restrictions listed above. If the visitor has no items with restrictions or gifts totalling more than $300, he or she can sign the section that reads, "Nothing to declare."
After presenting her passport at the immigration counter, a visitor may pick up her baggage and prepare for the customs inspection, which is at the airport exit. Visitors should have their customs declaration form ready before exiting the airport. The customs procedure is a red light/green light system, under which visitors are selected randomly for further inspection. If a visitor has nothing to declare, she will be asked to push a button. If the light turns green, she may pass through the exit with no further inspection. If the light turns red, an inspection will likely ensue. Visitors who do not declare gifts of more than $300, or who have not declared items with restrictions, will be subject to a fine. Passengers who do declare items will need to pay all applicable duties.
