What's Happening?
Despite a general decline in international arrivals to the United States, the number of Mexican visitors has continued to rise. According to data from Customs and Border Protection, land-border crossings by car increased by 13% year-over-year, with approximately
3 million Mexican visitors arriving by air through August 2025. This growth occurs amidst stricter visa rules and rising costs, including a significant increase in the tourist visa fee. Mexican visitors, who represent about 22% of all foreign visitors, spend an average of $1,500 per trip on shopping, theme parks, family visits, and entertainment. This influx provides a crucial economic boost to U.S. retailers and tourist destinations, particularly in border states like Texas and California.
Why It's Important?
The increase in Mexican visitors is significant for the U.S. economy, particularly for the retail and tourism sectors that have been struggling. Mexican tourists contribute substantially to local economies, especially in border cities where they are a major source of revenue during the holiday season. This trend highlights the resilience of people-to-people ties despite political tensions and stricter immigration policies. The continued flow of Mexican visitors underscores the importance of cultural and familial connections that transcend political rhetoric. The economic impact is further emphasized by the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, which is expected to attract even more Mexican tourists, potentially leading to the largest surge in visitors in decades.
What's Next?
Looking ahead, the co-hosting of the 2026 FIFA World Cup by the United States, Mexico, and Canada is expected to further increase the number of Mexican visitors. This event could provide a significant economic boost to border states, as Mexican fans are known to travel in large groups. However, the U.S. government’s proposal to require five years of social media history from foreign visitors may pose additional challenges. The proposal is currently open for public comment, and its implementation could affect future visitor numbers. Despite these potential hurdles, the strong cultural and economic ties between the U.S. and Mexico suggest that Mexican tourism will remain robust.
