Money Regulations:
Contact for More Information:
Each terminal has a booth on departure that can provide you with the information and process for obtaining your tax refund. You may also apply online with third-party services for tax refunds.
Foreign visitors with tourist status may be eligible for a Value Added Tax (VAT) refund on purchases made in participating stores in Mexico. To qualify, the following requirements must be met:
Eligibility Requirements
• Goods must be taken out of Mexico by air or sea.
• Purchases must be supported by tax receipts.
• Items purchased must physically leave the country.
• Minimum purchase per store: 1,200 pesos when paid electronically.
• The store must be part of the Tax Refund Program for Foreign Tourists.
• Purchases must be made using:
• Electronic payment (credit/debit card issued by a foreign financial institution).
• Cash, but the total must not exceed 3,000 pesos per tourist.
Refund Process
Refunds are handled by authorized dealers in designated service units. Tourists must:
1. Obtain a tax receipt from the store at the time of purchase. It must include the tourist’s information and a tax return request form (available at refund service units).
2. Visit tax refund modules located at designated ports and airports.
3. Present the purchased goods to verify they are leaving the country.
4. Undergo validation:
• Purchases over 5,000 pesos (including tax) require physical validation.
• Purchases below 5,000 pesos may be validated at the discretion of authorities.
5. Receive the refund after verification:
• Paid in Mexican pesos.
• Refund is processed via the same electronic payment method used for purchase.
• Up to 50% of the refund can be given in cash, not exceeding 10,000 pesos. The remaining amount is deposited electronically into the tourist’s designated account.
Yes, Los Cabos is open and safe – be sure to check with your resort, villa or property manager to be aware of any considerations for COVID and testing accommodations for departure.
NO, you are not required to have a test or be vaccinated to travel to Los Cabos, Mexico.
Our priority is to maintain the wellbeing of our passengers, associates and the communities in which we operate. Los Cabos Airport is currently applying preventive measures to be followed regarding COVID-19 alongside with Mexico’s Health Department, the Federal Aviation Agency (AFAC) and the Airports Council International (ACI).
Yes, a valid passport is required to return from Los Cabos, Mexico, to your home country, especially if you are flying. For international air travel, a passport is the universally accepted form of identification and is necessary for re-entry into most countries, including the United States, Canada, and European nations.
If you are a U.S. citizen, for example, you must present a valid U.S. passport to re-enter the United States after traveling internationally. This applies regardless of your destination or the means of travel. Similarly, citizens of other countries must hold a valid passport from their respective nations.
It’s crucial that your passport is not only valid at the time of travel but also for a period after your return, as many countries have a requirement that a passport be valid for a certain number of months beyond your date of entry. Always check the specific entry and re-entry requirements for your home country and any transit countries before traveling.
For other forms of travel, such as land or sea, different documents may be accepted, but a passport is always a safe and universally accepted option.
If your boarding pass is issued in your married name but your identification shows your maiden name, it’s important to carry a copy of your marriage license with you to the airport checkpoint. Additionally, reach out to your airline beforehand to inform them of the situation and get any necessary guidance.
No, a passport or visa is required to travel internationally and gain entry into Mexico.
If your family member is traveling and doesn’t speak English or Spanish, they won’t find translators in the airport terminals. However, phone-based translation services can be accessed with your airline or by arranging services with GAP before arrival or departure.
Yes, luggage carts are available for a small rental fee and available at all baggage areas. For departures there are non-airport staff there with carts to assist you for gratuities during most business hours.
No, stroller and mobility cart rental are not available. Arrange any mobility services with your airline prior to arrival or departure.
No, there are no play areas for children.
The airport does not have a chapel; however, there are Reflection Rooms located inside each terminal.
Each terminal has pharmacies that stocks a wide range of over-the-counter medications, including many that are commonly prescribed for various ailments but may not be available without a prescription in countries like the USA or Canada. In addition to these pharmaceuticals, there is also a selection of homeopathic remedies, catering to those who prefer natural or alternative treatment options. This makes it a convenient spot for travelers or locals seeking quick relief from common health issues, with access to both conventional and holistic health solutions.
For specific information about baggage fees, weight requirements, charges for oversized luggage, and policies regarding baby seats, strollers, or wheelchairs, it’s best to directly contact the airline you have booked your flight with. Each airline has its own set of rules and pricing for these services, and they can provide the most accurate and up-to-date information tailored to your reservation.
At Los Cabos International Airport (SJD), various airlines operate from different terminals. Here’s a summary of some airlines and their respective terminals:
Other airlines operating at SJD Airport include, but are not limited to, Air Canada, Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Calafia Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Flair Airlines, Frontier Airlines, Iberojet, JetBlue, Magni, Southwest Airlines, Spirit Airlines, Sun Country Airlines, Sunwing Airlines, United Airlines, Viva Aerobus, Volaris, and WestJet. These airlines connect to various destinations, both domestic and international.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding airline operations and terminal assignments at Los Cabos International Airport (SJD), it’s best to consult directly with your airline. Additionally, upon arrival at the airport, referring to the terminal arrival and departure screens is highly recommended for real-time updates. These resources will provide the most reliable guidance for your specific flight and terminal details, ensuring a smoother travel experience.
As of December 2023 cannabis/marijuana, including THC products, remains illegal for recreational use in Mexico, including Los Cabos. However, there have been legal changes regarding the medicinal use of cannabis in the country.
In 2017, Mexico legalized marijuana for medicinal purposes, and there have been ongoing discussions and legal processes regarding the broader legalization and decriminalization of cannabis. As of now, December 2023, the recreational use, possession, and sale of cannabis are still illegal under Mexican federal law.
It’s important for travelers to Los Cabos, or anywhere in Mexico, to be aware of and respect local laws regarding cannabis. Even in regions where there may be a more relaxed attitude towards marijuana, the official stance of the law is what matters, and non-compliance can result in legal consequences.
For the most current information regarding the legal status of cannabis and THC products in Los Cabos or any part of Mexico, it’s advisable to consult official sources or legal advisories before traveling. Laws and regulations can change, so having the latest information is crucial.
Despite historic media reports and news, Los Cabos is safe, and there are no US Department travel warnings for the region. Like any travel destination, taking standard safety precautions when traveling solo in Los Cabos and being aware of your surroundings, including safety at swimmable beaches is important.
The U.S. Department of State provides travel advisories and information for U.S. citizens traveling abroad, including specific guidance for various regions in Mexico. They categorize regions based on safety and security risks to help travelers make informed decisions. For the most current travel advisory for Los Cabos and the state of Baja California Sur, where Los Cabos is located, you should visit the U.S. Department of State’s website or consult the Bureau of Consular Affairs.
Keep in mind that conditions can change, and it’s always a good idea to stay informed about the latest travel advisories and local news during your stay. Additionally, practicing common-sense safety measures, such as avoiding risky areas, not displaying expensive items, hiring security or chaperones for young adults and staying informed about local laws and customs, will contribute to a safer travel experience.
No, smoking is only allowed outside of the terminal, in designated smoking areas.
Please contact your airline by phone (available on their website) or via chat at their website for further assistance. If they transport you and your belongings they are responsible for them to get to you in Los Cabos.
There are over two dozen that flies regularly into SJD Los Cabos Airport – please view our list of airlines that fly into SJD Airport.
The recommended arrival time at Los Cabos Airport (SJD) for your departing flight can vary depending on several factors, including the airline you are flying with, whether your flight is domestic or international, and the specific time of day and season (peak travel periods can be busier). However, general guidelines are as follows:
Remember, it’s better to have extra time at the airport than to be rushed. Arriving early can help reduce travel stress and ensure a smooth start to your journey.
Cabo Airport terminal maps are located here. They include terminal 1 and terminal 2 arrivals and departures as well as fun illustrated overview maps.
Check with your airline on the policies they have in place to transport you as you will be transported by their services. US Citizens who are returning from Mexico require a passport, birth certificate, resident alien or a SENTRI card. You must prove that you are a legal resident in the United States of America, not a citizen, to get in and out of Mexico. U.S. citizens should be aware that a valid passport book is required to enter Mexico by air, and that those attempting to enter at an airport with a U.S. passport card only may be denied admission.
SJD Airport (Los Cabos International Airport) does not have Global Entry kiosks, which are specific to the United States Customs and Border Protection program. Global Entry is primarily available at airports in the United States and select international locations.
However, Mexico has its own trusted traveler program called “Viajero Confiable.” This program is similar to Global Entry and is designed to expedite the immigration process for pre-approved, low-risk travelers. Viajero Confiable kiosks are available at select airports in Mexico, but it’s important to check the current availability at SJD Airport, as these facilities can change or expand.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the availability of Viajero Confiable kiosks at SJD Airport, or any partnerships with international trusted traveler programs like Global Entry, I recommend contacting the airport directly or checking their official website before your travel.
For international travel to and from Cabo, Mexico, a birth certificate alone is not sufficient for a minor. All U.S. citizens, including children, are required to present a valid passport for air travel to and from Mexico.
While a birth certificate is an essential document for obtaining a passport and may be required for other purposes (such as proving the child’s citizenship or relationship to accompanying adults), it cannot replace a passport for international air travel.
If the child is traveling by land or sea (such as on a cruise), they may be able to use a birth certificate along with another form of identification as part of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) for certain age groups. However, for air travel, a passport is mandatory.
Always ensure that the child’s travel documents are up-to-date and meet the requirements for entry into Mexico and re-entry into the United States or your home country.
No. Due to Mexican security needing to determine your identification any passenger with face paint will not be allowed to pass airport security checkpoints.
Yes, a minor can travel alone to Mexico, but there are specific requirements and precautions that should be considered:
INM requires at least one parent to complete a SAM (Formato de Salida de Menores) for all minors departing Mexico with a third party. Travelers should contact the Mexican Embassy in Washington, D.C., the nearest Mexican consulate, or INM for more information. It’s important to ensure that all necessary paperwork is in order and that the child is prepared for the journey. Additionally, confirming arrangements for the child’s safe reception in Mexico is crucial.
Yes, you can bring personal golf clubs and fishing poles into Los Cabos. However, there are a few considerations regarding airline policies and transportation:
Remember to factor in these considerations for a smooth experience traveling with your golf clubs to Los Cabos. We highly recommend to use a travel golf bag to protect your equipment in transit.
Under current legislation, the trade, sale, distribution, importation, and exportation of any item that mimics tobacco but isn’t actual tobacco is illegal. This law also extends to the retail sale of e-cigarettes, effectively prohibiting it. The General Law on Tobacco Control reinforces this prohibition, and the Law of General Taxes of Imports and Exports further bans the importation and exportation of e-cigarettes. Additionally, a presidential decree prohibits the circulation and commercialization of these products.
Despite these regulations, there have been several court rulings allowing specific retailers to sell e-cigarettes. These exceptions aside, the general ban on e-cigarettes remains in force. Therefore, it’s important for individuals to be aware of these legal constraints and the limited scope of exceptions when considering the purchase or use of e-cigarettes.
Specific guidelines to follow:
Bringing CBD oil, hemp oil, or cannabis oil through SJD Airport (Los Cabos International Airport) and into Mexico is generally not permitted. Mexico has strict regulations regarding the importation of such products, regardless of their legality in other countries.
Cannabis and its derivatives, including CBD oil, are regulated under Mexican law. Even though there have been legal changes in Mexico regarding the medicinal use of cannabis, the regulations surrounding the importation of CBD, Hemp or cannabis products for personal use, remain stringent.
Travelers attempting to bring these products into Mexico could face legal issues, including confiscation of the items and potential legal action. It’s highly advisable to leave these products at home when traveling to Mexico.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, you should consult the official guidelines provided by Mexican customs before your trip. Please see our section and information regarding CBD, cannabis and marijuana at Los Cabos Airport.
If you lose your Mexican tourist card or if it has expired, you may face a fine when departing Mexico. However, if you find yourself in this situation, you can obtain a replacement for your lost tourist card at Terminal 2 of SJD Airport. There, you’ll find a Mexican Customs office conveniently located near the passenger drop-off area in the southern section of the ticketing area. It’s important to address this issue promptly to avoid complications during your departure from Mexico.
Yes, Cabo Airport (Los Cabos International Airport) does offer free WiFi to passengers. This service allows travelers to connect their devices to the internet, providing convenience and accessibility while waiting for their flights. However, the quality and speed of the WiFi connection can vary, and there might be time limits on usage. For uninterrupted or high-speed internet access, there may be premium WiFi services available for a fee. There is also open WiFi inside the Cabo Airport VIP Lounge for their customers. Certain merchants such as Starbucks also provide free WiFi to their customers.
Bringing firearms into Mexico is highly regulated and generally prohibited for travelers, including those who may have a license in their home country. Mexican law strictly controls the entry and possession of firearms and ammunition. Even if the firearms are legally owned and licensed in your country and are packed in checked baggage, they are not permitted to be brought into Mexico without prior authorization from Mexican authorities.
Violating these regulations can result in severe legal consequences, including arrest and imprisonment. If you need to bring a firearm into Mexico for specific reasons, such as hunting or sport shooting, you must obtain a permit
You must contact a Mexican Consulate in the United States before attempting to import weapons into Mexico or purchase any while in Mexico. Failure to do so will result in stiff fines or jail time.
The maximum amount of currency you can bring into Mexico without declaring it is $10,000 USD or its equivalent in other currencies. This includes cash, checks, money orders, or any other monetary instrument. If you are carrying an amount exceeding this limit, it must be declared upon arrival using the Mexican Customs Declaration Form.
Failing to declare amounts over $10,000 USD can result in legal consequences, including the confiscation of the undeclared money. It’s important to comply with these regulations to ensure a smooth entry into Mexico. Remember, this rule is in place to prevent money laundering and other illegal financial activities.
Whether a tourist visa is required to visit Mexico depends on your nationality and the purpose and duration of your visit.
For many travelers, particularly those from the United States, Canada, the European Union, and several other countries, a tourist visa is not required for short visits (usually up to 180 days). Instead, these visitors are issued a “tourist card,” formally known as a Forma Migratoria Múltiple (FMM), upon entry. This document can be obtained at the airport or border crossings and sometimes requires a small fee.
However, if you plan to stay for more than 180 days or your country is not on the visa-exempt list, you will need to apply for a visa in advance at a Mexican embassy or consulate.
Always check the latest entry requirements with the Mexican embassy or consulate in your country before traveling, as visa policies can change.
When traveling from the U.S., Canada or abroad, adults are allowed to bring a limited quantity of alcoholic beverages back with them. Specifically, you can carry up to three liters of liquor or beer, and up to six liters of wine per adult. It’s important to be aware of the following considerations regarding this allowance:
It’s crucial to adhere to the quantity limits and be prepared for customs inspection. Being aware of and complying with these regulations will help ensure a smooth experience when traveling with alcoholic beverages.
On departure, there is a booth in each terminal where you can apply directly. It’s important to understand Mexico’s program on tourism taxes:
Foreign visitors with tourist status may be eligible for a Value Added Tax (VAT) refund on purchases made in participating stores in Mexico. To qualify, the following requirements must be met:
Eligibility Requirements
• Goods must be taken out of Mexico by air or sea.
• Purchases must be supported by tax receipts.
• Items purchased must physically leave the country.
• Minimum purchase per store: 1,200 pesos when paid electronically.
• The store must be part of the Tax Refund Program for Foreign Tourists.
• Purchases must be made using:
• Electronic payment (credit/debit card issued by a foreign financial institution).
• Cash, but the total must not exceed 3,000 pesos per tourist.
Refund Process
Refunds are handled by authorized dealers in designated service units. Tourists must:
1. Obtain a tax receipt from the store at the time of purchase. It must include the tourist’s information and a tax return request form (available at refund service units).
2. Visit tax refund modules located at designated ports and airports.
3. Present the purchased goods to verify they are leaving the country.
4. Undergo validation:
• Purchases over 5,000 pesos (including tax) require physical validation. Purchases below 5,000 pesos may be validated at the discretion of authorities.
5. Receive the refund after verification:
• Paid in Mexican pesos. Refund is processed via the same electronic payment method used for purchase.
• Up to 50% of the refund can be given in cash, not exceeding 10,000 pesos. The remaining amount is deposited electronically into the tourist’s designated account.
When traveling from Mexico to the United States or other countries, it’s important to be aware of the regulations regarding the importation of prescription drugs. According to U.S. government regulations:
While you can purchase prescription drugs in Mexico, the regulations for bringing them back into your home country, especially the United States, are stringent. It’s crucial to ensure compliance with these regulations to avoid any legal issues.
Yes- but there are restrictions for cats and dogs and even more for other animals. Please consult our page on Pets at Los Cabos Airport.
Upon arrival at Los Cabos Airport, both you and your service animal are subject to security screening, as per Mexican airport regulations. Here’s what you can expect:
It’s important to note that these security measures are in place to ensure the safety of all passengers and staff at Los Cabos Airport. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in adhering to these procedures. If you have any specific questions or requirements related to traveling with your service animal, please feel free to contact us prior to your arrival.
Los Cabos Airport is committed to ensuring a smooth and accessible travel experience for all passengers, including those with disabilities, medical conditions, and other special needs. We offer comprehensive assistance throughout the security screening process to accommodate these requirements.
Travelers with disabilities or special circumstances can expect:
To ensure we can provide the best possible assistance, we encourage travelers to contact us before their journey with any questions or specific requirements related to our screening policies and procedures. By understanding what to expect at the security checkpoint and communicating your needs in advance, we can work together to facilitate a stress-free travel experience at Los Cabos Airport.
No, it is strictly forbidden. It is important to understand and respect that filming or taking pictures, especially in a manner that interferes with security protocols, is strictly prohibited at Los Cabos Airport. This includes actions such as holding a recording device up to the face of a security officer in a way that obstructs their vision or movement, refusing to adopt the correct posture during security screening, impeding the flow of other passengers through the checkpoint, or refusing to submit any recording devices – including mobile phones, tablets, and video recorders – for security screening.
Engaging in such activities not only disrupts the security process but also violates airport regulations. These actions could potentially escalate the situation, leading to serious consequences with Mexican security authorities. It is crucial to adhere to security protocols to ensure the safety and smooth operation of the airport for all travelers. Non-compliance with these rules can result in delays, and in severe cases, legal action may be taken by the authorities. Therefore, it is in the best interest of all passengers to follow the guidelines set by the airport and cooperate fully with security personnel.
For any issues related to lost or damaged baggage, please contact your airline for assistance. Los Cabos Airport is hired to provide space and services to accommodate your airline and cargo processing, along with space for government agencies for customs and immigration.
Yes, you can bring a pre-approved pet through general security. You’ll need to remove your pet from its carrier, and then send the empty carrier through the X-ray machine for screening. It’s important that you have all preapproved and validated health screening paperwork from your airline or approved government facility. You will be required to keep your pet under control using a leash during this process. However, remember to remove the leash when you carry your pet through the metal detector to avoid any issues. Additionally, be prepared for your pet’s carrier to undergo either a visual or physical inspection by security personnel in addition to any other screening required.
The size requirements for carry-on luggage at Los Cabos Airport differ depending on the airline. To confirm the appropriate dimensions for baggage that can be accommodated in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you, it’s best to directly contact your airline. This will ensure that your carry-on meets the specific size criteria set by the airline for a hassle-free travel experience.
When passing through security, medical devices such as nebulizers, CPAP machines, BiPAP, and APAP units must be taken out of their carrying cases for X-ray screening. However, facemasks and tubing attached to these devices can remain inside the case. To maintain cleanliness and protect your device, you are allowed to use a clear plastic bag to encase the device while it’s placed in the tray for X-ray examination. This helps ensure that your medical equipment is handled safely and hygienically while still adhering to security protocols. Remember, these steps are in place for your safety and to ensure the security of all travelers.
If you’ve lost something at Los Cabos International Airport please contact us online, or call Tel. +52 (624) 146-5113 | +52 (624) 146-5111. You must be able to describe the item, when it was lost, the color of the item, or any information identifying the item, to ensure it is reunited with its rightful owner. If you lost something on your flight please contact your airline.
We gather personal identification items that are left behind at security checkpoints. Our aim is to reconnect passengers with their lost or unclaimed personal belongings, including any personal identification documents they may have left at a checkpoint. Please contact us directly at +52 624 146 5111. If the ID is not claimed within 30 days, it is destroyed.
Tequila
Shopping at Cabo Airport is an enjoyable adventure for travelers. The airport features duty-free stores, offering a range of items tax-free. Alongside these, there are vibrant Mexican-style gift shops, perfect for picking up colorful souvenirs and traditional crafts. A highlight for many is the renowned Clase Azul Tequila shop, a paradise for tequila enthusiasts, offering tastings and the chance to purchase some of Mexico's finest tequilas.
From bargain hunting to finding the perfect Mexican memento or exploring the world of premium tequila, the shops at Cabo Airport cater to a wide array of tastes and preferences.
Import Data
Import Data
Import Data
Import Data
Import Data
Los Cabos immigration facilitates the entry and exit of travelers, ensuring compliance with Mexican immigration laws and offering assistance for a smooth travel experience.
Learn More
Los Cabos customs is responsible for monitoring the import and export of goods, enforcing regulations, and ensuring that travelers' belongings meet Mexico's import regulations.
Learn MoreThe Los Cabos Airport VIP Lounge offers a luxurious, comfortable space for travelers. Featuring amenities such as complimentary Wi-Fi, a variety of snacks and beverages, and quiet areas for relaxation or work, it provides an exclusive environment for guests to unwind and refresh before their flight. Personalized services further enhance the experience.
Go VIP!
© 2023 Los Cabos Airport. All rights reserved.
