Mexican authorities have agreed to delay the implementation of an amendment to migration law affecting children traveling without their parents.
The amendment, which was due to come into effect on February 5, stipulates that unaccompanied minors (both Mexican and foreign) leaving or entering the country must carry a letter of permission signed by both parents or their guardian.
However, on Wednesday, Mexico’s Ministry of Tourism and the National Migration Institute agreed to postpone implementation of the new law until January 2014. The deadline was extended to give authorities time to prepare to properly enforce the law and to avoid inconveniencing tourists.Under the terms of the amendment, as of next January, children will need written parental permission to travel in and out of Mexico, even if accompanied by an adult who is not their parent or guardian. Should they not carry such a letter, airlines and cruise ships will be instructed to refuse to allow them onboard.