Examples of QR Code Use in Mexico and Their Impact

QR codes in Mexico have become an important tool for the digital transformation of government services, business, tourism, healthcare, and real estate. In 2024, the QR payment market reached $309.8 million, and government agencies and companies are actively integrating dynamic QR codes into customer and citizen service processes. Below are key examples of how QR codes are used in Mexico and the impact they have on the economy and everyday life.

QR codes have significantly changed the operations of the government, businesses, and service industries in the country. Their widespread implementation improves service convenience, increases process efficiency, and contributes to the development of the digital economy. Large companies and government institutions are creating services based on dynamic QR codes, enhancing interaction with citizens and tourists and essentially turning QR codes into a modern digital business card.

1. QR Codes in Immigration

Mexico has introduced the digital immigration form FMMD, which fully moves the entry process online. Visitors fill out the form and receive a QR code that replaces printed documents. This speeds up border control, reduces costs, and simplifies verification both upon arrival and departure.

2. Citizen Identification via CURP

The country is rolling out an updated CURP identification system with a QR code containing biometric data. The new format will be implemented nationwide by February 2026. The QR code simplifies identity verification and increases security when accessing government services.

3. QR Codes in Marketing Campaigns

QR codes are widely used by companies on packaging, outdoor advertising, catalogs, and printed materials. They help direct customers to websites, social media, or feedback forms. QR codes also provide businesses with analytical scan data. One of the first large-scale projects was the “Mobilízame” platform, launched in 2012 by Snipp Interactive, Sección Amarilla, and VirKet.

4. QR Menus in Restaurants

Many restaurants in Mexico continue using QR menus, which became popular during the pandemic. Guests scan the code, open the digital menu, and can place an order without waiting for a waiter. The Valentin Imperial Maya resort uses QR codes not only for menus but also for on-site navigation.

5. QR Maps in the Tourism Industry

QR codes help tourists quickly find locations, build routes, and navigate unfamiliar areas. They provide access to digital maps without the need to manually enter addresses. In Teotihuacan, self-guided tours using SmartGuide are available: visitors scan a QR code to access audio guides, maps, and 3D content.

6. Product Information and Anti-Counterfeiting

QR codes allow brands to provide customers with extended product information—certificates, origin data, instructions, and logistics details. The GS1 Sunrise 2027 initiative prepares the retail sector for a large-scale transition from traditional barcodes to QR codes. Cuvitek Software Solutions has already integrated QR codes into its Satya inventory management system to fight counterfeits and increase supply chain transparency.

7. QR Codes in Real Estate

Real estate agents use QR codes to link buyers to property pages, virtual tours, and detailed information. This helps attract potential clients and optimize property viewing processes. Agent Hugo Padilla from PV Realtor actively uses QR codes in his marketing materials.

8. Access to Medical Services

During the pandemic, Mexico City deployed QR codes across the city for contact tracing. The system recorded phone numbers of people who scanned the code and notified them if they had been near an infected individual. During this period, a QR-based health form was introduced for foreign visitors entering the country. The submitted information was encoded into a QR code that had to be presented at the border.