Expert Legal Guidance For a Smooth Transition to Life in Mexico
When considering a move to Mexico from the US, Canada, or any other country, it is crucial to understand and navigate the legal requirements and immigration processes involved. This is where the expertise of a Mexican immigration lawyer becomes essential.
A Mexican immigration lawyer specializes in the laws and regulations related to immigration, residency, and citizenship in Mexico.
Email us at info@MovingToMexi.co
Immigration Support in Mexico
Immigrating to Mexico can feel overwhelming, especially with constantly changing laws and procedures. Whether you’re exploring temporary residency, permanent residency, work permits, or even citizenship, it’s essential to have accurate, up-to-date information and the right guidance.
If you need help navigating the immigration process, send us an email at info@movingtomexi.co. We’ll personally connect you with a trusted immigration professional who can assist you based on your unique situation and location in Mexico.
Get connected to a professional and send us an email today: info@MovingToMexi.co
Temporary Residency (Residente Temporal)
​Duration
Issued for 1 year initially and can be renewed for up to 4 years total.
Who It’s For:
Temporary residency is ideal for people planning to live in Mexico part-time or long-term without making it permanent right away. It’s also the most common first step for those eventually seeking permanent residency.
To qualify for Temporary Residency through economic solvency, you must meet one of the following criteria:
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Monthly Income: Demonstrate a regular net income of approximately $4,100–$4,400 USD per month over the last 6 months. Some consulates may require proof for up to 12 months.
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Savings/Investments: Maintain an average monthly balance of at least $69,000–$73,000 USD over the last 12 months in bank or investment accounts.
Note: These amounts are based on Mexico’s 2025 daily minimum wage of $278.80 MXN and an exchange rate of 20 MXN to 1 USD. Requirements can vary slightly between consulates due to differing exchange rates and policies.
Application Process:
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Starts at a Mexican consulate outside of Mexico
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Requires an in-person appointment with financial documents
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Once approved, you must finish the process within 30 days of arriving in Mexico
Work Permissions:
Temporary residents do not automatically have permission to work. If you plan to work while living in Mexico, you must request and pay for a work authorization separately.
Benefits:
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Ability to open Mexican bank accounts
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Eligible to get a CURP (Mexico’s version of a social security number)
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Easier to apply for utilities, rentals, and driver’s license
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Can apply for permanent residency after 4 consecutive years
Things to Know:
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You cannot switch from a tourist visa to temporary residency while inside Mexico (with rare exceptions like family reunification).
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You must not let your residency card expire – renewals must happen within 30 days before expiration.
Permanent Residency (Residente Permanente)
Duration: Indefinite (no renewal required)
Who it’s for:
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Long-term expats
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Retirees with sufficient means
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Those who meet the requirements or have completed 4 years of temporary residency
Main Paths:
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Direct Application (Economic Solvency):
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Monthly income: ~$4,300 USD
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OR savings/investments of ~$173,000 USD
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After 4 years of Temporary Residency
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Immediate Family of Mexican Citizens (spouses, children, parents)
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Retirement (some consulates allow direct application if income/savings are strong enough)
What it allows:
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Same as Temporary Residency
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No need to renew
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Work permission is automatic
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Eligible to apply for Mexican citizenship after 5 years (or 2 years if married to a Mexican citizen)
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Who it’s for: Foreigners offered employment by a Mexican company
Process:
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Employer applies through Mexico’s immigration office
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You complete the visa process at a consulate in your home country
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Results in temporary residency with work authorization
Work Visa
Residency through Marriage or Family
Who it’s for:
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Spouse or child of a Mexican citizen
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Parent of a Mexican minor
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Children of Mexican nationals
Perks:
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Fast-tracked process
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Often no income requirements
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May lead to permanent residency in 2 years
Citizenship Path
After holding permanent residency:
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Apply for Mexican citizenship after 5 years
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Only 2 years if married to a Mexican citizen or have a Mexican child
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Requires a test on Mexican history and Spanish language proficiency
Ready to Start Your Journey?
Email us at info@MovingToMexi.co and we’ll connect you with a trusted immigration professional to guide you every step of the way.
Stay current
Immigration requirements and procedures in Mexico are subject to change and can vary depending on your individual circumstances and the Mexican consulate you apply through.
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we strongly recommend consulting a qualified immigration professional or lawyer to receive guidance tailored to your specific situation. This ensures you have the most current requirements and the best chance of a smooth and successful relocation process.