The Mexican Republic has many different characteristics and cultural attractions, but it is also one of the most stable and economically developed countries in Central America, this is the reason that most of the people from around the globe interested in immigration to Mexico. The previous reasons, mixed with convenient geographical proximity to the United States make Mexico such a diverse and entertaining country to discover. That is why Mexico has become one of the most popular destinations to reside for individuals from all over the world, and to do so, you will need the help of local lawyers.
Long stays in Mexico necessitate specific permits, thus emigrating to Mexico requires significant paperwork. Some countries’ residents, however, can stay in the country for up to 180 days without requiring a visa. It is wise to speak with ourlawyers in Mexicoto see if you need a visa for your plans in the country. The communities of foreign expatriates who see in Mexico the possibility of starting a new life have been growing year after year. Europe, Canada, and the United States are the places with the highest number of people who immigrate to Mexico. You will need first-hand knowledge from a credible source to fully understand all of the legal elements of living in Mexico. That is why we always recommend that you speak with the skilled lawyers located at our law office in Mexico.
| Quick Facts | |
|---|---|
| Entry visa requirement (from EU) Yes/No |
No |
|
Entry visa requirement (outside EU) (Yes/No) |
Yes |
|
Types of visas available |
Mexico Student Visa Mexico Work Visa Mexico Family Visa Mexico Tourist Visa Mexico Permanent Resident Visa |
| Time frame for obtaining work visa (approx.) |
30 to 45 days |
|
Validity of temporary residence permit |
One year on the first issuance and can be renewed for another one, two, or three years. |
|
Time frame for obtaining permanent residence |
10 – 15 working days |
|
Investor visa availability (Yes/No) |
Yes |
|
Sponsorship requirement (Yes/No) |
Yes |
| Time frame for obtaining citizenship |
requires a minimum of five consecutive years of residency |
| Citizenship/Residency by investment scheme available (Yes/No) | Yes |
| Tax benefits for expats | Taxed on Mexican-sourced income only |
Our immigration lawyers in Mexico has put together all you should learn about the steps to take when you relocate here, from transporting and moving your belongings to finding the most suitable lodging, the details about the process for obtaining a visa, the cost of living, and more. This guide to the necessities for the move to Mexico answers your concerns so that you can start your relocation plan with the correct solutions.
The comprehensive immigration guidance by our Mexican lawyers will tell you about the advantages of shifting towards this country and the critical things to consider when interested in immigration to Mexico. The low cost of living and the ease of accessing high-quality, affordable healthcare are the most compelling reasons expats decide to move to Mexico.
Why immigrate to Mexico?
Many people choose to move to Mexico for a variety of reasons. One of the most important reasons is that this country has one of the world’s most stable economies. This means that the average standard of living of the citizens in this country is excellent in economic terms and they can live in relative comfort.
The varied temperature, superb food, cultural variety, history of each corner of the nation, and appealing nightlife are all factors to consider. These are just a few of the reasons why the number of people who move to Mexico each year continues to rise.
Visas in Mexico
To visit Mexico for up to 180 days, you will need the Multiple Migration Form, or FMM as it is known in Spanish, and a visa may still be necessary for some countries. To find out what visa requirements you have to go to Mexico according to your nationality, it is best to get your case reviewed by our Mexican immigration lawyers. A visa is now required if you want to lawfully immigrate to Mexico. In this section we will discuss the following types of visas:
- Student visa;
- Temporary resident visa;
- Employment visa;
- Permanent resident visa.
The type of visa that is most suitable for you will depend on the circumstances under which you are opting for immigration to Mexico. It is essential to speak with a legal firm in Mexico if you want to learn about the many alternatives open to you. You will require a visa whether your trip to Mexico is for a weekend or a year-long stay. In Mexico, visas, which are official papers that confirm your right to enter and remain in the nation, come in a variety of forms. The sort of visa you receive depends on the nature of your visit or if you want to relocate. So, if you have decided on your immigration to Mexico, please consult with our lawyers.
How do I obtain a temporary resident visa?
The temporary residence visa is intended for foreigners who wish to stay in the country for some time longer than 180 days (6 months) and less than 4 years. This visa allows entering and leaving the country without any type of limitation. The visa costs $44 and is due on the day of the interview. The lapse of time to complete the visa application process is 10 working days from the moment the process is initiated.
This visa is functional for people who wish to relocate and work in Mexico. These are the documents required to obtain this type of visa:
- Valid passport (original and copy; valid for 6 months before travel);
- Travel valid under international law;
- Color photo, white background, passport size (3×3.5 cm), the applicant’s face must be visible and without glasses;
- Document that accredits legal stay (this only in cases where the foreigner is not a national of the country where the visa is requested);
- Economic solvency.
There are different requirements to demonstrate economic solvency depending on each case, that is why you must have a team of attorneys in Mexico that can guide you at the moment of emigrating to Mexico.
What do I need to apply for permanent residency?
The permanent residency visa is intended for all persons wishing to relocate to Mexico and settle permanently. Like the temporary visa, the cost of the permanent visa is $36.00 which must be paid exactly on the day of the interview. Furthermore, the application procedure must be completed within 10 business days. These are the documents you will need to apply for a permanent resident if you want to immigrate to Mexico:
- Valid passport (original and copy; valid for 6 months before travel);
- Travel valid under international law;
- A color photograph with a white backdrop, passport size and the applicant’s face visible without spectacles is required;
- A document confirming lawful stay (only in circumstances when the foreigner is not a citizen of the country where the visa is sought);
- Economic solvency.
In the case of retirees and pensioners, the economic solvency will be demonstrated from proof of bank movements or investments with a monthly average balance sheet demonstrating tax-free income greater than the equivalent of 500 days of the Mexican Federal District’s minimum salary during the previous six months. If you are interested in applying for Mexican citizenship, the services of our lawyers are at your disposal. Permanent residents who have lived in the country for at least five years are eligible to petition for citizenship through naturalization. Alternatively, marrying a Mexican makes you eligible for citizenship as soon as you marry, as long as you live together and are married in Mexico.
Mexico visa and residence permits
Regarding permits for immigration, the way you go about moving to Mexico will depend on the reason you are moving and the length of time you wish to remain. The answers to these questions will determine the kind you will need to apply for the Mexico visa you require.
- Non-immigrant Mexico visa is granted to those with a stay of fewer than 4 years to return to their home country;
- Immigrant Mexico visa is available for stays that last longer than six months and those who intend to apply for permanent residence.
Once you move to Mexico, you can apply for residence permits with the help of our lawyers. Our lawyers in Mexico City will not only provide you with legal guidance but also help you in the application process of residency. A temporary resident visa is a legal document that enables visitors to live temporarily in Mexico. Nevertheless, it would be beneficial if you renewed the permit each year. Additionally, the Mexican government has the right to cancel it at any moment. However, foreigners must fulfill specific conditions, such as holding a valid passport and providing proof of financial stability, to be eligible for a temporary residence permit. If you also want to know about the requirements of a permanent residence permit in Mexico, get in touch with our lawyers.
Buy property in Mexico after relocation
Affordable housing is available all over the world. Naturally, beach homes are expensive, but they are cheaper than similar properties located north of the Mexican border. If you buy, rent, or build your own house, you can reside in Mexico. Property taxes are surprisingly low and can be as low as a couple of hundred dollars annually.
Besides buying property, if you want to apply for Mexican citizenship, you can get in touch with our lawyers. Our skilled attorneys in Mexico will help you in the complete process of application. Being a citizen of Mexico grants you the following privileges: the ability to cast a vote in any election, to run for office in any election, to freely assemble and engage in political activity, to enlist in the Mexican Army or National Guard to defend the Republic and its institutions, and to exercise the right to petition. If you want to learn more about the benefits of Mexican citizenship, please get in touch with our lawyers.
Can I relocate by belongings to Mexico?
Even if you are an experienced expat, the plan to relocate to Mexico might be challenging. You have chosen to move, whether it was to enjoy the warmer climate and stunning scenery or to lower the price of life. Now is the time to set the plan for your relocation in motion. As you are likely to know, moving abroad is packed with obstacles before and after your trip. In this period, the first items you will need to check off your list will be the logistics of moving, shipping, and storing household goods. Essential things to keep in mind are to keep Mexico visas and residence permits and costs at a minimum by avoiding breakages and damage and getting your belongings in time.
If you plan to move your personal belongings to Mexico, be aware that you’ve got only time to bring your things duty-free into Mexico. That is also known as The Menaje de Casa, or household items exemption. It is possible to apply at the Mexican consulate following the issuance of your visa and pay a USD$130 fee. Also, you will have to provide an inventory in Spanish. If you are applying for an interim residence permit, it is expected that all items you bring in will be shipped into your country-of-origin country when you depart.
It is essential to note that, for Mexican Customs, officials allow your possessions to be released when you arrive. You must have validated your residence permit before arriving. It means you will need to go to your local immigration center immediately following your arrival to receive your residence card in physical form. If you do not possess this card, you will need to pay for the storage of your belongings until obtained.
Here is also a video on this subject:
What are the costs of living in Mexico?
The costs of living in Mexico will be contingent on the circumstances surrounding your move since your expenses will differ based upon whether you are moving by yourself or as part of children in the family. The whole thing depends on the place you live in, the kind of house you lease, your health, and your way of life. Here is a list of estimated living costs in Mexico:
- The estimated monthly expenses include USD 1,668.78 without rent;
- For a single person, the monthly expenses to be USD 465.28 without rent;
- The cost to live in Mexico is generally 48.87 percent less than in the United Kingdom;
- In Mexico, the cost for rent is generally 60.60 percent less than that in the United Kingdom.
If you want to relocate to Mexico, you can contact our team of immigration lawyersin Mexico if you need help with your paperwork. Furthermore, you are also welcome to rely on our Mexican lawyers if you want to start a company in this country. Our skilled lawyers will help you obtain all the related licenses necessary for opening a company in Mexico.