How to immigrate to Mexico 🇲🇽

Note: The following article is for educational purposes only and not intended as professional advice. It is important to conduct your own research and consider consulting an immigration lawyer, as rules and regulations may change over time.

If you're considering Mexico as your new home, you'll be pleased to know that as a US citizen, you have a range of options available to facilitate a long-term stay. Whether you're looking to visit or obtain temporary residency, Mexico offers a welcoming environment for US citizens seeking to establish roots south of the border.

Visa Free Travel:

US citizens are granted visa-free entry to Mexico for a maximum duration of 180 days. To ensure the approval of the intended stay length, it is essential to have proof of travel plans aligned with your desired duration for the customs agent upon arrival. If you can prove plans for a week, you will be granted a week-long tourist permit, proof of a 5 month stay will grant a permit for five months. The paper permit has been phased out now is mostly digital. Your stay can past the limit with special approval of your tourist permit, by leaving Mexico and returning to reset the 180 day limit, or by applying for a Temporary/Permanent Resident Visa.

Healthcare:

Many foreign visitors and residents travel to Mexico to make use of the lower costs for healthcare. The cost of treatment in Mexico is typically 50% to 80% less expensive compared to Canada or the US.

Foreigners who become either Temporary or Permanent Residents in Mexico can also sign up for the universal healthcare system. Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social (IMSS) is Mexico’s national public option for health insurance. Foreign Residents can register for a small annual fee depending on age. However, preexisting conditions are not covered and be prepared for long wait times at covered healthcare facilities.

Temporary Resident Visas:

Temporary resident visas are good for up to 4 years, and can be converted into a Permanent Residency after residing in the country for a certain period of time.

1. Work Visa: Get sponsored by a local of foreign employer to stay in Mexico long term for work purposes, each applicant requires special approval from the Instituto Nacional de Migración (INM).

2. Student: Intended for students who have been accepted at a school in Mexico and plan to stay in the country for more than 180 days. Applicants must prove that they have financial means or a scholarship for tuition and living expenses.

3. Spouse of a Mexican Citizen: The sponsor can be a spouse through marriage or a common-law partner. Note that same-sex marriage is legal in Mexico, so it is possible to have a same-sex spouse or partner as a sponsor.

4. Parents or Children of a Mexican Citizen: Designed for individuals sponsored by family members in Mexico who are citizens or residents.

5. Proof of Retirement: This category caters to retirees, requiring proof of a pension plan that has paid out $3K-$6K US Dollars or more over the previous 6 months. The amount vary based on your region in the US check your local consulate for exact numbers.

6. Proof of Economic Solvency: This category is for those who can prove they are retired or do not require work. Requires proof of lump sum of at least $54-$218K US Dollars held in a bank account or in investments continuously for the previous 12 months. The amount vary based on your region in the US check your local consulate for exact numbers.

7. Real Estate Property Ownership: For those who have purchased a property in Mexico valued at or more than $200K-$300K USD. The amount vary based on your region in the US, check your local consulate for exact numbers. Foreigners in Mexico are not allowed to own land within 50 kilometers of the coast or 100 kilometers of the border, however land ownership restrictions do not apply to condominiums. The property can be purchased with a mortgage.

8. Investor: This category requires ownership of or investment in a Mexican company with a value at or exceeding a specified amount. Ownership can be direct or through a foreign company owned by the applicant.

9. Invitation from an Organization or Institution: Suitable for individuals invited to Mexico by a renowned organization (public or private) for events or visits. The applicant must not receive payment or have living expenses covered during their stay.

10. Temporary Resident Religious Activities: Used primarily by Religious Missionaries and Volunteers under Religious Organizations.

It is crucial to note that each application is subject to an interview at the nearest Mexican Consulate or Embassy. Once an approved visa holder arrives in Mexico they must register at a local immigration office to get their Resident ID Card within the first month. As you near the expiration date of a Temporary Resident Visa, usually 4 years, you can file for an extension or as a Permanent Resident.

Immigration rules for US Citizens are set regionally and can vary between different Mexican Consulates locations. Also, the requirements and regulations for each category are subject to change at any time, therefore it is advisable to check your local consulate for the most up to date information.

Mexico is a go-to destination if you're a US citizen looking for an exciting and long-term adventure. With its warm and inviting atmosphere, affordable healthcare, and a variety of visa options, Mexico opens its arms to those ready to explore, embrace new experiences, and call it home. Get ready to embark on an incredible journey. ¡Viva México!