If you're planning to move to Mexico or stay there for an extended period, it's crucial to consider the type of visa you'll need.
While the easiest visas to obtain for Mexico are Tourist and Temporary Resident Visas, these visas provide just a glimpse into Mexico's natural beauty, laid-back lifestyle, and vibrant culture. For those who are already mesmerized by the beauty of Mexico and are ready to contribute to your new home, Permanent Residency will be more suitable.
The main significant difference between Temporary Residence and Permanent Residency is the duration of the visa. For Permanent Residency, the card does not have an expiry date – it is issued for an indefinite amount of time, freeing you from the constraints of visa renewals. But the financial requirements are higher than those needed for Temporary Residency.
In addition, Permanent Visa automatically provides the holder with a work permit. If you decide to embark on professional pursuits, this privilege streamlines your path, enabling you to actively participate in Mexico's economic tapestry.
There are basically two ways how you can obtain a permanent resident card:
- right away;
- or through the exchange of Temporary Residency for Permanent Residency.
To be eligible for Permanent Resident Visa right away:
- You have to be retired and intend to spend your retirement in Mexico without employment/income from Mexico. This means that you should prove your “economical solvency”. You can do that by showing your monthly income of at least US$5,460 over the last 6 months or savings/investments account balance(s) of at least US$218,000 over the last 12 months.
- The other case is if you have some close family relations in Mexico. It can be a child, parent, step-parent, or sibling with Mexican citizenship.
If any of the above don`t apply to you, then your only way to get Permanent Residence is by going through a Temporary Residence Permit. You can apply for a Permanent Resident Card if you have lived in Mexico for at least 4 years with a Temporary Resident Card. You can also apply earlier if you lived in Mexico with a Temporary Resident Card (for at least 2 years) issued on the grounds of marriage to a Mexican citizen or permanent resident.
When you apply for Permanent Residency right away on the basis of economic solvency or family ties, the process is identical to obtaining a Temporary Residence Permit. For most expats, you’ll have to start the process for a permanent visa in your country. Upon receiving approval for a Permanent Resident Visa, you will be required to travel to Mexico to complete the necessary procedures. It is valid for 180 days, and once you arrive in Mexico, You’ll then need to report to the Department of Immigration at your destination within 30 days of entering Mexico to finalize your residency - to exchange a Permanent Resident Visa for a Permanent Residency Card.
In case you want to transfer from Temporary to Permanent Residency, it can be undertaken at your nearest immigration office in Mexico with an application procedure and payment of the processing fees. Note that you must not let your residency card expire. You do not need to demonstrate your economic solvency when you have four consecutive years of temporary residency and apply to exchange this for permanent residency.
As mentioned earlier, the permit is valid indefinitely. It means it does not have to be renewed every few years like the Temporary Resident Card does. After 5 years of legal residency, you may be eligible for naturalization.
Note, that as a Permanent Resident cardholder, you can enjoy all the same rights as Mexicans with passports, including car registration, access to social security, travel freely in and out of Mexico, and all the guarantees that the Mexican Constitution grants to all Mexicans. The only difference: a. you can not vote, b. get the property title in your name and c. can not use the Permanent Card as an international travel document when traveling to the other country. If you have a valid passport from another country you are OK from the travel side.
To obtain citizenship, you must have Spanish language skills and pass a test and interview that covers Mexican history, culture, and values. If you are a citizen of a Latin American country or Iberia (Spain and Portugal), you may be able to apply for citizenship after residing in Mexico legally for two years. Additionally, you must have physically been present in Mexico for at least 18 months within the last two years before submitting your application.
The journey to becoming a resident of Mexico is a rewarding one, albeit with its own nuances and challenges. While the process can be navigated independently, the guidance of a seasoned advisor can provide the confidence and reassurance needed to navigate the bureaucratic maze. I am dedicated to supporting your aspirations of living in Mexico whether through invaluable insights, practical tips, or trusted legal guidance, my aim is to ensure your transition is smooth, seamless, and free from unnecessary stress.
In a world where the allure of Mexico's landscapes, culture, and lifestyle beckons, don't let language barriers or administrative paperwork hinder your pursuit of a dream retirement. Book a consultation with me today, and let's embark on this journey together. As you take the first step toward living your best life in Mexico, rest assured that you'll be equipped with the knowledge and support needed to make your dreams a reality.
Your adventure in Mexico awaits – let's make it happen together!
Here is what you should read if you're interested in living in Mexico - whether traveling around the country, retiring in a beautiful and affordable place, or experiencing another culture as a nomad:
- Mexico Relocation Guide: Best Country to Live and Retire for Baby Boomers from the US and Canada
- Mexico City: Digital Nomad Paradise or Chilli Pepper Challenge?
- Things You Need To Know Before Planning Medical Or Wellness Travel to Mexico
- Intentional Communitites Thrive in Mexico: A Pathway to Mindful and Eco-friendly Lifestyle
