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If you have fallen in love with Mexico’s beaches, culture and lifestyle and have decided you want to stay longer than a typical vacation it is important you understand the country’s immigration and residency policies.

Getting your Temporary Resident Visa in Mexico

Foreigners wishing to live in Mexico longer than 180 days must apply for a “Residente Temporal” or Temporary Resident Visa (formerly known as an FM-3) under current Mexican Immigration Law. This applies to foreigners who wish to reside temporarily or permanently in Mexico and either live on funds from abroad or if they wish to work in Mexico. Such persons are permitted to engage in any remunerative activity in Mexico if they apply to do so.  A foreigner meeting the requirements may acquire resident status for a year, which must be renewed on a yearly basis. 

In order to get your temporary resident Visa, you are required to submit the following:

• A completed Visa Application
• A passport valid for at least one year.
• Original and photocopy of the migratory document proving your legal migratory status in your home country.
• One (1) photograph measuring (3.5 cm X 3.1 cm)
• Payment of fees must be made in cash for the issuance of the visa.
• Original or photo copy of investment receipts of bank statements showing an average monthly balance of $29,407.00 CAD during the past 12 months OR
• Original and photocopy of documents showing that the applicant has employment or a pension with a monthly tax-free income of over $1,764.00 CAD during the past 6 months.

After three to five years, one can apply for permanent resident status as an immigrant.  Foreigners must apply in their home country at the Mexican consulate nearest their home city.  This rule was changed in 2013 and 2016.

Getting your Permanent Resident Visa in Mexico

If you plan on making Mexico your home you may want to consider obtaining a Permanent Resident Visa. In order to get your permanent resident Visa, you are required to submit the following:

• A completed Visa Application
• A passport valid for at least one year.
• Original and photocopy of the migratory document proving your legal migratory status in your home country. 
• One (1) photograph measuring (3.5 cm X 3.1 cm)
• Payment of fees must be made in cash for the issuance of the visa.
• Original or photo copy of investment receipts of bank statements showing an average monthly balance of $117,628.00 CAD during the past 12 months OR
• Original and photocopy of proof of tax-free monthly income from pensions in an amount greater than $2,941.00 CAD during the past 6 months.

Because the regulations sometimes change, it’s wise to confirm them with a Mexican embassy or your consulate before you go.

• US Consulate of Mexico
• Canadian Consulate of Mexico