If you’re considering making Mexico your home, whether temporarily or permanently, securing legal residency is imperative. With its rich culture, affordable cost of living, and beautiful landscapes, it’s no surprise that Mexico is a top choice for foreigners from around the world, especially from the U.S. and Canada. However, understanding the legal process for obtaining residency in Mexico can feel overwhelming. In this article, we’ll outline the application process, and provide essential guidance to help you navigate working with the Instituto Nacional de Migración (INM), which is Mexico’s immigration authority. The focus of this article is on obtaining permanent residency by meeting financial solvency requirements. 

Why Residency in Mexico is Important 

Legal residency allows foreign nationals to live in Mexico without constantly worrying about renewing short-term tourist permits, more commonly referred to as the Forma Migratoria Múltiple (FMM). Legal residency provides access to essential services such as healthcare, the ability to open bank accounts and the opportunity to legally work or retire in Mexico. Additionally, it gives individuals peace of mind knowing they are complying with Mexican immigration laws.

Types of Residency  

For all intents and purposes, there are 2 main types of residency in Mexico: temporary and permanent. Depending on your needs and plans, you can apply for either. 

Permanent residency is ideal for individuals looking to live in Mexico indefinitely. You can apply directly for permanent residency if you meet certain conditions, or after holding temporary residency for 4 years. However, if you obtained temporary residency via family unity, you may be eligible to convert to permanent residency sooner than 4 years.  

People who should apply:  

• • Individuals with sufficient savings/investments, social security or pension who want to live permanently in Mexico.  
  • Individuals who have fulfilled the required period of temporary residency and are looking to convert to permanent residency.
  • Those with close family ties to Mexican citizens or residents, who can qualify through family unity. There are no financial solvency requirements, if applying within Mexico at an INM office. If applying for residency via family unity at a Mexican consulate outside of Mexico, some consulates may still require proving financial solvency.
  • Please note that most consulates will not even consider your application for permanent residency, even if you meet the financial requirements, if you are not of legal retirement age and/or you are not actively drawing on retirement income, e.g., social security. 

Some of the benefits:  

• • No need for residency card renewals, unless you are a minor under the age of 18 years old.  
  • Ability to work in Mexico without the need for additional work authorization, unlike a temporary resident card holder.
  • Full access to public healthcare and other social services, which may be limited to temporary residents.  
  • Freedom to enter and leave Mexico without worrying about residency expiration dates. 

Step-by-Step Process for Obtaining Permanent Residency

The following is a step-by-step process to obtaining permanent residency. You can obtain additional information by reading INM’s website.  

Part A – Mexican consulate outside of Mexico 

The process for obtaining permanent residency for the overwhelming majority of people begins outside of Mexico at a Mexican consulate. Typically, you cannot start the permanent residency process once you’re already in Mexico as a tourist, with a few exceptions. An example of the latter is permanent residency via family unity, which can be completed inside Mexico at an INM office. However, the pathway to permanent residency for the overwhelming majority of foreigners starts at a consulate by proving financial solvency.  

Step 1 – Review financial solvency eligibility criteria: Mexico sets minimum financial criteria for permanent residency applicants. As of 2024, the below are the requirements as defined by Secretaría de Relaciones Exteriores (SRE), which are subject to change. The following requirements are only if you are applying for permanent residency through financial solvency. There are other additional pathways to permanent residency, e.g., family unity. Also, it is very important to note that each consulate has a certain level of latitude and discretion as to the below requirements. Some consulates may be more than the quoted amounts and some may be less. The following are simply the baseline financial requirements. It is best to check with the consulate directly that you intend on using for exact amounts. At the end of the day, the consular agent in the visa department of the respective consulate is the sole decision maker for permanent residency applications. 

Financial requirements:   

• • Monthly savings: Prove a monthly balance from sources such as investments or bank accounts, which are equivalent to 20,000 days of the daily minimum wage ($248.93 MXN) for the past 12 months.  
  • Monthly income: Prove a monthly income from sources such as social security, a pension or investments, which are equivalent to 500 days of the daily minimum wage ($248.93 MXN) as for the past 6 months. 

Important considerations:  

• • Currently, the daily minimum wage for Mexico (excluding the Northern border zone) is $248.93 MXN. This amount is adjusted annually and has been steadily increasing each year.   
  • Though the above formulas are uniform among the different consulates, be aware that each consulate may use different calculations and exchange rates to arrive at the final totals. For example, some consulates may require married couples (or common law couples/partner, if permitted) or families to apply as individuals (except for minor children) versus as dependents, which have a lower financial threshold. Or if you and your spouse or partner are joint owners of an account, perhaps, only 50% of the monthly balance will be applied to the final totals. These are just a few examples of where different guidelines and calculations may be applied from one consulate to the next.   
  • Typically, as an individual, you can only qualify by one method or the other – monthly savings balance OR monthly income. Not necessarily from a combination of both.  
  • You may also want to consider different consulates to qualify, if you do not meet the requirements of your local or nearest location. Even if that consulate is in a different country, provided they accept applicants outside of the geographic region they serve. However, not all consulates accept applicants outside of the geographical area that they serve. 

The above requirements ensure that permanent residents can financially support themselves without working illegally in Mexico.  

Step 2 – Gather required documents and copies: You will need to prepare your documents before applying for your permanent residency. These include, but not limited to: 

• • Completed application: Complete the application form as indicated on the consulate’s website.
  • Valid passport: You will need a valid passport as part of the application process.  
  • Financial statements: Proof of financial solvency (such as bank/investment statements, social security statements, pension records, proof of employment income, etc.). In some cases, the consulate may require that these be certified and stamped by the respective financial institution.  
  • Other documents as requested by the consulate (each consulate can vary in their requirements).
  • Photos: One photo in color, no glasses, frontal view, face uncovered and white background. Verify photo dimensions with the consulate since dimensions may vary by country.
  • Payment: Applicable application fee is paid on-site at the consulate.  

Make sure that all documents are up-to-date and that you have both originals and copies. Before your appointment, verify with the consulate all the required documentation. Though immigration procedures have increasingly become more standardized, nuances in the required documentation may still exist from consulate to consulate.

Step 3 – Schedule appointment: Unless walk-ins are welcome (as in years past) at the consulate you intend on using, you will need to schedule an appointment with consulate for your consular interview. This can typically be done online through the central online consulate scheduling portal, consulate e-mail address, central consulate WhatsApp number for the U.S. and Canada, or by calling the consulate directly. 

Step 4 – Attend interview: The next step is to visit the consulate to submit your application and supporting documentation. The consular agent will ask you about your reasons for seeking permanent residency, your plans in Mexico, and will check and verify your documents.  

Step 5 – Provide payment: Payment of the application fee can be done at the consulate during your appointment. You will need to verify in advance what forms of payment are accepted.

Step 6 – Processing time: If your application is successful, the consulate will issue you a one-time visa sticker in your passport, which is valid for 6 months. The processing time varies depending on the consulates. Lots of consulates will issue the visa on the same day but some may take days or even potentially weeks.

Step 7 – Collect passport: If the visa is not issued the day of your interview, you will need to return to the consulate as instructed by the consular agent to collect your passport with the visa sticker. This visa allows you to enter Mexico for the sole purpose of finalizing your residency. If you let the visa expire, you will need to start the process all over again. As such, plan your application and move to Mexico accordingly.

Part B – INM office inside Mexico  

Once you arrive in Mexico, you have 30 days to initiate (not complete) the finalization of your permanent residency with INM, which will result in the issuance of your physical temporary resident card. This is referred to as the CANJE tramite (process/procedure). It is highly recommended that you start this process as soon as feasibly possible once you enter the country. Do not wait until the last minute.   

Step 1 – Obtain FMM:

When you enter via air or land, you will need to get a FMM marked “CANJE”, which translates to exchange. Be sure to show the INM agent at immigration the visa sticker in your passport and mention CANJE. They will know exactly what to do.  

• By air: The INM agent will stamp the visa sticker in your passport and mark it with CANJE and 30 days. Additionally, you might be issued a receipt with a QR code (depending on the airport), that you’ll need to scan and physically print off your FMMd (digital FMM), which will be needed at the INM office to complete the process. If you do not receive any type of scannable receipt, you can also access the online FMM portal and enter information from your passport to generate your FMMd, which you can print. If you enter an airport with automatic passport scanners, do NOT proceed forward through the scanners since these are meant for tourists and will potentially invalidate your temporary residency. If there is a separate national’s line, it is recommended that you use that instead of queuing up in the tourist line. Otherwise, try and find an airline or airport employee who can direct you towards an actual INM agent who can process your CANJE correctly. Please note that some airports (e.g., BJX, QRO, etc.) may still issue you a paper FMM for your CANJE. 
• By land: The INM agent should issue you a paper FMM marked CANJE, which is valid for 30 days, and will stamp the visa sticker in your passport. They may also mark the visa sticker with CANJE and 30 days as well. Like already mentioned, the FMM will be needed at the INM office to finish the process and finalize your temporary residency. Paper FMMs are still being used at the majority of land border crossings. There is a slightly different process if you are entering by foot at the CBX bridge in Tijuana. 
• Please note, if you are unable to download your FMMd or were not issued a paper FMM for whatever reason, at a minimum, insure that the INM agent has stamped your visa sticker and marked it with CANJE and 30 days. Additionally, it would be advisable to consult a immigration attorney or facilitator in your area to verify whether the latter would be sufficient for your local INM office, in absence of a FMM.

Step 2 – Gather required documents and copies: You will need to prepare your documents before applying to finalize your permanent residency. These include, but not limited to:  

• • Completed application form: Complete the Formato Para Solicitar Trámite Migratorio de Estancia form and this can be completed online at INM’s website.This general application form is used for the majority of immigration processes/procedures with INM.  
  • Valid passport: You will need your passport with the visa sticker (issued at the consulate) as part of the application process.  
  • FMM: You will need the FMM marked CANJE that you received either at the airport or border crossing.  
  • Photos: Photos for temporary residency cards are taken on-site at INM offices.  
  • Payment: Applicable payment fees are paid on-site at INM offices.  

Make sure that all documents are up-to-date and that you have both originals and copies. Before your appointment, verify with your local INM office of all the required documentation. Though immigration procedures have increasingly become more standardized across the entire country, nuances in the required documentation may still exist from office to office.  

Step 3 – Schedule appointment: You will need to schedule an appointment first before proceeding to the INM office. This can be done on INM’s online appointment portal. You will need to create a free user account and you will also need your “pieza” number, which will be included on your completed formato from above.

Step 4 – Visit INM office: The next step is to visit the INM office to submit your application and supporting documentation for finalizing your temporary residency. Again, be sure to book your appointment in advance. You must:  

• • Present your application: You will need to submit your completed application form along with all the supporting documents listed above.  
  • Provide biometrics: During your appointment, you will be asked to have your fingerprints and photograph taken, which will be used for your temporary residency card.  

Step 5 – Provide payment: Payment of fees can be made with a debit or credit card at the office during your appointment. Cash is not accepted. Currently, there is only 1 fee associated with this procedure and this is subject to change:  

• • Permanent resident card fee: $6,495 MXN.  

Check back on INM’s website regularly as these fees are subject to change at any time and are typically updated once a year. Based on historical data, these fees have been steadily increasing over the years.  

Step 6 – Processing time: The processing time varies depending on the office, but it typically can be completed the same day. In years past, the process could take weeks or even months, including multiple trips to the INM office. However, this process has become a lot more streamlined with the modernization and standardization of INM’s various immigration procedures. However, in some cases, there may be a delay in receiving your physical card due to technical issues with the card printing machine, which is not uncommon. Even then, the delay may only be a few hours or a few days and in rarer cases, perhaps, a week. As such, be sure to take this into consideration if you are planning on traveling internationally. You will be provided documentation as proof of your application to finalize your permanent residency. Keep these documents safe, in case there is a delay in receiving your physical card.

Step 7 – Collect card: As stated above, cards are typically issued the same day at the conclusion of your appointment. If not, the INM agent will either advise you of when to return or you will receive a notification via e-mail and/or online as to when to return to the office. Either way, you will receive a document from INM as proof of your application, which will contain a pieza and NUT (número único de trámite) number, in addition to an e-mail. The e-mail will contain a pieza number, password and an online link where you can check the status of your application, including when your card is ready for pick-up.

Can You Work in Mexico with Permanent Residency? 

Permanent residency allows you to work legally in Mexico either for an employer or for yourself as a freelancer/independent contractor/business owner. Unlike temporary residents, you do not need to apply for additional work authorization from INM, but you will need to notify them of your place/type of employment.

You will also need to register with Mexico’s tax authority, which is Servicio de Administración Tributaria (SAT) to obtain your tax oater ID, which is the Registro Federal de Contribuyentes (RFC). This needs to be completed prior to notifying INM of your work intentions. Being registered with SAT and having an RFC number allows you to pay taxes and remain in compliance with income and tax laws.  

Special Circumstances: Family Unity 

If you have close family ties (e.g., child) who are Mexican citizens or legal residents, you may qualify for permanent residency with fewer requirements and be able to complete the process within Mexico at an INM office, without the need to prove financial solvency as you would at a consulate.

Frequently Asked Questions  

Q: Can I go to any INM office? 

A: You are typically required to go to the INM office that serves your geographical area based on your residential office or the office that is closest to you.  

Q: Can I apply for permanent residency directly without being a temporary resident first?  

A: Yes, under certain circumstances, such as having sufficient financial solvency or having family ties in Mexico, you may apply directly for permanent residency.  

Q: How long does the permanent residency process take?  

A: From the initial consulate appointment to receiving your physical residency card in Mexico, the process can take as little as a few weeks, if not quicker. However, this all depends on how long you wait to enter Mexico after receiving your pre-approval at the consulate, in addition to appointment wait times – at both the consulate and the INM office you use.  

Q: What happens if the visa sticker in my passport issued at the Mexican consulate expires?  

A: The visa you receive from the consulate is valid for 6 months and is only for one-time use. If you let it expire, you will need to start the process from the beginning at a consulate, including proving financial solvency again. There are no exceptions to this rule.  

Q: What happens if my permanent resident card (for minors under 18) expires?  

A: You must renew your residency before it expires. If your permanent residency expires, you could face penalties or, worst case, be required to start the process over at a Mexican consulate. There is typically a grace period and the amount of time depends on whether you are inside or outside of the country at the time of expiration. However, there are no guarantees that you will be permitted this grace period since each INM office may handle it differently. As such, it is best not to allow your permanent resident card to expire, if at all possible.  

By following the steps above and staying informed, you can successfully obtain permanent residency in Mexico and begin your new life in this vibrant country!  

Helpful Online Resources  

Stay up-to-date on all relevant information in regards to INM as it relates to immigration matters, as outlined in this article, by checking the following websites:  

• • Gob.mx: Mexico’s official federal government portal with details on all government matters, including providing detailed information on immigration and more.  
  • INM: Mexico’s official federal government agency responsible for all matters related to immigration.  
  • INM micro website: Official website of INM where you can complete all immigration procedures/processes (trámites), schedule an appointment and more.  
  • SAT: Mexico’s official federal government agency responsible for the collection of taxes from individuals and businesses. 

Conclusion 

Gaining permanent residency in Mexico opens doors to a comfortable, legal and a sustainable life in the country. While the process may seem complex, understanding the steps, preparing your documents, and meeting the financial requirements can make the journey a lot smoother. Whether you’re coming for a temporary stay or planning to live in Mexico permanently, following this article will help you navigate the permanent residency process successfully.  

Please feel free to leave us a comment below about your personal experience of obtaining permanent residency. We would love to hear from you!