Residency Overview
Mexico offers two main residency categories for foreigners: Residente Temporal (temporary) and Residente Permanente (permanent). Both allow you to live legally in Mexico without the 180-day tourist limit.
Residente Temporal
- Can work with permit
- Must renew annually
- Income requirements apply
- Can own property in restricted zone via fideicomiso
- Path to permanent residency after 4 years
Residente Permanente
- Can work freely
- No renewal required
- Higher initial requirements
- Can own property in restricted zone
- Path to citizenship after 5 years
Income Requirements (2024-2025)
Mexico uses a salary-based threshold tied to Mexico City's minimum wage (UMA). Requirements are recalculated annually.
| Residency Type | Monthly Income | OR Savings/Investments |
|---|---|---|
| Residente Temporal | ~$2,700 USD/month (300x UMA) | ~$45,000 USD (5,000x UMA) for 12 months |
| Residente Permanente | ~$4,500 USD/month (500x UMA) | ~$180,000 USD (20,000x UMA) for 12 months |
💡 Note: These are approximate figures. Requirements vary by consulate and are updated annually. Always verify current thresholds with your specific consulate.
Application Process
Step 1: Apply at Mexican Consulate
You must apply at a Mexican consulate in your home country or country of legal residence. You cannot apply from within Mexico on a tourist permit.
- Schedule appointment online
- Submit application with required documents
- Pay consulate fee (~$50 USD)
- Receive visa sticker in passport (valid 180 days to enter Mexico)
Step 2: Exchange for Residency Card in Mexico
Within 30 days of entering Mexico, you must visit an INM office to exchange your visa for a residency card.
- Register online at INM portal
- Attend appointment with documents
- Pay card fee (~$250-350 USD depending on duration)
- Provide biometrics (photo, fingerprints)
- Receive card (usually 2-4 weeks)
⚠️ Critical: Do NOT miss the 30-day deadline to visit INM after entering Mexico. If you do, your visa becomes invalid and you must restart the entire process from your home country.
Required Documents
For Consulate Application
- Valid passport (12+ months validity)
- Completed application form
- Passport photos (specifications vary by consulate)
- Proof of income: 12 months bank statements OR employment letter with salary
- Proof of address in home country
- Application fee payment
For INM Exchange
- Passport with visa sticker
- FMM entry permit
- Proof of Mexican address (utility bill, rental contract)
- Completed INM forms (online pre-registration)
- Payment receipt for residency card
Path to Citizenship
After holding permanent residency for 5 years (or 2 years if married to a Mexican citizen), you can apply for naturalization.
Requirements
- 5 years as permanent resident (2 if married to Mexican)
- Lived continuously in Mexico
- Basic Spanish proficiency (exam required)
- Knowledge of Mexican history and civics (exam required)
- Good conduct certificate
- Proof of integration into Mexican society
💡 Dual Citizenship: Mexico allows dual citizenship. You do not need to renounce your original nationality. However, check if YOUR home country allows dual citizenship.