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Interested in moving to Mexico? Here’s what you need to know:
Mexico at a Glance
- The Mexican border with United States of America is 1,954 miles long (3,142 km), making it the tenth-longest in the world.
- Roughly 130 million inhabitants (the most populous Spanish-speaking country in the world).
- The first civilization in Mexico were the Olmecs – they flourished from approximately 1500 BCE to 400 BCE. The Aztecs settled in the Valley of Mexico in the 14th century, and their mythological founding involves an eagle on a cactus eating a snake, which is depicted on the Mexican flag.
Living Essentials
- Currency: Mexican Peso. The US dollar is accepted in many tourist locations.
- Spoken languages: Primarily Spanish but 6% of the population speak an indigenous language, there are 68 different indigenous languages in total. English is spoken in tourist areas and business centers, but proficiency can vary widely.
- Major religions: 87.2% of the population is Roman Catholic, 8% is Christian, 4.7% don’t have a religion, and the rest make up other or unspecified.
- Major races: Mostly Spanish and Indian mixture known as Mestizos, 56 other indigenous groups, small population of African descendants and Caucasians.
- Largest cities: Mexico City, Tijuana, Leon, and Puebla.
Why Choose Mexico
- A warmer climate (for those moving from more Northern countries).
- It’s cheaper to live in Mexico than in most first-world countries (although costs are going up everywhere). Mexico is a popular retirement destination for this reason.
- The country welcomes foreign investments and it is not hard to obtain your residency.
- Many expats find it easy to integrate into Mexican culture, which is known for its warmth and hospitality.
- Flights are cheap and fast connecting to USA and Canada for when you want to visit home or have a visitor from home.
- The health care is very good with many doctors studying in the US and it is also affordable for home doctor visits and dental. Note: many doctors are well-trained, but access to quality healthcare can vary by region.
- Many expats already live in Mexico so it may be easier to make new friends.
- The lifestyle in Mexico is very laid back.
- Despite the negative press, some parts of Mexico are very safe.
Mexico Challenges
Note: these are common expat complaints, and may not apply to you.
- Frequently slow service at places like banks and government buildings. If you are a person that likes things done quickly and efficiently, Mexico may frustrate you.
- Many locations are very hot and humid.
- Some expats complain about the lack of garbage collection.
- There are no noise regulations. In busy areas, people could be playing music long into the night – not much you can do.
- In populated areas, you will get poor people begging you for money or to buy their merchandise.
- The streets and sidewalks are narrow and hard to maneuver. Stray dogs are a common sight.
- Traffic congestion and air pollution are common issues in larger cities.
Mexico Visa Guide
- Tourist Visa (FMT): residents of most countries are given a 180 day visitor visa when entering in to the country, also known as an FMT. There is a fee to obtain the FMT and is usually collected by the airline (then paid to the government).
- The FMT is often issued upon arrival for many nationalities, but some countries require a visa prior to entry.
- Note: the FMT does not allow employment in Mexico
- Student Visa: Students must enroll in an accredited institution, and classes must be taught in Spanish
– Note: while students cannot work for money while studying, but there might be exceptions for internships or part-time jobs under specific conditions. - Work Permit visa: the process involves obtaining a temporary resident visa, which requires an employer to file a petition with the National Institute of Migration (INM). The employer, if approved, will then you give a special form which you must take the form to a Mexican Embassy or Mexican Consulate and apply for a temporary residency card.
- 30 day business trip: if you are planning to under 30 days for general business (e.g. meetings, marketing conventions), you are allowed up to 30 days in Mexico with no work permit.
Residency and Citizenship
- Temporary Resident Visa (FM3 or MTRV): financial requirements for temporary residency typically involve demonstrating a regular income of at least approximately $4,185 USD per month or having sufficient savings/investments.
– The cost of the temporary resident card varies by duration. - Permanent Residency: after four years of temporary residency, one can apply for permanent residency. The financial requirements include a monthly income or investments ($6,975 USD per month or $279,000 USD in savings/investments).
– Note: Permanent residency does not require surrendering one’s home country citizenship and grants access to most Mexican national benefits except voting rights. - Citizenship: Eligibility for citizenship includes being married to a Mexican, having a Mexican child, or being born in another Latin American country, allowing application after two years of temporary residency. Otherwise, it requires five years of permanent residency.
– Note: applicants must pass a history test and demonstrate Spanish proficiency.
Business in Mexico
- Registering a business in Mexico involves many steps, including:
– registering the corporate name with the Ministry of External Affairs
– legal and tax compliance, including obtaining necessary permits and licenses. - The corporate tax rate is 30% for most businesses.
- Employers must contribute to social security and healthcare for employees, but the exact percentage might vary depending on the specific regulations.
- Business owners must obtain a residency card to work legally in Mexico.
- Depending on the business, you must ensure compliance with zoning, environmental, and health regulations.
Helpful Resources
- Visas and migratory documents: the latest visa information from the official Government of Mexico website.
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