You can get permanent residency in Mexico through various pathways.
If you’re already a temporary resident, you become eligible after four years (or two years if holding a spouse visa). Retirees and immediate family members of Mexican citizens or permanent residents can apply directly.
This guide outlines eligibility, requirements, and the application process for obtaining a Mexican Permanent Resident Card.
Eligibility for a Mexico Permanent Residence Visa
Foreign residents with a Temporary Resident Card
If you live in Mexico with a Temporary Resident Card, you become eligible for permanent residency after four years. You may apply for permanent residency after only two years if you have a spouse visa.
Children or parents of Mexican citizens or permanent residents
If you have family ties (parent or child) to a Mexican citizen or someone with permanent residency status, you are also eligible for a permanent resident visa. You can apply for a permanent visa directly without having to live in Mexico with a temporary visa first.
Spouses of Mexican citizens or permanent residents
If you are married to a Mexican citizen or a permanent resident, you are eligible for permanent residency after two years of living in Mexico with a Temporary Resident Card. Spouses and partners cannot apply for a permanent resident card directly.
Retirees or pensioners
If you are a retiree or pensioner and can afford to live in Mexico without working, you can apply for a permanent resident visa directly. The income requirements are:
- Monthly income of approximately USD 7,300 over the past six months, or
- Savings or investments of at approximately USD 293,000, maintained for at least twelve months.
If you cannot meet these income requirements, you can apply for a temporary retirement visa, which is issued for one to four years.
Application Process
The application process for a permanent resident permit depends on whether you are applying from Mexico or from abroad.
In Mexico
If you already have a Temporary Resident Card, you can apply to upgrade it to a permanent residence status when your current permit is nearing expiration. Make sure you submit your application at least 30 days before the current card expires.
You can apply directly at the National Immigration Institute (INM).
Abroad
If you are eligible to receive a permanent resident visa immediately, you have to submit your application at a Mexican embassy in your home country. You will initially receive a 6-month visa, which allows you to enter Mexico.
After arriving in Mexico, visit the National Immigration Institute (INM) to apply for the Mexican Permanent Resident Card within 30 days. Remember, the visa alone does not grant long-term residency.
Navigating the process of applying for permanent residence in Mexico can be challenging, especially if you’re unsure about the requirements and supporting documents. Seeking professional guidance can simplify the process and save time. Immigration specialists can help clarify requirements and provide tailored advice to ensure your application proceeds smoothly.
Requirements
The required documents for applying for a permanent resident visa are:
- Visa application form
- Valid passport
- Copy of the main page of your passport
- Passport-size picture
- For retirees:
- Proof of investment or bank account statements showing a required balance for the last 12 months, or
- Proof of tax-free pension income for the last six months
- For the parent of a Mexican citizen/permanent resident:
- Your child’s birth certificate, stating your name (original and photocopy)
- For the child of a Mexican citizen/permanent resident:
- Your birth certificate (original and photocopy)
- For family members of a Mexican citizen/permanent resident:
- Applicant’s birth certificate (original and photocopy)
- Marriage certificate or proof of common-law relationship (if applicable)
- Proof of the Mexican nationality or permanent resident status of the family member
- For family members of a foreigner holding a permanent resident visa:
- Applicant’s birth certificate (original and photocopy)
- Marriage certificate or proof of common-law relationship (if applicable)
- Copy of the valid permanent resident visa of the family member
- Proof of financial means to support dependents (if required)
- For proof of common-law relationships:
- Notarized declaration confirming at least two years of cohabitation, with supporting documents (joint lease, property, bank accounts, etc.)
- If the couple has children, birth certificates of the children and proof of shared residence
- All the official documents you submit (birth certificates, marriage certificates, etc) have to be legalized via an Apostille or the Mexican embassy.
- All the documents you submit have to be in English or Spanish. If they are not, you must have them translated and submit both the original and the translation.
- This is not an exhaustive list of requirements. The Mexican embassy may request any additional documents as they see fit.
Your Rights With a Permanent Residence Card
With a Permanent Resident Card, you gain most rights of a Mexican citizen, except for voting privileges:
- Indefinite Stay – Permanent residents can live in Mexico indefinitely without needing to renew their status.
- Work Authorization -You can work in Mexico without requiring a separate work permit.
- Healthcare – You can enroll in Mexico’s public healthcare system (IMSS).
- Education – You have access to public schools and universities under the same conditions as citizens.
- Property Ownership – You can own property anywhere in Mexico, but in restricted zones (near coasts and borders), you need a fideicomiso (trust) or Mexican corporation.
- Pathway to Citizenship – You can apply for Mexican citizenship after five years.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Benefits of Being a Mexican Permanent Resident?
With a Permanent Resident Card, you gain most rights of a Mexican citizen, except for voting privileges. As a permanent resident of Mexico, you can:
- Indefinite Stay: Permanent residents can live in Mexico indefinitely without needing to renew their status.
- Work Authorization: You can work in Mexico without requiring a separate work permit.
- Access to Public Services:
- Healthcare: Enroll in Mexico’s public healthcare system (IMSS).
- Education: Access public schools and universities under the same conditions as citizens.
- Property Ownership: Own property anywhere in Mexico. In restricted zones (near coasts and borders), ownership requires a fideicomiso (trust) or Mexican corporation.
- Tax Considerations:
- Income Taxes: As a tax resident, you must report worldwide income if you establish a permanent home in Mexico.
- Property Taxes: Lower rates compared to other countries, calculated on cadastral (not market) value.
- Freedom to Travel: Enter and exit Mexico without restrictions.
- Pathway to Citizenship: Apply for Mexican citizenship after five years, retaining dual nationality.
What If I Lose or Damage my Card?
If you lose or damage your Mexican Resident Card, you must visit the local immigration office and apply for a replacement. You must have the following documents with you:
- Your passport (original and a photocopy)
- Residence card replacement fee
- Three pictures, two showing you face-front and one from your left side profile
- If card was damaged: Submit the Tourist Card (FMM) and your entrance Visa along with the residence card
- If card was stolen/lost: Submit the the Tourist Card (FMM) and your entrance Visa
- Form to request immigration procedure stay (here)
- Any additional documents the immigration office may request
If you lose or damage your Mexican Resident Card while you are abroad, you must approach a Mexican embassy to request a replacement.
Can I Get Mexican Citizenship?
You may apply for Mexican citizenship after five years of residency in Mexico, regardless of whether you have lived as a temporary or a permanent resident. Mexico allows dual citizenship, so you do not even have to renounce your current citizenship to obtain it.
As a citizen, you would have full rights to vote and live without fear of being deported. The Mexican passport is also one of the strongest, allowing visa-free access to well over 100 countries.
What is the Duration of a Mexico Permanent Resident Card?
The Mexican Permanent Resident Card is issued indefinitely, meaning it does not require renewal.
Can I Work in Mexico While Waiting for my Permanent Resident Card?
No, you must first exchange your Permanent Resident Visa for the Permanent Resident Card, which allows you to work. The visa alone does not grant employment rights.
What Happens If My Temporary Resident Card Expires Before I Apply for a Permanent Resident Card?
If your Temporary Resident Card expires, you may face fines or need to leave Mexico and reapply. Start your application for permanent residency at least 30 days before your temporary status ends to avoid legal issues.