Immigration
The country of Mexico has designated a number of different statuses for foreign visitors; there are three statuses that generally relate to real property home buyers. These statuses are different for the specific situations of the foreign visitor.
The changes to immigration law initiated by the Mexican government were made in May 2011 and these changes came into effect in November 2012.
The first and most basic visa is the TOURIST CARD or TOURIST VISA, this is the standard tourist form required by all persons entering the country that allows visitors to remain in the country for up to six months without working. This Tourist Card is easily renewed by simply leaving México within the six month period and then returning.
The second type of designation is the TEMPORARY RESIDENT VISA which is designed for the visitor who wants to live in México more than 180 days. You will need four years of temporary residency status first however. The “Temporary Resident Visa” is recommended for those who choose to own property in México. After four years it can be converted into a “Permanent Resident Visa”. This visa allows you to stay in Mexico for as long as you like without a restriction on foreign travel.
An individual with the “Temporary Resident Visa” status is allowed to own foreign-plated vehicles, and operate them in México as long as the vehicle is registered with the “Temporary Resident Visa” upon entry into México.
The third type of designation is the PERMANENT RESIDENT VISA. After four years of successfully meeting the requirements of “Temporary Resident Visa”, including time outside of México, you may apply for “Permanent Resident Visa” status which allows you to enjoy most of the rights of a Mexican Citizen, with the exception of the right to vote. This visa status does not require you to give up your native citizenship and holders may freely work and remain in México without annual renewals of any immigration papers. This is also recommended for real property owners.
You cannot have a foreign plated vehicle in Mexico under this “Permanent Resident Visa” status.
You must inform the INM (Immigration) of the following changes within 90 days of their occurrence:
- Address change
- Change of employment
- Change in martial status
- Change in citizenship
For most people, the “Temporary Resident Visa” status is the most practical status for part time residents. It is obtained more quickly than the “Permanent Resident Visa”. Many “Permanent Resident Visa” applicants use professional help in completing the forms and required paperwork.
Privileges are the same for both “Temporary Resident Visa” and “Permanent Resident Visa”, holders; however, “Permanent Resident Visa” and “Temporary Resident Visa” holders must return a foreign plated automobile to outside of México, as they cannot drive foreign plated automobiles within the country. With both types of Visas you are free to come and go from México anytime as you please. Please check with the Foreign Affairs Department of Mexico regarding any changes to the rules regarding automobiles as they seem to change often.
TEMPORARY AND PERMANENT RESIDENT WORK PERMIT
Holders of a temporary resident visas may be allowed to work in Mexico but they require a work permit. The work permit is not a separate document. It is a change to your activity status on your visa.
Permanent Residents have the right to work in Mexico.
To get a work permit you need to submit a letter with your application, which states what type of work you want to do.
Timothy Real Estate Group recommends you visit your local Mexican consulate to verify the processes for any of the above mentioned. You can also visit Mexican Requirements for Immigration for more detailed information.
