Citizenship (Naturalization)
Mexican citizenship through naturalization available after 5 years of legal residency (reduced to 2 years for Latin Americans, Spaniards, Portuguese, or those married to Mexican nationals). Requires passing exam on Mexican history and culture (5 random questions, must answer 3 correctly) and demonstrating Spanish proficiency. Application fee ~8,755 MXN. Dual citizenship allowed - Mexico permits holding citizenship of another country. Important: naturalized citizens who live outside Mexico for 5+ consecutive years may lose citizenship. Processing takes 6-12 months.
Key Requirements:
- •5 years legal residency (2 years for qualifying categories)
- •Presence in Mexico for 18 of last 24 months
- •Pass Spanish language assessment
- +3 more requirements
Family Reunification
Residency for family members of Mexican nationals or legal residents. Spouses of Mexicans receive 2-year temporary residency initially, then can apply for permanent residency. Parents of Mexican-born children are immediately eligible for residency and can apply directly at INM in Mexico (no consulate visa needed). Dependent children under 18 can be included on parent's residency application. Family ties provide faster path to permanent residency and citizenship (2 years instead of 5).
Key Requirements:
- •Proof of family relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificate)
- •Mexican national's ID (INE) or resident card
- •Valid passport
- +1 more requirements
Permanent Resident
Permanent residency in Mexico with no renewal required. Two paths: (1) After 4 consecutive years as temporary resident, or (2) Direct qualification for retirees/pensioners with higher income (~$7,100 USD/month) or substantial savings (~$280,000 USD). Also available to spouses of Mexican nationals, parents of Mexican-born children, and those with family ties. Permanent residents can work without additional permit. Card must be replaced every 10 years. Provides nearly all rights of citizens except voting.
Key Requirements:
- •4 years as temporary resident, OR
- •High income (~$7,100 USD/month) or savings (~$280,000 USD) for direct path, OR
- •Mexican spouse, child, or parent
- +2 more requirements
Student Visa
For foreigners enrolled in Mexican educational institutions. Requires acceptance letter from recognized Mexican school. Valid for duration of studies (typically 1 year, renewable). Limited work rights - can apply for permission to work part-time in activities related to studies. Schools range from language programs to universities. Mexico has several highly-ranked universities including UNAM, Tecnologico de Monterrey (ITESM), and ITAM. Tuition at public universities is very affordable for international students.
Key Requirements:
- •Acceptance letter from Mexican educational institution
- •Proof of financial support
- •Valid passport
- +1 more requirements
Temporary Resident
Primary residency option for expats, digital nomads, and those exploring life in Mexico long-term. Valid for 1 year initially, renewable annually for up to 4 years total. After 4 years, can apply for permanent residency. 2026 financial requirements significantly increased: must prove ~$3,700 USD monthly income OR ~$62,000 USD in savings/investments (varies by consulate). Application begins at Mexican consulate abroad, then finalize at INM office in Mexico within 30 days of arrival. Allows multiple entries and exits. Work permitted only with separate work permit from INM.
Key Requirements:
- •Valid passport
- •Proof of income (~$3,700 USD/month) or savings (~$62,000 USD)
- •Bank statements for past 6-12 months
- +3 more requirements
Tourist Permit (FMM)
Visitor permit for tourism, business meetings, or exploring Mexico before committing to residency. Valid for up to 180 days but actual duration granted is at the discretion of the immigration officer - some receive 180 days, others only 7-30 days. Cannot be renewed or extended; must leave Mexico and re-enter for a new permit. No work permitted. Cost is approximately $983 MXN (~$55 USD) as of 2026, often included in airline tickets. Popular with digital nomads working remotely for foreign companies, though technically a gray area.
Key Requirements:
- •Valid passport (6+ months validity recommended)
- •Return ticket or proof of onward travel
- •Proof of sufficient funds
- +1 more requirements
Work Visa
For foreigners employed by Mexican companies. Employer must be registered with INM and sponsor the work permit. Process typically takes 4-6 weeks. Can be issued as temporary resident with work authorization. Mexican labor law requires that at least 90% of a company's workforce be Mexican citizens, with exceptions for technical/specialized positions. USMCA (formerly NAFTA) provides streamlined access for US and Canadian professionals in specific occupations. Work permit tied to specific employer; changing jobs requires new permit.
Key Requirements:
- •Job offer from Mexican company
- •Employer registered with INM
- •Proof of qualifications/experience
- +2 more requirements