How long does it take to become a Mexican citizen?

Becoming a Mexican citizen through naturalization is achievable and comes with benefits like dual citizenship. Here's the complete timeline and requirements:

Standard Naturalization Timeline

5 Years of Legal Residency

For most foreigners, you need:

• 5 years as a legal resident (temporary or permanent)
• Physical presence of at least 18 of the last 24 months
• Continuous residency (gaps can reset the clock)

Breakdown:

Accelerated Path: 2 Years

You qualify for citizenship after only 2 years if:

• Married to a Mexican citizen
• Born in a Latin American country (includes all of Central and South America)
• From Spain or Portugal
• Descended from a Mexican national
• Adopted by a Mexican national (1 year)

2-Year Path Timeline:

Requirements for Naturalization

Eligibility:

• At least 18 years old
• Legal residency for required period
• Physical presence requirements met
• Good conduct (no serious criminal record)

Exams Required:

1. Spanish Language Assessment:

• Interview portion
• Reading test
• Short writing section
• Basic proficiency expected
• Exemptions: Over 60 years old, minors, refugees

2. Mexican History and Culture Exam:

• 5 randomly selected multiple-choice questions
• Must answer at least 3 correctly
• Questions from official study guide (provided by SRE)
• Topics: history, geography, culture, government
• Exemptions: Over 60, minors, refugees

Application Process:

1. Gather documents:

• Two copies of CURP (population registry code)
• Application form with entry/exit dates
• Proof of residency for required period
• Passport
• Photos
• Payment receipt

1. Submit application:

• Main SRE office in Mexico City, or
• Authorized regional offices

1. Take exams:

• Usually same day or separate appointment
• Spanish interview
• Culture/history test

1. Wait for decision:

• Standard: 6-12 months
• Accelerated (2-year path): 4-8 months

1. Receive citizenship:

• Citizenship letter (Carta de Naturalizacion)
• Can then apply for Mexican passport

Costs (2026):

• Application fee: ~8,755 MXN (~$490 USD)
• Passport fee (optional): ~1,500-2,500 MXN

Benefits of Mexican Citizenship:

• Dual citizenship allowed - Mexico permits holding another citizenship
• Voting rights in Mexican elections
• Full property rights (no fideicomiso needed in restricted zones)
• No residency renewals required
• Access to Mexican passport (visa-free to 150+ countries)
• Social programs access
• Full work rights anywhere in Mexico

Important Warnings:

Loss of Citizenship Risk:

If you become a naturalized Mexican citizen and then live outside Mexico for 5 or more consecutive years, you can lose your Mexican citizenship. This is a significant consideration for those who might return to their home country.

This does NOT apply to Mexican citizens by birth - only naturalized citizens.

Dual Citizenship Notes:

• Mexico allows dual citizenship
• Your home country's rules may differ
• US allows dual citizenship with Mexico
• Check your home country's laws

Timeline Summary:

Mexican citizenship is achievable and provides significant benefits, especially for those from eligible countries who qualify for the 2-year path. The exams are manageable with preparation, and dual citizenship makes this an attractive option.