The Temporary Resident Visa is designed for foreign nationals who intend to live in Mexico for more than 180 days (approximately six months), up to a maximum of four years—depending on renewal and personal circumstances. After arriving in Mexico with this visa, applicants must secure a Temporary Resident Card from the National Migration Institute (INM) within 30 calendar days to legalize their stay.
This visa generally does not allow the holder to work in Mexico—unless a work permit has been expressly authorized by the INM.
Any foreign national planning to stay in Mexico longer than six months and up to four years. Eligibility spans retirees, remote workers, students, investors, and family members under family unity provisions.
Core Requirements:
Valid passport with at least 6 months’ validity and blank pages.
Completed application form and one passport-size photo as specified by the consulate.
Proof of economic solvency, which may include:
Consistent monthly income (for example, approximately USD 2,593/month), or
Bank savings average (e.g., around USD 43,200 over 12 months), or
Real estate ownership in Mexico (e.g., valued at about USD 345,700)
Alternatively, documentation tied to categories like students, family unity, investor status, or an invitation from a Mexican organization.
Processing also typically involves an in-person consular appointment, biometric data collection, and an interview.
Holding a Temporary Resident Visa (and subsequent Resident Card) enables you to:
Live in Mexico legally for extended periods (1 to 4 years total).
Enter and exit the country multiple times as needed.
Access local services, such as driver’s licenses, vehicle registration, senior discounts (INAPAM), and potential tax advantages in some regions (e.g., Guanajuato).
After four years, you may qualify to apply for permanent residency
A freelance graphic designer from Europe applies for a Temporary Resident Visa to work remotely while living in Mexico for a year. They prepare:
A signed bank statement showing consistent savings.
A letter from their employer or freelance clients confirming income.
They attend a consular appointment, get the visa stamped, and then, once in Mexico, visit the INM to secure their Resident Card. They now live legally in Mexico, exit and enter freely, and can apply for permanent residency after four continuous years.
No—unless you have a separate work permit authorized by the INM. The Temporary Resident Visa alone does not grant work rights
Valid for up to six months for entry; after arriving, exchange for a Temporary Resident Card (1–4 years)
Options include monthly income ($2,600 USD), savings ($43,200 USD), or real estate (~$345,700 USD)
You may qualify under economic solvency. You don’t need a work permit as you’re not earning within Mexico
Visit the INM within 30 days to exchange the visa for a Temporary Resident Card, and pay renewal or card fees
Yes—as long as you’ve maintained temporary residency for four years, you may apply for permanent status