The Mexico Work Visa—better known as a Temporary Resident Visa with permission to work—allows foreign professionals to legally enter Mexico, reside, and engage in paid employment. The key starting point is that applications must be initiated by the employer, not the individual. Employers must be registered with the National Institute of Migration (INM), Mexico’s federal immigration authority. Once approved, the applicant travels to Mexico and converts their visa into a Temporary Resident Card, which permits them to stay and work—typically for up to four years, depending on their contract and employer arrangements.
Foreign nationals with a formal job offer from a Mexican employer who is registered with the INM can apply. Individuals on tourist or visitor status cannot apply themselves.
Requirements include:
A job offer and employer willing to file the work permit request with the INM;
A passport valid for at least six months;
Specific documents like visa application form, one photo, proof of qualifications, background checks, and evidence of economic solvency, depending on the consulate.
Application Process
Employer registers with the INM and submits the work permit application.
Once approved, the INM issues a Unique Processing Number (NUT). The applicant uses this number to schedule a consular appointment abroad.
At the Mexican consulate, the applicant submits required documents and attends an interview. If approved, they receive a temporary resident visa (single-entry, typically valid for six months).
Upon arrival in Mexico, the applicant has 30 days to register with the INM and receive the Temporary Resident Card—with work authorization valid for up to four years.
Legal authorization to work fully in Mexico.
Longer-term residency, up to four years with the Temporary Resident Card, and opportunity to transition to permanent residency after four consecutive years—if desired.
Relocate for work within a clear legal framework.
Engage in long-term projects or assignments in Mexico without risking visa violations.
Build a career or family life in Mexico, with the eventual option of permanent residency.
Imagine a software engineer from Kenya receives a job offer from a tech company in Mexico City. The Mexican employer applies to the INM for a work permit and obtains the NUT. The engineer attends a consular interview, gets the visa, and flies to Mexico. Within 30 days, they obtain their Temporary Resident Card—legally working in their field for up to four years. After that period, should they wish, they can apply for permanent residency under standard rules.
No—only employers registered with the INM can initiate the process. Individuals cannot apply independently.
Consular processing generally takes 2–4 weeks. After arriving in Mexico, converting your visa to a resident card may take 3–6 weeks. Overall, planning for a few months is wise.
You must notify the INM. A new employer must submit a fresh work permit request, or you may need to leave Mexico. Independent or freelance work is not allowed.
Yes—after four consecutive years on a Temporary Resident Visa, you may apply for Permanent Residency. Some exceptions (e.g., family connections) may allow for a faster transition.