How Getting Mexican Residency Works

The Mexican residency process has two main stages: the consulate appointment in your home country, and the INM canje (exchange) visit in Mexico.

Step 1: Check Eligibility

Confirm you meet the financial requirements for your chosen consulate. Income and savings thresholds vary by location.

Step 2: Consulate Appointment

Book an appointment at a Mexican consulate near you, prepare your documents, and attend your appointment to receive your visa sticker.

Step 3: Enter Mexico

Use your visa sticker to enter Mexico within 180 days. You have 30 days from entry to complete the INM canje.

Step 4: INM Canje Visit

Visit your local INM (Instituto Nacional de Migración) office to exchange your visa sticker for a physical residency card (tarjeta de residente).

Step 5: Receive Your Card

Pick up your residency card — usually 1–4 weeks after your INM visit. You are now a legal Mexican resident.