Official ID Numbers in Mexico: CURP and RFC

Navigating official ID requirements in Mexico can feel overwhelming, but understanding these key identifiers can help make your stay much smoother. Here, we’ll cover the essentials about two crucial identification numbers: CURP (Clave Única de Registro de Población) and RFC (Registro Federal de Contribuyentes). These identifiers are used for everything from signing up for services to legal transactions.

CURP (Clave Única de Registro de Población)

Your CURP is similar to an American SSN (Social Security Number) or a Canadian SIN (Social Insurance Number). This Unique Population Registry Code is used to identify individuals residing in Mexico and is essential for accessing various services and official processes. Your CURP number is usually found on the front of your Temporary or Permanent Resident Visa.

To obtain a copy of your CURP, follow these steps:

1. If You Know Your CURP:
   • Visit the official CURP website: Check and Print Your CURP Here.
   • Select “Clave Única de Registro de Población”.
   • Enter your CURP number in the field labeled “Ingresa tu CURP” and click “BUSCAR”.
   • Your CURP will be downloaded, and you can print it out for your records.
2. If You Don’t Know Your CURP:
   • On the same website, select “Datos Personales”.
   • Fill in your first and second name under “Nombre(s)”, and your last name under “Primer apellido”.
   • Enter your birth date, month, and year.
   • From the drop-down box at the bottom, select “NACIDO EN EL EXTRANJERO” if you were born outside Mexico.
   • Click “BUSCAR”. Your CURP will be generated, allowing you to download and print it.

Your CURP is an important identifier that will help you navigate a variety of legal and financial transactions, from opening a bank account to registering for utilities.

RFC (Registro Federal de Contribuyentes)

Your RFC is a Federal Taxpayers Registry number, required for anyone conducting financial activities in Mexico. The RFC is necessary for earning income, selling property, entering into legal contracts, collecting rent, and other financial transactions. If you are a resident in Mexico aged 18 or older, you are now required by law to register with SAT (Servicio de Administración Tributaria) and obtain an RFC, even if you have no income.

The RFC is essential for:

• Opening a bank account
• Buying or selling a property
• Purchasing a vehicle
• Signing up for utilities

Please note that tourists cannot obtain an RFC, meaning that these types of legal and financial processes are not available to them. This policy is intended to regulate tax compliance and prevent fraud and money laundering.

How to Obtain an RFC

1. Request an Appointment:
   • The RFC is issued by SAT, which is similar to the IRS in the U.S. or the CRA in Canada.
   • To obtain your RFC, you’ll need to request an appointment online through the official SAT website: SAT Website – Click Here.
   • After submitting the request, you will receive an email with your appointment date. It is crucial that you reply to this email within 24 hours to confirm your appointment; otherwise, it will be canceled.
2. Prepare for Your Appointment:
   • Bring the following documents:
     • Resident card (Temporary or Permanent).
     • A printout of your CURP.
     • Proof of address (this can be in your name or someone else’s).
     • A USB drive to save your digital signature (e.firma).
   • If you’re in San Miguel de Allende and need help, you can reach out to Joanna Francis, a part of our team, who can assist with the RFC process.

RFC Structure

When an RFC is issued to an individual, it contains 13 characters. The structure is as follows:

• Four letters from your legal name:
  • The first letter and first internal vowel of your paternal surname.
  • If no internal vowel exists, the second letter of the surname is used.
  • The first letter of your maternal surname (or the first letter of your given name if no maternal surname exists).
  • The first letter of your given name.
• Birth Date: Represented by six digits in YYMMDD format.
• Check Code: A three-digit checksum assigned by SAT.

An RFC never expires; however, the electronic signature (e.firma) associated with it expires every four years. To renew it, visit a SAT office with your ID, resident card, USB drive, and proof of address.

Constancia Requirement

Temporary and Permanent Residents, as well as Mexican citizens over the age of 18, also require a Constancia. This document includes a QR code and serves as proof that you are current with your tax obligations to SAT. The Constancia provides essential information that identifies and validates your economic activity in Mexico.

Need More Information?

Navigating identification requirements can be challenging, but we’re here to help. For assistance with CURP, RFC, or any other official documentation, don’t hesitate to reach out for personalized support.

Disclaimer

The information provided here is for general informational purposes only. Regulations and processes may change, so always consult official government sources or seek the assistance of a legal expert for the most up-to-date guidance on navigating Mexican ID requirements.