How Can I Obtain a Mexican Resident Card?

If you plan to stay in Mexico for more than six consecutive months, you will need a Mexican Resident Card.

The application process begins outside of Mexico. First-time applicants must apply at their nearest Mexican Consulate abroad.

Key points to know:

• A Temporary Resident Card is valid for up to 4 years. After that period, you must either leave Mexico to reapply or convert it to Permanent Residency.

• If you previously held a non-immigrant status (FM3):

  • In years 1 or 2, you may convert it to Temporary Residency without leaving Mexico.

  • In years 3 or 4, you must either convert it to Permanent Residency or leave the country. You may apply for this change up to 6 months before expiration.

• Permanent Resident status can be granted without annual renewals.

Financial requirements:

To qualify, you must demonstrate financial self-sufficiency, typically:

• Around $2,000 USD per month in income, or

• Approximately $102,000 USD in investments per person

Immigration authorities may accept a combination of assets, including real estate, at their discretion.

Final steps:

Once approved by the Consulate, a visa sticker will be placed in your passport. After entering Mexico, you have 30 days to visit the local immigration office to exchange it for your official Temporary or Permanent Resident Card.

Once issued, your CURP number will automatically appear on the card.