🇲🇽 Mexico
Vibrant culture, close to the US, and easy residency options
Visa Options
- Temporary Resident Visa (1–4 years) — Monthly income ~$2,500 or savings ~$42,000
- Permanent Resident Visa (Permanent) — 4 years as temporary resident, or family ties, or $210k+ investment
- Work Visa (with employer) (1 year (renewable)) — Mexican employer sponsor + INM approval
- Tourist Visa / FMM (180 days) — No income requirements, no work rights
Tax Overview
- Income Tax: 1.92% – 35% (progressive)
- Non-Resident Tax: 15% – 30% on Mexican-source income
- Corporate Tax: 30%
- VAT (IVA): 16%
Cost of Living
- Comfortable living (single, typical): $1,200 – $1,800/mo
- 1BR Apartment (Mexico City): $650 – $1,100/mo
- 1BR Apartment (Playa del Carmen): $800 – $1,400/mo
- Groceries: $150 – $320/mo
- Utilities: $40 – $90/mo
- Dining out: $5 – $18/meal
- Public transport (Metro): $12 – $20/mo
Relocation Checklist
- Apply for temporary or permanent resident visa at Mexican consulate
- Enter Mexico and exchange visa for resident card within 30 days
- Get CURP (population registry number)
- Get RFC (tax ID) if working or doing business
- Open a Mexican bank account
- Arrange health insurance (IMSS or private)
- Register address with INM (immigration office)
- Learn basic Spanish (essential outside tourist areas)