Mexico Guide: Visas & Permits

Which documents do you need when going abroad? What are the regulations on visas and residence permits? Our legal guide will help you understand the paperwork you need to complete before moving abroad.

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  Introduction

  The Mexican visa system

  When it comes to immigration laws, visa applications and work permits, Mexico offers just about as much red tape as any other country in the world. Your first step towards overcoming these obstacles is to become familiar with the Mexican immigration system.

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  Residency visas

  Visas for short-term and long-term residency

  In Mexico you can either apply for a short-term or a long-term visa. The former is valid for up to 4 years, the latter does not expire.

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  Visitor visas

  Visas for visiting Mexico

  There are three types of visitor visas for Mexico. You are obliged to apply for a visitor visa 30 days after your arrival in Mexico.

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  Work permits

  How to get a Mexican work permit

  In order to work in Mexico you need a Mexican work permit from the Institute of Immigration (Instituto Nacional de Migración - INM). With the work permit you can apply for a residence visa.

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  Citizenship

  How to obtain Mexican nationality

  Before you can apply for Mexican citizenship you need to be able to prove that you have legally resided in Mexico for one, two or five years (depending on your situation) prior to application.

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