Mexico Temporary Resident Visa (Retirement)
Mexico MEX
Mexico's Temporary Resident Visa is the standard pathway for retirees and those living off passive income, pension, or savings who wish to reside in Mexico legally. The visa requires demonstrating sufficient monthly income or savings equivalent to multiples of Mexico's minimum wage, thresholds that make Mexico accessible for most Western retirees. After four years of continuous temporary residency, holders qualify for permanent resident status, and Mexican citizenship (with dual nationality permitted) can be sought after five years.
Program Details
- Category
- Retirement
- Processing Time
- 2 months
- Application Fee
- $40
- Minimum Income
- $2,800/yr
- Minimum Investment
- N/A
- Family Included
- Spouse and dependent children may obtain derivative Temporary Resident visas linked to the primary holder; some consulates require additional income evidence for dependants
- Path to PR
- Yes — 4 years
- Path to Citizenship
- Yes — 5 years
- Physical Presence
- Must reside in Mexico; Temporary Resident status is valid for up to 4 years (1-year initial permit renewable up to 3 times). After 4 years of legal residence, holders may apply for Permanent Resident status.
- Dual Citizenship
- Allowed
- Tax Impact
- Residents spending 183+ days per year in Mexico are subject to Mexican income tax on worldwide income. Mexico has double taxation treaties with several countries. Foreign pensions may be partially exempt depending on the applicable treaty.
- Renewal Cost
- $40
Applicants must show either: monthly income of approximately MXN 50,000–56,000 (~$2,800–$3,100 USD, based on 300 times the daily minimum wage), OR savings/investments of approximately MXN 1,000,000+ (~$56,000 USD). Exact amounts are set by each Mexican consulate and adjust periodically.
Key Requirements
- ✓Proof of monthly income of approximately $2,800–$3,100 USD from pension, investments, or other passive sources
- ✓OR proof of savings/investments of approximately $56,000 USD (consulate-specific thresholds apply)
- ✓Apply initially at a Mexican consulate in the country of residence
- ✓Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
- ✓Bank statements covering at least the past 6–12 months
- ✓Application form and consular fee payment
- ✓Upon arrival in Mexico, register with the National Immigration Institute (INM) within 30 days to exchange the visa for a residence card