Mexico is an attractive destination for many due to its rich culture, beautiful landscapes, and growing economy. For businesses looking to expand into Mexico or hire foreign talent, understanding the work permit and visa requirements is crucial. This guide covers everything you need to know about obtaining work permits and visas in Mexico, ensuring compliance with local regulations.
Yes, in most cases, US citizens need a work permit to work in Mexico. However, Mexico allows US citizens to take short-term business trips (less than 180 days) without requiring a visa. For any work beyond this period, a work permit is necessary.
When applying for a Mexican residence visa, applicants need to provide the following documents:
A visa application form
A valid passport with at least six months before its expiry date
A signed letter of authorization from the Mexican Immigration Office with the NUT (Número Único de Trámite) number
A signed job offer from a company with a business presence in Mexico
A signed letter of registration of the company or employer (Constancia de Inscripción de Empleador)
A Letter of Notification of Authorization of Visa received by the Mexican company
An airline ticket itinerary
One color passport size photo (minimum size 3.2 cm x 2.6 cm; maximum size 3.9 cm x 3.1 cm; white background, no eyeglasses)
A photocopy of the main page of their passport, their National ID, any former Mexican visa they've had, and any valid visa from another country
Proof of permanent or temporary legal residence
To qualify for a permanent residency visa in Mexico through family ties, the applicant must be a close family member (child, parent, child of a spouse or common-law partner, or sibling) of a Mexican citizen or a foreigner with permanent residence in Mexico.
Applicants must prove economic solvency to qualify for a permanent residency visa. This can be demonstrated through:
Sufficient income to cover the cost of living in Mexico
Sufficient savings in cash or cash-like investments
Ownership of Mexican real estate
Investments in local companies or the stock market
The required level of income varies depending on the type of visa.
There is no expedited process for obtaining a Mexican work permit. However, applicants can save time by applying for their residence visa and work permit concurrently. The employer can initiate the work permit process to ensure a smoother and quicker application.
Visa fees in Mexico vary based on the type of visa and the applicant's country of origin. For those with a temporary resident card, the work permit application fee is MXN 3,207 (approximately $150 USD). There is no fee for permanent residents applying for a work permit.
Family members are not included in the primary applicant's visa. Once the working family member receives a residence visa and work permit, family members can apply for a dependent visa. Those with dependent visas can also apply for their work permits.
Temporary residence visas are initially issued for one year. Applicants can extend this visa for up to three additional years, totaling four years. Extension applications must be submitted at least 30 days before the visa expires. After four years on a temporary residence visa, individuals become eligible for a permanent residence visa.
There is no limit on the number of work permits a foreign national can obtain while holding a temporary residence permit in Mexico. They can apply for a new work permit anytime they receive a new job offer. After four years, they must apply for permanent residence if they wish to continue living in Mexico. Once they obtain a permanent residence permit, they no longer need work permits.
Understanding the requirements for work permits and visas in Mexico is essential for businesses and individuals planning to work or expand operations in the country. Following the proper procedures and ensuring all necessary documentation is submitted can facilitate a smooth transition.
Prepared on the information from rippling.com