Before moving to Mexico, you have several migratory options to choose from, depending on you personal situation and needs. The main factors affecting this decision are how long you are planning to stay in Mexico and the items you would like to bring with you.

Tourist Visa

This type of Visa is given to visitors staying in Mexico for less than 6 months. The FMT Visa is applicable if you are considering partial retirement in Mexico. Some Americans residing in Mexico actually come back to the U.S. every six months to keep this visa status. Obviously, if you live within driving distance of the U.S., this requirement is easier fulfilled.

The FMT Visa does not allow you to work, and it should be returned upon return to your country. There is a limited amount of items you are allowed to bring into Mexico with the Tourist Visa.

If, for any reason, the Tourist Visa was granted for less than 6 months and you are already in Mexico, you can apply for an extension.

The reasoning behind this is to verify that you can support yourself without working for the length of your stay. You will also need to provide an address for where you will be living and proof of the address, such as phone, electric bill, or the deed to your property

Nonimmigrant Visa

Also known as FM3 Visa, the Nonimmigrant Visa (Multiple entry) allows visitors to stay in Mexico for a one-year period, renewable every year. After renewing five times, Visa holders are entitled to apply for the FM2 Immigrant Visa or remain with the FM3 Visa. The FM3 can be obtained at a Mexican Consulate or in Mexico. The visa holder has a 3-month period to enter the country; otherwise, the visa will no longer be valid.

With the FM3 Visa, you are allowed to leave and enter Mexico at any time. However, with the Non Immigrant Visa, you do not acquire residency rights. Unlike the FMT visa, the FM3 visa allows you to open a bank account at any Mexican Bank.

If bringing a car with you, the FM3 Visa allows you to keep your foreign plated car for as long as you hold your nonimmigrant status.

Immigrant Visa

The FM2 Visa must also be renewed annually. Holders of theFM2 Visa acquire Immigrant status. The FM2 Visa can only be obtained in Mexico and can be obtained without applying for the FM3 Visa. After five years with the FM2 Visa, you can apply for the “Inmigrado” status (permanent resident). The main disadvantage is the restriction not to leave Mexico more than 18 months in a five year period if interested in applying for permanent residency. In addition, the immigrant status will be lost if you stay outside the country more than 2 years. If bringing a car with you, be aware that the FM2 Visa only grants use of the foreign plated vehicle for 5 years.

Retired FM2 and FM3

Both with the FM2 and FM3 Visas you may be allowed to perform several activities, such as business or investor, professionals, scientists, students, or retirees.

The retired FM2 and FM3 Visas are granted to individuals who do not plan to engage in income producing activities. To receive this status, the retiree needs to prove to the Mexican Government it has enough income to live from investments, interests or benefits earned either in another country or in Mexico. Family members can obtain the Visa Status as economic dependants of the main Visa holder, and could work with the proper permit.

To obtain the retired FM2 or FM3, the applicant must be at least 55 years old, provide proof of permanent source of monthly income no less than $1,000.00 US for the head of household and $500.00 US for each additional member of the family 15 years or older. A deposit with a Mexican bank or the purchase of government bonds or securities is also accepted. In addition, the applicant must provide a certificate of non-criminal activity for himself and companions, issued by the authorities in the last place of residence, a birth certificate and marriage certificate if applicable. The Visa applicant must also provide a health certificate certifying good health. The Mexican Consulate will certify and legalize the aforementioned documents.

The applicant also needs to fill out the application form, provide a valid passport, two passport size photographs and pay for the application. Be sure to apply for your visa in advance before your trip to Mexico.