A Beginner’s Guide on Moving to Mexico

Jump right in:

• The guide to visa types and work permit requirements
• All you need to know about relocating your household goods and pets
• Everything you need to know about finding a new home
• Health insurance and Mexico's healthcare system explained

The guide to visa types and work permit requirements

Are you planning on relocating to sunny, culturally rich, geographically diverse Mexico? As expected, the first obstacle to solve will be your immigration status. If you’re wondering how to get a Mexican visa or a work permit, often the most tedious process in a relocation venture, you’re in the right place.

The visa application process in Mexico will vary depending on the visa type. To apply to be a temporary resident, the length of your stay should be more than six months. However, if you intend on residing there for an extended period of time, the permanent residency visa is your best bet.

The visa requirements will also depend on how long you’re planning on staying. For temporary resident (residente temporal), the main requirement is financial. In simpler words, you must have a certain amount of funds. For permanent resident (residente permanente), you will have to meet more requirements.

For more information on visa types, steps and requirements, fees, and more, read our complete guide on visas & work permits in Mexico.

All you need to know about relocating your household goods and pets

Even if you are an experienced expat, the process of moving to Mexico will come with challenges. You made the decision to relocate, be it for the warm weather and beautiful scenery or for the lower cost of living. Now, you need to set your relocation plan in motion.

As you may be aware, moving abroad is always full of obstacles, before, during, and after your journey. Throughout this time, the first things on your to-do list will have to do with moving, shipping, and storing your household goods. The important things to bear in mind are keeping costs down, avoiding damage and breakages, and receiving your belongings on time.

The logistics of moving your belongings to Mexico may be a little confusing at first. There are several transport options available and many guidelines to follow, some of which are out of the ordinary. For example, if you bring an unusual amount of used clothes and shoes, you might have some explaining to do. Citing health reasons, the importation of secondhand clothes and shoes for commercial purposes is strictly prohibited by law.

If you have furry family members, you will need detailed information on moving to Mexico with your pets. Remember that moving your pets abroad cannot be done last minute. You need to start prepping them at least a month in advance. If you can, start even earlier, so you don’t risk any surprises.

Another important thing to have in mind is what vaccinations are required for Mexico. We have the answers for you. In our comprehensive relocation guide, you’ll find all the relevant information you require. We have useful tips for every aspect of a relocation, from the early stages of planning your move until you settle into your new home.

Read our complete guide on relocating to Mexico

Everything you need to know about finding a new home

If you’re planning to relocate to Mexico, finding accommodation will be high up on your list of priorities. Our comprehensive guide about housing in Mexico will solve all your questions and make this usually difficult process much easier. We’ll tell you all about the different types of houses across the country, and much more.

Do you want to know how to rent a house in Mexico? Are you thinking of renting temporary accommodation first, so you can calmly decide which are the best options for you once you’re there? Or maybe you’re thinking about investing in property. Do you know how easy it is for foreigners to buy a house in Mexico?

We tell you everything you need to know, from average house prices if you're looking to buy, to the rent you can expect to pay in cities across the country. What can you expect to pay for utilities in Mexico? Did you know that although the average price for properties in Mexico City is the most expensive in the country, it’s still cheaper than in most cities in the US and Canada?

Read our complete guide on housing in Mexico

Health insurance and Mexico’s healthcare system explained

Understanding the healthcare system and how health insurance works in Mexico is fundamental for your safe integration into your new country. Navigating the Mexican healthcare system is not simple, as it’s composed of a mixture of private, public, and employer-funded healthcare schemes.

You’ll need to fully understand your options to make an informed decision. Our guide will start by explaining the current structure of the health system. We’ll also explain how to access health insurance in Mexico, and what the advantages and disadvantages of both the private and public sectors are.

Read our complete guide on insurance & healthcare in Mexico