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Mexico Country Guide
Your Complete Guide to Moving, Living & Working in Mexico

Important: This guide provides essential information for individuals and families relocating to Mexico. Known for its vibrant cities, rich culture, diverse landscapes, and strong industries in tourism, manufacturing, technology, logistics, and services, Mexico attracts both professionals and retirees. Immigration, residency and employment rules can change — always verify requirements through official Mexican government sources.

Home To Home Relocations supports clients relocating to Mexico from Canada and worldwide with professional export packing, ocean and air freight logistics, customs coordination, and final delivery to major destinations including Mexico City, Guadalajara, Monterrey, Puebla, Querétaro, Mérida, Cancún and Tijuana.

1. Before You Move to Mexico

1.1 Visa Types & Residency

Most newcomers will require one of the following immigration statuses:

  • Visitor status – for short stays; does not permit employment
  • Temporary Resident Visa – valid for up to four years; often used for employment, study or family situations
  • Permanent Resident Visa – for long-term residency; usually based on income, family ties, or long-term temporary residency
  • Work permits – typically linked to employer sponsorship and granted under temporary residency
Tip: Temporary residency applications often begin at a Mexican consulate abroad. Once in Mexico, the applicant completes the process with the National Immigration Institute (INM).

1.2 Working in Mexico

Employment opportunities for foreigners are strongest in:

  • Automotive and aerospace manufacturing
  • Technology, IT and digital services
  • Tourism and hospitality
  • English teaching and international schools
  • Logistics, warehousing and international trade
  • Finance, call centres and business process outsourcing

1.3 Housing & Accommodation

Housing varies widely depending on the region. Popular expat areas include:

  • Mexico City: Polanco, Condesa, Roma, Santa Fe
  • Guadalajara: Providencia, Zapopan, Chapalita
  • Monterrey: San Pedro Garza García, Valle Oriente
  • Mérida: North Mérida neighbourhoods popular with families
  • Cancún & Riviera Maya: For tourism-based and remote-work lifestyles

Rentals may require:

  • One month’s rent upfront
  • Security deposit
  • Proof of income or job offer
  • Guarantor (fiador) in some cases — or insurance to replace a guarantor

1.4 Banking & Finances

The local currency is the Mexican Peso (MXN). Opening a bank account typically requires:

  • Passport and residency card (temporary or permanent)
  • Proof of address within Mexico
  • Tax Identification Number (RFC), depending on the bank

1.5 Healthcare & Insurance

Mexico has both public and private healthcare systems:

  • IMSS – Social security system for workers and residents who qualify
  • Private clinics & hospitals – widely used for faster access and English-speaking services
Important: Many newcomers choose private health insurance for broader options and shorter wait times, especially during the first months of residency.

1.6 Key Documents to Prepare Before Moving

  • Passport (valid at least six months beyond travel)
  • Visa or consular pre-approval for residency
  • Birth and marriage certificates
  • Work contracts, qualifications and academic records
  • Medical records and vaccination history
  • International Driving Permit (optional)

2. Your First Weeks in Mexico

2.1 Immigration Office (INM) Procedures

If you arrive with a temporary resident visa obtained abroad, you must finalize the process at the INM office within 30 days to obtain your residency card.

2.2 CURP Registration

A CURP (Clave Única de Registro de Población) is a personal identity code required for many services, including banking, employment and healthcare enrollment.

2.3 Everyday Setup

  • Obtain a local SIM card (Telcel, AT&T, Movistar)
  • Open a bank account (often requires your residency card)
  • Settle into permanent housing arrangements
  • Find local clinics, pharmacies and emergency numbers
  • Register children for school (public or private)
Tip: Many expats use WhatsApp for everyday communication — including contacting landlords, repair technicians and service providers.

3. Mexico at a Glance

3.1 Geography & Regions

Mexico has 32 states and a mix of mountains, deserts, beaches and tropical forests. Key regions include:

  • Central Mexico: Mexico City, Querétaro, Puebla
  • Western Mexico: Guadalajara, Puerto Vallarta
  • Northern Mexico: Monterrey, Tijuana, Chihuahua
  • Southeast: Mérida, Cancún, Riviera Maya
  • Baja California: Beaches, wine country and coastal tourism

3.2 Politics & Economy

Mexico is a federal republic with strong economic sectors in manufacturing, logistics, tourism, agriculture, technology, energy and services. Its geographic proximity to North America makes it a hub for international trade.

3.3 Climate & Weather

Climate varies significantly:

  • High-altitude regions (Mexico City, Toluca) – mild summers and cool winters
  • Coastal/tropical areas – hot, humid conditions with a rainy season
  • Northern states – hotter summers and cooler winters

4. Why Many Newcomers Choose Mexico

  • Warm climate and diverse landscapes
  • Lower cost of living compared to many Western countries
  • Vibrant cities with strong cultural heritage
  • Growing expat communities in major cities and coastal regions
  • Proximity to Canada and the United States

5. Housing, Cost of Living & Daily Life

Mexico offers a variety of lifestyles — from cosmopolitan cities to beachfront communities and smaller colonial towns. Costs vary widely by region.

Common monthly expenses include:

  • Rent or mortgage
  • Utilities (electricity varies due to AC use, water, internet)
  • Groceries and dining out
  • Public transport or fuel for driving
  • Health insurance premiums
  • School fees for private institutions
Tip: Electricity bills can be high in coastal regions due to air conditioning. Many residents choose energy-efficient appliances and keep track of usage.

6. Transportation & Getting Around

6.1 Public Transport

Transportation varies by city:

  • Mexico City: Metro, Metrobus, light rail, cable cars
  • Guadalajara: Light rail and bus networks
  • Monterrey: Metro and buses
  • Ride-sharing apps (Uber, Didi, Cabify) widely available nationwide

6.2 Driving in Mexico

Mexico drives on the right-hand side. Road conditions vary by region. Many newcomers use ride-sharing or hire private drivers, especially in traffic-heavy areas.

6.3 Domestic & International Travel

Mexico has extensive air connections across the country and internationally. Major airports include:

  • Mexico City International Airport (AICM)
  • Felipe Ángeles International Airport (AIFA)
  • Guadalajara International Airport
  • Monterrey International Airport
  • Cancún International Airport

7. Culture, Lifestyle & Places to Visit

7.1 Everyday Culture

  • Spanish is the primary language spoken throughout Mexico.
  • Family life, traditions and festivals play a major role in daily culture.
  • Workplaces value relationships, communication and punctuality varies by industry.
  • Food culture is diverse — from tacos, mole and tamales to regional specialties.

7.2 Popular Cities & Attractions

  • Mexico City: Historic centre, museums, parks and gastronomy
  • Riviera Maya: Beaches, cenotes and resorts
  • Guadalajara: Tequila region, mariachi and culture
  • Oaxaca: Colonial architecture and cuisine
  • Baja California: Valle de Guadalupe wine region and coastal scenery
  • Mérida & Yucatán: Mayan ruins, beaches and lifestyle communities

8. Useful Websites for Newcomers