Moving to Mexico could be for a number of reasons. You could be retiring, you could be moved as a result of your job, you could be a digital nomad and your job allows you to work online, or you might just like to spend part of the year in a warmer climate. No matter what the reason, there are a few particulars you need to plan for prior to your move.
Mexican Visa
As a visitor, the length of stay you are allowed is set when you enter; see INM’s visitor permit page. If you plan to live in Mexico rather than visit, ask the Mexican consulate which residency status applies to you and what it requires before you move.
Insurance
If you plan to drive, note that Mexican federal law requires every vehicle on a federal highway, road or bridge to carry third-party liability insurance (Ley de Caminos, Puentes y Autotransporte Federal, art. 63 Bis), and US and Canadian insurance is not considered proof of financial responsibility under Mexican law (Baja Bound FAQ). There are several options for travel medical insurance, sold for the dates you select; the US State Department says: "We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel" (Mexico travel advisory). Temporary auto insurance policies are sold for the days you select, up to annual terms (price table).
If you are buying a home or condo in Mexico, you also want to purchase homeowners insurance. Baja Bound offers homeowners and renters policies from HDI Seguros for houses, condos and rentals. Policies not only cover your home but also your valuables. Earthquake and flood damage can also be included.
Your Household Items
If you are making a long-term move and bringing your furniture and household items with you, there is a bit of a process involved. Ask the Mexican consulate what paperwork the shipment needs before you book the movers.
Mañana Doesn’t Always Mean Tomorrow
Living in Mexico is an exercise in patience. Meals are meant to be an experience, not a get in and get out, so don’t wait for the bill to arrive on its own: ask for la cuenta to let the staff know you’re ready to pay. There is an ongoing joke about when someone says they will be there mañana (tomorrow), it doesn’t necessarily mean tomorrow, just not today.
Patience is key. Be prepared to expect this lifestyle. If you are a fast-paced, have-to-have-everything-right-now person, you may struggle with acclimation in Mexico.
Cost of Living
Many people move for the cost of living. Budget for your own situation rather than a rule of thumb: compare rent or purchase prices, groceries from the local markets, property tax on a home you own, and imported goods such as electronics, for the town you are actually moving to.
Still uninsured? Get a homeowners insurance quote from Baja Bound.