Depending on your stage in life and your situation, you may be going to Mexico for a number of reasons. You may be retiring there, you may be sent by your company to work there, or you may still be working in your home country but are able to do it from home. If you are sent by your work or decide to go to work in Mexico, as a foreigner, there are some steps you need to take to do this legally.
First and foremost, you need a work permit to work in Mexico but must meet some criteria in order to do so. You could be hired by a Mexican company, you could be working for a company that has operations in Mexico, or you could have a set of skills that are required in Mexico. One other way is if you open your own company here, however, there is a minimum investment requirement, so check the current amount with a Mexican consulate or immigration attorney.
You’ll also need a visa to be in Mexico and there are three types.
- Visitor Permit – this is called an FMM; see INM for how to get one and the stay it allows. You surrender it when you go home and must get a new one upon returning to Mexico
- Temporary Resident Visa – this is for expats and people working in Mexico, along with their dependents, for a limited period. It is renewable, and after the maximum period you can apply for permanent residence. Check the current terms and processing times with a Mexican consulate.
- Permanent Resident Visa – this is for people who plan to reside in Mexico permanently and it does not need to be renewed.
One thing to keep in mind is that doing business in Mexico can be very different than your home country. Business hours and lunch breaks can differ from what you are used to, and the pace is often slower than what you would see in the U.S.
Finding a job in Mexico is very much like finding one at home. Local or online resources are usually the place to start. There are also opportunities to teach English depending on how large the city you live in. Check out high schools and colleges for opportunities.
Remember, if you are here for any length of time, invest in a health insurance plan to cover you and your family. If you drive your own vehicle on Mexican federal roads, federal law requires third-party liability insurance (art. 63 Bis), and your policy at home is not recognized in Mexico. Mexican auto insurance is available from Baja Bound.
Heading south? Get a Mexican auto insurance quote.