If you have close family members in Mexico, you may qualify for Mexican residency through family unity. This option allows families to live together legally in Mexico and, in many cases, apply without meeting standard income requirements.
San Diego Leisure helps families understand their options and complete the process correctly—step by step.
👉 Book a Free Consultation to see if you qualify.
What Is Family Unity Residency in Mexico?
You may qualify for Mexican residency if you are:
- Married to a Mexican citizen
- Married to a Temporary or Permanent Resident of Mexico
- A child of a Mexican citizen or resident
- A parent of a Mexican citizen or resident
- A minor child joining parents who already hold Mexican residency
Each case is reviewed individually, and the correct residency type depends on the family relationship.
Temporary vs. Permanent Residency Through Family Unity
Temporary Residency
Many family unity cases begin with Temporary Residency, which is valid for up to four years.
This option is common for:
- Spouses of temporary residents
- Parents or children joining family members in Mexico
👉 Learn more about the Temporary Mexico Residency process.
Permanent Residency
You may qualify directly for Permanent Residency through family unity if:
- You are married to a Mexican citizen
- You are the parent of a Mexican citizen
- You have completed the required time as a temporary resident
👉 See eligibility details for Permanent Mexico Residency.
Permanent residency does not require renewals.
Where the Family Unity Application Is Processed
Family unity residency may be processed outside or inside Mexico, depending on your situation.
Apply at a Mexican Consulate (Outside Mexico)
Some applicants must begin the process at a Mexican consulate in the United States before entering Mexico.
After approval, applicants must complete the INM Canje process to receive their residency card.
Apply Inside Mexico (INM)
In many family unity cases, the application can be completed directly in Mexico at the Instituto Nacional de Migración (INM), without visiting a consulate. Canje does not apply in this case, which would be a change of status.
Documents Commonly Required
Family unity applications usually require:
- Valid passport
- Marriage or birth certificate
- Proof of family relationship: Mexican passport or residency card of the family member
- Apostille and certified translations (when required)
Common Family Unity Mistakes We Help You Avoid
❌ Applying under the wrong residency category
❌ Missing apostilles or certified translations
❌ Applying at the wrong office (consulate vs. INM)
❌ Delays during the Canje process
❌ Losing eligibility due to incomplete filings
How San Diego Leisure Helps
We assist families from start to finish:
✔ Determine eligibility through family unity
✔ Decide between Temporary or Permanent Residency
✔ Review and organize family relationship documents
✔ Guide consulate or INM application strategy
✔ Assist with the INM Canje process
✔ Ongoing support until the residency card is issued
👉 Book a Free Consultation to get clear answers before applying.
FAQs – Family Unity Residency
Do I need to meet income requirements for family unity?
In many cases, no. Family unity residency often does not require proof of income.
Can family unity lead to permanent residency?
Yes. Some applicants qualify immediately for Permanent Residency, while others qualify after time as a Temporary Resident.
Can I apply inside Mexico?
Yes. Many family unity cases can be processed directly at INM and finalized through the change-of-status process.
Ready to Start?
Family unity residency is straightforward when done correctly.
👉 Schedule Your Free Consultation
We’ll review your family situation and guide you toward the best residency option.
