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(Temporary Mexico Resident Visa (TR)


Who Needs a Temporary Mexico Resident Visa?


If you plan to relocate to Mexico and live there for more than six months a year, the Temporary Mexico Resident Visa is the appropriate choice. The visa is initially issued for one year, with the option to renew for an additional one, two, or three years, totaling up to four years.



Temporary Mexico Resident Visa for U.S. Citizens


Initial Visa Issuance


For U.S. citizens relocating to Mexico, applying for this visa is essential. As a first-time applicant, you will receive a visa valid for one year. After the first year, you have the option to renew for an additional one, two, or three years. This multiple-entry visa allows you to live in Mexico but requires maintaining a Mexican address to keep your residency status.



Renewal Process


After the initial year, you can renew the visa for one, two, or three years, up to a total of four years. Even though it is a multiple-entry visa, maintaining a Mexico address is necessary to retain your Temporary Mexico Residency Status.


Qualification Criteria for a Temporary Mexico Visa


To qualify for the Temporary Mexico Resident Visa, you need to meet specific financial requirements:


  1. Retirement Income: Proof of $4,393.00 per month in retirement income, social security, or pension.
  2. Savings or Investments: Proof of $73,215.00 in savings or investments (e.g., 401K, IRA).


Steps for Obtaining a Temporary Mexico Resident Visa


Application Process


  1. Apply at the Mexican Consulate: Start the application process at the Mexican Consulate in the U.S.
  2. Receive Temporary Visa: The consulate will issue a Temporary Mexico Visa valid for six months.
  3. Exchange Visa for Resident Card: Within thirty days of validating and stamping the visa at the Mexico border or airport, exchange it for the Temporary Mexico Resident Card.

Moving to Mexico


You are not required to be in Mexico until the visa is approved by the Mexican Consulate. Once approved, the visa is valid for 180 days, giving you time to move to Mexico and exchange it for the resident card valid for one year.


The Canje Procedure


Exchanging the Visa


Thirty days after verifying your visa at the Mexico border or airport, visit the nearest INM Immigration office to complete the CANJE process, which means "exchange." This involves surrendering your visa to receive the Temporary Resident Card. The process can be complex, but assistance is available to navigate the application and document requirements.



Additional Categories

  • Through Mexican Spouse
  • Through Temporary or Permanent Mexico Resident Card Holder Spouse
  • Through Employment by a Mexican Corporation or Small Business
  • Through Mexico Real Estate Property


Mexico Resident Visa Requirements


  1. Valid Passport: More than six months validity
  2. Proof of Income
  3. Passport Photo Mexico
  4. Visa Application
  5. Visa Appointment


Frequently Asked Questions


Cost and Application Process


  • Cost: $53.00 U.S.

  • Application Location: Mexican Consulates or Embassies in the U.S.

Approval Time: 1 to 10 business days



Visa and Card Duration Visa Duration:

  • Visa Duration: Six months to exchange for the Temporary Mexico Resident Card
  • Resident
  • Card Duration: First-time applicants get 1 to 4 years, varying by case
  • Cost of Resident Card: About $313.00

Visa vs. Resident Card


The Temporary Resident (T.R.) Mexico Visa and T.R. Mexico Card are essentially the same but require two steps to achieve Temporary Resident Status.


Jorge Gonzalez Mexico Visa Specialist Ph: 619-512-7537. Email jorge@sandiegoleisure.com