Can a US citizen move to Mexico?

If you intend to work, study, or retire in Mexico, you must apply for a visa. Depending on the visa type, you may need to apply in person at a Mexican embassy or consulate.

How hard is it for an American to move to Mexico?

Requirements for American citizens

It requires mostly identification documents and proof that you can support yourself financially in Mexico. The FM3 visa allows you to stay in Mexico for durations over 6 months, but isn't seen as a way to stay permanently in the country. For that, you'll need the FM2 (immigrant visa).

Can a US citizen live permanently in Mexico?

Foreigners who wish to remain in Mexico indefinitely must apply in person for a Permanent Resident Visa at the Consular Office closest to their place of residence. Please make an appointment at the Consulate at the email [email protected] and bring the following documents: Requirements: 1.

Is Mexico allowing US citizens to move there?

Bottom line is that you can live in Mexico for up to 4 years. A Temporary Resident Visa cannot be issued in Mexico. You will have to return to the U.S. to obtain this visa. After 4 years, four you must apply for a Permanent Resident Visa if you want to stay in Mexico.

Is it cheaper to live in Mexico or the USA?

2025 Cost of Living in Mexico vs. the United States. Mexico has a much more affordable cost of living than the United States when comparing expenses. Living in the United States costs 65% more for an individual than living in Mexico on average.

Why Living in Mexico Doesn't Work for MOST Americans

Can I retire in Mexico on $1500 a month?

A single person can live in Mexico for about USD 1,500-$2,000 a Month! These amounts give you some leeway for extra expenses. But some expats and many Mexican families live on much less. We have customers living on USD 1,000 a month.

Is it safe for Americans to live in Mexico?

That said, certain parts of Mexico should be avoided, especially if you work in high-profile sectors such as journalism, politics, or security/policing. In short, yes, Mexico is a more dangerous country for expats than most, but so long as you do your research about the area you intend to live in, you should be safe.

How much is rent in Mexico?

How much is rent in Mexico in US dollars? Rent costs will depend on where you're living and the size of the apartment. A luxury one-bedroom apartment in major cities can cost you up to $1,000 per month, while apartments in more rural areas or less populated cities can cost as little as a few hundred dollars per month.

Can I retire in Mexico as a US citizen?

Temporary resident visa. This visa is a popular choice among US citizens looking to retire in Mexico with flexibility and ease. It allows expats to stay in Mexico for more than six months and up to four years without making a permanent commitment. Many start here before transitioning to permanent residency.

Why are Americans moving to Mexico?

By the numbers: The State Department says U.S. citizens living in Mexico jumped 70% from 2019 to 2022 and has continued to grow to a total of 1.6 million. Not only does Mexico offer warmth and beauty, but a much lower cost of living. "It's still in the top 20 places where you can retire for under $2,500 a month.

Can you lose your US residency if you live in Mexico?

U.S. immigration law assumes that a person admitted to the United States as an immigrant will live in the United States permanently. Remaining outside the United States for more than one year may result in a loss of Lawful Permanent Resident status.

What is the safest town in Mexico to live in?

Mérida in the state of Yucatán is widely recognized as the safest city in Mexico. It ranks high in public safety surveys and is known for its peaceful environment, clean streets, and strong local governance.

Can a US citizen buy a house in Mexico?

Can a US citizen buy a home in Mexico? Yes, US citizens can buy homes in Mexico, but those purchases must be made with some additional provisions compared to standard homebuying in the country.

What is the minimum wage in Mexico?

Mexico's minimum wage is a right stated in the Mexican Constitution. The government updated it in January 2025, increasing the general minimum wage from $248.93 to $278.80.

What is the best country for a US citizen to retire?

What is the cheapest country to move to from America?

Ecuador is consistently voted one of the cheapest places to retire and with an average expat salary of around US$48,000, it's a very affordable place to live and to move to from the USA.

What is the easiest English-speaking country to get citizenship in?

What is the easiest English-speaking country to get citizenship? Ireland is frequently ranked as one of the best English-speaking countries for easy citizenship, especially for those with Irish ancestry, as you can qualify automatically through citizenship by descent.

What are the disadvantages of living in Mexico?

Can Americans live in Mexico permanently?

Mexico's temporary resident visa lasts up to four years. After this period, you can apply for permanent residence. There are a few ways to qualify for this visa: Economic solvency: Present a letter confirming remote employment or documents proving a minimum monthly income of $4,200 or at least $70,000 in savings*

Can you own guns in Mexico?

Sales and ownership. Private ownership of firearms is restricted to the home only. Only Mexican citizens and foreign legal residents of Mexico (FM2 holders) may purchase and keep firearms in their place of residence.

Can I afford to live in Mexico on social security?

If you comply with the visa and residency requirements, it is absolutely possible to retire to Mexico and continue receiving social security payments. Most expats qualify for a residency visa if they can show a regular income and have enough savings to meet any financial eligibility criteria.

How much money do you need in the bank to move to Mexico?

Residency in Mexico using your personal savings/investments

Qualifying savings/investments showing account balance(s) totaling at least c.US$279,000 over the last 12 months. (The total must not fall below the minimum amount required at any time over the last 12 months.)

Do I have to pay taxes if I retire to Mexico?

Most of the time, a non-resident or a retirement visa holder isn't subject to federal taxes in Mexico if their income arises in their country of origin and is already taxed at source. This might change if you are categorized as a tax resident, which means you'll be treated as any other citizen for tax purposes.