If I Purchase a Property in Mexico, Do I Need a Temporary Resident Visa to Live in the Country?

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Mexico is a beautiful country with a rich culture, stunning natural beauty, and warm, welcoming people. It's no wonder that so many people from around the world are interested in living here, whether full-time or part-time.

If you're one of those people and you're considering purchasing a property in Mexico, you may be wondering if you need a temporary resident visa to live in the country. In this article, we'll explore the answer to this and other questions.

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What is a Temporary Resident Visa?

First, let's define what a temporary resident visa is.

A temporary resident visa is a document that allows a foreign national to live in Mexico for a period of up to 4 years. This visa is intended for people who wish to live in Mexico for an extended period of time, but who are not Mexican citizens. The visa allows the holder to live, study and engage in other activities in the country.

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Do You Need a Temporary Resident Visa to Purchase Property in Mexico?

The short answer is no, you do not need a temporary resident visa to purchase property in Mexico. Anyone, regardless of their citizenship, can purchase property in Mexico.

However, owning property in Mexico does not automatically grant you the right to live in the country. If you want to live in Mexico for an extended period of time, you will need to obtain a temporary resident visa.

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How to Obtain a Temporary Resident Visa

If you want to obtain a temporary resident visa, there are several ways to do so. One common way is to apply for the visa at a Mexican consulate in your home country before you arrive in Mexico. You will need to provide proof of your financial stability, such as bank statements or proof of employment, as well as a valid passport and other documentation. Once you arrive in Mexico, you will need to complete the process by registering your visa with the National Institute of Migration (INM).

Another way to obtain a temporary resident visa is to apply for one while you are in Mexico on a tourist visa. You can do this by visiting an INM office and submitting your application there. Again, you will need to provide proof of your financial stability and other documentation.

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Benefits of Obtaining a Temporary Resident Visa

There are several benefits to obtaining a temporary resident visa if you plan to stay in Mexico for up to 4 years:

• You can enter and leave Mexico as many times as you want
• You can open a Mexican bank account
• You can apply for a Mexican driver’s license
• You can buy and register a car in Mexico
• It’s notable to mention that if you buy a car with a car loan from Mexico, the loan will only extend to the expiration of your temporary resident visa
• You can keep a car with foreign license plates in Mexico
• You can register a foreign car in Mexico
• You can get discounts at certain local businesses

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What About a Permanent Resident Visa?

In addition to the temporary resident visa, it's also possible to obtain a permanent resident visa in Mexico.

This type of visa is intended for people who wish to live in Mexico permanently, and it allows the holder to work in the country without the need to renew their visa every few years. After 4 years of the temporary resident visa, you’ll have the choice to either switch to a permanent one or go back onto the tourist visa system. You can also apply for a permanent resident visa right from the start, without having to go through the temporary resident visa.

If you're considering living in Mexico for the long term, a permanent resident visa may be a good option to consider.

You can learn all about Mexican visas in The Right Mexican Visas for Expats like US [Updated 2023].

If you're considering purchasing a property in Mexico, you do not need a temporary resident visa to do so. However, if you plan to live in Mexico for an extended period of time, you will need to obtain a temporary or permanent resident visa.

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Buying a property in Mexico is easier than you might expect! We recommend you to read:  Can a foreigner buy a property in Mexico? and 5 things you should know before buying a house in Mexico.

If you’re ready to buy a house or condo, or would like to see some of the best properties in stunning locations in Mexico like the Riviera Maya, Los Cabos, Puerto Vallarta and San Miguel de Allende, contact us. At Tao Mexico, we would be delighted to meet you and help you make the best real estate investment in Mexico.