Immigration: Staying More Than 6 Months

What are you planning on doing here?

When you have decided you want to stay for extended periods of time or are thinking of immigrating to Mexico you may request from the authorities the corresponding immigration permits, which are the FM2 and the FM3. Below are brief descriptions of the main differences between these two types of visas to help you decide which will be the best immigration status to pursue during your time in Mexico.

FM3

As a holder of an FM3 you are allowed to stay in the country as a NON IMMIGRANT for a period of one year. This permit may be renewed annually. After the fifth year you may be interested in acquiring the next immigration status (IMMIGRANT) or simply continue as an FM3 holder.

FM2

This document applies to IMMIGRANTS. As an immigrant you're not a permanent resident but you are eligible to apply to become an INMIGRADO (permanent resident--for residency in Mexico).

Information to Consider about the FM2 and FM3

1. FM3: As a NON IMMIGRANT you don't acquire residency rights.
2. FM3: You are entitled to leave and enter the country freely.
3. FM2: You must note that as an immigrant you have a restricted number of exits from the country. In the case that you leave the country for more than 18 months in a period of 5 years, you will not be able to apply for the INMIGRADO (permanent resident) status. In case you stay outside the country for more than 2 years you will lose the immigration status of an immigrant.
4. In both cases (as an IMMIGRANT and a NON-IMMIGRANT) the law considers almost the same immigration qualities (Características Migratorias), being able to perform almost the same lawful activities.
5. Both have to be renewed annually. We recommend that you take all the necessary precautions for the term not to expire. You should request the renewal 30 days before the expiration date.

Need Working Visas for Mexico? FM2 or FM3

You will need a permit (FM2 or FM3) granted by the Ministry of Interior (Secretaría de Gobernación). To obtain one you will need to fulfil certain requirements.

According to Mexican Law, foreigners may only perform those activities expressly authorized by the Ministry. You are allowed to perform any activity as long as it's legal and honest. This includes the ability to work in the country.

Do I need immigration papers while staying in Mexico?

According to the Mexican Law all your immigration papers must be in force and the information in them contained must be updated during your stay in the country. In case they expire or the information is not provided to the authorities within 30 days of the event that modifies such information, you will be liable for fines and other penalties. It is highly recommended that you keep this in mind.

Is it hard to get these documents?

You may try doing it yourself. Yet, if you are not familiar with the paper work, the Mexican governmental offices, the bureaucracy and especially the language, it would be wise to ask for help.

How much does it cost to obtain my immigration papers?

Every procedure generates a cost. Rates change every six months and may be paid for at any bank in Mexico. You will have to fill in certain official forms to make the corresponding payments. These may be requested at any migration office or you can even buy them at a stationary store.

How long does it take to obtain my immigration papers?

Be ready to wait approximately 30 working days before obtaining your immigration papers (FM2 and FM3).

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