MX Inv Residence: 5 Work Permit Keys

Mexico has positioned itself as an extremely attractive destination for foreign investment, offering not only a growing market and a strategic location, but also the opportunity for entrepreneurs to reside and actively manage their businesses in the country. One of the most direct ways to achieve this is through the MX Inv Residence, formally known as Temporary Residence with Work Permit obtained through investment. This guide breaks down the key aspects, requirements, and process for foreign investors to legally establish themselves in Mexico and run their businesses.

Understanding Temporary Residence for Investors in Mexico

Temporary residency in Mexico is a condition of stay that authorizes a foreigner to remain in the country for a period of more than 180 days and up to four years. When this residency is obtained based on an investment and is explicitly requested, it may include a "permission to engage in remunerated activities," commonly known as a work permit. This status allows the investor not only to live in Mexico but also to actively participate in the management and operation of their company.

It is crucial to distinguish between a "visa," which is the document issued by a Mexican Consulate abroad that authorizes entry into the country for a specific purpose, and a "temporary resident card," which is the document obtained once in Mexico from the National Migration Institute (INM) and certifies legal residence. The main legal framework for these procedures is found in the Migration Law and his Regulation. This Mexico Migration Law for Investors is the basis of the entire process.

Who Qualifies for a MX Inv Residence with a Work Permit?

This type of residence is aimed at foreigners who demonstrate their intention and capacity to Invest in Mexico and obtain residency by channeling significant resources into productive activities. Qualifying investment forms generally include:

• Participation in the share capital of Mexican companies: Invest in shares or equity interests of a Mexican company, whether new or existing, for a minimum amount established by the immigration authority.
• Acquisition of real estate: Buying property in Mexico with a minimum value, as long as this investment is linked to a business project or economic activity (not just for living).
• Development of economic or business projects: Investment in fixed assets for the development of economic or business activities, such as machinery, equipment, or the creation of a new business.

Minimum investment amounts are updated periodically (usually linked to Units of Measurement and Update (UMA), or minimum wages) and should be consulted at the time of application. As of May 2025, these amounts are typically considerable, reflecting the seriousness of the investment.

Key Requirements to Apply for a Temporary Resident Visa by Investment

The process to obtain the MX Inv Residence It generally begins with the application for a temporary resident visa at the Mexican Consulate in the investor's country of origin or where they have legal residence. Mexico investor visa requirements Common ones are:

1. Personal Documentation and Passport

• Valid passport or travel ID document, with at least six months remaining.
• Recent visa-sized, color photographs with a white background and uncovered face.
• Duly completed visa application form.
• If you are not a citizen of the country where you are applying for a visa, you must provide proof of legal residence in that country.

2. Investment Accreditation (Amounts and Forms)

This is the core of the application. The following must be submitted: temporary investor residence documents that provide conclusive proof of investment for the minimum required amount. Some examples:

• For investment in companies: A deed or policy of the Mexican legal entity, executed before a notary public, or a document duly certified by the governing body or authorized official, stating that the foreigner holds the minimum share capital; and/or a contract of sale of shares or equity interests, bank statements reflecting the transfer of funds, or tax documentation proving the investment.
• For real estate investment: Public deed certifying that the foreigner is the owner of real estate with a minimum established value, free of encumbrances.
• For project development: Contract, invoices, permits, or documents that prove the investment in fixed assets or the development of the business project.

It is essential to verify the updated amounts, which are typically set at the equivalent of thousands of UMA days. For example (these figures are illustrative and must be confirmed by May 2025): an investment in equity capital could require an amount equivalent to 20,000 UMA days, and an investment in real estate a higher amount.

3. Economic Solvency (Additional or Alternative)

In some cases, in addition to the investment, proof of financial solvency for support during the stay in Mexico may be required, although the investment itself is usually the main solvency criterion for this type of visa. financial solvency requirements for investor visa vary.

4. Consular Interview

The applicant must attend a consular interview. The purpose is to verify the authenticity of the documents, the legitimacy of the investment, and the reasons for residing and working in Mexico.

5. Payment of Fees

The visa fee must be covered, the amount of which is set by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (SRE).

The Step-by-Step Process for the MX Inv Residence

He Mexican investor immigration process (INM) and consular generally follows these steps:

Step 1: Visa Application at the Mexican Consulate

Once all the documentation has been gathered, an appointment is scheduled at the Mexican Consulate During the appointment, the documents are submitted, the interview is conducted, and, if everything is in order, the consulate will stamp a visa in the applicant's passport. This visa authorizes entry to Mexico and is valid for up to 180 days to complete the next step.

Step 2: Exchange your Visa for a Temporary Resident Card in Mexico (with the INM)

Upon entering Mexico with a temporary resident visa, the foreigner has a period of 30 calendar days to appear before an office of the National Migration Institute (INM) and request an exchange of their visa for a Temporary Resident Card. The documents for this process include a passport with the visa, a completed Basic Form, proof of payment of the fees for issuing the card, and the Multiple Immigration Form (FMM) obtained upon entering the country.

At the INM, biometric data (photograph and fingerprints) will be collected. If the application is approved, a Temporary Resident Card will be issued, usually with an initial validity of one year.

Obtaining Permission to Work as an Investor

It is vitally important that both the consular visa application and the exchange process with the INM state the intention to engage in paid activities (work) related to the investment. The Temporary Resident Card must explicitly state "PERMISSION TO WORK." Without this statement, the foreigner would not be authorized to engage in lucrative activities, even if it is in their own company. work permit for foreign investors in Mexico is essential.

Renewal of the Temporary Resident Card

The first Temporary Resident Card is granted for one year. Subsequently, you can apply for a new one. renewal of immigration documents for periods of one, two, or three years, until completing a total of four years of temporary residence. To renew, you must demonstrate that the conditions under which the residence was granted continue to exist (i.e., the investment is maintained) and that tax obligations have been met. After four continuous years as a temporary resident, you can opt for permanent residence.

Important Considerations for Foreign Investors

• Tax Obligations: As a resident (especially with a work permit), investors acquire tax obligations in Mexico, including obtaining a RFC (Registered Taxpayer Identification Number). It is advisable to review information about Taxes for foreigners in Mexico.
• Corporate Compliance: If the investment is in a company, it must comply with all its legal and tax obligations in Mexico.
• Change of Condition: If a foreigner is already in Mexico under another immigration status (e.g. tourist) and makes a qualifying investment, he or she could request a change of stay status before the INM, although this process has its own particularities and is not always the most recommended route.
• Notifications to the INM: Temporary residents must notify the INM of certain changes, such as address, marital status, or nationality, within 90 days of their occurrence.

Why Hire a Immigration Lawyer Mexico?

The process to obtain a MX Inv Residence and the work permit can be complex and subject to interpretation and changes in the criteria of the authorities. A immigration lawyer Mexico with experience in investor cases can:

• Advise you on updated investment amounts and requirements.
• Help you prepare and thoroughly review all documentation.
• Guide you through the consular interview.
• Represent you and follow up on your procedures before the INM.
• Minimize the risk of errors, delays, or rejections.

At City Laws, our team of immigration lawyers specializes in facilitating these processes for investors. We provide consulting in Playa del Carmen and other parts of Quintana Roo, ensuring that their transition to residency in Mexico is as smooth as possible.

Get the MX Inv Residence Obtaining a work permit is a fundamental step for foreign entrepreneurs who wish to directly engage in business in Mexico. Although the process requires meticulous preparation and compliance with specific requirements, it is a completely feasible path that opens the door to the numerous opportunities the country offers. The key lies in the right information and expert advice.

If you are considering investing in Mexico and need to obtain your residency and work permit, Contact City LawsWe're ready to guide you every step of the way.