Eligibility Quiz
Was at least one of your parents born in Mexico?
Overview
Mexican citizenship by descent, legally known as Nationality by Birth (Nacionalidad por Nacimiento), is a right granted to individuals born outside of Mexico who have at least one Mexican parent. Governed by Article 30 of the Political Constitution of the United Mexican States, this pathway operates under the principle of jure sanguinis (right of blood).
Unlike many other countries that limit citizenship to the first generation born abroad, Mexico recently expanded its laws to allow for the indefinite transmission of nationality. This means that as long as each generation is registered, the "Mexican by birth" status can be passed down to children, grandchildren, and beyond, regardless of where they are born.
Rights as a Mexican Citizen
Once your birth is registered and you receive your Mexican Birth Certificate (Acta de Nacimiento), you hold the status of a Mexican citizen by birth. This grants you the following rights:
- Right to a Mexican Passport: You are eligible to apply for and hold a Mexican passport immediately, facilitating easier travel throughout Latin America and other regions.
- Unrestricted Residency and Work: You have the permanent right to live, work, and study in Mexico without needing a visa or work permit.
- Property Ownership: You may own "fee simple" real estate in the Zona Restringida (coastal areas within 50km of the ocean or 100km of the borders) without the need for a bank trust (fideicomiso).
- Exemption from Immigration Fees: You are no longer required to pay tourist entry fees (FMM) or adhere to tourist stay limits when entering the country.
- Political Rights: Once you reach the age of 18 and establish a residence in Mexico, you have the right to vote in Mexican elections.
- Access to Services: Full access to the national healthcare system (IMSS/ISSSTE) and public education systems on the same basis as residents born in Mexico.