Temporary Resident Visa (Residente Temporal)

Eligibility is strictly defined by your ability to prove you will not be a financial burden on the Mexican state. As of 2026, financial thresholds have increased significantly due to adjustments in the Mexican minimum wage and the Unidad de Medida y Actualización (UMA).

Economic Solvency

Most applicants qualify through one of two financial tracks. You must meet the requirements for one of these; you do not need both.

• Monthly Income: You must show a net monthly income of approximately $5,000 USD over the last six months. This is typically proven through pension payments or remote work salary from outside Mexico.
• Savings and Investments: You must demonstrate an average monthly balance of approximately $75,000 USD over the last 12 months.

Family Unity

If you have a direct family tie to a Mexican citizen or a current legal resident (Temporary or Permanent), you may qualify regardless of your personal income. This applies to spouses, common-law partners, children, and parents. If your tie is to a Mexican citizen, the financial requirements for your sponsor are generally lower than the standard solvency tracks.

Real Estate and Investment

You may qualify if you own property in Mexico with a value exceeding 12,520,000 MXN (approximately $735,000 USD). Alternatively, you can qualify by investing a similar amount into the capital stock of Mexican companies or established business ventures.

Important Limitations

• The Regularization Program (RNE): The "backdoor" program that previously allowed tourists with expired visas to regularize their status was effectively closed in May 2025. It is no longer a viable pathway for new applicants.
• Consular Discretion: Mexican consulates operate with a high degree of autonomy. Some may use different calculation methods for financial requirements. If your income is borderline, it is common practice to check requirements at multiple consulates.