- VISA -

New policies…

…for people moving to Mexico were announced in May of 2011.  Changes should be expected to take effect in late summer of 2011.  Since it took nearly a month for local and regional INM offices to digest and implement the May 2010 changes, it’s a good assumption that it will probably take another few months before the dust settles on this round of changes.

There will be no more FM2′s nor FM3′s.  There are no more stand-alone categories such as Non-Immigrante and Immigrante.  Tourist and other Visitor requirements have not changed much. For the Tourist, you’ll still fill out and use the Visitor’s Permit (FMM), available at the border, from the airline or ship as you travel.

Replacing the FM2 and FM3, are four categories:

Visitante: 6 Types: Non-Working Visitors (tourist), Working Visitors, etc., 180 day limit.

Residente Temporal: (old FM2 and FM3), 4 year limit per visa, Work Permit possible, Leave and Re-enter as many times as desired.

Residente Temporal Estudiante: Covers Student Studies.

Residente Permanente: Several types: Covers the old “Inmigrado” and a few special “No Inmigrantes” (the old FM3s for asylum seekers & refugees), and it appears to cover working “Inmigrantes”. It allows indefinite stays with no need to renew and includes the right to work.

Mexico will introduce a new Points System for permanent resident applicants who would like to be granted residency before the standard four year temporary residency requirements. Points will be awarded based on level of education, work experience, skills in areas related to the development of science and technology, international surveys, and the skills to develop activities that are required by Mexico.

Affecting Ex-Pats:

1. Permanent residency can be granted after four years of Temporary Residency.
2. Permanent residency can be granted after:
1. Two years of marriage or common law relationship with an Mexican citizen, (with that marriage recognized by the Mexican Government by registering that foreign marriage with your Registro Civil), and
2.  Two years of Temporary Residency in Mexico (concurrent with the marriage).
3. Permanent residency can be awarded with less than 4 years of residency, if the applicant qualifies under the new Points System.
4. There will be new ID cards, called “Tarjeta de Residencia” .

It is required that the INM issue implementing regulations within 180 days from May 25, 2011.  BUT…There have been no formal announcements yet of when the new changes will take effect.  All current applications and renewals filed before May 26 fall under the old rules, just like they did with applications and renewals filed before the May 2010 changes. All current Inmigrado and No Inmigrado visas (FM2′s &FM3′s) will remain valid until their expiration dates (see your “Vencimiento” on page 7 of FM2′s – Fecha de Caucidad,) and people holding current FM2′s and FM3′s will only have to comply with the new rules when they apply for renewals under the new system.

At that time,

For a Tourist Visa, you will:

• Fill out Visa Application form.
• Apply at the Consular Section in person from 8:30 am to 11:30 am, Monday through Friday.
• Valid passport and one photocopy of the pages containing personal information, the photograph of bearer and expiration date/extensions.
• Valid US visa for multiple entries; at least with 6 months of validity at the time of your filing and one photocopy.
• Valid I-94 and/or I-20 or J1 or I797A Form in original and one photocopy.
• Letter of verification of employment or Financial records (the last three months of your bank statements, or pay stubs, or credit card statements and the actual credit card) with one photocopy.
• One (1) front view passport size photos, no glasses.
• Payment of Consular fee 36.00 dollars. (cash only).
• Applicants, under 18 years old must present a notarized authorization, signed by both parents or by the one not travel with the minor and legal guardians, granting their permission to get their tourist visa.

And For Retirees, you will:

• Fill out the Visa Application form.
• Apply at the Consular Section in person from 8:30 am to 11:30 am, Monday through Friday.
• Valid passport in original and one photocopy of the pages containing personal information, photograph of bearer and expiration date/extensions.
• Two (2) front view passport size photos, no glasses.
• Payment of the Consular Fee: 134.00 US Dollars. Cash Only.
• Proof of economic solvency: Applicant must prove a monthly income of $1,000.00 USD dollars, or equivalent in Mexican currency.
• Police letter clearance
• If the applicant will be accompanied by members of his immediate family, the minimum income required will be $500.00 additionally per month for each member 15 years of age or older.
• The documents accepted as a proof are:
  Last three months of Bank statements, Social Security Statement or Pension Receipts; such documents must be notarized and bear the Apostille Seal (see linked info) issued by the Secretary of State of the State where the documents were notarized.  

Please note that the Consular Officers may ask for additional information at the time of the interview.

US Citizens can travel to Mexico without a visa or consular stamp on the passport. It is important to bear in mind that you should always travel outside of the U.S. with a valid US passport or travel Document.

Foreigner of any country, who is a permanent resident of the United States or Canada, can travel to Mexico without a visa or a consular stamp on the passport. However, you should always have with you a valid passport or Travel Document plus the US Resident Alien Card (Green Card) or seal I-555 or Immigrant visa, Permanent Resident Card (Canada).

Read another Visa/passport article by Barbie at http://moneysavingmexico.com/mexico-visas-passports/permits/

Visa article by Barbie.

Visa Required…

…Sorta

Do you need

permits to live in

Mexico?

When you drive or fly in, as a tourist, you are allowed to stay for a period up to  6 months – you fill out papers on the plane to secure the visa that allows that, and you will fill out similar papers if you drive in - Forma Migratoria Multiple, or FMM.

As of April 30, 2010, Passport holders from countries on Mexico’s “no visa required list” do not need to apply for a formal visa to visit Mexico. They may, instead, use a visitor’s permit  – the Forma Migratoria Multiple, or FMM.

If you decide to stay longer…

… you have to leave Mexico, and then re-enter Mexico to secure another permit visa, which permits another stay.  It may be wise, in that case, to secure an FM3, (180 days to one year)  and maybe even eventually an FM2.  The FM3 permits are what we call perpetual visitor .  These permits allow you to stay a year - then that can be renewed another year, for a 5-year period.  Then, you can reapply – again.  That’s what retirees usually secure.  The process may take a day – possibly even two, so, be prepared, and be patient – at least when applying the first time.

By the way – not to do with permits, but, do something for yourself right now

Place a bottle of aspirin beside your bed table now.  WHY?  If you have chest pain that is sever enough to waken you, all you need to do is immediately chew two aspirins and then swallow them with a bit of water.  It could save your life.  Then, immediately get medical attention – call 911. And while you are waiting on the emergency people to come, DO NOT LIE DOWN.  Sit on a chair or sofa near the front door and wait for their arrival.

Permits and aspirin article by Barbie.

Passport?

That sounds like a silly question, doesn’t it?!

Yet, you might be surprised to know just how powerful your passport is. It’s an incredible document that gives you many rights — including the right to travel abroad (assuming you have a visa, of course.)

All persons, including U.S. citizens, traveling between the U.S. and Canada or Mexico, and some other destinations by land or sea (including ferries) may be required to present a valid passport or other documents as determined by the Department of Homeland Security.

Here are some things you may (or may not know) about your passport:

• Your passport is internationally recognized. It  verifies your identity and nationality.
• Your passport is valid for air, land and sea crossing, including ferries.
• Your passport is  required to enter and leave most foreign countries.
• Your passport is procured only through the U.S. Department of State. 
• All persons must have their own passports, including infants.

How To Renew a Passport

You can renew by mail if: 

1. Your most recent passport is available to submit and it is not damaged nor altered.
2. You received the passport within the past 15 years.
3. You were over age 16 when it was issued.
4. You still have the same name or can legally document your name change.

You must apply in person for your passport if :

1. You are applying for a U.S. passport for the first time.
2. If your previous U.S. passport has expired.
3. If your expired U.S. passport is not in your possession.
4. If your passport was issued more than 15 years ago.
5. If you were under the age of 16 when you received your previous passport.
6. If your currently valid U.S. passport has been lost or stolen.

Tourist stuff - almost free :)

To procure a U.S. passport you will need: Two photographs of yourself, Proof of U.S. citizenship, and a valid photo i.d., such as your driver’s license.

So, go ahead – get your passport taken care of – they are good for ten years. Then, when you travel, you’ll be prepared.

And remember: Be as protective of your passport as your wallet or purse. Your valid passport is worth big bucks to unscrupulous people.

Passport article by Barbie.

When you travel abroad you will need two things:

1) Your passport.

2) Your visa or permit.

Mexico’s General Law of Population sets forth the rights and obligations of foreigners, as well as different statuses associated with foreign immigration.

Mexico welcomes most foreign nationals for a specific period of time to take part in non-money-making activities, such as a vacation. Recurring visits or stays over 180 days require special permits from the Mexican Consulate.

There are two kinds of visa/permits, Non-immigrant and Immigrant.

Non-immigrant visa/permits are for people who want to visit Mexico for a specific purpose and length of time and then depart. Immigrant visa/permits are for people who wish to live in Mexico, short or long-term.

You do not have to surrender your natural citizenship to be granted full-resident status in Mexico. Full resident status entitles you to all the rights and benefits of a Mexican National – to live, work, claim state benefits, and pay taxes. But you are not permitted to vote in Mexican elections.

These visa/permits may prohibit work in specific industries such as positions related to bar and waiter/waitress work. Contact a professional for specific advice on immigration. You can also contact the Mexican Consulate of your country.

American Legion in Mexico

Non-Immigrant Visa/Permits: 

There are various classifications of Non-Immigrant visitors to Mexico. I’ve listed some Consulates below. They will give you details on how to apply for permits that are required in advance.

Tourist Visa/Permits:

The Mexican Tourist permit is known at the “FMT”. It is very simple to fill out and available from airlines and ports of entry. This permit allows visitors to remain in Mexico for a maximum period of 180 days. If the officer at the port of entry does not assign 180 days leave of stay at your point of entry, the permit may be extended to the maximum permitted stay by visiting one of the local foreign immigration offices, completing the paperwork and paying the administration fee.

You can use an FMT permit to enter Mexico for leisure and also if you plan to scout for and/or invest in Mexican real estate. When you are closing a real estate deal, you will need to show evidence to the Notary Public that your stay in Mexico is legal and an FMT is a valid document for this purpose.

Visitors Visa/Permit:

For extended stays in Mexico, you must apply for the Visitors permit (usually an FM3) through your company and state what the purpose of the visit is, and how long it is likely to take. There are also some forms to fill out and a handling fee to pay. You can download the forms, and find out the latest fees and process by going to Consulate listed. Visitor’s Permits are issued for up to one year, and are renewable four times, for a maximum of one year each time – for a total maximum period of five years.

Artists:

Can apply for an immigration permit. Each case is considered individually and entry is at the Interior Ministry’s discretion.

Local Visitors:

Special visa/permits for foreigners visiting maritime ports and border cities. The permit allows a maximum stay of 3 days, and you must stay within the 35km “border zone”.

Resident Alien (Permanent Visitor):

If you wish to remain in Mexico as a “resident alien” after five years, you must apply for full residency status, and there is a specific procedure to follow and have accepted. Once your application has been accepted and your “FM2″ has been issued, you are entitled to full rights and responsibilities as any other Mexican Citizen, with the exception of the right to vote. Upon receiving this status, you will receive a document that looks like a Mexican Passport (called a “FM2″) -newer versions look like a driver’s license – which enables you pass through Mexico’s borders as if you were a Mexican National.

You do not need to surrender your national passport, which you’ll use when you return to your home country – either for visits, or when returning home to dwell. If you stay outside of Mexico for longer than two years, or for five years in any 10-year period, you will lose your resident status in Mexico.

Retirees:

If you are over 50 years of age, and want to engage in “non remunerative activities” and you are receiving funds from abroad (from a pension or other investments or fixed income) of a specific set amount, set by the Mexican government, plus a specific required amount for each dependent (e.g. spouse, children) , you can apply for a Retiree Immigration Visa/Permit.

Non-Immigrant:

When you do NOT want to seek permanent residence in Mexico, for vacations and casual trips toMexico, just fill out and use the tourist permit, available from the airline you travel with or at the port of entry. If you are of retirement age (50+), and have approximately US $1,500 (can vary) or equivalent income per month, then a Retiree permit will be your easiest route. If you are not of a retirement age (below 50) and want to live but not work in Mexico, you will need to contact the Mexican Consulate. Provided that you can prove a permanent steady income in line with the regulations, you may be granted an FM3 permit to live in Mexico, which would be eligible for conversion to an FM2 in 5 years. You will need to state what you intend to do there, e.g. early retirement due to health, etc.

The American Embassy and Consulate in Mexico – Mexico City
Paseo de la Reforma 305
Colonia Cuahtemoc 06500
Mexico DF
Telephone: +52 55 5209 9100

The British Embassy and Consulate in Mexico – Mexico City
Rio Lerma 71
Colonia Cuauhtemoc
Mexico DF
Telephone: +52 55 5242 8500

The Canadian Embassy and Consulate in Mexico -Mexico City

Schiller 529
Colonia Rincon del Bosque
Polanco 11560
Mexico DF
Telephone: +52 52 55 5724 7900

These are only a sampling of the divisions of people immigrating – retirees, visitors, artists, and so many more, but I slant info toward retirees, of course.  Info for other visitors/immigrants/visa can be found though the Consulates.

Visa article by Barbie.  Updated 7-2011:  http://moneysavingmexico.com/mexico-visas-passports/permit-visa-for-mexico/

for

Retirees

The Consulate of Mexico will issue the Nonimmigrant Visa for multiple entries (FM3) to those who wish to make trips into Mexico, of limited duration. (And that duration can be a long time.) If you have now made the big decision to retire in Mexico, and your expenses will be covered by: Income brought into Mexico from a foreign country, or Income resulting from investments, either in Mexico or abroad, you can apply for a Nonimmigrant Visa (FM3) for retirees. The requirements for a Nonimmigrant Visa (FM3) - we’ve always called this a visa for a “permanent tourist” – for multiple entries are:

Fill out the Visa Application form, (available at the Consulate website for downloading).

• Appearance in person at the Consulate with a valid passport
• One photocopy of the pages containing personal information
• Photograph of bearer
• two (2) front view passport size photos.
• proof of economic solvency

Applicant must prove an approximate monthly income of $1,000.00 USD dollars, or equivalent in Mexican currency.

If the applicant will be accompanied by members of his immediate family, the minimum income required is $500.00 additional per month for each member 15 years of age or older.

Documents accepted as a proof for Visas:

• Bank statement
• Social Security or Pension Receipts.

All documents must documents must be notarized and bear the apostille issued by the Secretary of State where the documents were notarized. United States passport holders must have a valid passport.

A visa is not required for stays of up to 180 days, if holding a Tourist Card/FMT form issued free of charge by an airlines.Business travelers do not require a visa for up to 30 days if holding a FMN form.After September 30, 2007:All US citizens traveling to and from Mexico by air will require a passport. By January 1, 2008, the requirement will be extended to include all land and sea border crossings as well.

An FM-3 costs approximately $98.00 US per year, per person, and is renewed annually. It allows you to keep a U.S. plated vehicle in Mexico, to leave and return at will, open and maintain a Mexican bank account, and can exempt you from capital gains tax when selling and allows you to purchase property in Mexico. (Cost is approximate as of this writing. )

With your FM-3 status, you can bring a car and keep it with you as long as that status is maintained. The cost for an FM3 – for Retirees – no working permit = approximately $98.IMMIGRATION FEESSome of the fees (taxes) are: (These can vary, so just consider them approximate osts.)

The issuing or renewal of an FM-3 document without the right to work) is approximately 1500 pesos – or approximately 150 dollars, U.S., per year. This can be renewed indefinitely. You can also apply for an FM-3 with the right towork for a bit more – about 1800 pesos ($180.00 U.S.) The issuing or renewal of am FM-2 document (with the right to work) is approximately 1,900 pesos. $190.U.S. A permit to leave the country while documents are en tramite (pending approval) is approximately 90 pesos. $9.U.S.

Visas for those who want to stay longer than six months at a time in Mexico, without having to make a semi-annual trip to the border, the next step in the immigration process is the FM-3. You must be 55 to apply, and you will need these: A completed official application form (FDN1/02) and a copy. These are available at any Mexican consulate and at the Regional Immigration Office in Mexico.

Needed for your valid tourist visa:

• Your current passport.
• If spouses are applying, a copy of the couple’s marriage certificate.
• Written proof from a U.S. or Mexican bank that the equivalent of $1030 U.S. is being deposited monthly into the bank account of the applicant.
• For each dependent, The amount required is approximately $515US

If you own property in Mexico, the amount required is reduced by one half. These minimums are set by the Mexican government and can fluctuate.

7-2011 update:  http://moneysavingmexico.com/mexico-visas-passports/permit-visa-for-mexico/

Visa Article by Barbie.

You used to be able to get back and forth between the States and Mexico with just your driver’s license.

As of January 1, 2008, all US citizens traveling by land, sea, or air, to and from Mexico will require a passport.

So, plan ahead. Get that passport – $97 – and then, guard it as you would any of your personal precious objects! There’s going to be a “frequent crosser” card offered this year, for around $50, apparently for people who cross almost daily.  A visa is not required for stays of up to 180 days, if holding a Tourist Card/FMT form issued free of charge by airlines.

Information for you, regarding a non-immigrant Visa… The FM3… For retirees:If you have decided you want to retire in Mexico, and your expenses will be covered by income brought to Mexico from a foreign country, or income resulting from investments, either in Mexico or abroad, then you can apply for a Nonimmigrant Visa (FM3) for retirees.

The Consulate is only empowered to issue the Nonimmigrant Visa for multiple entries (FM3) to those who wish to make trips of limited duration. (And the duration can be a long time.)

The requirements for a Nonimmigrant Visa (FM3) (we’ve always called this a visa for a “permanent tourist”) for multiple entries are:

• Fill out the Visa Application form, (available at the Consulate website for downloading).
• Appearance in person at the Consulate with a valid passport; and one photocopy of the pages containing personal information;  photograph of bearer and expiration date;
  two (2) front view passport size photos.
• Proof of economic solvency: Applicant must prove a monthly income of $1,000.00 USD dollars, or equivalent in Mexican currency.
• If the applicant will be accompanied by members of his immediate family, the minimum income required will be $500.00 additionally per month for each member 15 years of age or older.

The documents accepted as a proof are: Bank statement, Social Security or Pension Receipts. These documents must be notarized and bear the apostille issued by the Secretary of State of the State where the documents were notarized.

And of course, the all important: Payment of the Consular Fee. Your FM3 will be ready the next business day after applying for it. (FM3 $98.00 US, FM3 (Including work privilege) $159.00 US, FM2 $211.00)