How to Get Mexican Citizenship

If you enjoy white sandy beaches, infectious music, and delectable cuisine, then Mexico might be the country for you. Discover the sights and the rich culture for yourself, and begin to experience what expats in Mexico have been saying for years: that’s it’s one fantastic country. For those expats in Mexico who wish to fully immigrate, WeExpats has put together a helpful article on how to get your Mexican citizenship. The good news is getting your Mexican citizenship is not as difficult as in other countries.

There are some key differences between getting your Mexican citizenship and simply staying a permanent resident in Mexico. You gain full rights in the country, such as the ability to change your job or your address without having to notify the National Institute of Immigration (INM).

 

WHY YOU MIGHT WANT TO GET MEXICAN CITIZENSHIP:

There are many benefits to getting your Mexican citizenship in Mexico. Obviously being a citizen in Mexico entitles you to vote in elections and have a greater say in Mexican politics. Furthermore, you cannot be deported. Being a citizen will always entitle you to all the rights awarded through full citizenship, just like any other Mexican national—outside of a few jobs that can only be held by citizens born in Mexico: such as flight attendants and airline pilots.

Here are some perks that you can get through Mexican citizenship over Permanent Residency:

– Reducing Capital Gains on Sale of Your Home –

As a Mexican citizen or permanent resident of Mexico, you will be eligible to drastically lower your tax liability when it comes to capital gains if you should ever sell a home. This tax exemption is difficult for permanent residents, however, it is a bit easier with Mexican citizenship. You should seek the advice of a notario publico to find out the specific requirements in getting this financial benefit which can amount to hefty savings.

– National Healthcare with Mexican Citizenship –

Having your citizenship allows you full medical coverage. Any restrictions that might be placed on you as a permanent resident in Mexico, are then lifted as a full Mexican citizen. You become eligible to benefit from the Instituto Mexicano Del Seguro Social (IMSS) or Seguro Popular (SP) social security programs which provide medical care. IMSS provides private employees and employers with pensions, healthcare, and social security services. However, permanent residents, temporary residents, and those with Mexican citizenship can join into this program without being employed.

– Mexican Citizenship Grants the Ability to Work in Mexico –

Whether you’re self-employed, working for an employer, or freelancing as an independent contractor, having your citizenship can help you to work in Mexico without hindrance—except in a handful of jobs such as airline pilot. For more information, click here. When you are a permanent resident, you have to notify the Instituto Nacional de Migracion of your intent to work. You don’t have to do this step when you have Mexican citizenship. You only have to register for tax purposes with the Mexican Tax Administration Services, called “Servicio de Administración Tributaria – SAT”.

– Visa Validity versus Mexican Citizenship –

The tourist visa is in Mexico is 6 months (180 days). The INM is beginning to tackle the issue of Americans leaving and entering the country to continue to get a 6-month visa, but what is commonly known as a “border run”. Developments in technology are enabling stricter policies for expats who continue to abuse the practice of entering into Mexico on endless tourist visas.

As a visa holder with a temporary resident, you can legally live in México for up to 4 years. This visa comes with unlimited exits and re-entries. If you are a Mexican citizen or a permanent resident, then you can stay in Mexico whenever you want, and you can come and go as you please. Becoming a legal resident is not a difficult process, and it is recommended for all who want to live in Mexico for extended periods of time.

– Local Discounts for Mexican Citizens –

With Mexican citizenship, you might be entitled to discounts at local establishments, especially if you are a senior or a student. You should consider checking with local establishments, you might be surprised the savings you would find.

– Mexican Bank Account as a Mexican Citizen –

As a temporary resident and permanent resident, you can still get a bank account. However, it’s less tedious to get one if you have Mexican citizenship. Having a Mexican bank account can make paying utilities, or other transactions easier. One example is you can get automatic debit transactions via electronic transfers or OXXO deposits between Mexican bank accounts. Not all service providers or individual merchants accept foreign debit cards or credit cards in Mexico. Having your own Mexican bank account can smooth things over in the event that you find yourself requiring the services of someone who does not take foreign cards.

– INAPAM Senior Discount Card for those with Mexican Citizenship –

Mexican citizens, temporary residents, or permanent residents are all entitled to receive a card from the Instituto Nacional de las Personas Adultas Mayores (INAPAM) if you are over 60 years old. This a federal agency’s responsibility is to administer programs supporting senior citizens in Mexico. This INAPAM card is free, and it allows you to receive discounts from service providers and merchants across the country. This card can benefit you when purchasing everything from medication to bus tickets in Mexico.

– Having a Mexican Passport with Mexican Citizenship –

The Mexican passport is one of the most underrated passports in the world. It has been steadily climbing the ladder up the world’s passport rank, and it currently stands at 19th-strongest in the world with 99 countries that accept the Mexican passport without a visa and 43 countries that accept the passport with a visa.

 

HOW TO GET YOUR MEXICAN CITIZENSHIP:

First of all, it’s important to note that you can have dual citizenship in Mexico. Contrary to popular belief, dual citizenship is officially recognized in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia. Click here to found out if your country allows dual citizenship. Therefore, as long as you go through the process, you can have dual citizenship in your home country and in Mexico.

Now, how to get your Mexican citizenship. First, you must become a residente permanente in Mexico. Then you must remain in the country for 5 years before you can apply for Mexican citizenship.

You can skip this procedure through two different methods:

  • Getting your Mexican citizenship through having Mexican parents. For more information, you can click here to see the step by step procedure as to how to get your Mexican citizenship if you have at least one Mexican parent.
  • The second way to get Mexican citizenship is to marry a Mexican citizen. Through this method, you do not have to wait five years as a permanent resident in Mexico. However, you have to be married in Mexico, not overseas in any other country. You can find more information on the Mexican government’s webpage on dual citizenship. To see this webpage, click here.

If you are neither married to a spouse with Mexican citizenship nor do you have at least one Mexican parent, then you will have to go through the process of naturalization in Mexico. The first step is to become a permanent resident in Mexico (residente permanente). We have a detailed guide to becoming a permanent resident in Mexico, including prices, you just have to click here. However, the main thing to gather is that you have to apply for permanent residency outside of Mexico, at the Mexican consulate nearest to your home country. Once you follow the proper procedure, then you will get a temporary visa which must be exchanged for your permanent residency card within 30 days, or you risk fees and follow up interviews.

*If you are just interested in living in Mexico for a few years, then there are several different visas, including a multitude of residency visas. To find out more information, click here.

Many people have to become a temporary resident first, and then after four years, you can apply for permanent residency. However, you can qualify for permanent residency in Mexico if you satisfy any of the following:

  • You are seeking political asylum
  • If you are an unmarried minor with a Mexican parent
  • If you can prove that you have adequate monthly income through savings, investments, or a pension
  • If you have given birth to a Mexican citizen, or are the sibling of a Mexican citizen
  • If you have a permanent resident to the second level, such as:
    • Parent
    • Daughter
    • Grandparent
    • Son
    • Grandchildren

You can also qualify to become a permanent resident in Mexico through Mexico’s new Point System. This system was created to attract people who excel in their fields to make Mexico a better nation. If you have expertise in technology, sciences, humanities, sports, or a few other areas, then you can apply through Mexico’s Point System. Unlike other applications, applying through the Points System can be done in Mexico (instead of the Mexican consulate in your home country). You just have to go to the Instituto Nacional de Migracion nearest to you in Mexico. For more information on the Point System, click here.

The criterion for the Point System includes:

  • Work Experience in low-supply, high-demand jobs
  • Skills in science and technology
  • Education level
  • Spanish language proficiency
  • International acknowledgments or awards
  • Knowledge of Mexican culture
  • Investment in the country

After you have been a Mexican resident for at least five years (If you come from a Spanish speaking country, then you can apply for your residency in as early as two years), then you should contact your home country’s embassy or consulate to see the exact procedures for your country. However, we can give you a basic overview of the process, including what to expect when for the process on how to get your Mexican citizenship.

The first step on how to get your Mexican citizenship is to pass a naturalization exam. This tests you on two levels. The first is the level in which you speak Spanish. You must be near-fluent in Spanish. The second part of the exam tests you on Mexican politics and Mexican culture.

Once you pass this exam, the rest of the process is relatively straightforward. You really just have to supply the correct information to your local Mexican consulate.

We want to thank you for making it to the end of our article.

If you would like to help support us please click below to find out how much it would cost to insure your adventure abroad!

Comments (74)

  • Walt Maykulsky

    I heard that there is a waiver of the language requirement if you are 65 or older. Is that true?

    Reply
  • Douglas orlando turcios cruz

    I been mexico 34 years i have permanent resindet papers for almost 7 years

    Reply
  • Patrice

    I have tried for over 12 years to become a citizen, starting with the FM3 process, and then the temporary to permanent route. They have finally accepted my papers, and after 3 attempts, I finally passed the horrible test (no history, pure mythology, reading aloud for 5 minutes, answering questions, and writing perfect sentences. It was so humiliating and intense, I had to get high blood pressure and heart palpitation medicines. Now, I have been waiting for several months, calling in on the first of every month as required, but still no word on whether I have been accepted. I am married to a Mexican citizen. They told me the only benefit from this was I could apply one year earlier, but it has turned out to be longer than the 5 years. Why is it so difficult? I have been a model citizen, helping my neighbors, church and schools.

    Reply
    • Raf Bracho

      Patrice! We are so sorry to hear that. We sincerely hope that you finally get your paperwork settled. If we had any advice for you, it would be to hire an immigration lawyer if you have not already. They can often help smooth over the process or at least find out why it is lagging.

      We hope this message finds you well.

      Reply
    • LIC. GLENN LOUIS MCBRIDE

      I am from the US originally, I have dual nationality, US and Mexican, and am a licensed Mexican attorney. I have run into the same problem you mention – you should go to the SRE in Mexico City, take all the copies of documents you have from your application, receipts, etc. It is most likely that it is held up in Mexico City because your local SRE has not delivered all of your paperwork. If you to go the SRE in Mexico city, they will tell you why you are having a problem and what is missing. If you take the stamped copies of all your paperwork, they will accept the missing documents you have and process your request rapidly. I have run into this problem with 4 clients who waited years without a response.

      Reply
  • María Anton

    I had a temporary residency for 1 year but I never renew it and never left the country, after almost 3 years I finally got my papers straight and I got the permanent residency because I have 2 children that have a Mexican citizenship because of their father. Now I have the permanent residency for 2 years, Can I apply now for the Mexican citizenship?

    Reply
    • Raf Bracho

      Maria, yes that is correct. You can apply for citizenship in Mexico if you are the parent of a Mexican citizen, and you have been a permanent resident for two years.

      Reply
      • LIC. GLENN LOUIS MCBRIDE

        You can request naturalization. Having a child that is a Mexican citizen applies only if the children were born in Mexico, not if they acquired nationality because their father was born in Mexico. However, if you have been a resident with a temporary resident Visa or a permanent resident visa for 2 years and have not been outside of Mexico for more than 180 days in those 2 years, you can request a letter of naturalization. You will have to verify you speak Spanish and take the history test.

        Reply
  • Erika Acosta

    I have two children that are Mexican born in mexico am I eligible to have duel I’ve lived in Mexico for yrs

    Reply
    • Raf Bracho

      Hello Erika,

      Unfortunately no, as a parent of a Mexican citizen, you are not automatically eligible for citizenship. However, if you have been a temporary or permanent resident for years, then you should be eligible for citizenship! And having children that are Mexican citizens does make you eligible for residency if you do not have it yet.

      This article should help. 🙂

      https://mexlaw.ca/foreigners-receive-residency-mexico-family-unity/

      Reply
  • GUSTAVO SCHIUMA

    The article is all ok except when you remark that a permanent visa holdet can not get the full benefits of the Health Care system or IMSS.

    Reply
    • Raf Bracho

      Hello Gustavo,

      That is not what the article says. It merely says that people with temporary and permanent residency papers often have to deal with bureaucratic obstacles in proving their identity and validity of residency, which a Mexican national does not.

      In fact, the article then clearly states that all three can benefit from IMSS and Seguro Popular when it says, “However, permanent residents, temporary residents, and those with Mexican citizenship can join into this program without being employed.”

      We hope this comment finds you well.

      Reply
      • LIC. GLENN LOUIS MCBRIDE

        A foreigner can only enroll in Social Security if they are employed by a Mexican business and their employer enrolls them and pays the monthly fees. Any foreigner can enroll in Seguro Popular and will have to pay fees based on their income. A foreigner with a legal visa can also enroll in Social Security as a voluntary enrollee and pay the monthly fees based on their income, however, you will find it is much more expensive to enroll in Social Security than to purchase a private health insurance.

        Reply
        • Alastair Smith

          I am 63 and a temporary Resident. I just checked the cost of enrolling in IMSS for health care. It is 10350 pesos per year. There is no private health care insurance that I know of anywhere close to that.

          Reply
  • Pedro Alvarez

    Do you have to know about “La Llorona” Empache, Mal del Ojo, Virgin Giadalupe, St Jude, La Santa Muerte. And be able to drink Tequila, or at least know what state and city It comes from. Just kidding, is there a book that showrs you the Q and A.

    Reply
    • Raf Bracho

      Haha! Good one. Yes, the Mexican government gives you an information packet when you apply. We hope this message finds you well. 🙂

      Reply
    • Albertina Huitzil

      What do I have to do to get my Mexican citizens?
      When I became US citizen they didn’t offer duel citizenship

      Reply
      • Raf Bracho

        Hello ALbertina,

        This article provides a step-by-step guide to help you get your Mexican citizenship. The US doesn’t offer dual citizenship, but Mexico recognizes dual citizenship, so it is still possible to have both.

        We hope this message finds you well.

        Reply
      • LIC. GLENN LOUIS MCBRIDE

        If you are a naturalized US citizen, you cannot acquire another nationality by naturalization or you will lose your citizenship.

        Reply
        • Darren William

          The United States will not ask naturalizing citizens to take any steps to formally renounce the citizenship of their home country. Nor will it stop U.S. citizens from later adopting citizenship in another country – though if their intention is to give up U.S. citizenship, they can certainly do so.

          Reply
  • Pedro Alvarez

    What’s the cost to have having double nacionality.

    Reply
  • Marcos Silva

    If I get a permanent residency visa by having enough monthly income I will be eligible for citizenship after 5 years correct? How much time each year do I have to spend in Mexico to qualify for citizenship?

    Reply
    • Raf Bracho

      Hello Marcos,

      Yes, that is correct. I’m not sure how much of the year you have to spend in Mexico. The permanent visa is designed for people who wish to stay over 180 days in Mexico, but I am not sure if you have to stay that amount to keep your permanent residency. You should speak to an immigration lawyer to get the particulars of your situation.

      Here is some additional information for you to read:

      https://internationalliving.com/countries/mexico/visa/

      Reply
      • LIC. GLENN LOUIS MCBRIDE

        A small correction, you have to reside in Mexico for 5 years with “legal estancia”. If you reside for 4 years with a Temporary resident visa and then make the change to a Permanent resident visa and complete a total of 5 years with those 2 visas, you can request a letter of Naturalization. You do not have to complete 5 years with a Permanent Resident Visa – either visa qualifies you. This is a change from the old immigration law – in that law you had to have an FM2 for at least 5 years and the FM3 did not count towards the 5 years.

        Reply
        • Raf Bracho

          Great thoughts Lic. Glenn Louis! Thank you for contributing.

          Reply
  • Patrick Nevarez

    I applied a few months ago and the hurdles continue. I’m a child of a Mexican citizen and the process should be automatic. After telling me to come back with this and this and that, and that that is all that will be needed. I come back with everything and they tell me that I still need something else. They’ve done this 3 or 4 times now. The last time they said to bring my mother’s death certificate and that even just a picture of it would do. Now they want me to get it apostillized and translated, but why didn’t they say that before? The problem they are presenting me with is that the name on her birth certificate is TERESITA DE EL NINO JESUS PEON and her name on my birth certificate is TERESA PEON. That they are unable to correlate that both are the same person. I think this is ridiculous. Do you think they are deliberately giving me the runaround? I feel that if I show up with the apostillized and translated death certificate, they will just come up with something else.

    Reply
    • Raf Bracho

      Oh dear! Patrick, my father still tells horror stories about this. When my father was growing up, he was named Rafael Antonio Bracho, however other documents just listed him as Rafael Bracho with no middle name. When he graduated High School, he was not permitted to move on to college because the scholarship was in Rafael Bracho’s name–not Rafael Antonio Bracho’s name.

      This was a nightmare when he was alive and had to deal with it himself, let alone having to deal with it when a relative has passed. This has the makings of a bureaucratic nightmare. We can absolutely relate with what you’re going through. Just follow through the hoops. From what I’m told, you have to prove that Teresita de el Nino Jesus Peon is the same person as Teresa Peon.

      Jump through the hoops. There is hope at the light at the end of the tunnel. We believe!!!!

      Reply
      • Raf Bracho

        Patrick, my father wrote the following in regards to your situation:

        Basically, he is in a pickle, because of the names. It is indeed similar to my situation, which by the way is worse than you made it look. I was allowed to enter college, because I presented my high school diploma. I even enrolled in college as “Rafael Antonio”, but they caught on the mistake and changed my student name to simply “Rafael”, because that was on my birth certificate (the middle name only showed in the baptismal certificate, but I didn’t know). So, the problem came when I was going to graduate from college (as “Rafael”) because I had not done any prior schooling, missing it all, not only high school. “Rafael Antonio” had all the pre-college schooling, but “Rafael” did not. So, with a few days before going to the USA for my masters (and I needed my college diploma), I went to a lawyer (actually a Notario) who certified that “Rafael” and “Rafael Antonio” were the same person, as you correctly said in your comment reply.

        The situation for him is that, with his mother deceased, he will have to use other means to prove that “Teresita de el niño Jesús” is the same as “Teresa”. Unfortunately, she used her non-diminutive name in his birth certificate (“Teresa”), whereas her own had her as “Teresita”, and that complicates things because it is not only the middle-name omission. He may have to show other documents, or witnesses, to corroborate that they are one and the same.

        The “trick” is to find a person in the Civil Registry who will want to help. In my case it was the secretary of the official who signed the documents. He told me exactly what to take to him, so he could do the document and have his boss sign them. The person who will be willing to help in that manner, will say exactly what he/she requires to draw the documents.

        He is correct in that several trips are required, but eventually you get the right person and things move on. It happened with your case (getting my passport).

        We hope this helps!

        Reply
        • Francine Lindberg

          Thank you for this excellent summary! Bureaucracy is everywhere the same. The answer, as you say, is to persevere. Pay attention to who is really ‘listening’ to your story. Don’t waste time with ‘task assigners’ who send you back to the runaround, and try not to take it personally. They might be under-trained, having an overwhelming day, or be struggling in personal ways. Just move on. Eventually you will find the person who is willing to both hear and help you.

          Reply
          • Raf Bracho

            We agree Francine! Thank you for your thoughts.

  • Ani dayma

    Hi i have been married to mexican for 2 years and residing here in Mexico and have 6 month old mexican citizen daughter. I just got my permenant residency. Am i eligible to apply citizenship or i need to wait more?

    Reply
    • Raf Bracho

      Hello Ani,

      You have to be a permanent resident for 5 years before you can apply for citizenship. Having a child in Mexico only helps you get permanent residency. We hope this helps!

      Reply
      • LIC. GLENN LOUIS MCBRIDE

        You are eligible after 2 years with that Visa when you have a child born in Mexico.

        Reply
        • LIC. GLENN LOUIS MCBRIDE

          LEGAL CITATION; Article 20, clause b) of the Ley de Nacionalidad.

          Article 20. The foreigner that intends to naturalize themselves as mexican must accredit that he has resided in national territory for at least the last five years immediately prior to the date of the application, except for the provision in the following sections:

          I. A residence of two years immediately prior to the date of the application will be sufficient when the interested party:

          a) Is a descendant in a straight line of a Mexican by birth;

          b) Has children that are Mexican by birth;

          c) Is originally from a latin american country or Iberian Peninsula country, or

          Reply
  • mohmmad

    i married with a Mexican woman 4 years ago i was busy with my work in my country after 2 years i come mexico i live with my wife for 2 years in mexico right now our relation is no good some time we try to become separate
    when i become separate what do i do
    should i leave the mexico or i dont know
    please im waiting for your guide
    but dont say i stay up to i get my paper

    Reply
  • mohmmad

    i the case i separate from my Mexican wife do i have to go back my country
    actually i like mexico i want to stay in mexico right now it is like my country
    i have my Mexican friends i have work here i want to stay in mexico please need for your good guide
    thanks

    Reply
    • Raf Bracho

      Hello Mohmmad,

      I am not certain as to the particulars of your situation. Do you have a residente temporal visa? Do you have a residente permanente visa? Do you solely enter the country on tourist visas?

      Reply
  • Martin G

    Hello everyone, I keep reading different things regarding the Mexican citizenship qualification. I got married to my Mexican partner in September last year but am only going through my temp residency process now. Surprisingly I read now that as a spouse of a Mexican I would qualify for Mexican citizenship after just living together as a couple for two years in Mexico. It also states that this applies too if I only hold temp, rather than permanent residency. Is there any truth to that? Thank you 🙂

    Reply
    • Raf Bracho

      Martin, we have not heard this personally. However, if you can get a source and send it over, we’ll do some research! Thanks for letting us know. . . We’ll definitely update the content if that is so.

      Reply
    • LIC. GLENN LOUIS MCBRIDE

      As long as you have had a temporary or permanent resident visa for the last 2 years, you can request a letter of naturalization. You cannot have spent more than 6 months outside of Mexico in the last 2 years. Also, if you were not married in Mexico, you have to register your marriage with either a Mexican consulate or with the SRE in Mexico within 3 months of your marriage. Otherwise, if you register it now, it will not have legal effects for immigration for 2 years. (article 161 of the Federal Civil Code)

      Reply
  • Kira

    Hello!
    So my husband and I are both dual citizens (Mexico & U.S.). If I have a child in Mexico, is he/she automatically granted citizenship in the United States, or vise-versa?

    Reply
    • Justin Barsketis

      Yes but you have to make sure that you tell both countries of the birth to the local embassy.

      Reply
  • Wayne

    Hi

    I am a Jamaican citizen and I’m planning on getting married to my Mexican girlfriend who lives in Mexico (she is a citizen). We have no children together as yet. My question is, how soon after marriage can I apply for permanent residency / Mexican citizenship.

    What are the main benefits of becoming a Mexican citizen versus only being a permanent resident?

    Eagerly awaiting your reply 🙂

    Reply
    • Justin Barsketis

      I believe you should be able to do it immediately. If you become a permenent resident, then you are under the juridicial law of Mexico first, meaning if you do something bad you cannot go to the embassy of your original country to help you. You will also have to pay local income taxes etc. Being a citizen you will more easily qualify more government programs, and you will be able to get a Mexican passport.

      Reply
      • LIC. GLENN LOUIS MCBRIDE

        You can apply for permanent residency after you are married. If you marry in Mexico, there is no problem, but if you marry outside of Mexico, you must register your marriage license with a Mexican Consulate within 3 months. If you wait longer than 3 months, then your marriage will not have legal effects for 2 years and they will make you wait 2 years to process your permanent resident visa. That renunciation of assistance from your own Conslate only applies to naturalized Mexicans and not to holders of Visas.

        Reply
  • Antoinette Rascon

    I am in the process of helping my husband get his Mexican citizenship-(both of his parents were born in Mexico- both now dead). My husband was born in US and we have three children. If he gets his citizenship- do we (myself and 3 kids) get citizenship as well?(we live in US now, but may want to move to Mexico in future) I can not get a hold of a live person at any Mexican consulate I call to get any questions answered??

    Reply
    • Raf Bracho

      Hello Antionette,

      When your husband gets his citizenship, then you can insert your three children and they will automatically become citizens! 🙂 You should read this blog that we wrote: https://weexpats.com/get-mexican-passport-parents-mexican/

      Unfortunately, you would not get citizenship automatically. You have to pass a test in Spanish as well as you have to take a test on Mexican history (which I’m told is unexpectedly difficult from my aunt who is Argentinian and going through the process now, and she has been living in Mexico for 27 years!)

      However, I do believe you are entitled to permanent residency following the procedure listed in this article. I hope this helps!

      Reply
    • LIC. GLENN LOUIS MCBRIDE

      Unfortunately, your children are not Mexican citizens by birth as your husband is. Article 30 of the Constitution is very clear:
      Artículo 30. La nacionalidad mexicana se adquiere por nacimiento o por naturalización.

      Article 30. Mexican nationality is acquired by birth or by naturalization.
      A) Mexicans by birth are:
      I. Those that are born in territory of the Republic, whatever the nationality of their parents.
      II. Those born outside of Mexico, children of Mexican fathers born in national territory, of a Mexican father born in national territory or a Mexican mother born in national territory;
      III. Those born outside of Mexico, children of Mexican parents by naturalization, of a father who is Mexican by naturalization or a mother who is Mexican by naturalization, and

      This means that your children are not Mexican nationals by birth because their father was not born in Mexico. They would have to be naturalized. Because they are descendants of a Mexican national by birth they only need to reside with a visa in Mexico for 2 years to qualify for requesting naturalization. Your wife needs to reside 2 years with a Visa to qualify for naturalization. The wife and children qualify immediately for a permanent resident visa, which allows them to work and go to school in Mexico, but they must reside continuously for 2 years to request naturalization and they must also verify they speak Spanish and take the history test. The test is not difficult – it covers basic Mexican history that are at the level of Preparatoria or high school in Mexico. The SRE publishes a guide for this test. You can take the test as many times as you need to. I found the test to be very easy but I am a history nut and had a University degree in Mexico before taking it.

      Reply
  • koushik

    Hi Team, The article looks good. I have entered the mexico on work permit and obtained FM3/TR in 2013 September. My wife entered mexico en November 2015. Me and my wife are Indian nations and we have got PR in October 2017 through our Mexican kid who was born in July. So, my question is are we (me and my wife) are eligible for Mexican citizenship? or do we need to wait?

    Reply
    • Raf Bracho

      Hello Koushik,

      Having a Mexican child does not entitle you to Mexican citizenship. You must first become a temporary resident (which it sounds like you are), then you must become a permanent resident, and finally you must take the naturalization test.

      We hope this message finds you well.

      Reply
    • LIC. GLENN LOUIS MCBRIDE

      Having a child born in Mexico means that after living 2 years with either a temporary or permanent visa, you can request a letter of naturalization. It appears that you have had a visa since 2013 both temporary and permanent. Since you have completed more than 2 years with “legal estancia” you can request naturalization. You will have to demonstrate that you can speak Spanish and take the Mexican history test. You do not need to wait any longer. However, you must be naturalized; it is not automatic citizenship.

      Reply
  • Jay L Fernandez

    I came across this on the web and am interested in learning more about the process of insertion for 2nd generation. Both my maternal grandparents are Mexican and my mother’s brother, but she was born in the US (now deceased). As I get closer to retirement, being a citizen of Mexico has some advantages. Thanks for the help.

    “While there are options to become a Mexican citizen through birth abroad to Mexican parents, Mexican descent back two generations (although there has been talk of extending it to three generations), or through marriage or having Mexican children, most foreigners will qualify for citizenship through naturalization.”

    Reply
    • Raf Bracho

      Jay! We have a blog on that as well! We hope this message finds you well.

      https://weexpats.com/get-mexican-passport-parents-mexican/

      Reply
    • LIC. GLENN LOUIS MCBRIDE

      Article 30 of the Constitution says that if you have one PARENT born in Mexico, you are a Mexican national by birth. This does not extend from grandparents, only a parent. It would take a reform of the Constitution to extend this from grandparents. You are eligible for a faster track to naturalization by being a direct descendant of a Mexican national. This means you only have to complete 2 years with a Temporary or Permanent Resident visa before you can request a Letter of Naturalization. You will have to demonstrate fluency in Spanish and take a Mexican history test and pay fees.

      Reply
  • Elie

    Hello i am lebanese i moved recently to mexico with my wife and im dealing with a legal office to get me a work permit with a temporary residence threw an interview in the mexican consulate in the states
    My question is if we got a child here will we get the permanent residence ?
    Also if we got the temporary residence with a work permit what are the benefits? Will we get a social security number ? Could buy a car ? Buy a land or a house ? Could we get a tax number ? Could we open a bank account ? And as i understand from the article will we be Benefit from the IMSS and what are the rules to do that ?

    Reply
    • Raf Bracho

      Hello Elie, if you have a child that is born in Mexico, then you are entitled to permanent residency. A temporary residence will not get you a CURP. I think you can open a bank account with your temporary residency.

      Concerning buying property, you should be able to buy property even without a temporary residency. These articles might help:

      https://weexpats.com/expats-guide-living-retiring-mexico/

      https://weexpats.com/buying-property-mexico/

      We hope this message finds you well.

      Reply
      • LIC. GLENN LOUIS MCBRIDE

        After you apply for your Temporary Resident Visa and take it to immigration in Mexico. Immigration (SEGOB) will process your CURP and your temporary resident visa will have your CURP on it. You can open a bank account with a Temporary Resident or Permanent Resident Visa. You can open a business account with an FMM if you have set up a corporation.

        Reply
  • Anthony D.

    Hello, I am a US citizen and have been married to my wife who is a Mexican citizen for 22 years and when our two children were born we had them both registered as Mexican citizens at a Mexican consulate in the US. We’ve live in the US currently. I am the only one in the family that isn’t a Mexican citizen and would like to pursue citizenship. What would be the next steps necessary and would it be possible to start the process while still living in the US?

    Reply
    • Raf Bracho

      Hey Anthony, marriage and parentage don’t grant you citizenship in Mexico unfortunately. You have to be Mexican by blood. Therefore, if you want to become a Mexican citizen, you will have to do it by first becoming a permanent resident in Mexico. After years, you can qualify to take the test (which is quite difficult, my aunt is taking it now. She’s Argentinian). Therefore, if you want to begin to work towards your citizenship, you can begin to study for the test. There are several online groups which can help you study in a group.

      You can arrange all the necessary paperwork. All the info is found in the content of this exact article above.

      Or if you have a Mexican parent, you can begin this process: https://weexpats.com/get-mexican-passport-parents-mexican/

      We hope this message finds you well.

      Reply
    • LIC. GLENN LOUIS MCBRIDE

      If you have had a Permanent or Temporary Resident visa for at least 2 years, then you can request naturalization because of having children born in Mexico. If you do not have a visa, you are eligible for a Permanent resident visa because of your children. You will have to live 2 years in Mexico with a visa and not spend more than 180 days outside of Mexico in the 2 years before you request naturalization. You don’t state your age, but if you are over 60, you do not have to take the test. I found the test to be very easy – it consists of history questions that anyone who has completed Preparatoria should know. An attorney can do most of the documentation and you will only have to appear at least one time. You cannot request naturalization unless you reside in Mexico and once you have nationality, if you spend more than 5 years outside of Mexico, you can lose your Mexican nationality.

      Reply
  • Bill Barnes

    I am a permanent resident for 7 years. I am married to a Mexican National but the wedding was held in the US. We would it be legal to perform another wedding here in Mexico to enable me to get citizenship

    Reply
    • Raf Bracho

      I think so, that would likely be the best next step. You should speak to an immigration lawyer however.

      We hope this message finds you well.

      Reply
    • LIC. GLENN LOUIS MCBRIDE

      You can remarry in Mexico or you can register your foreign marriage certificate (translated by certified translator) at a Mexican Consulate or at the Registro Civil where you live. They will issue you a Mexican marriage certificate. You will have to reside for 2 years with a permanent or temporary resident visa after you register that marriage certificate. You can then request a letter of naturalization from the SRE. I would advise you to go directly to the SRE in Mexico City – everything is sent there anyway. If you start in Mexico city you will save a great deal of time. You will have to demonstrate an ability to speak Spanish and take the 5 question history test. If you pass the test, then within a few months you will be notified by email that you can pick up your letter of naturalization. I would advise anyone that is marrying outside of Mexico to register their marriage certificate at the Mexican consulate within 3 months of your wedding, otherwise it will not be recognized for immigration purposes.

      Reply
  • PAUL JENKINS

    My wife and I are American citizens. We purchased property and built our home within the restricted zone in 2007. We both have had our Residente Permanente since 2015.
    Mexico has become our year round home, and I wish to become a citizen.
    My concern is the cost and requirements to terminate the fideicomiso. My research has uncovered no information on the procedure I must follow to transfer the Trust Deed to me.

    Reply
    • Raf Bracho

      I would consider speaking to a Mexican lawyer about this Paul. They can likely help you knowing the particulars of your situation. All our best. 🙂

      Reply
    • LIC. GLENN LOUIS MCBRIDE

      Once you have Mexican nationality, you can eliminate the fideicomiso by going to a Notaría Pública and record the change in nationality and change the owner of the property to your name and eliminate the fideicomiso.

      Reply
  • Mark Holiman

    I think so, that would likely be the best next step. You should speak to an immigration lawyer however.

    Reply
  • Pablo Gregorio

    My wife and I are both permanent resident card holders and currently spend less than half a year in Mexico. I am 54 and will be retiring full time at 58-60 and we will move to Mexico from the US for most of the year then. I want to obtain citizenship. We were married in Hong Kong and that is where her permanent resident visa was issued. She is about ten years younger and will probably retain her Filipino citizenship. We had an immigration attorney look at whether we ‘needed’ to file a translated copy of the marriage license. I had that done and then the Registro Civil said it only needed to be done after (my) citizenship.

    Does it matter or would it make any difference to have our marriage license recorded at the consulate? I am simply wanting to keep our options open and also if she would rather have Mexican CItizenship over American.

    Reply
    • Raf Bracho

      It’s always a good idea to get an apostille copy of your marriage certificates and birth certificates–especially if you’re considering citizenship. However, I would speak to your immigration lawyer. He would likely know more.

      We hope this message finds you well.

      Reply

Leave Comment

Leave a Reply to Anthony D. Cancel