Expat Guide to Mexico
Everything you need to know about living and working in Mexico.
Visa & Residency
Mexico's Temporary Resident Visa is available for those earning approximately $2,500/month or with savings of approximately $42,000 (thresholds adjusted annually). This allows 1-4 year stays with work rights. The FMM Tourist Card allows 180-day stays and is given automatically on arrival — many digital nomads use this route, though technically working on a tourist permit is a gray area. There is no specific digital nomad visa as of 2026, though one has been proposed. Permanent Residency is available after 4 years of temporary residency. Mexico is one of the easiest countries for Americans and Canadians due to proximity and established processes.
Tax System
Progressive income tax (ISR) ranges from 1.92% to 35% for tax residents (those spending 183+ days in Mexico). Tax residents are taxed on worldwide income. Mexico has a comprehensive double taxation treaty network (including with the US, Canada, and most of Europe). IVA (Value Added Tax) is 16% on most goods and services. Freelancers and self-employed individuals must register with SAT (tax authority) and can operate under various fiscal regimes, including the Simplified Trust Regime (RESICO) for small businesses which offers reduced rates. US citizens should note FBAR and FATCA reporting requirements apply to Mexican bank accounts.
Note: Always consult a qualified tax advisor for your specific situation.
Healthcare
Mexico has both public (IMSS/INSABI) and private healthcare systems. IMSS (Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social) is available to formal employees and their families. For expats, private healthcare is the standard choice — it's excellent quality and remarkably affordable compared to the US. A comprehensive private insurance plan costs $100-300/month. Major private hospitals include Médica Sur, Hospital Ángeles, and ABC Medical Center in Mexico City. Dental care and cosmetic procedures are 50-70% cheaper than in the US, attracting medical tourists. Pharmacies (farmacias) are abundant and many medications available over-the-counter that require prescriptions elsewhere.
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BBVA Mexico (formerly Bancomer) and Banorte are the most accessible banks for foreigners. Temporary Resident Visa is technically required to open a standard account, though some branches will open accounts for tourists with passport and proof of address. GBM+ is a popular digital investment platform. CLABE number (18-digit banking identifier) is used for domestic transfers. Most expats use a combination of a Mexican bank account (for local payments, rent) and Wise/Revolut (for receiving international payments at good exchange rates). Cash is still king in many areas — always carry some pesos. ATM withdrawals have fees of 30-50 MXN ($1.75-3).
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