ARGA service
Temporary Residency
Temporary Residency (Residencia Temporal) is the primary tool for legalization in Mexico for foreign citizens. It grants the right to live in the country for up to 4 years, open bank accounts, rent housing, and work. ARGA Mexico supports the entire process — from choosing the right basis to receiving the resident card.
Grounds for obtaining residency
Temporary residency in Mexico can be obtained on several grounds: financial independence (passive income or savings), employment with a Mexican employer, running a business, family reunification, studies, or as a digital nomad (freelancer with foreign clients). ARGA analyzes your situation and selects the most suitable and reliable basis.
Procedure: step by step
The process has two stages. First — obtaining a visa at the Mexican consulate in your country of residence (or entering visa-free and later changing status). Second — filing an application at the local INM (Instituto Nacional de Migración) office within 30 days of entry. ARGA prepares the full document package, schedules the appointment, and, if needed, accompanies you to the meeting with the inspector.
Timeline and cost
Average processing time for residency through INM is 4 to 8 weeks after filing. The government fee ranges from 3,000 to 6,000 MXN depending on the term. ARGA's fees are determined individually after reviewing your documents and chosen basis. We do not require prepayment before signing the agreement.
Renewal and transition to permanent residency
Temporary residency is issued for 1 to 4 years and can be renewed. After 4 years of continuous residence on a temporary basis, you can apply for permanent residency (Residencia Permanente). ARGA supports clients along the entire path — from the first residency permit to citizenship.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get residency while already in Mexico?
Yes. If you entered on a tourist visa or visa-free, in some cases you can change status directly through INM without leaving the country. ARGA will assess your situation and propose the optimal route.
Do I need Spanish to communicate with INM?
Documents are filed in Spanish, and communication with INM is in Spanish. ARGA handles all translations and, if needed, attends the appointment with you.
What is the minimum income needed for residency by financial independence?
For 2024–2025, INM requirements are: passive income of at least ~USD 1,620 per month (300 days of minimum wage) or savings from ~USD 27,000 (5,000 days). Figures are regularly updated — ARGA checks current requirements for each case.
Can I work for a Mexican company with temporary residency?
Yes, if residency was obtained on the "employment" basis (Residente Temporal con permiso para trabajar). For residency on other grounds, a separate work permit is arranged.
Discuss your case
Initial consultation — no upfront payment. We will assess the prospects and propose a defense strategy.