Temporary Resident Visa (Work Offer) — Mexico

Who Should Consider This Guide?

Are you contemplating a new chapter in Mexico, living there for more than 180 days but less than 4 years without the intention of being employed within the country? If so, this guide is tailored for you. The Temporary Resident Visa (Work Offer), administered by the Instituto Nacional de Migración (INM), is designed for individuals like you who wish to stay in Mexico while working remotely for a foreign employer.

When Is This Guide Useful?

This guide becomes particularly relevant if you are planning to maintain your employment with a company located outside Mexico and require permission to work remotely. It provides crucial insights into eligibility requirements, necessary documentation, and financial prerequisites, such as having permission from your employer to work abroad and showcasing the last six months of paystubs with a minimum income of $4,200 USD.

Key Considerations

Before proceeding, ensure you meet the financial criteria, which includes maintaining a minimum balance of $70,000 USD in your bank account over the last 12 months. Additionally, you'll need to manage logistical details like securing a valid visa or ESTA from the United States if applicable. For those interested in comparing this visa with other options, resources like the Temporary Resident and Temporary Resident Digital Nomad visas might also be worth exploring.

By understanding who this visa is meant for and when to consider it, you can better navigate your journey to living and working remotely in Mexico. For further information on required documents, visit our Documents Checklist guide.

Overview of the Temporary Resident Visa (Work Offer) for Mexico

The Temporary Resident Visa (Work Offer) is an essential permit for individuals who wish to reside in Mexico for a period exceeding 180 days but less than four years, without engaging in employment within the country. Managed by the Instituto Nacional de Migración (INM), this visa is particularly suitable for those who plan to work remotely for a foreign employer while enjoying the rich cultural and scenic beauty of Mexico.

Who Is It For?

This visa is ideal if you:

• Plan to live in Mexico for more than 180 days but less than four years.
• Intend to work remotely for a non-Mexican employer.
• Have no plans to seek employment within Mexico during your stay.

Key Requirements

To apply for the Temporary Resident Visa (Work Offer), you need to gather several important documents. Here is a list of essential requirements:

• A completed application form, available in English and Español.
• A valid passport in original and one copy.
• A valid visa or ESTA of the United States of America, if applicable.
• One passport-size photo with a white background, in color, without glasses.
• An employment letter from your foreign employer indicating permission to work from abroad.
• Paystubs from the last six months showing a minimum income of $4,200 USD.
• Last 12 months of bank statements with a minimum balance of $70,000 USD.
• Payment of the consular fee of $54.00 USD in cash, ensuring you have the exact change.

For applicants under 18 years of age, both parents must be present during the application process.

Processing Times and Considerations

Processing times for the Temporary Resident Visa can vary depending on the category and location. It's recommended to verify current processing times with the Instituto Nacional de Migración before lodging your application. The processing time for a similar visa type, like the Visitor Tourist, is typically between 1 to 10 days as of February 2026, but this may differ for the Temporary Resident Visa.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Several common errors can delay or jeopardize your application:

• Failing to provide exact change for the consular fee.
• Submitting incomplete bank statements for economic solvency.
• Not including a valid visa or ESTA of the United States when required.
• Using photos that do not meet the specified requirements.

Each of these can lead to complications, so it's crucial to ensure all documentation is complete and accurate. For a detailed list of necessary documents, refer to the Documents Checklist.

Related Visa Options

If your circumstances change, or if you wish to explore other visa types, consider looking into options such as the Temporary Resident Digital Nomad or Temporary Resident visas. Each has its own set of requirements and benefits tailored to different needs and lifestyles.

For further guidance on how to apply, financial requirements, or understanding visa refusal reasons, you can explore additional resources like the How To Apply and Financial Requirements guides.

Who Qualifies for a Temporary Resident Visa (Work Offer)?

The Temporary Resident Visa (Work Offer) is designed for individuals who plan to reside in Mexico for more than 180 days but less than 4 years without engaging in employment within the country. If you intend to work remotely for a foreign employer while in Mexico, this visa could be suitable for you. Below are the key criteria you must meet:

• Duration of Stay: You must plan to stay in Mexico for more than 180 days but not exceed four years.
• Employment Status: You should not be employed by a Mexican company. Employment must be with a foreign employer, if applicable.
• Remote Work: If working remotely, your employment letter must indicate permission to work from abroad, accompanied by the last 6 months of paystubs showing a minimum income of $4,200 USD.

For further information on Temporary Resident visas, refer to our detailed guide.

Required Documentation

To apply for this visa, gather the following documents:

• General Requirements:

  • A completed application form, available in English or Español.
  • A valid passport (original and one copy).
  • A valid visa/ESTA of the United States of America, if required.

• Financial Requirements:

  • Last 6 months of paystubs with a minimum income of $4,200 USD (if working remotely).
  • Last 12 months of bank statements showing a minimum balance of $70,000 USD.

• Photographs:

  • One passport-size photo, in color, with a white background, and without glasses.

For a comprehensive Documents Checklist, you can review our dedicated guide to ensure you have everything you need.

Additional Considerations

• Minors: Applicants under 18 must be accompanied by both parents during the application process.
• Family Documentation: If applicable, provide a marriage or common-law certificate along with a photocopy.
• Consular Fee: A consular fee of $54.00 USD must be paid in cash and in exact change.

Failure to meet any of these requirements can lead to delays or denial of your application. Be sure to verify details on the official website or with the National Immigration Institute (INM) for the most current information.

Next Steps

If you meet these eligibility criteria and have gathered the necessary documents, you are ready to proceed with your application. For guidance on how to apply, you can refer to our How To Apply guide. Additionally, if you are exploring other visa options, consider the Visitor Tourist or Temporary Resident Digital Nomad visas based on your travel intentions.

Step-by-Step Process for Applying for a Temporary Resident Visa (Work Offer) in Mexico

If you're planning to live in Mexico for more than 180 days but less than four years, and you have a work offer that allows you to work remotely, the Temporary Resident Visa (Work Offer) might be the right option for you. Here's a detailed walkthrough of the application process:

1. Determine Eligibility

   Make sure you meet the eligibility requirements for the Temporary Resident Visa (Work Offer). You need to have a valid work offer that allows you to work remotely while living in Mexico, without being employed within the country. Ensure you have the necessary documentation, such as a valid visa/ESTA of the United States of America, if required.

2. Gather Required Documents

   Prepare the following documents before starting your application:

   • A completed application form in English or Español
   • Original valid passport and one photocopy
   • One passport-sized photo with a white background, in color, without glasses
   • Employment letter indicating permission to work from abroad and the last 6 months of paystubs with a minimum income of $4,200.00 USD
   • Bank statements for the last 12 months showing a minimum balance of $70,000.00 USD
   • Marriage or common-law certificate and one photocopy (if applicable)

   For a detailed list, refer to our Documents Checklist.

3. Pay the Consular Fee

   The consular fee for applying is $54.00 USD, which must be paid in cash with the exact change. It's essential to prepare this in advance as failure to provide exact change can delay your application.

4. Lodge Your Application

   Submit your application along with all required documents to the Instituto Nacional de Migración (INM). This can typically be done at a Mexican consulate or embassy. Ensure all your documents meet the specified requirements to avoid delays or potential refusal. Incomplete submissions, such as missing bank statements or incorrect photos, can result in rejection.

5. Attend an Interview

   If required, attend an interview at the Mexican consulate or embassy. Applicants under 18 years old must be accompanied by both parents during this interview. Ensure all parties necessary for your application are present to avoid any complications.

6. Await Processing

   The processing time for this visa can vary. While some applications might be processed in as little as 1 to 10 days, timelines can differ based on your specific category and location. Verify current processing times on the INM's official website or through our Processing Times Guide.

What Happens After Submission?

Once your application is submitted, you will need to wait for a decision. If approved, you'll be granted a Temporary Resident Visa that allows you to reside in Mexico for the specified duration. Remember, simply applying does not guarantee approval, so ensure all your documentation is accurate and complete.

For more insights on visa applications, including potential refusal reasons, visit our Visa Refusal Reasons Guide.

Additional Considerations

• Financial Requirements: Ensure you maintain the required financial thresholds throughout the application process. For a comprehensive understanding, see our Financial Requirements Guide.
• Legal Considerations: If you're considering bringing family members, different rules may apply, such as the Temporary Resident Family visa.

By following these steps and preparing thoroughly, you'll increase your chances of a successful application for a Temporary Resident Visa (Work Offer) in Mexico.

What Are the Costs Involved?

When applying for the Temporary Resident Visa (Work Offer) to live in Mexico, you need to anticipate certain costs. These fees are essential to ensure your application is processed without delays. Here is a breakdown of the costs:

• Consular Fee: You must pay a consular fee of $54.00 USD in cash and ensure you have the exact change.
• Proof of Financial Solvency: If you're planning to work remotely while in Mexico, you should provide:
  • An employment letter confirming permission to work from abroad.
  • The last six months of paystubs showing a minimum income of $4,200.00 USD.
  • Alternatively, you can show the last 12 months of bank statements with a minimum balance of $70,000.00 USD.

How Long Does It Take?

The processing times for the Temporary Resident Visa (Work Offer) can vary. Here's what you can typically expect:

Processing times might differ depending on the specific category of the visa and the location where you're applying. It's advisable to verify current processing times with the Instituto Nacional de Migración (INM) or through the Processing Times guide.

Additional Considerations

When preparing your application, ensure you gather all necessary documents, such as a valid passport and any other required forms. Incomplete documentation can lead to delays or refusal of your visa. For a comprehensive list of what you'll need, visit our Documents Checklist.

For those interested in different residency options, compare this with other visas like the Temporary Resident Digital Nomad or the Permanent Resident visas to determine the best fit for your circumstances.

Preparing Your Application

• Gather All Required Documents: Before applying for a Temporary Resident Visa (Work Offer), make sure you have all the necessary documents, such as a valid passport (original and a copy), a valid visa/ESTA of the United States, passport-sized photos meeting specific requirements, and an employment letter indicating permission to work remotely. Refer to the Documents Checklist for a comprehensive list.

• Financial Evidence: Ensure you have the last 12 months of bank statements showing a minimum balance of $70,000.00 USD, or the last 6 months of paystubs with a minimum income of $4,200.00 USD if planning to work remotely.

Navigating Fees

• Exact Payment: Prepare to pay the consular fee of $54.00 USD in cash with exact change. Failure to do so can delay your application process.

• Document Verification: Double-check all your documents for accuracy and completeness. Missing or incorrect information can result in delays or rejection.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Incomplete Submissions: Ensure that your application is complete and includes all required documents. Incomplete bank statements or missing a valid visa/ESTA of the United States are common reasons for delays.

• Photo Requirements: Your passport photos must be in color, with a white background, and without glasses. Any deviation from these requirements can lead to application rejection.

• Presence for Interviews: If you are applying as a family, ensure both parents accompany minors under 18 during the interview.

Understanding Processing Times

• Check Processing Times: Processing times for the Temporary Resident Visa (Work Offer) can vary depending on the category and location. Generally, it can range from 1 to 10 days, but it's crucial to verify current processing times on the official website. For more insights, you can consult the Processing Times guide.

• Plan Ahead: Given the variation in processing times, plan your application well ahead of your intended travel dates to ensure you receive your visa in time.

For more detailed advice on applying for a Temporary Resident Visa (Work Offer) and understanding the financial obligations, visit the Financial Requirements guide. If you're considering other visa types, such as the Visitor Tourist or Temporary Resident Retirement, explore those options as well.

Common Documentation Issues

• Incomplete Documentation: Ensure you gather all required documents before applying. Missing essential items, such as a valid visa/ESTA of the United States, can lead to application delays or rejection. Review the Documents Checklist for a comprehensive list.
• Photo Requirements: Submit a passport-size photo that meets the specifications: white background, in color, and without glasses. Incorrect photos are a frequent reason for processing delays.

Financial and Employment Verification

• Economic Solvency Proof: Submit the last 12 months of bank statements showing a minimum balance of $70,000.00 USD. Failure to provide complete statements can result in application denial.
• Remote Work Documentation: If working remotely while in Mexico, provide an employment letter confirming permission to work abroad and paystubs for the last 6 months demonstrating a minimum income of $4,200.00 USD.

Consular Fee Payment

• Exact Change Required: The consular fee is $54.00 USD, payable in cash with exact change. Not having the correct amount can cause unnecessary complications during your application process.

Application Process Challenges

• Parental Accompaniment for Minors: Applicants under 18 must be accompanied by both parents during the visa process. Missing this requirement can halt the application.
• Family Unification Requirements: For those applying under family unification, both parties must be present at the interview. This is crucial for the application to proceed smoothly.

Ensure you cross-reference all requirements with the latest guidelines from the National Immigration Institute (INM) and consider reviewing the Visa Refusal Reasons to understand common pitfalls.

Understanding the Temporary Resident Visa (Work Offer) in Mexico

The Temporary Resident Visa (Work Offer) is a unique opportunity for individuals who wish to live in Mexico for longer than 180 days but less than four years. This visa is particularly relevant for those who plan to work remotely for a foreign employer, as it allows you to reside in Mexico without taking up employment locally. This visa is managed by the Instituto Nacional de Migración (INM), and applicants must meet specific documentation and financial requirements.

Key Documentation Requirements

When applying for this visa, you must ensure you have all the necessary documents. Generally, you will need to provide:

• A completed application form, available in both English and Spanish
• A valid passport, along with a photocopy
• A valid visa or ESTA from the United States of America
• One passport-size photo with a white background, in color, and without glasses

For those planning to work remotely, an employment letter is critical. This letter must indicate permission to work from abroad and be accompanied by the last six months of pay stubs showing a minimum income of $4,200 USD. Additionally, your last 12 months of bank statements should reflect a minimum balance of $70,000 USD.

Financial Considerations

Financial proof is a crucial component of the application process. You need to demonstrate economic solvency, which is evaluated through your bank statements and pay stubs. It's essential to maintain the specified balances and income levels to meet the visa requirements. Additionally, a consular fee of $54 USD must be paid in cash, with exact change required, emphasizing the need for careful preparation of funds.

Common Pitfalls and Considerations

Applicants should be aware of common pitfalls that can lead to application delays or rejections. These include submitting incomplete bank statements or photos that do not meet the specified requirements. It's also important to note that submitting this application does not guarantee approval, so ensuring every detail is correct is vital. For more insights into potential reasons for visa refusal, you can refer to our Visa Refusal Reasons guide.

For further guidance on how to apply and manage your documentation, consider visiting our How To Apply page. If you're contemplating whether this visa suits your long-term plans, explore the different categories like the Visitor Business or Temporary Resident Investor visas that might better align with your needs.