You had a successful meeting at the consulate and got the Mexican visa in your passport. Congratulations!
In this article, we answer the most common questions about the next steps to obtaining your resident’s card.
How long can I wait before I have to enter Mexico with my visa?
In theory, it is 180 days. However, if you are completing the canje from the Riviera Maya, I advise you to re-enter within 120 days to begin the canje procedure (exchanging your visa for a resident’s card) .
Why? Because, if you start the canje procedure when your visa is about to expire, it may take longer. This is because your visa will have to be physically sent to Mexico City to be validated. Therefore, it could result in a longer period of time when you have neither a visa nor a resident’s card.
Firstly, before arranging travel, request an appointment at an INM in Mexico to complete the canje process. Do this in advance online via the INM website: https://www.inm.gob.mx/spublic/portal/inmex.html. Our article explains how to use this service: New Immigration Online Appointment System in Playa del Carmen
What do I show at the airport or border when I enter Mexico with my visa?
Most importantly, remember you are not a tourist anymore.
At the immigration desk, show your passport with the new visa in it. Otherwise, the immigration agent may think you are a tourist and give you the usual 180 days tourism stay in Mexico. By showing your new Mexican visa for canje, the INM agent will stamp the visa and write 30 days next to it in your passport.
After I arrive in Mexico with my visa, do I receive my resident card automatically?
No, the canje procedure involves various steps.
Download an FMM (Forma Migratoria Múltiple) after your arrival in Mexico and complete it. Include this in your Canje appointment documentation.
Ahead of your appointment, you will have to write a letter of request in Spanish. Also include the original and a copy of your passport, visa and proof of address in Mexico. In addition to this, you will have to pay immigration fees. You can do this by debit/credit card (Visa or Mastercard) at the INM office on the day.
Attend your appointment with the documentation in order and signed in blue ink (matching your passport signature). Usually you will receive your card on the same day as you submit your paperwork. In Playa del Carmen, there are occasional delays and you may need to return later to pick up your resident’s card.
If you work with us, we will make the appointment, prepare and submit paperwork in your name, and accompany you to the INM office.
We assist you at all times until you get your resident card. In case you have to return for any step due to issues at the INM, we will be there with you.
Always remember to bring your passport with you when you visit the INM.
For a quote or more info on immigration to Mexico, please email Adriana Vela at info@immigrationtomexico.mx