Country Profiles

Mexico

February 2011

This summary is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered an authoritative guide on how to obtain work authorization in Mexico. The intent is to give the reader a general overview of the process only. Procedures and requirements may have changed since the writing of this article or may have been inaccurately characterized in it. For current and detailed information regarding the topics below, as well as documentary requirements, processing times, post-arrival and departure requirements, penalties for non-compliance, allowances for accompanying family members, and any other information pertaining to your specific needs, please contact your Pro-Link GLOBAL immigration professional.

BUSINESS VISITOR

Permitted Activities - Business visitors must generally limit their activities to the following:

  • Meetings
  • Negotiations
  • Seminars and conferences

Type of Business Visas – The visa type will depend on the nationality of the traveler. The following are examples of the types of business visa that are available to the business traveler.

  1. FMM (multiple immigration form) obtained on entry
  2. FM-3 visa for business visits obtained at a Mexican diplomatic post.

Basic Requirements –

  1. Intention of a genuine visit for business and not for paid employment;
  2. Good health and character;
  3. Evidence that there are no restrictions on his or her traveling to Mexico;
  4. No intention to permanently reside in Mexico;
  5. A ticket for onward travel from Mexico;
  6. Proof of funds.

Estimated Processing Times – This varies by diplomatic post and country.

Maximum Time On Visa - This visa allows business people to make a short business visit to Mexico for up to 180 days during the visa validity period.  Visas can be extended in country.

Typical Documents Required –
All travelers need to present the following documents to officers in immigration clearance:

  • a valid passport or other acceptable travel document and in some cases
  • a valid visa or authority to enter Mexico

EMPLOYMENT AUTHORIZATION

Basic Requirements - The principal immigration category for temporary employment in Mexico is the work permit with FM-3 Card. This is a category for employers to sponsor approved skilled workers to work in Mexico on a temporary visa.

Who is this visa for? - This category is for employers who would like to employ overseas workers to fill skilled positions in Mexico.

Process Overview - The process for obtaining a work permit with FM-3 Card for employment involves a four step process summarized below.

  1. Pre-approval at the National Institute of Immigration (INAMI) in Mexico.  Can be waived for "preferred" nationals remaining on home payroll who intend to stay in Mexico for less than 180 days and who do not have household goods to import.
  2. FM-3 Entry Visa - visa is collected within 6 months at the Mexican Embassy or Consulate in country of choice.
  3. Entry to Mexico - FMM - completed on arrival at the port of entry
  4. FM-3 Card - Must be applied for within 30 days of arrival.  Not required for assignments of less than 180 days.

Please note that there are various categories under which FM-3 Cards are granted, and these relate to the activities one intends to undertake while in Mexico. Under the terms of the FM-3, an assignee is authorized to only undertake certain, specific activities which may be lucrative or non-lucrative, depending on the visa's classification.

Estimated Processing Time – six to eight weeks

Validity periods - With this visa you can employ overseas workers for up to twelve months.

Family Members - Secondary/ family dependants cannot work and study without separate work authorization.