How to be a Digital Nomad in Mexico

Are you excited by the idea of working remotely from Mexico? It’s your lucky day! Your dream may become a reality thanks to Mexico’s Digital Nomad Visa. 

Whether you’re attracted to the culture of Mexico City or the beach lifestyle in Tulum, we’re going to discuss everything you need to know. So let’s dive straight in, shall we?

Why Mexico? Exploring the Digital Nomad Haven

Mexico is becoming increasingly popular amongst digital nomads, and there are many reasons for this. 

One of the major attractions for digital nomads who are considering moving to Mexico is the cost of living. Mexico is an affordable country to live in. Of course, the cost varies depending on the location you choose, but you can find accommodation in Mexico City from $500-$800 per month, while some less popular tourist locations such as San Cristóbal de las Casas can be even cheaper.

The wide variety of cities and regions throughout the country offers a diverse cultural experience, with endless festivals filled with welcoming people to truly immerse yourself in the Mexican lifestyle.

Furthermore, the robust infrastructure in Mexico ensures staying connected to the global digital landscape is a breeze, whether you’re in a beachside cafe or one of the many urban co-working spaces.

All of this sounds pretty tempting, right? Luckily for you, becoming a digital nomad in Mexico may be more realistic than you expected thanks to the Digital Nomad Visa. This visa offers great flexibility, whether you are working for a company in your home country, or working with clients worldwide, so we’ll be sure to give you all of the details.

The Digital Nomad Visa for Mexico

As we mentioned, the Digital Nomad Visa may be your pathway to a brand-new way of living. So, we want to share all of the details on how to get this highly sought-after visa.

Eligibility and Requirements

The Digital Nomad Visa in Mexico is open to people from all around the world. However, before you go booking your flights, there are some requirements that you must meet to obtain your visa.

• Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for the entire duration of the visa
• Minimal Income Requirements: As a remote worker, you must meet one of the following minimum income requirements:
  • Minimum Bank Balance: Maintained a bank balance of at least $43,000 (tax-free) for the last 12 months.
  • Minimum Monthly Salary: Earned at least $4,300 per month (after tax) over the last 6 months
  • Minimum Property Value: Own a Mexican property to the value of at least $346,000

If you are an independent remote worker and a family member will be accompanying you, there is another rule you must follow:

• Minimum Monthly Income: For each family member that accompanies you, you must be earning an additional $1,500 per month, after tax.

These are the requirements you must fulfill to apply for the Digital Nomad Visa, making Mexico one of the more straightforward countries to obtain this type of visa.

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Application Process: Step by Step

Once you are sure you meet the above requirements, it’s time to get started with your application. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with our comprehensive guide:

Step 1: Gather your Documentation

There are several documents you will need to have when beginning your application process. Be sure to have:

• Original passport
• One passport-size photo
• Original and copy of your legal permit to stay
• Proof of funds, income, and/or property ownership
• Marriage certificate (if applying with your spouse)

All of these documents need to be in either English or Spanish. If they are not yet in one of these languages, you must get them officially translated beforehand.

Step 2: Schedule your Appointment

You can request your appointment through the Mexican embassy or consulate in your country. Doing this in advance may be a good idea as it can take a few weeks to get your appointment, depending on your location and the time of year. You can book your appointment through the online booking system on the Mexican embassy’s website.

Step 3: Complete your Application

When all of your documentation is in order, you can begin filling out your application form. This can also be found on the embassy’s website. Print the form on one double-sided page and, once again, it must be in English or Spanish.

Step 4: Attend your Appointment

Next, you must attend your appointment to finalize your application. During your appointment, you will take part in an interview process, discussing your eligibility and your personal history. You will also have to pay a fee of $53 during your appointment.

Step 5: Receive your Temporary Resident Permit

After your appointment, you may receive your Temporary Resident Permit immediately, or in some cases, you may receive your permit in the following 10 business Days. Once you receive your permit, you have up to 6 months to enter Mexico and register your residency. 

Step 6: Register your Residency

To register your residency, you must find your Local Office of the Instituto Nacional de Migración within 30 days of arriving in Mexico. Before attending the INM, you should print and fill out the online application form, every local office works differently, so you need to review if a previous appointment is required or not, the process may take from 1 to 10 business days.

Congratulations! Once you have completed all of the above steps (and hopefully been approved!), you can now stay in Mexico and work remotely for an initial period of 1 year and then renew for up to 3 years.

Once your 4 years are coming to an end and you decide you want to stay in Mexico for longer, you can then look to apply for permanent residency. Be sure to contact our dedicated Mexico Digital Nomad Visa legal team to learn more about obtaining your visa to live and work in Mexico.

Taxes and Legalities for Digital Nomads Living in Mexico

It’s vital to make yourself aware of your tax obligations while living in Mexico to prevent any surprise fines from landing on your doorstep. Fear not, we will help you understand the Mexican taxes digital nomads may be required to pay and how you can ensure you’re obeying local laws.

Understanding Your Tax Obligations

In Mexico, the tax system is relatively straightforward. Residents have to pay between 0-30% of their income in taxes. The amount you pay, of course, will vary depending on your circumstances and income. You will also pay tax on every item you purchase, however, this fee is already included in the price of goods and services.

If you are generating income outside of Mexico, it is important to calculate the percentage of income that you earn outside the country. If you are earning 51% or more outside of Mexico, you will not have to pay taxes in Mexico to avoid double taxation.

Staying Legal

While living in Mexico, you must obey local laws to avoid unwanted trouble with law enforcement. Mexico has a similar legal system to many other major countries and you can avoid most issues by using common sense. To make sure you don’t break any civil laws, be sure to check up on local property laws, and taxation laws and follow the terms of your residence permit. 

It is important for you understand that as a resident you have the obligation to notify the Immigration Authorities of the following changes during your stay in Mexico, and you have 90 days to notify them after the change occurs:

1. Change of address 
2. Change of civil status 
3. Change of Name 
4. Change of Nationality

Living in Mexico on a Digital Nomad Visa

As you now know, Mexico is a fantastic destination for digital nomads. Some of the advantages include:

• Internet access
• A favorable climate
• Affordable living costs
• Friendly people
• Amazing food and culture
• and there are many more!

So if you’re ready to take the next steps, it’s time to decide on a location. So we’ve compiled our top 4 digital nomad cities in Mexico.

4 Best Places in Mexico for Digital Nomads

Mexico City

Beginning with the capital, Mexico City offers many reasons for digital nomads to settle here. The vibrant tech scene has led to the opening of many co-working spaces around the city. In addition, you will always have something to do here due to the range of bars, restaurants, museums, festivals, and cultural events in Mexico City.

Playa del Carmen

If you want to feel more at home, Playa del Carmen may be the place for you due to its high population of foreigners and expats. Playa’s golden beaches, party venues, and warm climate have been attracting expats and tourists, as well as the fantastic day trip locations in close proximity to this city.

Tulum

Another popular beach town, Tulum’s sandy beaches and clear waters are attracting expats who want to unwind near the sea. While slightly quieter than Playa del Carmen, you will still find it has a vibrant nightlife and you will see some fantastic scenery here.

Guadalajara

As the heart of Mexico’s very own Silicon Valley, Guadalajara in the state of Jalisco stands out as a vibrant cultural hub. Known for its affordable living and rich traditions, Guadalajara is famous for mariachi music, tequila, and exquisite local cuisine. The city offers a blend of tech innovation and cultural heritage, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a dynamic yet culturally rich environment. Whether you’re exploring its historic sites or enjoying its modern amenities, you’ll find Guadalajara to be truly captivating.

Finding Accommodation in Mexico

Now you may have decided where you want to move, so the next step is finding your dream accommodation. Whether you’re looking for a cozy apartment or a villa with a view, there are so many options available to you. 

Typically, renters will search on reliable websites such as Airbnb and Vrbo which offer a range of property types that cater to any budget and are useful for both long and short-term stays.

Additionally, you may do some research on social media to find digital nomad groups on sites such as Facebook or Reddit. This may help you discover some hidden gems that are quickly gaining popularity.

You can also reach out directly to local real estate agents who are constantly adding new properties!

We recommend doing your due diligence before signing any contracts to ensure the property is as advertised. Ideally, you will want to be able to attend a viewing in person or at the very least a live video call where you can see everything is in working order.

Top 3 Tips for Success as a Digital Nomad in Mexico

To ensure you thrive in Mexico as a digital nomad, we have put together our 3 best tips to ensure you have continued success while living in Mexico.

Immerse Yourself in the Culture

Be sure to get involved in Mexican cultural events and work to improve your language skills. Practice your Spanish to fit into society while attending key cultural events such as local festivals or national celebrations like, Día de Muertos  (Day of the Death Festivity), and El Grito de la Independencia (Mexican Independence Day).

Budgeting During Your Stay

Depending on your location, the cost of living may vary. It is essential that you can afford to maintain your lifestyle based on your income or modify your habits to avoid finding yourself in financial difficulty. Be sure to create a monthly budget to plan for any expenses and to have a little wiggle room for any unforeseen expenses.

Prepare Your Workspace

Whether you can work from your laptop or require monitors and screens, ensure you have access to a setup optimal for your success. Make sure you have wifi access, whether at home, in an office, or a co-working space. Also, purchase a Mexican SIM card to access local mobile networks.

If you have any other queries or concerns about making the move to Mexico, be sure to reach out to the legal eagles at Lexidy! 

Frequently Asked Questions About How to Be a Digital Nomad in Mexico

How long does it take to get the Digital Nomad Visa for Mexico?

The time can vary depending on each application depending on several factors. These include the applicant’s nationality, the specific consulate to which the applicant submitted their application, and the workload of the consulate.

Do Digital Nomads pay tax in Mexico?

Tax obligations can depend on the duration of your stay and your source of income. If over 51% of your income is generated from outside Mexico, you may not be required to pay Mexican tax. Additionally, If you spend less than 183 days in a 12-month period in Mexico, you may not have to pay Mexican tax.

How long can you stay in Mexico as a Digital Nomad?

With the Digital Nomad Visa, you can stay in Mexico for up to 4 years, as long as you renew the visa each year.

Where do Digital Nomads live in Mexico?

Some of the most popular destinations for Digital Nomads in Mexico include, of course, the capital – Mexico City, as well as many coastal towns such as Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and Cancun. Some other cities worth checking out are Merida, Guadalajara, Oaxaca, and Puerto Vallarta.

Can Lexidy Help Me Become a Digital Nomad in Mexico?

Moving to Mexico as a Digital Nomad is an amazing opportunity filled with sunny days and rich cultural experiences. If you plan on staying in Mexico while working remotely, be sure to apply for your Digital Nomad Visa and have your documentation on hand for a smooth process. As always, our dedicated team of experts is on hand to guide you through the process.