🇲🇽 Immigration Update: What You Need to Know
(March 2025)
If you’ve been thinking about relocating to Mexico—or are already here on a tourist visa—this post is for you.
Big shifts are happening in immigration, especially around residency options and the Regularization (RNE) program. After attending a recent seminar hosted by my trusted immigration attorney here in Puerto Vallarta (and reviewing all the latest internal notes and nationwide updates), I wanted to give you a clear, updated, no-nonsense breakdown.
Let’s dive in...
🌴 First—Take a Deep Breath
Yes, the rules are changing. But your dream of moving to Mexico is still possible. Now more than ever, it’s all about strategy, timing, and having the right guidance.
What’s Going On with the RNE Program?
This special program (which allowed people who had overstayed their tourist visa to apply for residency without proving income) has tightened significantly.
Here’s what we know as of March 27th:
✅ The program is NOT canceled—but continues only for people who have been in Mexico continuously since 2022
🗓️ If it returns, it may only be available to people who have been in Mexico since 2022 or earlier without leaving the country.
❌ If you have any re-entry stamps from 2023, 2024, or 2025, you are no longer eligible.
🚨 Overstaying now carries more risk—especially with proposed law changes allowing local police and the National Guard to request immigration documents, not just INM.
This means people hoping to "ride it out" until the next RNE cycle (possibly 2028) are taking a gamble. You may be denied re-entry on your next trip, even if you’ve been fine in the past.
Your Current Options for Residency
✅ Option 1: Apply from a Consulate in Your Home Country
If you meet the financial requirements (about $3K/month income or $70K savings for temporary; $4–5K/month income or $300K+ for permanent), this is the most stable and legal way forward.
💡 BUT NOT ALL CONSULATES ARE CREATED EQUAL.
Here’s a quick cheat sheet:
Best/U.S.-Friendly Consulates:
Houston
Tucson
Phoenix
Fresno
Las Vegas
Denver
Salt Lake City
Consulates to Avoid (Too Strict or Booked Out):
San Diego
San Francisco
Seattle
LA
Toronto (hit-or-miss)
Vancouver (hit-or-miss)
Some now require you to upload documents before even getting an appointment. Others are prioritizing services for Mexican nationals, making it harder to get approved for a residency visa.
And even if you qualify financially—there’s no guarantee you’ll be approved. (I’ve seen people denied in New York, Atlanta, and Orlando despite having more than enough savings.)
If you're rejected? You can try again at a different consulate.
🕒 Option 2: Wait and See
Some people are choosing to move to Mexico and wait it out in hopes that the RNE program returns in a few years.
But here’s the risk:
You must stay continuously in Mexico until the next cycle (possibly 2028).
You must overstay your tourist visa (which is illegal).
You’ll be at risk of being denied re-entry if you leave.
INM is starting to mark overstayers in the system, even if they pay the fine.
This is not advice, but something people are choosing. It’s risky and becoming less reliable by the day.
🔄 Option 3: Just Leave Every 180 Days
This is still legal.
If you’re not ready to commit to residency, you can enter on a tourist visa (FMM), stay up to 180 days, then leave and return to reset it.
However:
You’ll need to time your trips carefully.
You may have limited access to banking, healthcare, driver’s licenses, etc.
Immigration is watching for repeat overstays.
If you choose this route, make sure to leave BEFORE the 180 days is up. Don’t risk getting flagged or fined.
💳 Important Tips for Current Residents
If you already have temporary or permanent residency, congrats—you made it in while things were easier. But:
Always check out with INM at the airport before leaving Mexico.
Never use the passport scanner on re-entry. These are for tourists and citizens only. Using it by mistake has already caused people to lose their residency.
Carry a black & white copy of your residency card when out. Don’t carry the original unless you have to.
If you are in your final year of Temporary Residency, start your Permanent process 1–2 months in advance. Mistakes or delays could force you to start over.
If you're applying through Family Unity, work permits, or Mexican-born children, expect interviews, document verification, and even home visits. These processes are no longer rubber-stamped.
📋 What Immigration is Cracking Down On
A lot of the recent changes stem from abuse of the system by bad actors. Immigration is now extra strict on:
Fake marriages
Fake Mexican babies
Fake work contracts
Incomplete documentation
They are no longer approving things same-day, and the days of leniency are fading fast.
💡 Feeling Overwhelmed?
You’re not alone.
Residency in Mexico is still possible—but only if you take the right steps at the right time and work with people who understand the system.
That’s exactly what I help with.
🤝 Book a Relocation Consultation with Me
When you book a 1:1 session, I’ll help you:
✔ Understand your best path to residency
✔ Navigate the changes safely and legally
✔ Get referred to a vetted immigration attorney or facilitator
✔ Explore banking, housing, healthcare, and more
🔑 Bottom Line
Mexico hasn’t slammed the door shut—it’s just locking it tighter. And you need the right key.
Don’t give up on your dream. Just get smart, stay ahead, and have someone in your corner who knows how this works.
Let me help you move to Mexico the easy way—even when it feels complicated.
Saludos,
Dez
Founder, My Deztination | Puerto Vallarta Activities & VIP Relocation Services
Helping You Move to Mexico The Easy Way
📧 Email: dez@mydeztination.com
🌐 Website: www.mydeztination.com
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Born in California and raised in the Pacific Northwest, I turned a solo adventure into a full-fledged life transformation when I moved to this coastal paradise over seven years ago—and I’ve never looked back.
Since then, I’ve built more than just a life here—I’ve built a mission. After navigating the complex world of visas, rentals, and cultural adaptation myself, I now help others do it the smart, strategic, and stress-free way. I specialize in Mexican residency strategy, relocation services, neighborhood tours, high-end concierge support, and personalized consultations for anyone dreaming of a new life in Mexico.
Whether you’re seeking a smooth immigration path, need help finding the perfect place to live, or simply want trusted referrals for real estate, healthcare, and banking—I’ve got you covered. I stay up-to-date with Mexico’s ever-evolving immigration laws and work closely with top attorneys, facilitators, and service providers to make sure you get the most accurate and actionable advice.
My greatest joy? Watching my clients feel empowered, informed, and excited about their next chapter.
Let’s turn your dream of living in Mexico into a confident reality—the easy way.
xo, Dez
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Book Your Appointment NowFrequently Asked Questions About Residency & RNE in Mexico (2025)
Who qualifies for the RNE program in 2025?
To qualify, you must have been physically present in Mexico since December 31, 2022 or earlier, with no exits in 2023, 2024, or 2025. You must also have an expired FMM (tourist permit) and be in Mexico at the time of application.
What if my residency application is denied?
If denied, you can reapply at another consulate or explore different legal residency pathways. A trusted facilitator can help you understand your best options.
Can I include my spouse or kids in my RNE application?
Yes. Spouses and children under 18 can often be included in your RNE application, though additional documents like apostilled birth/marriage certificates and certified translations will be required.
What documents are required for the RNE process?
You’ll need your valid passport, expired FMM, a written letter (in Spanish) explaining your desire to live in Mexico, and any required documents for dependents (e.g., apostilled birth certificates).
Do I need to show bank statements or income for RNE?
No, financial solvency is not a requirement. However, some INM offices may appreciate seeing bank statements as a sign of stability—it doesn’t hurt to bring them.
How long does the RNE process take in 2025?
Processing times range from 1 day to 4 weeks depending on your location and local INM office. In some cases, applications may be sent to Mexico City for review.
Is it mandatory to use an immigration facilitator?
It’s not required, but highly recommended. Immigration offices are stricter than ever, and a vetted facilitator helps prevent delays, mistakes, and costly rejections.
How can Dez help with my Mexico relocation?
I offer expert relocation consultations, personalized guidance on immigration pathways, local referrals, VIP neighborhood tours, and custom relocation packages. Book your consult here.