🌍 Can I Work in Mexico Legally as a Foreigner?
The Ultimate Guide to Remote Work, Freelancing & Business Ownership in Mexico
Whether you're dreaming of sipping margaritas while working remotely from the beach, planning a low-key retirement with a side hustle, or envisioning your own business in paradise—understanding how to work legally in Mexico is essential.
Let’s break it down with accurate, up-to-date information on what’s allowed (and what’s not) for foreigners living and working in Mexico.
💻 1. Can I Work Remotely in Mexico for a Foreign Company?
Yes—this is 100% legal and very common.
If you're employed by a foreign company or work online as a freelancer for clients outside of Mexico, you are not required to obtain a work permit.
✅ What You Need:
A valid Temporary or Permanent Residency Visa.
Proof of sufficient financial means (required for residency).
A stable internet connection—and you’re good to go!
❌ What You Cannot Do:
Work for a Mexican company.
Offer services to or receive payment from Mexican clients or companies unless you have proper work authorization.
This is why many digital nomads apply for residency as "economically independent" individuals and legally work remotely from Mexico, all while enjoying the sunshine.
🧭 Start Smart: Your Legal Move to Mexico Begins Here
Working remotely in Mexico? Don’t risk confusion or costly mistakes. My Starter Relocation Kit gives you expert guidance, visa clarity, and trusted referrals—so you can confidently work and live in Mexico, the legal way.
Get the Starter Relocation Kit
🏢 2. What If I Want to Start a Business in Mexico?
You absolutely can start a business in Mexico—but it requires the right legal setup.
Two Legal Pathways to Start a Business:
➤ Option 1:
Get Temporary Residency with Permission to Work
You’ll need to:
Request work authorization during your residency application process.
Specify the activity you'll be doing (e.g., consulting, wellness services, creative work).
Register with SAT (Mexico’s tax authority) and pay taxes on all Mexican-sourced income.
➤ Option 2:
Form a Mexican Corporation & Hire Yourself
This is ideal for larger or more complex businesses (e.g., tour companies, restaurants, retail). You’ll need:
A trusted attorney to help incorporate.
An accountant to handle taxes.
SAT registration and a tax ID (RFC).
⚠️ Important:
Even if you’re just freelancing in Mexico (e.g., photography, coaching, massage therapy), if your clients are Mexican residents, it counts as Mexican-sourced income and requires a work visa + tax registration.
🧘♀️ 3. What If I’m Retired But Want to Make Side Income?
If you're receiving retirement income (pension, Social Security, etc.), you can apply for residency as a retiree—no work authorization is required.
But what about earning a little extra?
✅ You can:
Work online for foreign clients.
Do creative, coaching, or consulting work remotely as long as you’re not paid by anyone in Mexico.
❌ You cannot:
Offer services to locals, businesses, or tourists within Mexico unless you have proper work permission and pay taxes locally.
This is a very common gray area, so I strongly recommend a consultation to make sure you’re 100% compliant.
⚖️ Don’t Guess—Get Legal Clarity Before You Relocate
Mexico has flexible options for remote workers and entrepreneurs—but one wrong step can jeopardize your visa or tax status. My Starter Relocation Kit gives you expert strategy, trusted referrals, and step-by-step guidance to work and live here legally from day one.
Get the Starter Relocation Kit
🧾 4. What About Paying Taxes in Mexico?
If you’re earning Mexican-sourced income (through a business, service, or job in Mexico), you must:
Register with SAT (Servicio de Administración Tributaria).
Obtain an RFC (Mexican Tax ID).
File taxes annually (and possibly monthly, depending on business structure).
If your income is entirely foreign-sourced (e.g., remote work for a U.S. company), you typically:
Don’t owe taxes in Mexico, but you must still report foreign income in your home country.
Should consult a tax advisor familiar with international tax treaties and foreign income rules.
🛑 Bottom Line: What’s Legal (and What’s Not)?
✅ Legal & Common:
Working remotely for foreign companies or clients while living in Mexico.
Retiring in Mexico while doing remote work or passive income activities.
⚠️ Requires Work Visa:
Working for a Mexican employer.
Starting a business that earns money in Mexico.
Offering any service to Mexican citizens or tourists (even casual ones like photography, fitness training, or Airbnb management).
💼 Ready to Take the Next Step Toward Working Legally in Mexico?
You don’t have to figure it all out alone. Whether you’re just starting your research or ready to launch your dream life abroad—I’m here to help you navigate visas, work options, and relocation with expert, personalized support.
💡 Why a Relocation Consultation is Key
Laws change, and gray areas abound, especially when it comes to taxes, freelancing, and remote work. That’s why I offer personalized relocation consultations where I:
Assess your situation and guide you to the right legal path.
Refer you to trusted immigration attorneys & accountants.
Help you avoid costly mistakes or visa violations.
🧠 Whether you’re still exploring options or already planning your move, it pays to do it right the first time.
🎯 Ready to Work Legally & Stress-Free in Mexico?
Tap below to book a 1-on-1 consultation with me and build your roadmap to legal income, residency, and your dream life in Mexico:
👉 www.mydeztination.com/relocation-consultation
Let’s make your move legal, smooth, and sustainable. You deserve peace of mind in paradise.
Saludos,
Dez
Your Puerto Vallarta Relocation Specialist
📧 dez@mydeztination.com
🌐 www.mydeztination.com
💼 Want to Work Legally in Mexico? Here's How I Can Help
Whether you’re a digital nomad, freelancer, remote employee, or entrepreneur, I offer expert relocation services designed to help you live and work in Mexico—legally, confidently, and stress-free.
📄 Work & Residency Consultations
Personalized guidance on how to legally live, work, or run a business in Mexico—no guesswork, no overwhelm.
Book a Consultation🏡 Custom Neighborhood Tours
Explore Puerto Vallarta with a local expert who tailors your tour based on lifestyle, budget, and work-from-home needs.
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From immigration paperwork to setting up banking, housing, and daily life—get hands-on support for a smooth transition.
Get Support✨ VIP Relocation Packages
Get fully tailored support with everything from visa strategy to housing tours, personal assistance, and lifestyle setup.
Explore PackagesMeet Dez:
Your Relocation Expert in Puerto Vallarta 🌴
Hi, I’m Dez—founder of My Deztination and your expert relocation guide for Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.
I moved here over seven years ago on a solo adventure that completely changed my life. What I found wasn’t just sunshine and palm trees—but the freedom to work online, live with intention, and build a life that actually felt like mine. Since then, I’ve helped hundreds of people do the same.
Whether you're a digital nomad, remote worker, freelancer, or aspiring entrepreneur—I specialize in helping you live and work in Mexico legally, sustainably, and stress-free.
Here’s how I can help:
✅ Mexican residency strategy for remote workers & business owners
✅ Clear, honest advice on legal work options and tax expectations
✅ Customized neighborhood tours based on your lifestyle and income
✅ Personalized Relocation Packages that cover every detail
✅ One-on-one consultations that eliminate confusion, risk, and overwhelm
I work side-by-side with trusted attorneys, real estate pros, tax experts, and service providers to give you a full roadmap—whether you’re relocating solo, with a partner, or with your pets.
In a world where location freedom is more possible than ever, my goal is to make sure it’s not just possible for you—but clear, legal, and aligned with the life you’re ready to create.
✨ You don’t have to figure this out alone.
✨ You deserve guidance you can trust.
✨ And your dream life in Mexico? It’s closer than you think.
Let’s make it happen—step by step, and stress-free.
xo, Dez
Founder, My Deztination | Puerto Vallarta Activities & VIP Relocation Services
Helping you Move to Puerto Vallarta Mexico ❤️🤍💚 The Easy Way
💻 Build Your Dream Life—Legally & Sustainably in Mexico
From remote work residency strategies to ethical business setup and trusted referrals, I help digital nomads, online entrepreneurs, and remote workers relocate to Mexico the legal way—with clarity, confidence, and no guesswork. Whether you're moving for freedom, focus, or lifestyle—I'll guide you step-by-step.
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💼 Ready to Work Legally & Live Freely in Mexico?
Whether you're a digital nomad, remote worker, freelancer, or future business owner—you deserve to build your dream life in Mexico with clarity, confidence, and full legal peace of mind. Let me guide you step-by-step so your move is smooth, sustainable, and 100% compliant with Mexican law.
Book Your Relocation Consultation🇲🇽 Working & Relocating to Mexico Legally: FAQs for 2025
Is Puerto Vallarta a good place for digital nomads and remote workers?
Yes! Puerto Vallarta is one of the most popular destinations for digital nomads and remote workers, offering a combination of beautiful beaches, affordable living, and a thriving expat community. It’s also known for its strong internet connectivity and safety.
Can I apply for residency in Mexico if I work remotely for a foreign company?
Yes! Many remote workers apply for Temporary Residency under the "financially independent" category. This allows you to live in Mexico legally while working online for a foreign company. You do not need a special work visa for this.
Can I start a business in Mexico as a foreigner?
Yes! Foreigners can open a business in Mexico. You’ll need either a Temporary Residency visa with permission to work or to set up a Mexican corporation. It’s important to follow the legal steps, including registering with SAT (the tax authority), to ensure everything is compliant.
Do I need to pay taxes in Mexico if I work remotely for a foreign company?
Typically, if you’re earning income from a foreign source while residing in Mexico, you don’t need to pay Mexican taxes. However, you should still report your foreign income to the Mexican tax authorities and may be required to file taxes in your home country. It’s best to consult with a cross-border tax advisor to ensure you're compliant.
How can I qualify for residency if I start a business in Mexico?
If you’re starting a business in Mexico, you can apply for a Temporary Residency visa with permission to work. If your business generates enough income, you can later apply for Permanent Residency. This path often requires proof of your financial stability, business plan, and tax registration with SAT.
What paperwork do I need to apply for residency in Mexico?
To apply for residency in Mexico, you’ll need a valid passport, proof of financial means (like bank statements or income), and an expired FMM (if you're applying inside Mexico). Additional documents may be required depending on your residency route, such as a job offer or proof of family ties.
Can I bring my pets to Mexico while I relocate for work?
Yes! Pets can be brought to Mexico with the proper health certificate and vaccination records. The process is straightforward, but it’s always a good idea to check with the Mexican customs office or consult a pet relocation expert to ensure you have everything in order.
How long does the residency process take in Mexico?
The residency process can take anywhere from 1 day to several weeks, depending on your location and whether your case is escalated to Mexico City. Starting with the correct documents and working with an immigration facilitator can speed up the process and reduce stress.
Should I hire an immigration facilitator to help with my move to Mexico?
While hiring an immigration facilitator is not legally required, it is highly recommended. Facilitators can help streamline the paperwork, communicate effectively with INM (Mexico’s immigration office), and avoid costly mistakes. I work with ethical, experienced professionals who specialize in helping remote workers and entrepreneurs relocate to Mexico.
How can Dez help with my relocation to Mexico for work?
I offer expert consultations and personalized relocation packages, covering everything from visa strategy and legal work options to finding the perfect neighborhood and securing pet-friendly housing. If you're planning to move and work in Mexico, I’d love to help you navigate the process smoothly. Book your consultation here.