Gringo Survival Guide

Relocation Tip 1-Visas: Temporary vs. Permanent Residency

Moving to Mexico? Your visa matters — a lot. Many newcomers assume that a tourist visa is all they need for a few months, but staying long-term without the right paperwork can get expensive — or even land you in trouble.

Temporary Residency (Residente Temporal)

• Valid 1 year initially, renewable up to 4 years.

• Allows work, banking, and renting in your name.

• Perfect for people planning to stay 1–4 years.

Permanent Residency (Residente Permanente)

• Gives full residency rights, no expiration.

• Usually requires meeting financial thresholds or family ties.

• Ideal for retirees or people committed to long-term living in Mexico.

Pro tip: Apply before your current visa expires, and check your local INM office (Immigration) for the exact documentation — yes, they actually read everything. Missing paperwork = multiple trips and headaches.

Why it matters:
Getting the right visa sets the foundation for everything else — housing, banking, healthcare. Skip this, and even the best Airbnb could turn into a nightmare.

Takeaway:
Plan your paperwork like you plan your move: early, carefully, and with plenty of coffee.

Relocation Tip #2 — Utilities: Internet, CFE, and Water

Welcome to your new home! Now comes the part no one tells you about: utilities.

Electricity (CFE):

• Set up a local account — even if the house already has power.

• Keep your account number handy; bills may be addressed differently from your home’s postal address.

Internet:

• Providers like Telmex, TotalPlay, and Izzi often require a technician visit to activate service.

• In new construction, some companies won’t install service until the official address is “recognized” by local authorities.

Water & Gas:

• Usually municipal, sometimes private. Payments can often be done online — but bring cash to the office just in case.

Pro tip:
Keep a list of all versions of your address. In Mexico, your CFE, internet provider, and even Amazon may see slightly different addresses — it’s normal.

Takeaway:
Patience + preparation = utilities up and running without tears.

Relocation Tip #3 — Housing: Rentals, Deposits, and New Construction Quirks

Mexico’s rental market can be confusing for newcomers. Here’s what to know:

• Deposits: Usually one month’s rent. In some areas, landlords may ask for two months plus a guarantee.

• Contracts: Always in writing — check the fine print. Some include “mantenimiento” (maintenance) fees separately.

• New construction quirks: Some houses may have 3 different addresses for mail, utilities, and deliveries — all legit.

Pro tip:
Walk the neighborhood, ask locals, and don’t assume an address that works for one service will work for another. Also, always ask if appliances come installed — and check warranties.

Takeaway:
Doing your homework upfront will save headaches later — and make you look like a pro tenant, not a clueless newcomer.

Relocation Tip #4 — Banking & Money Management

Cash, pesos, ATMs, and tipping etiquette: here’s the lowdown.

• Bank Accounts: Most banks require a visa, proof of address, and official ID. Plan ahead.

• ATMs: Use machines inside banks when possible — safer and easier for larger withdrawals.

• Pesos vs. USD: Some border towns accept dollars, but relying on them is risky. Learn to carry pesos comfortably.

• Tipping: Restaurants, gas attendants, delivery people — expect 10–20%. Not optional.

Pro tip:
Always carry small bills and coins — many places don’t make change for large notes.

Takeaway:
Money management in Mexico is simple once you adapt to the local rhythm. Don’t assume U.S. norms apply — even in major cities.

Relocation Tip #5 — Local Etiquette & Daily Life

Respect is currency too. Here’s what earns you brownie points with locals:

• Greetings: A handshake, nod, or quick cheek kiss is common. Always say “buen día” or “buenas tardes.”

• Time: “Mañana” doesn’t always mean tomorrow. Be patient with schedules.

• Bathrooms: Trash goes in the bin, not the toilet. Yes, really.

• Markets & stores: Politeness goes a long way — greet vendors, ask before taking photos, don’t haggle too aggressively.

Pro tip:
Observe first. When in doubt, follow what locals do. Humor and humility go a long way.

Takeaway:
Understanding daily etiquette is just as important as understanding visas or utilities — it makes your life easier and more enjoyable.

FAQs

Extra FAQs for Expats in Mexico

❓ How do I legally live in Mexico long-term?

You’ll need either a temporary or permanent resident visa. Tourist visas only last up to 180 days. We break down the steps, costs, and documentation you’ll actually need — and connect you with trusted immigration attorneys.

❓ Is it safe to live in Mexico?

Like anywhere, it depends on the area. Mexico has safe neighborhoods, expat-friendly cities, and areas to avoid. We give honest tips on safety, neighborhoods, and daily life so you can make informed decisions without fear-mongering.

❓ How expensive is it to live in Mexico?

Costs vary by city and lifestyle. Rent can be cheaper than the U.S., but imported goods, private healthcare, or certain utilities can surprise you. We share real cost-of-living estimates for expats so you know what to budget.

❓ Can I work remotely while living in Mexico?

Yes! Many expats move here to work remotely. But you need the right visa and knowledge about local taxes. We cover remote work logistics, coworking spaces, and digital nomad tips in Mexico.

❓ What’s the healthcare system like in Mexico?

Mexico offers public and private healthcare. You can access clinics and hospitals, but quality varies. Our guide covers insurance options, public vs private care, and emergency planning for expats.

❓ How do I deal with bureaucracy and red tape?

Paperwork moves slowly, power outages happen, and some things require in-person visits. Our guides show how to navigate banks, utilities, residency offices, and municipal paperwork without losing your mind.

❓ How can I adapt to Mexican culture as an expat?

Respect, humor, and curiosity go a long way. Learn about tipping, greetings, local holidays, and social norms to blend in while still being yourself. We share stories of mistakes so you can laugh and learn.

❓ Are pets allowed when moving to Mexico?

Yes, but there are import rules, vaccinations, and quarantine requirements depending on your pet’s type and origin. We cover what you need to bring your furry friend safely.

❓ How do I find housing in Mexico?

We give practical tips for renting or buying, including understanding leases, avoiding scams, and finding expat-friendly landlords — all based on real-life experience, not influencer hype.

❓ Can I travel around Mexico easily as an expat?

Public transport, buses, and domestic flights exist, but schedules can be unpredictable. We share travel hacks, safety tips, and regional insights to make exploring Mexico easier and more enjoyable.

❓ How do I legally live in Mexico long-term?

You’ll need either a temporary or permanent resident visa. Tourist visas only last up to 180 days. Our guide walks you through the steps, required documents, and trusted immigration attorneys to help you make the move legally and smoothly.
🔗 See our Immigration Attorneys page

❓ Is it safe to live in Mexico?

Safety depends on the area. Mexico has expat-friendly neighborhoods and regions to avoid. We provide honest tips on safety, daily life, and community insights so you can feel confident while living abroad.
🔗 Check our Real Mexico resources

❓ How expensive is it to live in Mexico?

Costs vary by city and lifestyle. Rent may be lower than in the U.S., but private healthcare, imported goods, and utilities can add up. Learn about real cost-of-living estimates for expats so you can budget wisely.
🔗 See our Relocation Tips

❓ Can I work remotely while living in Mexico?

Yes! Many expats move here for remote work. Make sure you have the right visa and understand local tax obligations. Our guides cover remote work logistics, coworking spaces, and digital nomad tips in Mexico.
🔗 Start with our Relocation Tips

❓ What’s the healthcare system like in Mexico?

Mexico offers public and private healthcare options. Quality varies by region. We explain insurance choices, public vs private clinics, and emergency planning so expats can access care with confidence.
🔗 Learn more about Healthcare & Insurance

❓ How do I deal with bureaucracy and red tape?

Paperwork moves slowly, some things require in-person visits, and outages happen. Our guides show how to navigate banks, utilities, residency offices, and municipal paperwork without stress.
🔗 See our Real Mexico resources

❓ How can I adapt to Mexican culture as an expat?

Respect, humor, and curiosity go a long way. Learn about tipping, greetings, holidays, and social norms to blend in while staying yourself. Our stories of real mistakes help you laugh and learn.
🔗 Explore Respect & Culture

❓ Are pets allowed when moving to Mexico?

Yes! There are import rules, vaccination requirements, and possible quarantine depending on your pet’s type and origin. We provide guidance to bring your furry friends safely.
🔗 See our Relocation Tips

❓ How do I find housing in Mexico?

We give practical advice for renting or buying, including how to read leases, avoid scams, and find expat-friendly landlords — based on real-life experience, not influencer hype.
🔗 Check our Real Estate Resources

❓ Can I travel around Mexico easily as an expat?

Public transport, buses, and domestic flights exist but can be unpredictable. We share travel hacks, safety tips, and regional insights to make exploring Mexico easier and more enjoyable.
🔗 See our Real Mexico resources