Moving to Mexico requires certain steps to be taken prior to your departure, in order to avoid unpleasant surprises upon arrival, such as a work ban or uncovered health expenses.
Here are some explanations.
Many reasons to move to Mexico
A change of scenery
There are many reasons to move to Mexico, which is also a nation where it is quite easy for someone from another country to integrate.
Changing the scenery and discovering a multifaceted culture are just some of the motivations to move to Mexico. The country is home to many historical sites and is rich in different landscapes:
- Deserts
- Paradise beaches
- Tropical forests
- Etc.
Moving to Mexico also means enjoying a comfortable lifestyle:
- Sunshine all year round
- Unesco World Heritage cuisine
- A generally comfortable purchasing power
Work in Mexico for expats
Moving to Mexico to work also means gaining access to a dynamic job market in the second largest economy in Latin America.
The unemployment rate is rather low, and there are plenty of job opportunities in industries such as:
- Chemical and oil industry
- Tourism
- Language teaching
- Distribution
- Finance
- Hospitality
- Food and Beverage
Pros and cons of moving to Mexico
Obtaining a visa and a work permit before going abroad
A visa is not necessary to enter Mexico as a tourist, you just need to have:
- The immigration form filled out
- A valid passport
- Proof of funds for the duration of the stay
However, this authorization is only valid for 180 days and does not allow you to work.
Therefore, to move to Mexico for a longer period of time, applying for a visa is required and must be made before departure at the Mexican embassy or consulate. The temporary resident visa allows the expat’s spouse and children to remain in the country.
It is valid for one year, renewable four times. After that, you will have to leave Mexico or apply for permanent residence.
In order to work in Mexico, you must also get a work permit, which can be obtained upon presentation of:
- An employment agreement from a Mexican employer
- A tax return form
Regular formalities for moving abroad
Living as an expat in Mexico also requires the following common steps:
- Learn the language
- Cancel unnecessary bank, energy or insurance contracts
- Notify the authorities that you are moving abroad, including taxes
In this regard, a bilateral agreement exists between Mexico and other countries that avoids double taxation.
You should also remember to bring these useful documents with you:
- Diplomas
- Family record book
- Healthcare card
- Birth certificates
- Etc.
The originals must be stamped, but this is an official certification of authenticity that can be easily obtained before departure.
Do not leave without good health coverage
Mexican healthcare system : all you need to know before moving to Mexico
The choice of health coverage is important and must be made before moving to Mexico.
Usually, there is no social security agreement between Mexico and other countries. Therefore, expats, except for seconded workers, are subject to local legislation.
In Mexico, there is a compulsory health insurance scheme for employees and a voluntary scheme for self-employed workers.
But the public sector suffers from:
- Lack of staff
- Lack of equipment
- Long waiting times
Most expats seek treatment in private facilities, where care is not covered by public insurance. The service is excellent, but the prices are high:
- Consultation from 60 to 120 euros
- Overnight stay in hospital around 200 euros
- Appendicitis operation around 5,000 euros
The advantages of an international insurance in Mexico
It is advisable to opt for international insurance when moving to Mexico, because a local agreement does not cover the expat outside the country and requires you to complete all the procedures in Spanish with the particularities of the Mexican system.
On the other hand, taking out international health insurance from your home country allows you to benefit from:
- Simplified management of the policy and procedures in English
- English-speaking assistance
- Coverage throughout the world, including during stays in your country of origin
- Repatriation assistance
- Extended coverage besides health
How to find the right health coverage
To choose the most suitable insurance for your situation during your time in Mexico, it is advisable to use an online comparison tool.
It is also possible to opt for a “1st euro insurance” to benefit from a complete and flexible coverage, which can easily adapt to your needs and budget.
This is often a very popular solution because of its good value for money, but it is important to bear in mind that the medical questionnaire is compulsory at the time of enrollment and may lead to certain increases or exclusions on your insurance policy.
