Changes to How INM Handles Appointments

If you’re planning to travel to Mexico for your immigration process, there are some critical changes you need to be aware of regarding how to schedule your appointment with INM (Instituto Nacional de Migración). These changes apply to all immigration processes except for RNE/Regularización.

How to Schedule an Appointment with INM

As of September 17, 2024, most INM offices across Mexico will only accept applicants who have booked an appointment online. However, some offices, like the one in Chapala, are still accepting in-person appointments for now. These processes are new, and we expect any technical issues to be resolved in the coming months. So, make sure to stay updated, as the situation may change.

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Immigration Processes Requiring Online Appointments

Starting now, you’ll need an online appointment for the following immigration processes:

  • Change to permanent resident for family unity
  • Change to temporary resident for family unity
  • Change to permanent resident for humanitarian reasons
  • Change to temporary resident for humanitarian reasons
  • Change from temporary resident student to temporary resident
  • Change from temporary resident to permanent resident
  • Residency card renewal
  • Canje (exchange of certain visa documents)
  • Notifications to INM (changes in address, employment, marital status, nationality, or name change)
  • Work permits
  • Replacement of migratory document

To make your appointment, visit the official INM appointment portal here. Please note that the portal is only available in Spanish, and there is no option to translate the page into English.

When you purchase our Complete Mexico Relocation Guide, you get instant access to a detailed step-by-step guide on how to book an appointment online.

Canceling Your Appointment

If you can’t keep your scheduled appointment, please cancel it to allow others to take your slot. You can cancel up to two days before your appointment date. Be aware that if you miss the cancellation window and do not show up, you won’t be able to book a new appointment until the date of the missed appointment has passed.

The Benefits of Working with an Immigration Facilitator

While you can navigate the INM appointment system independently, hiring a professional immigration facilitator can save you time, effort, and potential mistakes. Facilitators can handle many of the complex aspects of your visa process, including booking your appointments.

If you’re not applying for residency just yet, there’s no need to create an account or schedule an appointment. This will help keep the system efficient and prevent accidental backlogs.


Make Your Residency Visa Process Smoother

The residency visa process can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Our Complete Mexico Relocation Guide provides all the essential steps and insider tips to make your transition to Mexico as smooth as possible. Whether it’s understanding the INM system, making appointments, or avoiding common mistakes, our guide has you covered.

Don’t go it alone—purchase the Complete Mexico Relocation Guide today and ensure a hassle-free residency visa process!

Mariana Lange

Mariana Lima-Lange was born in Mexico and moved to the U.S. when she was a child. Every year she would split her time between life in the U.S. and Mexico- which gave her a deep understanding about Mexican culture, lifestyle, and traditions. She is fluent in both Spanish and English. Since 2019, our blog posts, resources, videos, and COMPLETE Mexico Relocation Online Guide have helped thousands move to Mexico the right way!

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