How Can Family Members Get Mexican Residency (Residencia Por Vinculo Familiar)

Residency in Mexico is possible via many routes.

In this article, we will explore temporary and permanent residency options specifically available for spouses and partners, known as Residencia Por Vinculo Familiar, or residency for family unity. This path to Mexican residency can make it easier for families to stay together and enjoy the benefits of living in Mexico.

This topic is especially important for those who have spouses that do not meet the financial solvency requirements at a local Mexican Consulate. The good news is Mexico is VERY pro-family; so we’ll explain how couples and other family members of Mexican residents or nationals can petition each other without having to prove economic solvency.

Eligibility for Residency for Spouses and Partners

You can apply for this type of Mexican residency if your spouse or partner is a Mexican citizen or a current resident.

Some of you may start this process at a Mexican Consulate or Embassy abroad. However, because many Mexican Consulates have recently made it harder and harder for families to apply together, we will focus this blog post on petitioning family members in Mexico. Bypassing the process at a Mexican Consulate or Embassy abroad.

To petition your family members from within Mexico, you must complete the process at a local immigration office (Instituto Nacional de Migración, or INM). If you are not already in Mexico, you will need to enter the country as a tourist before initiating the process.

Key Points:

• Who Can Apply: Spouses, Children under 18, Parents, Siblings of Mexican citizens or residents.
• Where to Apply: Local INM offices throughout Mexico.

This type of residency provides an excellent opportunity for those wishing to join their family members who are already residents or nationals in Mexico. Whether your partner is a Mexican citizen or has already obtained residency status, you can legally join them and start your life in Mexico together.

The best part is that a spouse of a Mexican national or Resident DOES NOT need financial solvency to obtain their Mexican residency visa. As long as the process is done at an INM office in Mexico. (Mexican Consulates and Embassies have different procedures and requirements.)

Scheduling Your Appointment with INM

To apply for Mexican residency, the first step is to schedule an appointment at your local INM office. It is essential to have all the required documents ready to avoid delays in the process. Below is a list of most of the required documentation for the appointment. However, it is important for you to note that the process and requirements for a family unity Mexican Residency can vary between immigration offices across Mexico.

To help you understand what the local requirements are and what the local procedure is, we highly recommend hiring a reputable immigration facilitator in Mexico.

Scheduling an appointment early is crucial, as the availability of appointments may vary depending on the office’s location and whether they offer them online or in person. By preparing ahead of time, you can ensure that your application process goes smoothly.

Documentation Requirements

To apply for Mexican residency for family unity, you must provide the following documents:

• Applicant’s Passport: Original and copy.
• Multiple Migratory Form (FMM): Downloaded and completed.
• Immigration Fee Payment: A credit or debit card to pay the required fee at the INM office.
• Printed Immigration Request Form: Complete it online and bring a signed copy of the INM Immigration Request Form.
• Foreign Documents Need to Be Translated: Foreign marriage or birth certificates need to be translated by an official “perito traductor.”
• Identification of Spouse/Partner: The official ID of the Mexican family member or the resident’s current residency card and passport—both original and copies.

Having all the correct documents is vital for ensuring a successful application. Missing paperwork or incomplete forms can result in delays or even the rejection of your residency request.

Additional Documentation for Married and Unmarried Couples

• If Married Outside of Mexico: You will need an apostilled marriage certificate. If the certificate is not in Spanish, it must be translated by a certified legal translator (perito traductor) in Mexico.
• If Married in Mexico: You’ll need to bring your Mexican marriage certificate and a copy.
• Unmarried Couples: You will need an official apostilled document certifying the partnership in accordance with civil legislation. This document should state that you and the Mexican citizen or resident have lived together continuously and permanently.

For unmarried couples, it’s important to note that Mexican authorities require proof that the partnership is real and stable. An apostilled document showing common law marriage helps certify the legitimacy of the relationship, which is crucial for securing residency.

Additional Resource: FREE Mexican Residency Visa Guide

Step-by-Step Process to Obtain Residency for Family Unity

1. Book an Appointment: Schedule an appointment at your local INM office in Mexico. Book in advance to secure a suitable date.
2. During Your Appointment: Provide all the required documents listed above. Be sure to arrive on time and bring the originals and copies of your paperwork.
3. Biometrics and Approval: If your application is complete and approved, you will provide fingerprints, get your photo taken, and may even receive your residency card on the same day at that INM office.

The process can vary depending on the office and location. Some INM offices require online appointments, and some will only make appointments in person for the same day or a future date; some applicants may receive their residency card immediately, while others may need to wait a few weeks for processing. Following up with the INM office is essential if there are any delays.

Temporary vs. Permanent Residency

Once your application for Mexican residency is approved, you will initially be granted temporary residency, which is valid for two years. After two years of both marriage/partnership with a Mexican citizen or resident and maintaining temporary residency, you will be eligible to apply for permanent residency.

Summary of the Residency Path:

• Temporary Residency: Granted for 2 years initially.
• Permanent Residency: Available after 2 years of marriage/partnership and temporary residency. You will not be required to prove economic solvency after fulfilling the temporary residency timeline.

Temporary residency allows you to live and work in Mexico, allowing you to integrate into Mexican society and adjust to your new environment. Once you meet the requirements for permanent residency, you will have the same benefits as a temporary residency but with the added bonus of not having to renew again.

Additional Reading: 15 Common Residency Mistakes to AVOID

Benefits of Mexican Residency for Spouses and Partners

Obtaining Mexican residency through family unity offers several benefits:

• Live Legally in Mexico: You can reside legally with your spouse or partner, avoiding any immigration issues.
• Work Opportunities: Temporary and permanent residency allows you to work in Mexico, contributing to your household and local community.
• Access to Services: With residency, you have access to public healthcare and other services available to Mexican residents.

Mexican residency not only provides legal benefits but also helps create a sense of belonging, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in Mexican culture and enjoy everything the country has to offer.

What If You Need Help?

Navigating the residency process can be challenging, especially when you need to gather the right documents and ensure everything is in order.

The Complete Mexico Relocation Guide can provide you with vetted contacts, including trusted facilitators, legal translators, and immigration experts, to make your residency journey smooth and stress-free.

Whether you’re unsure about the documentation requirements or need assistance booking appointments, our relocation guide and vetted contacts will help you every step of the way. We understand the complexities of obtaining Mexican residency, and our trusted contacts can save you time, stress, and potential setbacks.

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