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The Basics of Living in Mexico

Visas There are many types of visas for those who desire to live or work in Mexico. Best known as an FM3 or FM2, either of these visas allows visitors to stay for periods of up to one year before requiring renewal. The process for obtaining the documents can be confusing for those just arriving in the country. A good recommendation is to have a lawyer do it for you. Once your Spanish and the knowledge of how things work in Mexico improves, you can consider processing the paperwork yourself.

Just as foreigners have to obtain a green card in the U.S. to work, foreigners in Mexico must also obtain a work permit. Because of the influx of foreigners in the area, the Mexican government has imposed stricter standards for foreigners wishing to work in the area. Most jobs such as those in the diving industry require a minimum of three languages. If you are thinking of starting a business and want to set up a corporation, there are a multitude of needs in the area. Try looking into a franchise, which could be easier to set-up and operate.



Domestic Services Services such as maids, gardeners, and handymen around the home are quite economic. Currently maids charge anywhere from 25 to 50 dollars per day to clean a home, size being the determining factor in the varying costs.

Driving in Mexico Mexico is a beautiful country and if you can afford the time to travel, you should definitely do so. The land is beautiful as are the people. Safe travel habits, such as notifying friends of your travel plans, are important just as it would be in your own home country. The Mexican government has a service called the Green Angels to provide service to travelers needing emergency car service. Payment is only required for the parts or gas provided. Labor is free, but tips are recommended for the gentlemen making the repairs. It should be mentioned that its not unheard of for police to stop cars with out of area license places, but there is no cause for alarm. Military and police also are charged with random highway check-points which can be intimidating, but they also keep the area safe from criminal activity and are simply an annoying delay.

Money Matters ATM machines can be found in almost every corner of Mexico. For larger money needs, an account can be set up at an exchange house with the proper documentation. Bank accounts are also available for those who own property in Mexico.

Insurance Internationally recognized insurance companies have offices in Mexico and rates are comparable to those in the U.S. whether for cars, homes, or medical coverage. Medical costs tend to be much lower so having a higher deductible might be a smart thing to do. There are many excellent doctors and dentists in Mexico. Most doctors speak English and have studied in the U.S.

Foreign Vehicles Your car can be shipped or driven into the country. If shipping, be sure the car is empty. If shipping personal items, they should be shipped separately to avoid delays in releasing items from customs. You will need to fill out documentation at the border, but the process is not complicated.

Moving Personal Belongings To Mexico If you work with a moving company, they should be able to provide helpful information about moving personal belongings into the country. Before bringing personal belongings either by car or by container, it's a smart idea to visit the nearest Mexican consulate in your current city well in advance of your move. They will require a list of the goods being brought in and if applicable, the serial numbers. Keep receipts for any large purchases before you move, but be aware that for newer items, than 6 months old, you could pay import taxes. For imports and exports to Mexico it is highly recommended that you seek the professional services of customs agents (agencies aduanales) for processing the correct paperwork and any applicable fees.



Telephone Service One of the most difficult things about living in Mexico is learning how to dial the correct numbers. There are various combinations depending on the circumstances. For example; from Mexico to another country dial 00 first, to call another area code in Mexico dial 01 first, to call a cell phone from a land line, dial 044 first - and there's yet another way to dial cell to cell. As far as cost however, the Mexican phone market has become much more competitive - international calling has become cheaper each year for the last several years. Many people opt to use online services such as SKYPE, (so cheap its almost free, plus skype.com allows you to see the person you're calling if you're using your computers's video camera). Vonage is another choice, or even a cell phone can be affordable for international communications. As always when moving, or traveling with your personal cell phone, its important to contact the local provider to check rates and compatibility before using your phone abroad.

Patience Moving to any new area can be full of challenges. The one word you will hear often from local people is "tranquilo" or in other words, "calmly". The beauty of the culture in Mexico that still exists is taking things slow and easy. Don't think you can arrive and make the world move at your pace. Many transplants do try, but sadly that attitude will only end up a frustrating exercise. Realize cultures are different and use that inherent energy to explore your new home and the people who are now your new amigos.

¡Bienvenidos a Mexico!