Work permits and visas in Mexico

Mexico work permits and visas for employers in 2025

Employers looking to hire or relocate foreign nationals to Mexico must comply with specific immigration and labor regulations. Work permits and visas are essential for any foreigner engaging in paid activities within the country.

This overview describes the main visa options, employer obligations, requirements, application processes, timelines, fees, and practical considerations for compliance in 2025.

Types of work permits and visas in Mexico

Mexico offers several visa and permit categories, each with distinct eligibility requirements and permitted activities. Work authorization is often linked to residence status and the specific employer or assignment.

• Temporary Resident Visa with Work Permission: For foreign employees hired by Mexican companies, valid for 1–4 years, renewable. Tied to a single employer and job position.
• Intra-Company Transfer Visa: For employees transferring within a multinational group to a Mexican branch or subsidiary, valid for 1–4 years.
• USMCA Professional Visa (TN): For American and Canadian professionals in certain listed occupations, issued for up to 1 year at a time and renewable.
• Temporary Resident Visa for Independent Activities: Permits self-employed professionals, freelancers, or entrepreneurs to work independently in Mexico, providing proof of income and relevant skills.
• Seasonal/Temporary Work Permit (Visitor Visa with Permission to Work): For short-term roles, often in sectors like agriculture or tourism, up to 180 days, non-renewable.
• Corporate Representative Work Permit: For executives sent to establish or manage a foreign company's presence in Mexico, typically 1–4 years, renewable.
• Permanent Resident Visa with Work Rights: After meeting requirements (often four years of temporary residence or other qualifying factors), individuals can work without restrictions for any employer.
• Temporary Resident Visa for Family Unity: Grants family members of permit-holders or residents the right to live (and, upon request, work) in Mexico.

Each permit type has specific requirements tailored to the applicant's role, purpose of stay, and professional background.

Who needs a work permit in Mexico

Foreign nationals must obtain work authorization before engaging in paid work in Mexico. This applies to long-term employees, intra-company transferees, short-term workers, self-employed professionals, and entrepreneurs.

Independent contractors working with foreign clients from Mexico must comply with tax registration rules and obtain appropriate documentation for self-employment but do not receive a traditional employer-sponsored work permit.

Employer responsibilities

Employers must fulfill several legal obligations when hiring foreign national staff.

• Register with the National Immigration Institute (Instituto Nacional de Migración, INM) as an employer authorized to sponsor foreign labor.
• Provide a valid job offer, demonstrating the need for a foreign worker and, where required, confirm no local candidate is available.
• Assist candidates with documentation and application procedures.
• Ensure ongoing compliance with both immigration and Mexican labor laws, including tax and social security obligations.
• Notify INM of any substantial employment changes, workplace transfers, or terminated contracts for foreign employees.