Mexico CANJE processing slows to 8 weeks as offices add proof of address checks

Mexico’s CANJE exchange now faces tighter checks

Mexico’s CANJE process, where residents swap a visa sticker for a physical card, now comes with more verification at some INM offices. Applicants are being asked more often for proof of address and some offices are also adding biometrics and extra review, which has slowed processing.

The change comes from updated immigration practice rather than a single official decree. Same-day pickup is now rare and processing can take 2 to 8 weeks or longer in some cases.

Expats, digital nomads and families feel the delays

The new checks mainly hit expats, digital nomads, retirees, investors and family-unit applicants. Tourists aren't part of this process. People entering Mexico as residents still have to start CANJE within 30 days of arrival and the visa can expire after 6 months if it isn’t exchanged.

Proof of address is the biggest shift for many applicants. Some offices now want a utility bill or rental contract, which makes short-term hotels a bad fit for the process.

What applicants need to bring

Applicants should arrive with a valid passport, visa, FMM marked "canje," the online form and payment receipt. Many offices now also expect a Spanish request letter and address proof, then schedule biometrics before card pickup.

Fees rose in January, when card costs roughly doubled. A one-year card can cost about 5,500 MXN and the full cycle can reach about 13,500 MXN, depending on the filing.

Read our full Mexico guide for the complete picture. For more visa updates, keep an eye on processing rules and fee changes.