Mexico keeps residency income thresholds steady

Mexico's residency floor holds at $4,400 a month

Mexico keeps residency income thresholds steady

Mexico's temporary residency income floor is still about $4,400 a month for 2026, even after the 13% minimum wage increase took effect Jan. 1. The change comes from Mexico’s switch to UMA as the calculation base, which kept the threshold from climbing to a much higher level.

Temporary residency now requires about MXN $79,771 in monthly net income or MXN $1,344,373 in savings. Permanent residency sits near $7,400 a month or MXN $5,378,664 in savings. The updated rules took effect Jan. 1, 2026.

Remote workers and retirees feel the higher bar

The rules cover remote workers, digital nomads, self-employed applicants and retirees seeking a renewable stay of up to four years. Spouses and minor children can qualify at a lower monthly threshold of about $1,434.

Tourists on visitor permits still can’t convert to residency without meeting the financial test. Consulates can also ask for 6 months of bank statements for income checks or 12 months for savings and some now want proof of a Mexican address, like a lease or utility bill, before approving a file.

What applicants should prepare now

Applicants should expect higher fees too. Temporary residency cards now cost MXN $11,141 for one year and MXN $25,058 for four years, while direct permanent residency costs MXN $13,579.

Processing can take 2 to 3 months and home visits are more common in family cases. Read our full Mexico guide for the complete picture. For more visa updates, follow our latest coverage.