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Mexico Work Permits & Visas: Processes for Employers

Looking to sponsor an international hire in Mexico? This guide breaks down what employers need to know — from visa types to employer obligations and timelines. Whether you're hiring locally or relocating international talent, we've got you covered.

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Capital City

Mexico City

Currency

Mexican Pesos

(

)

Timezone

CET

(

GMT -5/6/7/8

)

Payroll

Bi-Monthly

Employment Cost

36.1% – 44.73%

Milani Notshe

Research Specialist

Last Updated

August 7, 2025

In This Guide

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Hiring Foreign Talent in Mexico: What Employers Need to Know

Are you an employer looking to sponsor international talent in Mexico? Navigating Mexico’s visa and work permit process can be complex — especially without a local legal entity or dedicated HR team.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about employer-sponsored work visas in Mexico, including processing times, documentation, and local compliance rules. Whether relocating a team member or hiring locally, Playroll simplifies visa sponsorship through an end-to-end employer of record platform.

Key Takeaways

Employers must be registered with the National Immigration Institute (INM) to sponsor foreign workers.

The work permit process usually takes 4–6 weeks.

The Temporary Resident Visa (work) and the Permanent Resident Visa are common, with fees around MXN 5,570.

Independent contractors are often considered self-employed and need to apply for a different process under the Temporary Resident Visa.

Work permits are usually location-specific. Employees may need approval for job changes.

Who Needs a Work Permit in Mexico

In Mexico, foreign workers are required to obtain a work permit if they plan to perform any remunerated activity within the country. This includes employees on long-term assignments, temporary workers, or individuals employed by a Mexican company. Mexican labor laws stipulate that foreigners cannot work unless they have received approval from the National Institute of Migration (INM). Employers must ensure that the foreign nationals they hire meet the appropriate visa and work permit requirements.

Work permits are also necessary for employees who are relocating to Mexico from other countries, as well as for individuals who intend to start a business or self-employment ventures within the country. Employers are responsible for assisting employees through the application process to ensure their compliance with immigration laws.

Types of Work Permits and Visas in Mexico

In Mexico, work permits and visas are both immigration documents needed in order for foreign professionals to legally work in the country. However, these documents serve entirely different purposes. The visa allows you to enter Mexico for the purpose of working, while the work permit (authorization) is what legally allows you to perform paid work for a specific employer once you're in the country.

Work Permits in Mexico

In Mexico, work permits (work authorizations) are typically integrated with residency cards instead of being issued as separate documents. Here's a comprehensive breakdown of the different types of work permits available in Mexico:

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Work Permit Type	Description
General Employment Work Permit	This a subtype of the most common type of work authorization in Mexico, integrated with the Temporary Resident Card. It is designed for professionals hired and sponsored by Mexican companies through the Instituto Nacional de Migracion (INM).
Intra-Company Transfer Work Permit	Another subtype of the Temporary Resident Work Permit, this work permit is best for employees transferring to a Mexican branch/subsidiary for their company. This work permit is valid for 1-4 years (renewable) and requires proof of employment relationship with the foreign parent company.
Professional Work Permit under USMCA (formerly NAFTA)	The last subtype of the Temporary Resident Work Permit is specifically for Canadian and US professionals that fit into the the 63 professional categories defined in the bilateral agreement between these countries and Mexico.
Temporary Resident Work Permit for Independent Activities	Designed for self-employed professionals, entrepreneurs ,or freelancers, this work permit requires that applicants demonstrate specialized skills or expertise and sufficient income from foreign sources.
Seasonal/Temporary Work Permit	Geared towards workers who are looking for short-term employment commitments. The duration of this work permit is usually limited based on the nature of the work. It is usually used for agricultural workers, performers, or specific projects.
Corporate Representative Work Permit	This work permit is suitable for executives and managers in Mexico on behalf of foreign companies. Applicants are required to provide proof of a corporate relationship with the foreign entity and the permit is valid for 1-4 years (renewable).

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Each type of work permit has specific eligibility requirements, application procedures, and limitations. The appropriate type depends on the nature of employment, duration of stay, and the individual's qualifications and circumstances.

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General Employment Work Permit

‍The General Employment Work Permit is intended for foreign nationals who wish to live and work in Mexico for more than 180 days but less than four years. This type of visa is especially popular among companies looking to hire or relocate foreign employees to Mexico , as it allows the employee to reside and engage in paid employment within the country. It is ideal for organizations that need to bring in talent for managerial, specialized, or long-term roles, where having a constant presence in Mexico is required. This visa is commonly used by businesses hiring within Mexico or relocating employees through Employer of Record services.

The process requires employers to submit an application to the Mexican National Institute of Migration (INM) on behalf of the employee. After the application is approved, the employee can apply for a Temporary Resident Visa at a Mexican consulate in their home country. Once they arrive in Mexico, the visa must be exchanged for a Temporary Resident Card with work permission.

💡 Best for: Businesses that need foreign employees to stay in Mexico for extended periods (over 180 days, up to 4 years) and for filling roles that demand specialized skills, managerial expertise, or ongoing, in-country presence.

Intra-Company Transfer Work Permit

‍The Intra-Company Transfer Work Permit allows foreign employees to transfer from a foreign branch, affiliate, or subsidiary of a company to a counterpart in Mexico. This option is suitable for companies that need to relocate key staff who already possess specialized knowledge or managerial expertise. The company must first submit an application to the INM on behalf of the employee. Upon approval, the employee can apply for a visa at a Mexican consulate in their home country. When they arrive in Mexico, the visa must be exchanged for a Temporary Resident Card with work authorization.

This work permit is typically used by multinational companies to transfer employees to a local branch or subsidiary in Mexico. It simplifies the immigration process and ensures that the foreign employee has the legal right to work and reside in Mexico while still maintaining their role within the global company.

💡 Best for:

Multinational companies that need to transfer skilled personnel, such as senior managers or experts, to their Mexican operations.
Transferring employees with a specialized knowledge or expertise that is integral to the business.

Professional Work Permit under USMCA (formerly NAFTA)

The Professional Work Permit under the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), formerly known as NAFTA, enables qualified Canadian and American citizens to work in the Mexico for specific roles. This permit is only available to individuals with job offers that align with the specific job roles outlined in the USMCA agreement. After receiving a job offer from a Mexican employer, the employee applies for a TN visa either at a Mexican port of entry or a designated pre-clearance station. The TN visa is valid for up to three years, and while it can be renewed, the employee must demonstrate that they continue to meet the criteria for their job.

This permit is typically used by Mexican companies that need to hire professionals from Canada or the United States in roles such as engineers, scientists, and IT specialists, among others. It allows businesses to tap into skilled talent from neighboring countries to fill specific gaps in their workforce.

💡 Best for:

Mexican companies hiring professionals from Canada or the United States for roles that are listed under the USMCA, such as accountants, engineers, or architects.
Employers needing to hire highly skilled workers for specific, professional-level tasks.

Temporary Resident Work Permit for Independent Activities

‍The Temporary Resident Work Permit for Independent Activities is aimed at foreign professionals who wish to live and work in Mexico on their own terms, without being employed by a Mexican company. This permit is particularly useful for entrepreneurs, freelancers, or independent contractors who want to work in Mexico independently. To apply, individuals must demonstrate that they have sufficient financial resources to support themselves and provide evidence of the activities they intend to pursue, such as freelance work, consulting, or starting their own business.

Applicants must apply for the visa at a Mexican consulate in their home country, where they will submit supporting documents like proof of income, bank statements, and business plans (if applicable). Once the visa is approved and the individual arrives in Mexico, they must exchange their visa for a Temporary Resident Card with work permission.

💡 Best for: Freelancers, digital nomads, or independent contractors who wish to live and work in Mexico or individuals who want to start their own business or work as consultants while residing in Mexico.

Seasonal/Temporary Work Permit

‍The Seasonal or Temporary Work Permit is designed for businesses in industries that require seasonal labor, such as agriculture, hospitality, or tourism. This permit is used by employers who need temporary workers to fill short-term roles, often during peak seasons like harvest time or high tourist seasons.

Employers must submit a work permit request to the INM on behalf of the employee. Once approved, the employee applies for a visa at a Mexican consulate abroad. After entering Mexico, the employee must exchange the visa for a Temporary Resident Card that grants work permission.

This permit is ideal for businesses that require staff for specific, time-limited periods, ensuring that workers are legally allowed to be employed in Mexico for the duration of the seasonal or temporary employment.

💡 Best for:

Employers in industries such as agriculture, tourism, or hospitality that need temporary workers during high-demand periods.
Companies requiring extra help for specific timeframes, such as during harvest or peak vacation seasons.

Corporate Representative Work Permit

‍The Corporate Representative Work Permit is designed for foreign nationals who are in Mexico with the purpose of establishing or managing a business presence on behalf of a foreign company. This permit is essential for businesses looking to expand into the Mexican market and require a representative to oversee operations, manage partnerships, or handle legal affairs on the ground. The permit applicant must provide evidence of their company's legal status and their role as a representative of the company.

Once the application is approved, the employee can apply for a visa at a Mexican consulate abroad. Upon arriving in Mexico, they must exchange the visa for a Temporary Resident Card that grants work permission. This permit typically applies to individuals who are tasked with representing the company in Mexico while maintaining the business's operations or seeking new business opportunities.

💡 Best for: Companies looking to establish a new commercial presence or branch or foreign companies needing a representative to manage operations, handle partnerships, or oversee legal matters in Mexico.

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💡Playroll Pointer

Did you know some work visas in Mexico double up as both residence and work permits? Check out these overlapping options:

Temporary Resident Visa with Work Permission = General Employment Work Permit
Temporary Resident Visa (Intra-Company Transfer) = Intra-Company Transfer Work Permit
Temporary Resident Visa for Independent Professionals = Temporary Resident Work Permit for Independent Activities
Temporary Resident Visa for Investors = Corporate Representative Work Permit
Permanent Resident Visa with Work Authorization = Permanent Resident Work Permit

Work Visas in Mexico

Mexico offers several types of work visas, each tailored to specific categories of foreign workers. The most common work visas are designed for employees, entrepreneurs, and intra-company transferees:

Visa Type	Duration	Key Features	Eligibility Requirements	Renewal Options	Work Restrictions
Temporary Resident Visa with Work Permission (General Employment)	1-4 years	• Single entry visa • Must exchange for resident card • Employer-specific	• Job offer from Mexican company • INM pre-approval • Proof of qualifications • No criminal record	Renewable annually up to 4 years total	Limited to approved employer and position
Temporary Resident Visa (Intra-Company Transfer)	1-4 years	• For employees of multinational companies • Streamlined process	• Employment with parent company • Transfer to Mexican branch • Specialized knowledge/skills	Renewable annually up to 4 years total	Limited to the Mexican branch/subsidiary
USMCA Professional Visa	1 year	• For US and Canadian citizens • 63 qualifying professions • Simplified process	• US or Canadian citizenship • Qualifying profession • Job offer from Mexican employer	Renewable annually with no maximum limit	Limited to approved profession and employer
Visitor Visa with Permission to Perform Remunerated Activities	Up to 180 days	• Short-term • Non-renewable • Single entry	• Specific short-term project • INM pre-approval • Invitation letter	Non-renewable	Limited to specific short-term activity
Temporary Resident Visa for Independent Professionals	1-4 years	• Self-employment allowed • No employer sponsor needed	• Proof of income (≈$2,600/month) • Specialized skills • Financial solvency	Renewable annually up to 4 years total	Can work independently for multiple clients
Temporary Resident Visa for Investors	1-4 years	• For business owners • Investment-based	• Minimum investment (≈$100,000) • Job creation • Business plan	Renewable annually up to 4 years total	Limited to investment-related activities
Permanent Resident Visa with Work Authorization	Indefinite	• No renewals needed • Unrestricted work rights • Path to citizenship	• 4 years as temporary resident OR • Family unity with Mexican citizen OR • Points-based qualification	No renewal needed	No restrictions; can work for any employer
Temporary Resident Visa for Family Unity	1-4 years	• For dependents • Can apply for work permission	• Family relationship with Mexican citizen or resident • Proof of financial solvency	Renewable annually up to 4 years total	Can work for any employer once work permission is granted

Seeing as many work permits and visas overlap, this section will not go over the immigration documents already discussed in the section above:

Permanent Resident Visa with Work Authorization

The Permanent Resident Visa with Work Authorization is intended for foreign nationals who wish to settle in Mexico permanently while continuing to work. This visa allows individuals to live and work in the country without the need for periodic renewals. It is available to those who have been living in Mexico for a significant period under a temporary resident visa, as well as to individuals who meet specific criteria, such as having Mexican family ties or making substantial investments in the country.

Once granted, this visa provides the holder with permanent residency status, allowing them to work freely in Mexico for any employer or as an independent professional. Permanent resident visa holders can also enjoy full access to social services, healthcare, and other benefits provided to Mexican citizens, although they do not have the right to vote.

💡 Best for:

Foreign nationals who have lived in Mexico for a significant period and want to make the country their permanent home.
Individuals with Mexican family members, substantial investments, or those who meet other residency criteria.

Temporary Resident Visa for Family Unity

The Temporary Resident Visa for Family Unity is designed for foreign nationals who wish to bring their immediate family members (such as spouses, children, or dependent parents) to live with them in Mexico. This visa is typically granted to individuals who already hold a Temporary Resident Visa or Permanent Resident Visa and want to reunite with family members in Mexico. The family members can live in Mexico for the same duration as the primary visa holder, and they can also apply for work permission, allowing them to engage in employment or business activities while in the country.

To apply, the primary visa holder must submit proof of their legal status in Mexico and provide supporting documentation to demonstrate the family relationship, such as marriage certificates or birth certificates. Once approved, the family members can live and work in Mexico legally.

💡 Best for:

Foreign nationals in Mexico who want to reunite with their immediate family members.
Family members of temporary or permanent residents who wish to live and work in Mexico.

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Common Hiring Scenarios for Mexico

When hiring talent in Mexico, employers typically choose one of three pathways depending on the role, duration, & legal requirements. Below are the most common models.

Use Case 1: Sponsoring a Foreign Employee via Work Permit or Visa

This is the most common route for companies hiring full-time foreign talent in Mexico. To sponsor this visa, an employer (or Playroll as the Employer of Record) must have a registered legal entity in-country and issue a compliant offer of employment.

Key Employer Considerations:

Sponsorship is required — contractors or freelancers cannot apply under this visa.
Employees must remain in the approved work location unless authorized to relocate or change employers.
Processing timelines vary (approximately 4–6 weeks), depending on the consulate or embassy.

This is best for: Long-term roles with in-office or hybrid presence in Mexico.

Use Case 2: Hiring a Foreign Contractor in Mexico

Independent professionals in Mexico can legally work with international clients without employer sponsorship, but must comply with local tax registration and reporting laws.

With Playroll’s Contractor Management solution, you can:

Draft fully compliant local contractor agreements.
Automate contractor invoicing and cross-border payments, in Euro (EUR) or USD.
Mitigate risk of permanent establishment and contractor misclassification.

This is best for: Freelancers, consultants or project-based roles, especially if the worker already lives in Mexico.

Use Case 3: Relocating an Existing Employee to Mexico

Transferring an existing team member to Mexico? You’ll still need to navigate the same visa and payroll setup process. Even if the employee works for you elsewhere, a local employer of record is required to stay compliant.

EOR’s, like Playroll, handle all local steps, including:

Work permit sponsorship and immigration paperwork,
Registration with local authorities and payroll systems,
Enrollment in mandatory benefits and statutory schemes.

This is best for: Internal transfers or remote-first companies looking to expand into Europe, or talent retention offerings for global mobility programs.

Not Sure What to Pay in Mexico? Compare fair, local salaries with our free benchmarking tool.

Requirements For a Work Permit in Mexico

To obtain a work permit in Mexico, foreign nationals must meet specific requirements. These include both personal and professional criteria, as well as the necessary documentation.

Valid Job Offer: The foreign employee must have an official job offer from a Mexican employer before applying for a work permit. The employer must demonstrate that no Mexican worker is available to fill the position.
Proof of Qualifications: The employee must submit documentation showing that they meet the qualifications required for the job. This can include educational diplomas, professional licenses, and proof of work experience.
Valid Passport: A passport with a validity of at least 6 months is required for the work permit application.
Health and Background Check: Some visa categories may require the employee to undergo a medical exam or provide evidence of a clean criminal record.

Mexico Work Permit Application Process

The process for obtaining a work permit in Mexico typically involves multiple steps, including documentation submission and approval by the National Institute of Migration (INM). The employer plays an integral role in the application, ensuring all necessary paperwork is submitted accurately.

The employer offers the job to the foreign national and provides them with an official job offer.
The foreign national applies for a work permit at the INM or through the Mexican consulate in their home country.
The employer submits the required documentation to support the employee’s application, including proof of the job offer and evidence that no Mexican worker is available for the position.
The INM reviews the application, and the employee may be asked to provide additional documentation or attend an interview.
Once approved, the employee receives a work permit, which is often tied to their residency status in Mexico.

Process for Visa Sponsorship In Mexico

Employers who wish to sponsor a work permit for a foreign national must first ensure that the candidate has the appropriate qualifications for the position. The employer must prove that no local candidate can fulfill the job requirements. The employer is responsible for gathering necessary documents and presenting them to the INM. Once the application is submitted and approved, the foreign national can obtain the visa.

What Are the Fees for a Work Permit or Visa in Mexico

There are several costs associated with getting a work permit or visa in Mexico:

Firstly, applicants must pay a consular fee of $54 at a Mexican consulate abroad.
Once the foreign worker arrives in Mexico, their visa must be exchanged for a Temporary Resident card (MXN 5,570) which ensures their legal status in the country for the first year.
Lastly, workers must pay an additional fee of MXN 4,182 for the work permit in order to legally work in the country.

Should a foreign worker want to stay longer in the country, they will be required to renew their Temporary Resident Card with fees that increase with the duration of residency:

Duration	Fee (MXM)
1 year	5,570
2 years	8,347
3 years	10,571
4 years	12,529

The above fees reflect government fees for work permits and visas in Mexico, and is not associated with Playroll's fees for visa support services. Please contact our team for detailed information on our visa support services.

Processing Time for a Work Permit Or Visa in Mexico

The processing time for work permits and visas in Mexico can vary depending on the type of visa, the applicant's nationality, and the specific requirements of the application. Generally, the processing time ranges from a few weeks to a couple of months.

Work Permit Renewal Periods in Mexico

Work permits in Mexico are typically issued for a period of one year, with the option for renewal. If the employee is on a temporary resident visa with work permission, the visa can be renewed for up to four years. After this period, the foreign national may apply for a permanent resident visa if they meet the criteria.

Visa Requirements For Digital Nomads in Mexico

Mexico does not offer a specific "Digital Nomad Visa" by name, but provides an excellent alternative through the Temporary Resident Visa for Remote Work. This visa allows digital nomads to legally stay in Mexico for 1-4 years while working remotely for foreign employers or clients. However, applicants must demonstrate monthly income of approximately $2,600 from foreign sources for the past 6 months. While this visa permits remote work for foreign companies, it does not allow employment with Mexican businesses.

Common Challenges and Tips for Employers Hiring in Mexico

Hiring foreign employees in Mexico can come with challenges, particularly regarding visa compliance and understanding the local labor market. Employers should be prepared to navigate bureaucracy, language barriers, and legal complexities to ensure a smooth hiring process. Common Challenges:

Bureaucracy: The visa and work permit process can be slow and involve significant paperwork.
Compliance with Labor Laws: Employers must ensure they comply with both immigration and labor laws in Mexico to avoid fines and penalties.
Language Barriers: Navigating the visa application and employment process may be challenging for non-Spanish speakers.

Hire Global employees without hassle with an EOR solution

Expanding your workforce across international borders is an exciting step, but it can be a logistical nightmare to hire and pay employees in different countries. That’s the advantage of using a trusted Employer of Record like Playroll. They can:

Handle your international payroll: An EOR will act as your payroll provider, paying your employees on your behalf in the local currency. The company will also have in-depth knowledge of local tax codes, regulatory practices, and everything else that goes into managing global payroll.
Alleviate compliance concerns: Different countries each have their own federal and local laws governing employee payments. An EOR helps ensure that you are compliant with the unique set of laws for any country in which your company operates. This is extremely important since a compliance slip-up can result in heavy fines or even a lawsuit.
Hire and pay international contractors: Sometimes a particular project or role doesn’t require hiring a full-time employee. An EOR gives employers the flexibility to also hire contractors as needed, and avoid the potential for misclassification under local labor law.

Disclaimer

THIS CONTENT IS FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND DOES NOT CONSTITUTE LEGAL OR TAX ADVICE. You should always consult with and rely on your own legal and/or tax advisor(s). Playroll does not provide legal or tax advice. The information is general and not tailored to a specific company or workforce and does not reflect Playroll’s product delivery in any given jurisdiction. Playroll makes no representations or warranties concerning the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of this information and shall have no liability arising out of or in connection with it, including any loss caused by use of, or reliance on, the information.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Milani Notshe

Milani is a seasoned research and content specialist at Playroll, a leading Employer Of Record (EOR) provider. Backed by a strong background in Politics, Philosophy and Economics, she specializes in identifying emerging compliance and global HR trends to keep employers up to date on the global employment landscape.

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FAQs about Work Permits & Visas in Mexico

Can Playroll sponsor a visa in Mexico?

Yes, Playroll can sponsor work visas in Mexico. As the legal employer, we manage the full visa process with local authorities — from documentation to approvals — ensuring your hire is compliant and ready to work. Whether you're relocating a team member or hiring in Mexico, our experts will guide you step by step.

Want to get started? book a demo and we’ll walk you through the process.

What is the difference between a work permit and a work visa in Mexico?

A work permit is an official authorization for a foreign national to work in Mexico, typically tied to a specific job offer. A work visa, on the other hand, is a travel authorization allowing a foreign national to enter Mexico and apply for a work permit upon arrival.

How long does it take to process a work permit or visa in Mexico?

The processing time for a work permit or visa in Mexico can range from a few weeks to a couple of months, depending on the type of visa and the completeness of the application.

What are the requirements for sponsoring a work permit or visa in Mexico?

Employers must demonstrate that no local worker is available for the job, submit the job offer, and provide supporting documents such as the employee's qualifications and proof of employment.

What types of work permits and visas are available in Mexico?

Mexico offers several work visas, including the Temporary Resident Visa with Work Permission, Permanent Resident Visa, Intra-Company Transfer Visa, and Business Visitor Visa.