How Much Does It Cost to Become a Mexican Citizen?

Becoming a Mexican citizen opens doors to a vibrant culture, beautiful landscapes, and a welcoming community, especially for LGBTQ+ individuals, and understanding the financial aspect is key; gaymexico.net is here to guide you through the process. Discover the costs, requirements, and steps involved in obtaining Mexican citizenship, so you can make an informed decision and embrace your new life in Mexico. We provide a comprehensive guide, ensuring a smooth transition to becoming a Mexican citizen, with information you can use for naturalization.

1. What Are the Costs Associated With Becoming a Mexican Citizen?

The cost of becoming a Mexican citizen in Mexico involves various fees and expenses. As of 2023, the mandated government fee for Mexico’s naturalization application is 8,395 Mexican pesos (MXN).

• Government Application Fee: MXN 8,395 (approximately $470 USD as of November 2024, but exchange rates fluctuate)
• Document Translation: Costs vary, but expect to pay around MXN 500-1500 (USD $30-$90) per document.
• Legalization or Apostille: MXN 500-1000 (USD $30-$60) per document.
• Photographs: Around MXN 200 (USD $12) for passport-size photos.
• Criminal Record Checks: Varies by jurisdiction; estimate MXN 500-1000 (USD $30-$60)
• Spanish and Mexican Culture Exam Fees: If applicable, costs can range from MXN 1000-3000 (USD $60-$180). However, according to the Mexican Naturalization webpage, study tools are available to help applicants prepare for these exams.
• Additional Costs: These may include transportation, copies, and other administrative fees, so budget an extra MXN 1000 (USD $60).

The total estimated cost ranges from MXN 11,095 to MXN 15,895 (approximately USD $650 to USD $950).

It’s important to note that these fees are subject to change. Always check the official Mexican government website for the most up-to-date information, which offers a full schedule of current fees and the time required to obtain the necessary documents.

2. What Are the Routes to Mexican Citizenship for U.S. Citizens?

The path to Mexican citizenship for U.S. citizens can be achieved through several routes, each with its own requirements and eligibility criteria. The primary and most common method is naturalization through residence, which requires a period of legal residency in Mexico. However, other avenues exist, catering to different circumstances and connections to Mexico.

• Naturalization Through Residence: This is the most common route, requiring at least five years of legal residency in Mexico.
• Marriage to a Mexican National: If you are married to a Mexican citizen, the residency requirement is reduced to two years.
• Having Mexican Children: Individuals with children who are Mexican citizens can also apply after two years of legal residence.
• Mexican Parents: If you have Mexican parents, even if you were born abroad or adopted, you may be eligible for citizenship after one year of legal residence.
• Citizenship by Ancestry (Latin American or Iberian): Nationals of any Latin American country or the Iberian Peninsula (Spain and Portugal) can apply for Mexican naturalization based on common ties after two years of legal residence.
• Contributions to the Mexican Nation: Individuals who have made significant contributions to Mexico in culture, science, arts, society, sports, technology, or enterprise may be eligible for citizenship after two years of legal residence.

3. What Are the Steps to Becoming a Naturalized Citizen of Mexico?

Becoming a naturalized citizen of Mexico involves several key steps that applicants must follow to ensure a smooth and successful process. Each step has specific requirements and documentation needed, which must be carefully prepared and submitted.

• Eligibility: You must be 18 years or older. Minors may qualify if they have Mexican parents or parents who have become Mexican citizens.

• Residency: Fulfill the minimum legal residency requirement. This is generally five years, but it can be reduced to two years if you are married to a Mexican citizen or have Mexican children.

• Demonstrate Ties to Mexico: Provide evidence of your integration into Mexican society, such as property ownership, employment, financial stability, and community involvement.

• Submit an Application: Complete and submit the DNN-3 application form. This form can be downloaded after preregistration on the Mexican government’s website.

• Required Documents: Gather all necessary documents, including:

  • Original and copy of the DNN-3 application
  • Original and two photocopies of your temporary or permanent residence card
  • Original and photocopy of your birth certificate, legalized or apostilled, and translated into Spanish
  • Original and two legible photocopies of all pages of your passport or travel document
  • Letter listing entries and exits from Mexico in the past two years
  • Criminal record checks from federal and local authorities
  • Proof of passing the history, culture, and Spanish language exams
  • Two recent passport-size color photographs
  • Two printed copies of your Unique Population Registration Code (CURP)
  • Original and copy of proof of payment of fees

• Pass Exams: Successfully pass the exams on Mexican history, culture, and Spanish proficiency. Some applicants may be exempt from the history and culture exam, such as minors, those over 60, and those residing in Mexico under humanitarian grounds.

• Wait for Approval: The approval process typically takes between five months to a year. You will be notified of the decision no more than three months after review by the immigration authorities.

4. What Documents Are Required for Mexican Citizenship?

When applying for Mexican citizenship, you must provide a comprehensive set of documents to support your application. These documents verify your identity, legal residency, and ties to Mexico.

• DNN-3 Application: The original and a copy of the DNN-3 application form, which can be downloaded after preregistration.
• Residency Card: An original and two photocopies of the card issued by the Ministry of the Interior proving your temporary or permanent residence status.
• Birth Certificate: An original and a photocopy of your foreign birth certificate, issued by the corresponding Civil Registry office. The birth certificate must be adequately legalized by the Mexican diplomatic or consular representative of the place of its issuance, or apostilled by the competent authority where applicable. It must also be translated into Spanish by an expert translator authorized by the Judicial Power of any federal entity of the national territory.
• Passport: Original and two legible photocopies of all the pages of your foreign passport or, where applicable, of your identity and travel document.
• Entry/Exit Record: A letter listing the number of exits and entries made from and to the country during the prior two years before the application submission, affirming the truth.
• Criminal Records: Copies of your criminal records issued by the competent authorities at the federal and local levels.
• Exam Proof: Proof of passing the test on Mexican history and culture and the Spanish proficiency test.
• Photographs: Two identical, recent color photographs of yourself, front-facing, without glasses, and head uncovered. The photos must be passport size (4.5 x 3.5 cm) with a white background.
• CURP: Two printed copies of the Unique Population Registration Code (CURP).
• Payment Proof: The original and a copy of the proof of payment of the corresponding fees.

A collection of essential documents, including a Mexican passport, birth certificate, and residency card, meticulously arranged to exemplify the requirements for obtaining Mexican citizenship.

5. When Can You Apply for Mexican Citizenship?

The timing for applying for Mexican citizenship depends on the specific route you are taking. The required period of legal residence in Mexico varies based on your circumstances.

• Naturalization by Residency: You can apply after fulfilling at least five years of legal residence in Mexico.
• Through a Mexican Spouse or Child: You can apply after two years of legal residence if you are married to a Mexican citizen or have Mexican children.
• Contributions to the Mexican Nation: If you seek naturalization through contributions to Mexico, you can apply after two years of legal residence.
• Nationals of Latin American or Iberian Countries: You can apply for Mexican citizenship after two years of legal residence if you are a national of a Latin American or Iberian Peninsula country.
• Through Parentage: If you are claiming Mexican citizenship through parentage (including by adoption), you can apply after one year of legal residence.

It is important to note that time spent in Mexico on a temporary student visa does not count toward the residency requirement. You must obtain another legal residency status to begin accumulating time toward citizenship.

6. How Long Does the Mexican Naturalization Process Take?

The duration of the naturalization process in Mexico can vary, but it typically takes between five months and a year to complete. This timeline includes the time required for Mexican authorities to conduct an official review of your application.

• Initial Application: Submitting your application with all required documents is the first step.
• Review Process: The Mexican immigration authorities at the Instituto Nacional de Migración (INM) de la Secretaría de Gobernación review your application.
• Notification: Applicants will be notified of the decision no more than three months after the review.

Several factors can influence the processing time:

• Completeness of Application: Ensure all documents are correctly filled out and submitted to avoid delays.
• Background Checks: Processing times may be extended if there are complications with criminal record checks or other background investigations.
• Administrative Burden: The volume of applications being processed by the INM can affect processing times.

7. What Regulations Are Involved With Becoming a Naturalized Citizen of Mexico?

Becoming a naturalized citizen of Mexico involves complying with specific regulations outlined by the Mexican government. These regulations ensure that applicants meet certain criteria and understand their rights and responsibilities as Mexican citizens.

• Residency Requirement: Applicants must have legally resided in Mexico for at least five years before applying for naturalization. This period is reduced to two years for those married to a Mexican citizen or who have Mexican children.
• Spanish Language Proficiency: All applicants must demonstrate a working knowledge of Spanish. This is typically assessed through a Spanish language exam.
• Knowledge of Mexican History and Culture: Applicants are required to pass an exam on Mexican history and culture. However, certain individuals may be exempt, including minors, those over 60, and those residing in Mexico on humanitarian grounds under the auspices of COMAR.
• Exam Retakes: If an applicant fails the initial history and culture exam, they may retake it in 15 working days, and up to two times. If the applicant continues to fail the exam, they must wait a year to reapply for citizenship and retake the exams.
• Loss of Citizenship: Naturalized Mexican citizens must reside in Mexico. Residing outside Mexico for five years or longer may cause you to lose your Mexican citizenship status by law.
• Consular Protection: After becoming a naturalized Mexican citizen, you cannot seek refuge in your original country’s embassy or consulate should you find yourself in legal trouble in Mexico.
• Dual Citizenship: Mexico allows dual citizenship, but applicants should verify whether their country of origin also permits it.
• Legal Compliance: Applicants must have no pending legal issues and must have complied with all Mexican laws and regulations during their residency.

Mexican flag waving in the wind

The iconic Mexican flag, emblazoned with the national coat of arms, gracefully waving, symbolizes the country’s rich history, vibrant culture, and the warm welcome extended to those who aspire to become its citizens.

8. Is the Mexican Citizenship Test Difficult?

The difficulty of the Mexican citizenship test can vary depending on your background, language skills, and familiarity with Mexican history and culture. The test assesses your knowledge of these areas, as well as your proficiency in Spanish.

The citizenship test includes two main components:

• Spanish Language Proficiency: This part of the test evaluates your ability to understand, speak, read, and write in Spanish. It assesses your practical language skills for everyday communication.
• Mexican History and Culture: This section covers key events, figures, and cultural aspects of Mexico. It requires a basic understanding of Mexican history, geography, civics, and cultural traditions.

To prepare for the test, consider the following:

• Study Guide: The Mexican Naturalization webpage provides links to study tools.
• Language Courses: Enroll in Spanish language courses to improve your proficiency.
• Cultural Immersion: Engage in cultural activities, such as attending Mexican festivals, watching Mexican films, and reading Mexican literature.
• Practice Tests: Take practice tests to familiarize yourself with the format and types of questions asked.

Exemptions:

• Minors, individuals over 60, and those residing in Mexico under the auspices of COMAR are exempt from the history and culture exam. However, all applicants must pass the basic Spanish language test.

9. What Entitlements Does Mexican Citizenship Offer?

Mexican citizenship provides numerous entitlements and benefits, allowing individuals to fully participate in and contribute to Mexican society. These entitlements cover various aspects of life, from political rights to economic opportunities.

• Right to Vote: As a Mexican citizen, you have the right to vote in Mexican elections at the local, state, and federal levels.
• Passport: You are eligible to obtain a Mexican passport, which allows you to travel internationally as a Mexican citizen.
• Property Ownership: Mexican citizens have the right to own property anywhere in Mexico without restrictions. Foreigners are often limited in their ability to own property in certain coastal and border areas.
• Employment: Mexican citizens have the right to work in any profession or industry in Mexico without needing special permits or visas.
• Social Services: You are entitled to access Mexican social services, including healthcare, education, and social security benefits.
• Freedom of Movement: Mexican citizens have the freedom to live, work, and travel anywhere within Mexico without restrictions.
• Consular Protection: As a Mexican citizen, you are entitled to consular protection and assistance from Mexican embassies and consulates when traveling abroad.
• Political Participation: You have the right to participate in political activities, including running for public office.
• Cultural Identity: Mexican citizenship allows you to fully embrace and celebrate Mexican culture and traditions.
• Business Opportunities: Mexican citizens have greater access to business opportunities and can more easily start and operate businesses in Mexico.

10. FAQs About Mexico’s Naturalization Process

Navigating the naturalization process in Mexico can raise numerous questions. Here are some frequently asked questions to help clarify the process and provide essential information.

• Can a foreigner get citizenship in Mexico?

  Yes, foreigners can obtain Mexican citizenship through naturalization via residence, family ties, or significant contributions to Mexico.

• Can I live in Mexico permanently?

  Yes, foreigners can live in Mexico permanently through long-term residency or by obtaining Mexican citizenship. You can live in Mexico indefinitely as a Permanent Resident without applying for citizenship.

• How do I apply for Mexican citizenship?

  Applications for citizenship must be submitted to the Mexican Secretary of Foreign Affairs (SRE) through the main office in Mexico City or at approved regional offices.

• Is dual citizenship allowed in Mexico?

  Dual citizenship is allowed in Mexico, but potential dual citizens should verify whether their country of birth also accepts dual nationality.

• Will my child get Mexican citizenship?

  If a child is born in Mexico, even to parents who are not Mexican nationals, or born abroad to at least one parent who is a Mexican citizen, they are granted Mexican citizenship by birth.

• What does Mexican citizenship entitle me to?

  Mexican citizenship entitles you to the right to vote, the freedom to change jobs or address without having to notify authorities, and the ability to own property in select areas without needing a bank trust.

• How long does it take to get Mexican citizenship?

  The process of acquiring Mexican citizenship once residency requirements have been met typically takes between five months and a year, depending on individual circumstances and administrative burdens.

• Is the Mexican citizenship test difficult?

  The citizenship test requires knowledge of Mexican history and national culture and the ability to speak Spanish. A study guide is available on the Mexican Naturalization webpage with links to study tools. Minors, individuals over 60, and those residing in Mexico under the auspices of COMAR are exempt from the history and culture exam, but all applicants must pass the basic Spanish language test.

• Does Mexico give citizenship by birth?

  Yes, anyone born in Mexico is granted citizenship by birth.

• How long does it take to get Mexican citizenship after permanent residency?

  You must reside in Mexico for at least five years to apply for citizenship, either through temporary or permanent residency, unless qualifying through other means than residency alone. The naturalization application process will take another year, so it could be six years before you become a Mexican citizen. Once obtained, naturalized citizens must not reside outside of Mexico for any longer than five consecutive years, or they risk losing their Mexican citizenship.

• Which is the best way to become a Mexican citizen?

  The best way for most to obtain Mexican citizenship is through naturalization by residence, which requires at least five years of legal residency. You may apply for citizenship sooner if you have forged a family while in Mexico, either through marriage or by having children, or if you have contributed a special service to the Mexican nation.

• How difficult is it to become a Mexican citizen?

  The Mexican citizenship process might be cumbersome because of the number of documents required, and it could take up to a year to complete, but with the correct guidance and meeting the required criteria, it is achievable. In more complex cases, you may want to consult a reputable immigration attorney for guidance to avoid multiple trips to the Secretaría de Relaciones Exteriores (SER) to refile your naturalization documents.

• How can I track my Mexican citizenship application status?

  You can track your application status by contacting the Mexican immigration authorities.

• What can I do if my application for Mexican citizenship is refused?

  If your application was refused, you may want to consult a reputable immigration attorney to understand the reasons for refusal and determine your next steps.

• Can I become a citizen of Mexico if I have previous criminal convictions or offenses?

  The impact of previous convictions or offenses on your citizenship application would depend on the nature of those offenses. You may want to consult with a reputable immigration attorney to guide you through the application process in your specific situation.

• What happens after I become a citizen of Mexico?

  Once you receive your naturalized Mexican citizenship card, you can apply for a Mexican passport and enroll to vote. As a Mexican citizen, you can enjoy greater freedoms: to engage in public life, purchase property, and have more freedom of movement and career opportunities.

A vibrantly colored map of Mexico, meticulously detailing its diverse regions, bustling cities, and extensive coastline, serves as a visual invitation to explore the myriad opportunities and rich cultural tapestry that await those seeking citizenship.

Ready to take the next step toward becoming a Mexican citizen and embracing all that Mexico has to offer? For comprehensive guidance, up-to-date information, and a supportive community, visit gaymexico.net today. Discover LGBTQ+-friendly destinations, connect with fellow community members, and find resources to make your transition seamless and joyful. Address: 3255 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90010, United States. Phone: +1 (213) 380-2177.