Moving to Mexico Checklist: Essential Steps for Your 2026 Relocation

Essential steps for moving to Mexico in 2026: research visa requirements 6+ months ahead (Temporary Resident for stays over 180 days), secure housing, arrange health insurance (IMSS or private), notify banks, gather apostilled documents, and learn Spanish basics. Start with a 3-6 month planning timeline including financial preparation (international banking, budget for moving costs), legal documentation (passport valid 6+ months, birth certificates, medical records), and housing decisions (temporary rental first recommended). Key decisions include choosing between cities (Mexico City, Playa del Carmen, Guadalajara), understanding tax obligations, and setting up utilities and local services upon arrival.

6+ Months Before Your Move

Research and Planning

• Research potential cities and neighborhoods in Mexico
• Visit your target locations if possible (scout housing, explore areas)
• Determine your budget for moving and first few months of living expenses
• Research visa requirements based on your nationality and intended stay
• Join online expat communities and forums for your destination
• Start learning or improving your Spanish

Financial Preparation

• Review your current financial situation and create a moving budget
• Research international banking options and money transfer services
• Notify your bank about your upcoming move to avoid card blocks
• Check if your credit cards have foreign transaction fees
• Consider opening an account with a bank known for international services

3-6 Months Before Your Move

Legal and Documentation

• Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel date
• Apply for a Temporary Resident visa if planning to stay more than 180 days
• Gather important documents (birth certificate, marriage certificate, diplomas)
• Get documents apostilled if needed for immigration or other purposes
• Obtain copies of medical records and prescriptions
• Get an international driver's license if you plan to drive

Housing Decisions

• Decide whether to rent or buy in Mexico
• Research rental prices in your target area
• Connect with local real estate agents or property managers
• Consider temporary housing for your first few months while you explore
• If selling your current home, start that process now

Health and Insurance

• Research health insurance options in Mexico (IMSS, private, international)
• Schedule any necessary medical checkups and dental work
• Stock up on prescription medications (with documentation)
• Get vaccinations if needed
• Research healthcare providers in your destination city

1-3 Months Before Your Move

Belongings and Shipping

• Decide what to bring, sell, donate, or store
• Get quotes from international moving companies if shipping belongings
• Research Mexico's customs regulations for household goods
• Create an inventory of items you're bringing
• Photograph valuable items for insurance purposes
• Start selling items you won't be taking

Pets

• Research pet import requirements for Mexico
• Schedule a veterinary appointment for health certificate (within 10 days of travel)
• Ensure rabies vaccination is current (at least 30 days before travel)
• Research pet-friendly housing in Mexico
• Book pet-friendly flights or arrange ground transportation

Vehicle Decisions

• Decide whether to bring your car, sell it, or buy in Mexico
• Research requirements for importing a vehicle (temporary vs. permanent)
• Get Mexican auto insurance (required; US/Canadian insurance not valid)
• Understand the vehicle importation process if bringing your car

1 Month Before Your Move

Finalize Logistics

• Confirm your housing arrangements in Mexico
• Book your travel (flights, hotels for initial arrival)
• Arrange airport pickup or transportation from the airport
• Set up mail forwarding from your current address
• Cancel or transfer utilities and subscriptions
• Notify important contacts of your address change

Financial Final Steps

• Transfer funds to cover first few months of expenses
• Set up a money transfer service account (Wise, Remitly, etc.)
• Carry some US dollars or pesos in cash for arrival
• Download Mexican banking apps you might need

Technology Preparation

• Ensure your phone is unlocked for international SIM cards
• Research Mexican cell phone providers
• Download offline maps and translation apps
• Save important documents in cloud storage
• Research VPN services if needed for streaming or security

1-2 Weeks Before Your Move

Final Preparations

• Confirm all travel reservations
• Pack essential documents in your carry-on (passport, visa, insurance cards)
• Make copies of all important documents (physical and digital)
• Prepare a "first week" bag with essentials
• Say goodbye to friends and family
• Finalize any remaining affairs in your home country

Upon Arrival in Mexico

First Week Tasks

• Complete immigration formalities at the airport
• Get a Mexican SIM card for your phone
• Set up internet at your new home
• Explore your neighborhood (find grocery stores, pharmacies, etc.)
• Register with your country's consulate (recommended for emergencies)
• Open a Mexican bank account (once you have proof of address)

First Month Tasks

• Exchange your FMM for a Resident Card at INM if on a Resident visa
• Get a CURP (Mexican ID number) if applicable
• Register for IMSS health coverage if eligible
• Set up local utilities in your name
• Find a doctor, dentist, and pharmacy
• Join local expat groups and start building your community
• Enroll in Spanish classes if needed

Essential Documents to Bring

• Valid passport (with visa if applicable)
• Birth certificate (apostilled)
• Marriage certificate if applicable (apostilled)
• Driver's license and international driving permit
• Medical records and prescription documentation
• Insurance policy documents
• Financial statements (may be needed for visa or banking)
• Proof of income or employment
• Pet documentation if applicable
• Vehicle documentation if importing a car

Final Thoughts

Moving to Mexico is a significant life change that requires careful planning. Use this checklist as a starting point and customize it based on your specific situation. Remember that flexibility is key as unexpected challenges will arise.

The effort you put into preparation will pay off in a smoother transition to your new life in Mexico. Take it one step at a time, and soon you'll be settled into your new home.

Related Mexico Relocation Guides

• Explore Cancun relocation services and housing
• Discover Mexico City expat services and resources
• Browse Playa del Carmen expat community
• Read more Mexico relocation and living guides

Relocation or immigration service for Mexico? List your services on ExpatsList to help people moving to Mexico.