How to Get Mexican Health Insurance: Public vs. Private (2025 Guide for Expats)
If you’re planning to live or retire in Mexico, having health insurance is essential. While the country has a robust healthcare system, navigating the options—public vs. private—can be confusing for newcomers. This guide explains your choices, costs, coverage, and tips to get the best plan for your needs. 1. Understanding the Mexican Healthcare System Mexico […]
How to Receive Social Security in Mexico: A Complete Guide for Expats
If you’re planning to retire or live long-term in Mexico, understanding how Social Security (U.S. or Canadian) works in Mexico is crucial. Millions of expats successfully receive their Social Security payments abroad, and with the right preparation, you can too—without interruptions or penalties. This guide explains how to receive your Social Security payments in Mexico, […]
Building Credit in Mexico: A Step-by-Step Guide for Expats
If you’re planning to live, work, or invest in Mexico, having a strong credit profile can make life much easier. From renting apartments and financing vehicles to getting favorable loan rates, a solid credit history is key. While credit works differently in Mexico compared to the U.S. or Canada, it’s possible for expats to build […]
Driving to Mexico: Safety Tips and Border Crossings (What You Need to Know Before You Go)
Whether you’re moving to Mexico, heading to your winter home, or planning a road trip adventure, driving to Mexico can be an incredible experience—as long as you know the rules, routes, and safety protocols. This guide breaks everything down: the documents you need, the safest border crossings, what to expect at checkpoints, and road-safety tips […]
Understanding Mexican Etiquette & Customs: What Every Visitor & Expat Should Know
Mexican culture is warm, welcoming, and deeply rooted in tradition. Whether you’re visiting Mexico for a week, staying for the winter, or moving here full-time, understanding local customs will help you blend in, avoid misunderstandings, and build more meaningful connections with the people around you. Here’s a clear, practical guide to Mexican etiquette, from greetings […]
Permanent Residency in Mexico: Requirements, Costs, and Timeline
For many expats, digital nomads, retirees, and long-term Mexico lovers, permanent residency is the ultimate goal. It gives you the right to live in Mexico indefinitely, removes the need for renewals, and makes life here much easier—especially for banking, property ownership, utilities, health insurance, and travel. This guide explains who qualifies, the requirements, estimated costs, […]
How to Get Temporary Residency in Mexico (Step-by-Step Guide)
If you’re thinking about staying in Mexico longer than the 180 days granted by a tourist permit, temporary residency is your best next move. It’s the legal pathway for anyone who wants to live in Mexico full-time or part-time, open a bank account, sign long-term rentals, buy a car, or work with the proper permissions. […]
How to Open a Bank Account in Mexico (2025 Guide for Expats, Investors & New Residents)
Opening a bank account in Mexico is one of the smartest steps you can take if you’re planning to live here, invest in property, or spend extended time in the country. A local account makes paying bills easier, avoids foreign transaction fees, helps with residency paperwork, and—if you own rental property—allows you to receive rental […]
The Best Schools in Playa del Carmen, Mexico for Expats
If you’re relocating (or planning a long-term stay) in Playa del Carmen with kids, choosing the right school is one of the biggest decisions you’ll face. Fortunately, Playa has a number of bilingual, international, and alternative‑method schools that are popular among expat families — combining solid academics with multicultural communities. Below are some of the […]
How Safe Is Playa del Carmen, Mexico? Honest, Local Advice
Playa del Carmen is one of the most popular destinations in Mexico, drawing millions of tourists every year with its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and easy access to cenotes and Mayan ruins. But if you’re considering a visit—or even investing in property—you’re probably wondering: “How safe is Playa del Carmen?” Let’s cut through the headlines […]