Ultimate Checklist for Moving to Mexico: What You Need to Do Before You Go

Thinking about moving to Mexico? Whether you’re relocating for lifestyle, retirement, work, or investment opportunities, Mexico offers an outstanding quality of life, beautiful beaches, vibrant cities, and a lower cost of living. But before you pack your bags, it’s important to prepare properly.

Use this step-by-step checklist to make your move smooth, stress-free, and fully compliant.

1. Research Your Ideal Location

Mexico is diverse—your experience will vary depending on where you settle.

Key factors to consider:

Climate (humid tropics vs. dry highlands)
Cost of living
Safety and expat presence
Healthcare availability
Walkability and transportation
Internet quality (especially for remote workers)

Popular expat destinations:

Playa del Carmen
Tulum
Mérida
Puerto Vallarta
Mexico City
Lake Chapala

2. Check Your Passport & Prepare Required Documents

Before moving, organize all the documents you’ll need both at immigration and for daily life.

Bring originals and multiple copies of:

Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
Birth certificate
Marriage certificate (if applicable)
Driver’s license
Social Security / pension paperwork
Prior rental or financial references
Bank statements
Health insurance policy

3. Understand Mexico’s Residency Options

You must enter Mexico with the correct immigration plan.

Temporary Residency (1–4 years)

Ideal for: retirees, remote workers, part-time residents, homeowners.
Required income (approx.):

$3,000+ USD monthly income OR
$50,000–$60,000 USD in savings
(Requirements vary slightly by consulate.)

Permanent Residency

Ideal for: long-term movers, retirees with strong income, family ties.
Often requires:

$4,000+ USD monthly income OR
$150,000 USD+ savings, depending on consulate.

Apply at a Mexican consulate before arriving, then finalize in Mexico.

4. Learn How Banking Works

Opening a bank account typically requires residency. Popular banks include:

BBVA
Scotiabank
Santander
Banorte

Tip: Use a U.S./Canadian bank with low foreign ATM fees until you have residency.

5. Set Up Health Coverage

Healthcare in Mexico is excellent and far more affordable.

Options:

Private health insurance (recommended for expats)
Pay-as-you-go at private clinics
Public systems like IMSS (requires residency)

6. Decide Whether You’ll Rent or Buy

Mexico has a strong rental market, especially in places like Playa del Carmen.

Renting first is common, especially while getting to know neighborhoods.

If you plan to buy:

Research Fideicomisos (bank trusts)
Work with a registered real estate agent
Always use a real estate attorney
Ensure proper due diligence & title verification

7. Prepare Your Finances

To simplify daily life:

Tell your home bank about your move
Set up online banking
Use a credit card with no foreign transaction fees
Consider Wise or Remitly for low-cost transfers

8. Plan Your Move & Packing

You do not need to bring everything.

Bring:

Important documents
Laptops/electronics
Preferred medications
Clothing basics

Leave behind:

Furniture (cheaper to buy locally)
Appliances
Large personal items

9. Organize Transportation

Options once in Mexico:

Keep your foreign-plated car (temporary only)
Buy a car locally
Use taxis, collectivos, scooters, or public transport
Some expats rely on Uber or Didi in certain cities

10. Learn Essential Spanish

You don’t need to be fluent, but basics help a lot.

Start with:

Emergency phrases
Directions
Basic household terms
Grocery vocabulary

Apps like Duolingo or classes at local schools make it easy.

11. Secure Housing for Arrival

Before moving permanently:

Book a 1–3 month rental
Research neighborhoods
Check walking access to groceries, pharmacies, gyms, etc.

12. Integrate Into Daily Life

Once you’re settled:

Get a local SIM card
Join expat Facebook groups
Find a trusted doctor and dentist
Learn local customs & holidays
Understand utility bills and local services

Final Thoughts

Moving to Mexico is exciting, but preparation is key. With the right planning, you’ll enjoy a smoother transition and start enjoying your new life as soon as you arrive.

About the Author

Hi, I’m Matt from Nasplaya, your go-to guide for living, investing, and thriving in Playa del Carmen and the Riviera Maya. In 2008 my husband and I quit our jobs in Boston, Massachusetts, sold everything we owned and drove to Playa del Carmen, Mexico to start North American Standards (Nasplaya), our property management, vacation rental and real estate company. Now 17+ years later, I am sharing our experience helping expats and property owners navigate the local market. I share honest insights, practical tips, and insider knowledge to make your move—or your investment—a success.

From finding the best schools and maximizing rental income to understanding local regulations and uncovering hidden gems, my goal is to give you clear, actionable advice you can trust. When I’m not exploring the beaches or scouting the newest rental opportunities, I’m sharing stories, guides, and strategies that help you make the most of life in paradise.

Follow along for expert tips, local updates, and everything you need to live, invest, and enjoy the Riviera Maya to the fullest.

North American Standards (NAS Playa)
Property Management • Rentals • Real Estate
📍 Playa del Carmen, Mexico
🌐 www.nasplaya.com 🔑 Rentals: rentals@nasplaya.com
📊 Ventas: buy@nasplaya.com 🏘 Property Management: bookings@nasplaya.com