How to Obtain Mexican Citizenship

The Mexican citizenship application process is relatively easy. Just be prepared to fill out a lot of paperwork and to sit and wait patiently. Here is how to get the citizenship process rolling.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Money
• Passport
• Attorney
• FM-2 or FM-3 card
• Photograph

1. Move to Mexico. Before you can even begin the citizenship process you have to legally reside in Mexico for five years. You can prove your legal status and residency through your FM-3 document.

2. Start studying. According to Mexican law, every citizen must be able to speak Spanish and have basic knowledge of Mexican history. However, a basic ability to speak Spanish usually suffices as the government rarely administers the written test.

3. Hire a lawyer. The application processes can be frustrating and burdensome. If you check the wrong box or turn a form in at the wrong time, you could find yourself back at square one. By hiring an attorney who specializes in immigration to Mexico, you can have an experienced professional jump through the right hoops for you.

4. Get familiar with the Immigration and Naturalization office. It is here that you will start creating your paper trail. Set up an appointment and have the official walk through the entire process with you. Be sure you are clear on what documents you are required to have at the initial meeting and thereafter.

5. Fill out your forms and deliver them to the local immigration office with the appropriate accompanying documents. Have a copy of your passport and several photographs ready to submit with the forms.

6. Write your check. Becoming a citizen is not cheap. You will be required to make several payments during the process.

7. Be patient. After all your forms are filed, be prepared to wait up to two years. The government will review everything and contact you with their decision.

Tips & Warnings

• All of Mexico’s immigration laws are found in Article 30(B) (ii) of the Constitution and Articles 17, 19 and 20 of the Law of Nationality.
• If you are a citizen of Spain, Portugal or any Latin American nation, have married a Mexican citizen, or have adopted a Mexican child, you only need to reside in Mexico during the two years prior to your citizenship application.
• As of January, 2007, US citizens require a passport for travel between the US and Mexico by air. In January, 2008, the requirement will extend to include travelers by land or sea.
• Mexico does not recognize dual citizenship. In order to complete the citizenship process, you must renounce your original nationality.

[sunshinespa]

on 11/3/2009 Sandras~~ I can answer part of your question. Get a lawyer, mine is sooo helpful. I only have an FM3 {second time around}, and I am applying for citizenship. The FM2 is restrictive, as you know, so it is easier to just go straight from FM3 to citizenship. Mine should take about 6 months, with an attorney.

[sandras]

on 10/5/2009 My local immigration office in La Paz told me I needed an FM2 to apply for citizenship but elsewhere I have read that an FM3 is enough. Does anyone know? Also, I have read that with an FM2 one is allowed only 18 months out of Mexico in five years, but I have understood that one may spend six months of each of the five year waiting period elsewhere. Again. does anyone know?
Gracias,
Sandra

[sunshinespa]

on 10/3/2009 Yes, I still get my social security, but so far medicare has not been accepted here. They are trying to change this, possibly by next year.

[sunshinespa]

on 10/3/2009 Mexicans have always treated me with respect, I do not know anyone who has a problem in this direction. If you are treated well in the states, you will be treated MUCH better here!! I have lived here for 8 years now, and want to become a citizen as soon as I learn Spanish. The USA is a bit too scary now, with all the fears and crime going on. And it seems to be getting worse. No one is mad at Mexico, they do not instigate wars, and if you keep your nose clean, you will love it here. If you are a drug dealer, or the criminal type, you will be treated accordingly.

[mexicokevin]

on 3/17/2009 eswildchild Thay say you have renounce your american citizenship but it's NOT true. SRE tells you that to scair you. It can only be done with a U.S.government offical. NOT a Mexican offical. You must understand that once you become a Mexican you give up your right to get the U.S. goverment involved if you have a legal problem in Mexico. Yes, you still get your Social security.