Hi Melinda,

Under the current rules, Permanent Residency cards do not need to be renewed every x-number of years. They need to be replaced if they are lost or badly damaged.

We have heard that *some banks in some cases* ask customers for the “latest” version of the card, that is currently the beige/burgundy color instead of the older green/white version.

Legally, there is no difference between the two colors. They both carry exactly the same legal weight and status.

If you want to exchange your existing card to one with the current coloring, you can book an appointment at the local INM office where your card is registered and apply for a replacement, NOT a renewal. (This is the same process as replacing a damaged card and carries a processing fee.)

Note: If you have a VERY old version of a residency permit, e.g. a paper version that is laminated, or even one of the older ‘passport style’ paper books, then it’s advisable to attend your local INM and get these replaced with the latest contemporary version, that is a wallet-sized plastic card.

Hi Allan,

A contact of ours passed through Mexico City’s international airport this week. There are plenty of in-person desks staffed by immigration officials.

The line for Mexican Citizens leads to a large bank of automated gates with just one or two staffed desks.

The line for Foreign Nationals leads to a bank of staffed desks.

If you are resident in Mexico use the Foreign Nationals line and get checked back in to the country by a staff member this way.

This was Terminal 1. We have no direct information at this time about T2, although residents should use a staffed desk to check in, or talk to directly to an immigration official at the airport if in doubt.

My Canadian passport was damaged while in Mexico and I got a replacement through the Canadian embassy. I hold Mexican permanent residency and when I left the country, the INM agent did not say anything about my blank passport when I got the exit stamp.

When I returned to Mexico with the new passport, I did not have any problems.

So, if you have a permanent residency card, then the expiry of your passport should not hinder your travel. As per the other piece of advise, change the visa sticker for a card.

No you do not need to return to the US for any specific time period. You may remain in Mexico as long as you wish, and return to the US at will, without restriction.

Hello Al,
We have been receiving reports these last two days and just published an article about that, here
https://www.mexperience.com/permanent-residency-foreign-plated-vehicles-in-mexico/

We’ve also added an information box to this article for reference.

Hi Anne,

We recommend you find and talk to a local tax accountant who will be able to advise you based on your individual circumstances and in line with current tax rules.