Mexico Essentials

FAQs: Mexico’s Visitor Visas and Visitor Permit, the FMM

These are the most frequently-asked questions we receive in relation to Mexico's visitor visas, and the visitor permit—updated regularly

Roadcraft in the Capital: Driving the Mexico City Way

Weekday traffic in Mexico City has reached the point of saturation, giving rise to higher stress levels and the need for patience

Choices Faced by Home Owners Across the Generations

Aging provincial homes in Mexico are charming, and offer dilemmas, opportunities, challenges —and lessons— for present and future owners

Calculating the Value of Old Mexican Banknotes

Old Mexican bank notes can be exchanged for their present-day value at the Bank of Mexico, or sold to collectors who seek to acquire them

Mexican Cell Phones: Calling Plans for North America

Mexican cell phone plans offer unlimited calling and generous data allowances across Mexico, the US, and Canada—it's never been more affordable to keep in touch

Buying Imported Foods and Homeware in Mexico

Learn about stores and emporiums where you can buy imported foods and goods which years ago were not available anywhere in Mexico

FAQs: What is Mexico’s RFC, and What is it Used For?

The RFC is a registration number issued by Mexico’s tax collection agency, SAT. This FAQ describes what it is, how it’s used, and how to apply for it

Learn About Social Etiquette & Local Customs in Mexico

Learn how to navigate Mexico's social etiquette, discover local customs and graces, and avoid unnecessary or embarrassing social blunders

Mexico’s UMA and Residency Qualification Criteria 2025

UMA is replacing Mexico's 'minimum wage' as a basis for official calculations. This article describes how it affects applications for legal residency.

Torn Money: The Banknote Versus the Joker

In Mexico, merchants of all kinds tend to reject damaged banknotes, but you can exchange damaged notes at a bank if you have at least half of the note intact