21 September

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Time is Running Out For Americans Living in Mexico to Make Their Vote Count

Posted by Mexlaw

US citizens 18 years or older who reside in Mexico are eligible to vote in the US elections. Living in a foreign country can make voting a challenge, but there is a way to have your say, find out how. According to the US Consulate in Playa del Carmen and the FVAP (Federal Voting Assistance Program) website you still have time to register your vote by sending a Federal Postcard Application (FPCA). Many states will allow you to submit your form electronically, there may not be ample time for regular mail delivery at this point in the election. Go to the...

19 September

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10 Things You Need to Know About Your Temporary Visa in Mexico

Posted by Mexlaw

in Immigration, MexLaw

The Immigration Specialist at MEXLAW shares some important facts to keep in mind, during and after your immigration process. Temporary Resident Visa is intended for people who wish to reside in Mexico for more than 180 days but not longer than four years. The visa is approved for one year, and renewed for 1 to 3 years. After four years maximum, you must apply for a Permanent Residence Visa if you wish to stay in Mexico. Once you have been approved for your Temporary Residence Visa you will present the sticker in your passport to Immigration upon arrival in Mexico;...

14 September

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Cautionary Advice About Ejido Land For Foreigners Looking To Invest In Mexico

Posted by Mexlaw

in MexLaw, Real Estate

You may hear of foreigners having issues with their Mexican property; chances are the property they purchased belonged to Ejido. Ejido (pronounced eh-hee-dough) was a product of the Mexican Revolution of 1910; it is a collective communal organization, and the land was lent to the people to use for farming and raising their families but remains owned by the government and regulated by Agrarian Law. One of the primary objectives was to break up large stretches of privately owned land, into smaller lots, return the land to the people and ensure poor farmers had property to work. These parcels of land...

12 September

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Our Favorite Top 10 Reasons to Retire in Mexico

Posted by Mexlaw

in MexLaw, Real Estate

There are many top 10 lists on why you should retire in Mexico, but the truth is there are too many reasons to list. It is paradise, plain and simple, but what other benefits are there to retiring in Mexico? Here are some of our favorites: In the Riviera Maya, we need to mention the Caribbean ocean with the world's most beautiful white sand beaches and turquoise water, along with warm weather all year around, these factors will affect your ability to slow down and relax. Mexico is close to home; it is within close proximity to Canada and the...

07 September

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Signing a Rental Contract in Quintana Roo

Posted by Mexlaw

in Legal Services, MexLaw

Although there are laws in place to protect tenants and property owners, Mexican rental agreements have few regulations, allowing a rental contract to be somewhat open to negotiation between the landlord and the tenant. Once you have agreed on a price and duration of the rental agreement, you should have a contract drawn up with the owner or their representative. It is not necessary to have the agreement notarized as it is a legal document if the tenant and the landlord have signed the contract. A rental agreement is a private legal contract, and it will grant the temporary tenant use of...

05 September

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Can the Mexican Government Seize my Property?

Posted by Mexlaw

in Legal Services, MexLaw

The most common fear we hear from foreigners interested in buying property in Mexico is, Can the government take my property? There are stories in the news about foreigners investing in Mexican real estate to later have it taken from them with no recourse. Using a Mexican lawyer during your real estate purchase will guarantee you title on the property, making it virtually impossible for someone to seize your home. Ejido Land The ejido is property which Mexican Nationals are given the right to use by the government for living and working, typically farming. Do not buy Ejido land, you may be offered...

31 August

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The Cost of Living in The Riviera Maya

Posted by Mexlaw

in MexLaw, Real Estate

It seems hard to believe you can have a better life and live close to the Caribbean sea for less money than you pay now. Life in the Riviera Maya costs less, of course, this depends on your lifestyle, but you will receive more for your buck here in Mexico. You will afford some of the luxuries you may not be able to afford in the rest of North America. For example, two people living on $2000 USD a month can afford to rent a beautiful condominium near the beach, with all the amenities you dream of, including a swimming pool,...

08 August

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Last Will And Testament of a Foreigner in Mexico

Posted by Mexlaw

in Legal Services, Mexican Will, MexLaw

It is important to understand it may be difficult for your loved ones to deal with your estate if you do not have a Mexican Will. Residence of Mexico, primarily property owners, should consult a Mexican attorney regarding their estate planning. Is a Canadian or American Will valid in Mexico if it includes my Mexican real estate and valuables? Although your foreign Will is valid in Mexico, the time and expense it takes to have it verified and processed will cause your family undue stress and expense. The problem is getting these documents recognized, American documents need to be apostilled, and notarized in...

08 August

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How to Renew Your American Passport Without Leaving Mexico

Posted by Mexlaw

in Immigration, MexLaw

Save time and money by renewing your American passport through the local U.S. Consular Agency. Here is a guideline to get your process started. It is important to realize this process may take up to 3-4 weeks, be aware of your passport's expiry date. Quick Steps to Renew Your Passport Make an appointment with the U.S. Consular Agency in Playa del Carmen by phone or email. Include the service you require, your contact information and preferred appointment time. Be sure to complete your application before your appointment, including your social security number and a local Mexican address. The permanent address field on...

08 August

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Common Questions About Mexican Family Law

Posted by Mexlaw

in Legal Services, MexLaw

If you are a foreigner and married, living common-law or raising a family in Mexico, you should understand the family laws you may face here. Find out how the laws and procedures may differ from Canadian and American family law. Here are some of the most common questions foreigners have about family law in Mexico. How are the family assets divided in Mexico during a divorce? Typically the division of assets is 50/50, but it is important to note that the judge basis the division only on the assets that were acquired by the couple during the marriage, no matter which person brought...

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