john spence
@joaquinx
American expat in Mexico
Forum posts
461
Contacts
6
About me
American
Lives in Xalapa
Speaks english, spanish
Registration: 20 August 2011
using US ATM cards in supermarkets, cash back? by steveh2112
hi, can i use my US ATM cards in supermarkets and cash back with no fee like i do in the states? thanks.
I said "could be viewed" and not "is". Go ahead and reread my post. Read More
using US ATM cards in supermarkets, cash back? by steveh2112
hi, can i use my US ATM cards in supermarkets and cash back with no fee like i do in the states? thanks.
It just hit me that getting money back using a USA debit card could be viewed as money laundering. Big nono in Mexican banking. Read More
Moving to Ajijic by ELLENRAY
My husband and I are retiring soon and planning to move to the Lakeside area in late spring 2018. We plan to lease a place to live. 1 we have found realators lack responses to interest by email, thoughts? 2 should we keep our Medicare for or twice ...
IMSS is around 3,000+ pesos a year depending on age. Private doctors are much cheaper than in the US. My heart doctor charges 1,000 pesos per visit three times a year. Telcel is the largest, but AT&T is now in Mexico with good reviews. If you ... Read More
Moving to Ajijic by ELLENRAY
My husband and I are retiring soon and planning to move to the Lakeside area in late spring 2018. We plan to lease a place to live. 1 we have found realators lack responses to interest by email, thoughts? 2 should we keep our Medicare for or twice ...
Most Mexicans, including real estate vendors, respond better to face to face meetings. Part A is automatic and free. Part B and D, you pay for and are not good in Mexico. If you're going to get a Perm visa, you can't own a foreign ... Read More
proof of income requirements to move to mexico by Delightedtogo
Hi! I am a new member and I am considering moving and buying property in Mexico. I was wondering if there is a requirement that you must have in savings before being able to move there. I would be looking for work once I got there also to ...
Your best place to answer these question would be the nearest Mexican Consulate. You have to stop there anyway to get either a Temp or Perm visa. Read More
proof of income requirements to move to mexico by Delightedtogo
Hi! I am a new member and I am considering moving and buying property in Mexico. I was wondering if there is a requirement that you must have in savings before being able to move there. I would be looking for work once I got there also to ...
You will need a Residencia Permanente in order to work or get a job offer before applying for a Residencia Temporal. For permit requirements look here: Requirements Read More
using US ATM cards in supermarkets, cash back? by steveh2112
hi, can i use my US ATM cards in supermarkets and cash back with no fee like i do in the states? thanks.
It's worth a try, if the exchange rate is better than the ATM with the fees. Read More
US bank accounts without US home address? by nikolas4squid
Been reading through the posts on banking issues, social security direct deposits, etc. I was wondering, however, what one does if they retire to Mexico but have no home or close family back in the US. Can they open or have a bank account in the US ...
Use either xoom or transferwise to send money bank to bank. Rates equal to credit/debit cards. Read More
US bank accounts without US home address? by nikolas4squid
Been reading through the posts on banking issues, social security direct deposits, etc. I was wondering, however, what one does if they retire to Mexico but have no home or close family back in the US. Can they open or have a bank account in the US ...
I've been with HSBC for 10 years. While not perfect, they have protected my money. There were two instances of false charges to my account. A single protest and a free call to the Mexico City office cleared it up in two or three days. I had no ... Read More
US bank accounts without US home address? by nikolas4squid
Been reading through the posts on banking issues, social security direct deposits, etc. I was wondering, however, what one does if they retire to Mexico but have no home or close family back in the US. Can they open or have a bank account in the US ...
Contact the Benefits Office at the US embassy in CDMX. They will change your address and and help you with your SS deposits to a Mexican bank. Read More
US bank accounts without US home address? by nikolas4squid
Been reading through the posts on banking issues, social security direct deposits, etc. I was wondering, however, what one does if they retire to Mexico but have no home or close family back in the US. Can they open or have a bank account in the US ...
SS does not charge for this service. On the 3rd of every month your benefit will be deposited in your Mexican bank at the best exchange rate for that day. If it falls on a weekend or holiday, it will be deposited earlier. Read More
Using Uber Safely
Is this occurring in Mexico or in other countries? Recently there was a murder involving a Cabify driver in Mexico City. The driver has since been arrested. Read More
Need orientation
I believe that she first needs a visa for travel to Mexico. She needs to apply at the Mexican Embassy or Consultant. Depending on the airline, she might need a round trip ticket. But she will be residing permanently in Mexico, right? Tell her to go ... Read More
Water quality in Mexico by Itobys
I went to zihuatanejo this past June . The woman I stayed with was soaking all her fruits and vegetables in iodine solution to desinfect and told me not to use regular tap water for washing fruits or drinking because it was bad. Is there an area in ...
I believe in Microdyn. It is so effective that it can cure athletics foot and other fungus infections. Read More
Water quality in Mexico by Itobys
I went to zihuatanejo this past June . The woman I stayed with was soaking all her fruits and vegetables in iodine solution to desinfect and told me not to use regular tap water for washing fruits or drinking because it was bad. Is there an area in ...
No recent research has shown any correlation in increased cancer and chlorine. I have yet to hear of anytime where the body naturally makes hydrogen peroxide. Research or not, this is not true. Read More
My Car in Mexico by sjrobards
Hi everyone, I just joined the group, as I am preparing to move to Mexico in about 1-2 months, or as soon as I can get my business in USA tied up. I will be driving down, as I have a large dog. I'm unclear whether I will be able to keep my ...
There is a Residencia Temporal and a Residencia Permanente. The RT permits you to have a car while the RP does not. The RT is renewable every year up to 4 years when it converts to a RP and you have to get rid of the car. Then there is the Tourist ... Read More
Best currency to use while visiting Playa del Carmen by Rukie59
Hi all, We will be travelling to Playa del Carmen in Oct for 2 months, to check out the area, I would like to know if the American dollar is widely accepted or would I be better off with pesos. If I need pesos where is the best place to ...
Pesos are accepted by everyone in Playa. Best place to get them is at an ATM. Not a stand-alone ATM, but one attached to a bank. They are a bit more secure. Tell your bank that you are vacationing in Mexico and how long you will be there. Read More
toilets by Peglove
Is flushing a toilet really prohibited? Or is this only in the outskirts or country areas?
Older homes had a 2 in. drain pipe which clogged when paper is flushed. Newer homes have a 4 in. drain pipe so you can flush the paper. Care must be taken if living in a low area as the drains will drain slower so even with large pipes you will have ... Read More
Crime rate by BZROAD
We have been hearing on the news that in 2017 the crime rate in Rosarito/Ensenada/Cabo has gone up 130%. They say that it is now the murder capitol of Mexico. We have been planning our retirement to the Ensenada area. This sounds very frightening. ...
Travellight has described the "Chicken Little Effect" very well. Just because a newspaper reports on one crime does not mean that there are shoot-outs on every street corner. Read More
Cell phone service in San Miguel de Allende by jerobrien
Friends We are planning a move to SMA in the not to distant future. We are wondering what kind of cell phone plan(s) we should have? Obviously we'll need to make local calls, but we'll want to sty in tough with friends and family at home. ...
A big one would be Google Play. It has its own switch under settings within the app. Setting it to WiFi only to prevent updating apps over data. Read More
Best place to move in Mexico by Itobys
I am looking for a place to move in Mexico but cannot find a perfect one so far. I went to zihuatanejo this June to explore if I like it. It was too hot, too noisy and too dirty in my opinion. And I am not spoiled American. I am originally from ...
Coatepec, Veracruz Read a little about it here Wikipedia does Coatepec Read More
Cell phone service in San Miguel de Allende by jerobrien
Friends We are planning a move to SMA in the not to distant future. We are wondering what kind of cell phone plan(s) we should have? Obviously we'll need to make local calls, but we'll want to sty in tough with friends and family at home. ...
I should point out that many sites are shifting to https encryption (even Facebook). Not this site, but banks and other sites that ask for personal information use this browser to site encryption. Read More
Water quality in Mexico by Itobys
I went to zihuatanejo this past June . The woman I stayed with was soaking all her fruits and vegetables in iodine solution to desinfect and told me not to use regular tap water for washing fruits or drinking because it was bad. Is there an area in ...
It could be a problem in Zihuatanejo, but not all of Mexico. I use Microdyn to soak tomatoes and strawberries in. All others, I use tap water. Most people in Mexico do not drink the water, but use bottled water bought in 20 liter jugs. Although the ... Read More
Cell phone service in San Miguel de Allende by jerobrien
Friends We are planning a move to SMA in the not to distant future. We are wondering what kind of cell phone plan(s) we should have? Obviously we'll need to make local calls, but we'll want to sty in tough with friends and family at home. ...
Opera offers a VPN that is free. It's on android. I don't know about iPhone. Read More
Cell phone service in San Miguel de Allende by jerobrien
Friends We are planning a move to SMA in the not to distant future. We are wondering what kind of cell phone plan(s) we should have? Obviously we'll need to make local calls, but we'll want to sty in tough with friends and family at home. ...
I would like to know how people use "data" as opposed to wifi access. Do you keep it on 24/7 or just when you go out? Do you seek out cafes or public wifi areas for free wifi access? Read More
Crime rate by BZROAD
We have been hearing on the news that in 2017 the crime rate in Rosarito/Ensenada/Cabo has gone up 130%. They say that it is now the murder capitol of Mexico. We have been planning our retirement to the Ensenada area. This sounds very frightening. ...
We need a sarcasm font. Read More
Crime rate by BZROAD
We have been hearing on the news that in 2017 the crime rate in Rosarito/Ensenada/Cabo has gone up 130%. They say that it is now the murder capitol of Mexico. We have been planning our retirement to the Ensenada area. This sounds very frightening. ...
She died from drinking a Red Bull cocktail, but I guess that you missed that. There are few murders of tourists unless they are involved in the drug trade or involved in other crimes, but I guess that you missed that also. Read More
Crime rate by BZROAD
We have been hearing on the news that in 2017 the crime rate in Rosarito/Ensenada/Cabo has gone up 130%. They say that it is now the murder capitol of Mexico. We have been planning our retirement to the Ensenada area. This sounds very frightening. ...
The only warning on the 24th of August was to avoid the areas where the hurricane was expected to land, which is not all of Mexico. Read More
OH MY, TAINTED COCKTAILS! by rubytue60
I do not want to be paranoid but what is going on with the alcohol in Mexico? I am planning long stays in the winters on the Pacific. Not in resorts, but I certainly have my drinks in the evenings at restaurants or on the beach. Is there any ...
My neighbor bought some caña from a friend who lived in a pueblo near the cane fields. Sold in a 2 l. soft drink bottle you could drink this all day without feeling a thing. However, the following morning, the pain was indescribable. Anywhere ... Read More
OH MY, TAINTED COCKTAILS! by rubytue60
I do not want to be paranoid but what is going on with the alcohol in Mexico? I am planning long stays in the winters on the Pacific. Not in resorts, but I certainly have my drinks in the evenings at restaurants or on the beach. Is there any ...
It is so strange that with all the tainted alcohol in Cancun/Playa region that hundreds of tourists, as well as locals, should have been dying in the streets. It could have been that the alcohol was not poisonous but not taxed which brought the ... Read More
How to get a job by imabadass1989
Can I work in Mexico, even I am an expat?
You need permission from INM. Read More
Cell phone service in San Miguel de Allende by jerobrien
Friends We are planning a move to SMA in the not to distant future. We are wondering what kind of cell phone plan(s) we should have? Obviously we'll need to make local calls, but we'll want to sty in tough with friends and family at home. ...
How much data does a person really need? I make local calls to friends with WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and Hangouts. I also use my providers services for telephone calls. I lieu of over usage of data, I seek out WiFi cafes and public WiFi. There ... Read More
rent or buy etc by mexicali
Which is the best option? I have always considered buying to be the way to go but am open to any information that can support renting. Is there anywhere that we should stay away from? Some of the house/condo pricing is really low (50-60k) while ...
I must be living in the dead zone. My street has a kindergarten, a primary school, and a centro de salud, yet it is quiet and clean. Most of the noise on my street comes from the trucks selling gas tanks, some vendors of bananas and pan de ... Read More
rent or buy etc by mexicali
Which is the best option? I have always considered buying to be the way to go but am open to any information that can support renting. Is there anywhere that we should stay away from? Some of the house/condo pricing is really low (50-60k) while ...
The rule of thumb that is circulated in Mexico is to rent for a year before buying. You might not like the location, town, etc. When buying, you never know what your neighbors are like. Read More
Cheapest prices in ensenada
You can always find a place for 1,000 pesos a month. Hotel Arena has accommodations that are almost free. Read More
OH MY, TAINTED COCKTAILS! by rubytue60
I do not want to be paranoid but what is going on with the alcohol in Mexico? I am planning long stays in the winters on the Pacific. Not in resorts, but I certainly have my drinks in the evenings at restaurants or on the beach. Is there any ...
It was directed to me in response to her original post that was vague. It appeared to me as troll posting without any reference to what happened nor where it happened. I gave up guessing on this type of posts. Read More
OH MY, TAINTED COCKTAILS! by rubytue60
I do not want to be paranoid but what is going on with the alcohol in Mexico? I am planning long stays in the winters on the Pacific. Not in resorts, but I certainly have my drinks in the evenings at restaurants or on the beach. Is there any ...
Word going around is that the drink that did them in was alcohol and Red Bull. This is in Spanish so you'll have to translate it What was in the drink? Last paragraph hints at this as a solution Read More
OH MY, TAINTED COCKTAILS! by rubytue60
I do not want to be paranoid but what is going on with the alcohol in Mexico? I am planning long stays in the winters on the Pacific. Not in resorts, but I certainly have my drinks in the evenings at restaurants or on the beach. Is there any ...
Could you be a bit more vaguer on your complaint? Read More
Immigration attorney for Mexico by SanMiguelis4me
Does anyone have a recommendation for a Immigration Attorney for Mexico? I have tried emailing one, and they don't respond.
Lawyers in Lakeside/Ajijic/Chapala Read More
bugs in Mexico by travellight
In a recent post someone had questions about bugs they might encounter in Mexico. This sort of seems like a subject people just don't talk about much if at all. Sort of like the weird uncle you don't want to admit you have. We really need ...
Con chile seco, muy rico. Read More
bugs in Mexico by travellight
In a recent post someone had questions about bugs they might encounter in Mexico. This sort of seems like a subject people just don't talk about much if at all. Sort of like the weird uncle you don't want to admit you have. We really need ...
In Oaxaca, we eat them. Read More
San Miguel de Allende or Lake Chapala ?? by dennissira
Hi all, So what are folks thoughts on San Miguel vs Lake Chapala area? Which is cheaper or what other significant differences between them ?
She didn't ask which was better. She asked what were the differences. There is no differences. More gringos in lakeside and more diluted in sma, but that isn't a difference. Read More
finding computer work in merida or la playa
You need permission to work from INM. With a Residencia Permanente, you can work. Any other visa/permit, you will need permission from INM. Read More
Relocating to San Miguel de Allende questions by nikbus99
Hello, I am planning to take a couple of trips to SMA in the next few months and see if it's a place I'd like to relocate to for retirement. I currently live in Texas, but only because my job is here. I've never felt like I belong in ...
You have to renew your Temp every year up to four years and then you go Perm. If you wish to remain Temp, you have to start the process in the US all over again. Since laws can change, it is best to contact your local Mexican consulate for details ... Read More
Relocating to San Miguel de Allende questions by nikbus99
Hello, I am planning to take a couple of trips to SMA in the next few months and see if it's a place I'd like to relocate to for retirement. I currently live in Texas, but only because my job is here. I've never felt like I belong in ...
Direct deposit your SS check into your US bank and use a debit card or a money transfer agency to get funds. Rent for a year while looking for a house to buy. Hospitals and doctors are cheaper and of equal quality here. My heart doctor charges 50 ... Read More
Relocating from the US with horses by Bigflower
I am an avid horsewoman and retiring in a year. I want to relocate to a warm climate with mountain views, and low humidity. Mexico has such friendly people and with a lower cost of living I think this is where I want to be! Looking for advice ...
In Xalapa, Veracruz there is a horse club Coapexpan Club Hipico Read More
San Miguel de Allende or Lake Chapala ?? by dennissira
Hi all, So what are folks thoughts on San Miguel vs Lake Chapala area? Which is cheaper or what other significant differences between them ?
Way too many gringos. Reminds me of Miami Beach. Read More
Inquiring by Leener
Hello everyone, I was so excited to find this forum. I would be driving from Florida which sounds gutsy just seeing it on the screen! I have so many questions...SS, Medicare, doctors, housing, cost of living, schooling/homeschooling, electronics, ...
Part D is prescription drugs and that isn't covered in Mexico. Part B is doctors fee and tests and that isn't covered in Mexico. It runs around 100 usd a month and is deducted from your SS payment. Part A is hospital coverage and that is ... Read More
Inquiring by Leener
Hello everyone, I was so excited to find this forum. I would be driving from Florida which sounds gutsy just seeing it on the screen! I have so many questions...SS, Medicare, doctors, housing, cost of living, schooling/homeschooling, electronics, ...
You know about Medicare, but what about Part B which you pay a monthly fee. Many have dropped this coverage if they seldom return to the US. Of course, to reinstate it when and if you return a increase in monthly premiums is charged. Read More
Inquiring by Leener
Hello everyone, I was so excited to find this forum. I would be driving from Florida which sounds gutsy just seeing it on the screen! I have so many questions...SS, Medicare, doctors, housing, cost of living, schooling/homeschooling, electronics, ...
Amazon does deliver. In fact, they will estimate any import taxes and add that to your final bill. If it is less, they refund the difference. The benefit is that you don't have to pay the delivery service when the purchase is delivered. FedEx, ... Read More
dogs in san miquel
Barking dogs are migratory and move from one neighborhood to another on a weekly basis. One week there is quiet and the next you're awake all night. Read More
Things to Prepare Before a Move to Mexico - final countdown by nikolas4squid
Well, I am finally in the final year countdown (337 days to be exact) to retirement and the move to Mexico. I am trying to get everything I need to do in order before then, and I figured I'd ask for suggestions etc, in case I am forgetting ...
Social Security accepts a Mexican address and when you inform them of your new address your monthly benefit will be issued on the 3rd of every month. Plus, in July you will receive a letter and form from them that must be filled out and mailed back ... Read More
US bank accounts without US home address? by nikolas4squid
Been reading through the posts on banking issues, social security direct deposits, etc. I was wondering, however, what one does if they retire to Mexico but have no home or close family back in the US. Can they open or have a bank account in the US ...
You should know that Amazon sends many items postage free to Mexico. They also estimate the customs fee and add that to your final bill. If there is a difference, they will charge your account or refund the difference. Packages from Amazon arrive at ... Read More
US bank accounts without US home address? by nikolas4squid
Been reading through the posts on banking issues, social security direct deposits, etc. I was wondering, however, what one does if they retire to Mexico but have no home or close family back in the US. Can they open or have a bank account in the US ...
I have an account in a US bank along with their debit and credit card. Both have a Mexican address and I receive new cards at my Mexican address. Social Security knows that I live in Mexico and every July I get a form from them asking about any ... Read More
Communication and time Mexican style by travellight
I'm not sure that visitors and new exat's understand the real meaning of time in Mexico or even the subtleties of communication. I had a couple of good examples just recently. I bet some of you have also. Please share those. In my case I ...
The word alberca is what I've heard as referring to a swimming pool. The word balneario is often used to refer to large, public pools that offer food, drink, etc. Read More
moving to veracruz/mexico by palmtree22
I am a retired teacher from the USA am WILL me moving to Mexico in the near future. My plan is to move to a city on the Gulf Coast because I enjoy scuba diving, snorleling, anything to do with the water, plus I enjoy checking out ruins, etc. I have ...
Whoa! At least two posters on this thread live in the state of Veracruz. Read More
Flying within mexico on residente permanente visa
The only document that you need to show on these flights is an ID. Preferably with a photo ID. INM document or passport. Read More
In a jam,any advice? by Guestposter651
Went on a visa run to guatemala,this time i decided to fly,arived in guatemala city from mx city stayed for three days.I flew back to Mx yesterday where they denied entry and deported me back to guatemala.The reason they gave was that i was in mx ...
Guatemala could be the problem. You might have to fly to the states and reenter on foot. Of course, being the father of a Mexican child is the path to Residente Permanente. ¡Suerte! Read More
Essentials to live in Mexico by Christine
Hi, As an expat living in Mexico, what would you advise the ones about to pack to bring along? What are the items you can easily find in Mexico? On the other hand, what is less common or quite expensive? Share with us what you would ...
And the USA is becoming a 3rd world one. Read More
Essentials to live in Mexico by Christine
Hi, As an expat living in Mexico, what would you advise the ones about to pack to bring along? What are the items you can easily find in Mexico? On the other hand, what is less common or quite expensive? Share with us what you would ...
Flatter yolks and watery whites are an indication of older eggs. In new eggs, the yolks are higher and the whites are not watery. I don't understand this shell thing, because sometimes from the same producer they are thin and sometimes like iron. Read More
Essentials to live in Mexico by Christine
Hi, As an expat living in Mexico, what would you advise the ones about to pack to bring along? What are the items you can easily find in Mexico? On the other hand, what is less common or quite expensive? Share with us what you would ...
The US is one of the few countries that wash eggs before packaging them. This washing is meant to prevent salmonella and other infections caused by eating or handling raw eggs. It also removes a protective coating on the egg that prevents spoilage. ... Read More
Essentials to live in Mexico by Christine
Hi, As an expat living in Mexico, what would you advise the ones about to pack to bring along? What are the items you can easily find in Mexico? On the other hand, what is less common or quite expensive? Share with us what you would ...
Buying shaving products is so difficult here that I had to fly to Florence, Italy to get decent soaps and brushes. All is fine now as I got enough product for a few years. Read More
Need advice -- completing the Visa process in Mexico by promobabe
Once I've gotten approved for my Temporal Visa at my local consulate, what proof of residency will I have to show in Mexico to complete the process? In my case, I'm staying at a variety of Airbnbs until I find a long term rental. So I will ...
I got a Permanent 1 1/2 to two years ago ( aprox). At that time here there was no letter requirement, so I suspect at least in some areas that is not required any longer. I handed them one, and they gave it back waving their hand at me. No ... Read More
Need advice -- completing the Visa process in Mexico by promobabe
Once I've gotten approved for my Temporal Visa at my local consulate, what proof of residency will I have to show in Mexico to complete the process? In my case, I'm staying at a variety of Airbnbs until I find a long term rental. So I will ...
Need a letter for temporal or permanente? It is a lengthy site, but search for "letter" and you'll find it. Letter for temporal and permanente Read More
Need advice -- completing the Visa process in Mexico by promobabe
Once I've gotten approved for my Temporal Visa at my local consulate, what proof of residency will I have to show in Mexico to complete the process? In my case, I'm staying at a variety of Airbnbs until I find a long term rental. So I will ...
Can anyone detail the services a lawyer can do for you at INM? Read More
Need advice -- completing the Visa process in Mexico by promobabe
Once I've gotten approved for my Temporal Visa at my local consulate, what proof of residency will I have to show in Mexico to complete the process? In my case, I'm staying at a variety of Airbnbs until I find a long term rental. So I will ...
Fingerprinting and signing are that difficult? Read More
moving to veracruz/mexico by palmtree22
I am a retired teacher from the USA am WILL me moving to Mexico in the near future. My plan is to move to a city on the Gulf Coast because I enjoy scuba diving, snorleling, anything to do with the water, plus I enjoy checking out ruins, etc. I have ...
Think serendipity. You never know where you can learn something new. Remember, you don't have to read all the posts. Read More
moving to veracruz/mexico by palmtree22
I am a retired teacher from the USA am WILL me moving to Mexico in the near future. My plan is to move to a city on the Gulf Coast because I enjoy scuba diving, snorleling, anything to do with the water, plus I enjoy checking out ruins, etc. I have ...
There is a lot of scuba diving and snorkeling in SMA? Read More
moving to veracruz/mexico by palmtree22
I am a retired teacher from the USA am WILL me moving to Mexico in the near future. My plan is to move to a city on the Gulf Coast because I enjoy scuba diving, snorleling, anything to do with the water, plus I enjoy checking out ruins, etc. I have ...
I live in Xalapa which is around 80 km from Veracruz and I can't imagine that anyone would think that Veracruz is an expensive place. Of course, if you engage a high-end real estate agent, the prices will be higher. There are two items that ... Read More
Spanish private teachers in Xalapa area
A friend of mine who is an English teacher does teach Spanish in a one on one atmosphere. Do you know when you wish to start and for how long? Read More
What do you do to make money to live in Mexico? by 420jon69
Just curious to see what everyone does to earn money that allows you to live in Mexico?
I bet on football (soccer) games. Read More
Using the 6 month visa extensions for doing business by eswarchuk
Hello, Is it allowed to own/run a business if you just have a 6 month tourist visa? IF yes, is it recommended to just keep extending the 6 month visa? Thank you in advance for your comments. Cheers, Eswar
The Hacienda will not give you a license to run a business without the permission from Migration (INM). INM will not give you permission on a Tourist Permit. Go to the nearest Mexican consulate or the embassy and ask particulars as rules change all ... Read More
Dealing with native insects
Insect bites that itch can be relieved with a shampoo that contains ammonia compounds as they are an antihistamine. Read More
Moving to Veracruz in August, 2017
The area around Parque los Berros has some nice apartments and is a short walk to the school. Read More
Moving to Veracruz in August, 2017
I've lived in Xalapa for the past 17 years and remember only one incident where there was a confrontation with a cartel gang and the Navy police won. Xalapa has rid itself of the local police a few years ago and replaced it with the state police ... Read More
ATM fees, bank accounts, etc by MTinHCMC
Hi everyone. So what do you seasoned expats in Playa del Carmen do when it comes to money? Do you just use the atms and pay the fee? Is it possible to get a bank account here without being a resident? Our fees are a little ridiculous...I took 4000 ...
The ability to open an account with a tourist permit varies from bank to bank and from office to office. Be prepared to be refused a few time, but don't give up. You will still need to show your passport and proof of residence. Generally, the ... Read More
ATM fees, bank accounts, etc by MTinHCMC
Hi everyone. So what do you seasoned expats in Playa del Carmen do when it comes to money? Do you just use the atms and pay the fee? Is it possible to get a bank account here without being a resident? Our fees are a little ridiculous...I took 4000 ...
There are a number of third party money transfer agencies that will beat the ATM. Right now, XE lists the exchange rate at 19.51 while xoom will transfer money with a 4.99usd fee at 19.10. During banking hours, this takes about 2 hours from my US ... Read More
ATM fees, bank accounts, etc by MTinHCMC
Hi everyone. So what do you seasoned expats in Playa del Carmen do when it comes to money? Do you just use the atms and pay the fee? Is it possible to get a bank account here without being a resident? Our fees are a little ridiculous...I took 4000 ...
1.50 usd doesn't sound like a "ton of money" Read More
Having a car in Mexico by travellight
I thought it would be helpful to find out what has been your experience with having a car. How do you get repairs done and what did it cost ? What about tires ? are you getting them more often and where is the best place to get them ? Do you ...
The state of Veracruz, going the way of Google, has re-branded topes and now calls them "Reductor de Velocidad". Read More
Having a car in Mexico by travellight
I thought it would be helpful to find out what has been your experience with having a car. How do you get repairs done and what did it cost ? What about tires ? are you getting them more often and where is the best place to get them ? Do you ...
For repairs, I take my CrossFox to VW. It's a 2009 with the same tires. VW services the car. I drop it off in the morning and pick it up in the afternoon. I close my eyes when going through an intersection. Veracruz drivers license. I let ... Read More
How to drive through mexico by vantravels
Hi all, I am a Canadian looking to drive from the USA to Central America and am quite nervous about driving through Mexico in July 2017. I have heard both good and bad but with all the upset going on between the US and Mexico right now I am worried ...
Do it. The van will be fine and if it has problems, remember that Mexicans can fix any VW van. Don't listen to anyone afflicted with the Chicken Little Syndrome. If you're going to Central American, tell them at the border crossing where ... Read More
Leaving Mexico by plan with Permanent or Temporal Visa card by GuestPoster1197023
Hi to all having a Permanent or Temporal Visa card. My wife and I will be living fulltime in Mexico (permanent résidents) but will go back to Canada to visit family and friends (1 or 2 months). My questions: 1-When leaving by plane do you ...
At the airport in CDMX Go through security in T1 where the sign is posted for gates 25-36. As you exit security with the duty free shops on your left and the Starbucks on your right there is a kiosk for INM and you go there with your passport and ... Read More
any help apprechiatated-Passport scanner in mexico city airport
Take care for a damaged passport to the extent that identification of the holder is impeded in any way, you might be denied entry. Read More
Banking in Mexico by Troy greer
My wife and I will be moving to Mexico in August from Texas. Goin to build a house and I'm thinking about keeping my bank account open here as well as opening up an account in Mexico. Any ideas??
When you buy at the supermarket with your debit or credit card, the cashier always asks, at least where I shop, if you want some cash withdrawn from your card. I always say no since if I need cash, I withdraw it from my Mexican bank account at the ... Read More
Looking for a room to rent! (Advice needed por favour)
Condesa and Roma seems to start at 6,000 mnx. I love the areas, but can't afford to live there. Try on the other side of Reforma in the colonias of San Rafael, Santa Maria, and Granada. Read More
Telmex Phones and SIM Cards by vinceeames
Have a telcel phone from San Miguel de Allende but going to be in PV for two months. Do I need to get a new SIM card for local PV calls? Thanks for your advice.
There are more tariff selection than this. Find them all. Read More
Telmex Phones and SIM Cards by vinceeames
Have a telcel phone from San Miguel de Allende but going to be in PV for two months. Do I need to get a new SIM card for local PV calls? Thanks for your advice.
Nothing is clear on the Telcel web site. Once you find a page with tariffs, bookmark it as you will never find that page again. Telcel has more tariff options than Nashville has guitar pickers. Read More
Backlash against US citizens in Mexico since the election? by CaribeGal
For those of you from the US and already in Mexico, I am curious as to whether you have experienced any negative comments or other forms of backlash against US citizens following the election, given the president-elect's comments about Mexicans ...
This is a misleading argument on many levels. The electoral college was devised to permit only white, rich, males with property to vote. Also at the time of the adoption of the Constitution, states were thought of being more important than the ... Read More
Movistar sim & iMessage
You probably are restricted in sending international SMS messages. Go down to you Movistar office and get it changed. Read More
Residency on Isla Mujeres by MishKev
Hi there We're from Australia, looking to relocate in a few years. Looking to speak to anyone who comes from an English speaking country to see how you go about applying for permanent residency. As our children are older we would love to spend ...
A Tourist Permit will give you 180 days before having to leave the country. That seems to satisfy one requirement. As for work, the answer is not without a work permit. Those are given with a Residencia Visa which you must apply for in your home ... Read More
India calling from Mexico
I doubt if there any plans for low cost calls to India. I would suggest Skype on a cell phone or computer. Or WhatsApp or Hangouts. Read More
Changing from Temporal Resident to Permanent Resident Through a Child
The bottom answer is yes, but since they were born in the US, there is a lot of paperwork ahead. Talk to the Mexican Consulate or INM office in Mexico for the necessary steps. Read More
Apply for permanent residence card through marriage while on visit? by Shahriar123
I am traveling to Mexico on a tourist visa (with Iranian Passport). Can I apply for permanent residence card through a marriage with a Mexican citizen while I'm visiting there without leaving Mexico !
No you can´t apply for a permanent resident visa only for a temporary resident visa and only for 1 to 4 years. 30 days before a 2 year RT [Residente Temporal] [Temporary Resident] visa expires you can then apply for a permanent resident visa. ... Read More
Apply for permanent residence card through marriage while on visit? by Shahriar123
I am traveling to Mexico on a tourist visa (with Iranian Passport). Can I apply for permanent residence card through a marriage with a Mexican citizen while I'm visiting there without leaving Mexico !
See the following site Special Rights of Foreigners who are Family Members of Mexican Citizens: Read More
Terrenos ,lots by Rosco2001
Hi Alexandra, do you owne any lots at the sabancuy area???
do a search on sabancuy on this forum, there is a large thread devoted to it. Read More
Cheaper cell phone rates coming in October by cdngringo
My Mexican wife and I will be relocating to Mexico full time soon and wanted to share this. A new cell phone provider Flash Mobile has partnered with Lusacell and Movistar to sell air time at what will be roughly half the cost of current rates. The ...
.## The town I live in has a lot of dead areas, Telcel gets zero bars even outside my house I can see the tower that is 200 m away and I get no bars. That's Telcel for you! Read More
Cost of Electricity by gudgrief
Does anyone use between 500 and 700 kilowathours of electricity every 2 months? If so, what was your actual usage and what were you charged? Thanks in advance.
I live in Xalapa with a tariff of 1. I would think that our tariffs would be the same. I haven't went over 400kwh in years. The last time was a really cold January and February when I paid around 1,000 mxn. Your tariff is on your CFE bill and ... Read More
Cheaper cell phone rates coming in October by cdngringo
My Mexican wife and I will be relocating to Mexico full time soon and wanted to share this. A new cell phone provider Flash Mobile has partnered with Lusacell and Movistar to sell air time at what will be roughly half the cost of current rates. The ...
The communication field is getting crowded with the number of apps that permit voice and video calls. With WhatsApp, Skype,Hangouts, Facebook Messenger, Allo and Duo, it makes for difficult decisions on what to choose. Read More