Mexico - work
Work Visa (Temporary Resident with Lucrativa)RT + Lucr.
Mexico's work route is a Temporary Resident Visa with permission to work (permiso para trabajar / lucrativa). The Mexican employer must first obtain authorization from INM (Instituto Nacional de Migracion) via its Constancia de Empleador system before the foreign worker can apply at a consulate abroad. The employer's pre-authorization number (NUT) is the key document and bookends the whole process.
Who this visa is for
- Foreigners hired by a Mexican company or organization
- Intracompany transfers to a Mexican branch
- Specialized workers, professors, performers with a Mexican contract
Requirements
- Employer Constancia de Empleador
The Mexican employer must be pre-registered with INM as an authorized sponsor.
- NUT (authorization number)
Employer submits a request through INM and receives an NUT confirming approval to hire a specific foreigner.
- Valid passport
Minimum 6 months validity.
- Original NUT document
Bring to the consular appointment.
- Photos and application form
As specified by the consulate.
Fees
| Fee | Amount | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Consular visa fee | USD 54 | |
| Residency card with work permission | MXN 5,570 - MXN 7,914 | Based on card validity granted. |
Application steps
- 1. Employer files INM request
Mexican employer submits offer-of-employment request in INM portal. Waits for NUT.
- 2. Employer shares NUT with worker
Worker receives NUT document by email.
- 3. Book MEXITEL appointment
At Mexican consulate in worker's country of residence.
- 4. Attend appointment
Submit NUT, passport, photos, pay USD 54.
- 5. Receive entry visa
Valid 180 days to enter Mexico.
- 6. Canje at INM
Within 30 days of arrival, exchange visa for Temporary Resident Card with lucrativa (work permission). Pay card fee.
- 7. Register with SAT for taxes
Obtain an RFC (Registro Federal de Contribuyentes) for Mexican payroll.
Official government source
Always verify the current fees, requirements and forms at the official source before applying:
Ask about the Work VisaRT + Lucr.
Grounded on this page. Answers are informational, not legal advice.
Frequently asked questions
Who pays for the Mexico Work Visa, employer or employee?
The Mexican employer pays INM for the Constancia de Empleador registration and NUT application. The foreign worker typically pays the USD 54 consular fee and MXN 5,570-7,914 residency card fee, though many employers reimburse this as part of the offer.
Can I switch employers on a Mexico Work Visa?
Yes, but you must notify INM within 90 days. The new Mexican employer must also be registered and obtain a new NUT for you. Failing to notify INM can result in visa cancellation.
Can my spouse work on my Mexico Work Visa?
Not automatically. Your spouse gets Temporary Resident status via Family Unit but does NOT receive lucrativa by default. They must separately request work authorization from INM, either with their own NUT from a Mexican employer or via unidad economica status.