Frequently Asked Questions

Can foreigners legally buy property in Mexico?

Yes. Foreign investors are legally permitted to acquire property throughout Mexico. The method of ownership depends on the property’s location. Properties outside restricted zones can be purchased directly, while properties in coastal or border areas are acquired through a bank trust (fideicomiso) or a Mexican legal entity for commercial purposes.

What is a restricted zone in Mexico?

Restricted zones include areas located within 50 kilometers of the coast or 100 kilometers of an international border. Boca de Tomatlán is located within a restricted coastal zone, which is why foreign ownership is structured through a fideicomiso.

What is a fideicomiso?

A fideicomiso is a government-regulated bank trust in which a Mexican bank holds legal title to the property on behalf of the foreign buyer. The buyer is the beneficiary of the trust and retains full economic and operational control of the property.

What rights does a buyer have under a fideicomiso?

The beneficiary of a fideicomiso has full rights to:

Lease or rent the property
Generate short- or long-term rental income
Sell the property at market value
Transfer ownership or designate heirs

The trust provides full control and usage rights comparable to direct ownership.

How long does a fideicomiso last?

A fideicomiso is issued for 50 years and can be renewed indefinitely, making it suitable for long-term ownership and investment strategies.

What does a fideicomiso cost?

Typical setup costs range from $1,500 to $2,000 USD, along with an annual administration fee charged by the bank. These costs are generally modest relative to the value of coastal real estate investments.

Do I need Mexican residency to buy property?

No. Mexican residency is not required to purchase property. Buyers will need a valid passport and an immigration form, but residency status is not mandatory.

What documents are required for foreign buyers?

Foreign buyers generally need:

A valid passport
Proof of address outside Mexico
An immigration form
A Mexican tax ID (RFC), which can be obtained with professional assistance

How secure is property ownership in Mexico for foreigners?

Mexico offers a secure and legally protected real estate system. Transactions are handled through licensed public notaries, registered in public property registries, and supported by federally regulated banks, ensuring legal certainty and title security.

What role does a notary play in the closing process?

Public notaries in Mexico are licensed legal professionals who formalize real estate transactions. They verify legal compliance, oversee the execution of the deed, and ensure the property is properly registered with the public property registry.

What are the main steps in the property purchase process?

The process typically includes:

Legal review of the property
Transaction planning and contract preparation
Execution of the purchase agreement
Coordination with banks, notaries, and legal professionals
Setting a closing date
Signing the deed and transferring ownership

Can the purchase be completed remotely?

Yes. Purchase agreements can be executed securely online using platforms such as DocuSign, allowing buyers to complete transactions without being physically present.

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