If you have been doing some research about Mexican immigration, you have probably come across the word “Canje” as one of the most commonly used terms. But what does it actually mean, and what does the process involve?
In this article, we explain the basics of the Canje process, how it works, and the key points you should keep in mind before you start planning your residency process in Mexico. Understanding Canje early on can help you avoid common mistakes, delays, and unnecessary stress.
What does “Canje” means?
If you have received a Mexican residency visa at a consulate abroad, your process is not finished yet. The next step is entering Mexico using that visa to complete the Canje process, which is what officially activates your residency.
The Canje is the procedure in which the visa sticker stamped in your passport is exchanged for your Temporary or Permanent Resident Card at Mexico’s immigration authority, the INM (Instituto Nacional de Migración).
The word canje in Spanish means exchange. In immigration terms, it refers to exchanging the consular visa placed in your passport for a physical residency card issued within Mexico.
Key Requirement: Timing Matters
Visa validity (6 months)
The residency visa stamped in your passport typically has a validity of six months, as indicated directly on the visa. This is the period during which you must enter Mexico using that visa. This visa allows one single entry and exists solely to allow you to complete the Canje process inside Mexico.
30-day window to start Canje
Once you enter Mexico with your residency visa, you must initiate the Canje process within 30 calendar days. If this deadline is missed, the visa becomes void, and the entire process must be restarted from the beginning by applying again at a Mexican consulate abroad.
Step 1: Enter Mexico Correctly for Canje
When you arrive at the airport or border, you must clearly inform the immigration officer that you are entering Mexico to complete Canje. You are not entering as a tourist, and this distinction is critical.
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Arriving by air: The officer should stamp your passport indicating Canje and write “30 días”, which reflects the 30-day period you have to submit your Canje application.
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Arriving by land: You will typically receive an FMM marked for Canje, along with a passport stamp indicating Canje.
Immigration officers cannot automatically identify visa holders unless they are informed. Entering incorrectly results in an improper immigration record, and without the correct entry registration, INM cannot process your residency card.
Step 2: Gather Your Documents
While requirements may vary slightly by INM office, there are certain documents that are commonly requested to process the Canje.
As part of our services, we handle the preparation and organization of your entire application including booking an appointment for you. When hiring our accompanied services, all you need to do is attend your INM appointment in person with your passport.
For reference, the documents most INM offices typically require include:
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Immigration application form
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Passport with the residency visa sticker
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FMM marked for Canje (digital or printed, depending on your entry)
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Completed immigration forms, such as:
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Formato Básico
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Debit/Credit Card Charge Authorization Form
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Payment of government fees (credit card acceptance varies by office)
Some INM offices may also request:
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A written request letter explaining how the visa was obtained at the consulate
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Marriage or birth certificates previously presented at the consulate
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Proof of address (some offices require a utility bill; some do not accept hotel addresses)
Because requirements vary by location, verifying local criteria in advance is strongly recommended.
Step 3: Scheduling an Appointment with INM
When working with a professional, we take care of scheduling your INM appointment in advance, before you travel to Mexico to complete your Canje process.
Most INM offices require appointments to be booked online, while some smaller offices operate under a walk-in or hybrid system. Availability varies by city, and appointments often fill up quickly, which is why advance planning is strongly recommended.
Important (as of January 2026):
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Appointments cannot be rescheduled
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Submitted information cannot be edited
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Some offices do not allow corrections during the appointment
Considering that appointment availability is often one to two weeks out, even minor errors can result in significant delays.
Step 4: Attend Your INM Appointment
At your appointment (or walk-in, if permitted), you will:
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Submit your documentation and complete payment (Payments can be done with debit or credit card)
Once approved, you will proceed to biometrics, including your photograph, signature, and fingerprints.
Step 5: Receiving Your Residency Card
Many INM offices issue residency cards the same day as part of their standard operations. However, it is important to understand the legal framework. Under Mexican immigration regulations, INM has up to 20 calendar days to resolve an application. This means that in cases involving system issues, internal reviews, or additional verification, processing may take longer.
Important notice
If you leave Mexico before your residency card is issued, your Canje process will be voided, and fees are non-refundable. Careful travel planning during this stage is essential.
Government Fees
Residency fees depend on the type and duration of your status. As a general reference for 2026:
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Temporary Resident (1 year): $11,141 MXN
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Permanent Resident: a $13,579 MXN
These fees are paid directly to INM as part of the Canje process.
Helpful Notes and Practical Tips
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Appointment availability can be limited, so planning ahead is strongly recommended — ideally at least one month before entry
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Having all documentation prepared correctly from the start helps avoid unnecessary delays
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INM staff are not required to speak English, although some offices in tourist-heavy cities may have limited English support
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Procedures and requirements may vary by location and are subject to change
Do You Need Help with Your Canje?
Many applicants complete the Canje process independently. However, professional guidance can help avoid entry errors, paperwork issues, language barriers, and costly delays.
Assistance can be provided in person or remotely, including document review, appointment guidance, and step-by-step support before and during your INM visit.
If you would like support or want to better understand your options, feel free to reach out and let us know how we can help