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Mexico

Despite not having a formal digital nomad visa, Mexico has become a real hotspot for international remote workers.

Like many countries in Central and South America, Mexico has a lot of varied terrain, from beaches to mountains to jungle. The Riviera Maya beaches are a particular highlight, part of over 9,000 miles of coastline.

You’re likely to know about nachos and the enchiladas, but Mexico has plenty of other delectable delicacies to try, such as chilaquiles (fried corn tortillas, with salsa and other toppings), tostadas (fried corn tortillas with optional toppings), elote (corn on the cob), pozole (chicken, ham or vegetarian soup) and tamales (corn dough stuffed with filling).

Co-working spaces can be found in many of the cities, giving you a chance to meet other members of the nomad community. You’ll find most of them in Mexico City, Puerto Vallarta, Tulum and Playa de Carmen. According to figures from Ookla, Mexico has average fixed broadband speeds of 59.23mbps, placing it 74th in the world.

One word of warning: there may be a risk of elevation sickness in Mexico City so keep hydrated and lay off the heavy food until you’ve settled in there.

Mexico has a reasonable cost of living. Here is a breakdown of the figures, according to Numbeo:

  • Three course meal for two at mid-range restaurant – 600 MXN (£27.75)
  • 1 litre of regular milk – 23.78 MXN (£1.09)
  • 500g loaf of fresh white bread – 38.31 (£1.77)
  • One-way ticket on public transport – 10 MXN (46p)
  • Basics (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage) for a 85m squared apartment – 1,062.74 MXN (£49)
  • Rent for one-bed flat in the city centre – 9,601.99 MXN (£444)

The digital nomad visa

https://embamex.sre.gob.mx/reinounido/index.php/en/embassy/about

Name of Visa: Temporary Resident Visa

Fees: $40 (£32) visa appointment fee and between $150 (£122) and $350 (£284) for a temporary residence permit.

Length of stay: Between six months and four years

Can I extend my stay? Yes, but you must renew at least 30 days before your Temporary Visa Card expires via the Instituto Nacional de Migración.

Requirements:

  • Must be an owner of a Mexican property worth at least $346,000 (£280,980)
  • A valid passport
  • Proof of income
  • Proof of medical insurance
  • Proof of relationship (if applicable)
  • Criminal background checks

Minimum salary: $2600 (£2,111) per month for the last six months, plus $861 (£699) extra for every dependent, and a bank balance of $43,000 (£34,919) for the last twelve months.

How to apply: Via the consulate or embassy in your country

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Anna Jordan

Anna is Senior Reporter, covering topics affecting SMEs such as grant funding, managing employees and the day-to-day running of a business.

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