If you are navigating Mexico’s immigration system, prepare for significant delays. The National Immigration Institute (INM) is undergoing major restructuring, and the impact is hitting international residents and travelers the hardest, particularly in:
- Toluca
- Monterrey
- Mexico City
- Guadalajara
- Queretaro
- Aguascalientes
Below is a breakdown of the causes, effects, and what applicants should be cautious about.
What Is Triggering the Immigration Slowdown
1. Appointments Are Nearly Impossible to Secure
The INM’s online booking system, used for everything from temporary residence renewals to indefinite residence applications, is almost nonfunctional. Appointment slots vanish within minutes or are unavailable for weeks.
Emergency cases and family applications are also on hold since the system cannot handle multiple bookings together.
2. Limited In-Person Processing
INM offices in several cities have cut daily appointment slots drastically, creating weeks-long delays. Cities like Queretaro, Aguascalientes, and Toluca face the most severe disruptions.
3. Extra Scrutiny for Certain Nationalities
Citizens from China, Cuba, Colombia, and Venezuela are experiencing additional checks. Even after initial approvals, biometric appointments are delayed, prolonging the wait for resident cards and legal stay documents.
How This Impacts Applicants
Slower Resident Card Issuance
Resident cards are essential not only for legal residence but also for tasks like payroll registration. Delays could push back employment start dates even if other requirements are complete.
Disrupted Travel Plans
If you have not received your resident card, you must secure an Exit Permit to leave Mexico. However, the INM may refuse to issue the permit if your request is still pending—even if it has already been approved.
Why It Is Happening
The delays stem from leadership changes at the INM. A new Commissioner, appointed in May 2025, has reshuffled senior staff and restructured case processing. This has led to stricter checks, slower adjudications, and fewer available appointments.
What Travelers and Employers Should Do
- Plan for delays: Expect weeks of waiting, especially in major cities.
- Book early: Secure an appointment slot as soon as possible, even if the date is not ideal.
- Prepare for split bookings: Families and groups may face fragmented appointments.
- Avoid unnecessary travel: Do not travel unless you have a valid Exit Permit in hand.
Conclusion
Mexico’s immigration system is under considerable strain. Whether you are a foreign worker, employer, or relocating family, it is crucial to prepare for longer timelines and adapt your immigration planning accordingly.