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Canje (Visa Exchange for a Residency Card)

The canje is the step in Mexican immigration where you exchange the residency visa stamped in your passport at a Mexican consulate for a physical resident card from the National Migration Institute (INM). You must start it within 30 days of entering Mexico.

Written by the NorthAmericans Editorial TeamLast verified: Expert review in progress
On this page
  1. How it works
  2. Frequently asked questions
  3. Official sources

How it works

  1. Get a temporary or permanent resident visa at a Mexican consulate abroad.
  2. Enter Mexico and make sure the officer marks your entry as a canje, not a tourist entry, on your FMM.
  3. Within 30 days, file the canje at an INM office, usually with an online form, photos, payment of the card fee, and fingerprints.
  4. Receive your tarjeta de residente.

Missing the 30-day window usually means starting over at a consulate. Your card will show your CURP. See our canje guide and temporary residency.

Frequently asked questions

How long do I have to do the canje?

30 days from your entry into Mexico with the consular visa.

What if I entered as a tourist by mistake?

The canje usually cannot proceed. Contact INM quickly; you may need a new visa.

Can I travel during the canje?

Generally not until you have the card, unless INM grants a special permit.

Official sources

  1. INM: Official sitegob.mx

General information, not legal advice. NorthAmericans.com is independent and not affiliated with any government.