Carta de Naturalización (Mexican Naturalization Letter)
A carta de naturalización (naturalization letter) is the document issued by Mexico's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (SRE) that grants Mexican nationality to a foreigner who has lived in Mexico as a legal resident for the required time and passed the required exams.
Main requirements
- Residence: generally 5 years as a legal resident.
- Shorter, 2-year paths: for spouses of Mexicans, people with a Mexican child by birth, and nationals of Latin American countries, Spain, or Portugal, among others.
- Presence: limits on time spent outside Mexico in the two years before you apply.
- Exams: Spanish and knowledge of Mexican history and culture, with some exemptions.
Naturalized Mexicans formally renounce their previous nationality before Mexico, though your other country may still consider you a citizen. Check your home country's rules. Mexicans by birth can hold dual citizenship.
See our naturalization guide, dual citizenship, and residente permanente.
Frequently asked questions
How long until I can become a Mexican citizen?
Usually 5 years of legal residence, or 2 years in some family and nationality cases.
Do I lose my US or Canadian citizenship?
You renounce it before Mexico, but the US and Canada generally do not treat that as giving up citizenship. Confirm with your country.
Is there a language test?
Yes, most applicants take a Spanish test and a history and culture exam.
Official sources
- SRE: Official sitegob.mx
General information, not legal advice. NorthAmericans.com is independent and not affiliated with any government.