How much money do I actually need to show for Mexico temporary residency in 2026?
For 2026, the official formula is 680 days of UMA per month of income — 680 × $117.31 = $79,771 MXN per month, proven over the last 6 months — or 11,460 days of UMA in savings — 11,460 × $117.31 = $1,344,373 MXN average balance over the last 12 months. Each consulate then converts those peso figures into dollars at its own exchange rate, which is why the "real" number seems to keep changing.
The 2026 numbers
| Path | Formula (2026) | Peso figure |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly income | 680 × UMA ($117.31/day) | $79,771 MXN/month, last 6 months |
| Savings / investments | 11,460 × UMA ($117.31/day) | $1,344,373 MXN, 12-month average, never dipping below |
The daily UMA for 2026 is $117.31 MXN (effective February 1, 2026, up 3.69% from 2025, per INEGI). Note the basis changed: until mid-2025 the formulas used Mexico City minimum wage (300 days / 5,000 days) — any guide still quoting those is outdated.
Why every consulate quotes a different dollar figure
Consulates publish their own USD/CAD conversions. Recent 2026 datapoints: San Diego asked US$4,510/month income or US$75,950 savings; Las Vegas asked US$4,630/month or US$78,025. Same peso rule, different exchange rate and rounding. Always check the specific consulate where you'll apply, and check it close to your appointment date.
Which path is easier?
- Income path suits retirees and remote workers with steady deposits — but consulates want to see the deposits actually hitting your account monthly, and some are picky about what counts as "income."
- Savings path suits people with a lump sum — but the balance must stay above the line for the full 12 months; one dip below can sink the application.
- Some consulates let you combine income + savings; others don't. Ask yours.
Frequently asked questions
Do the figures change during the year?
The UMA updates every February 1, so the peso figures reset annually. Consulates may also adjust their conversion rates mid-year. Verify within weeks of your appointment.
Can I use my spouse's income or a joint account?
Policies vary by consulate. Many accept a spouse's income with a marriage certificate, and some accept joint accounts — but a few insist the funds be in the applicant's name alone. Confirm with your consulate.
I qualify on paper — can I still be denied?
Yes. Solvencia económica is necessary but not sufficient; consulates have discretion. Complete, consistent, well-organized bank statements (officially stamped where required) matter as much as the numbers.
Sources
- https://www.mexperience.com/qualifying-for-legal-residency-in-mexico/
- ExpatDen 2026 consulate figures — https://expatden.com/mexico/mexico-temporary-resident-visa/
- INM trámites (UMA-based structure) — https://www.inm.gob.mx
- SRE consulate visa pages — https://consulmex.sre.gob.mx