Moving from Mexico to USA

Mexico to the USA is one of the largest relocation corridors in the world. Millions of Mexican professionals, families, and entrepreneurs live and work across the United States. Texas, California, Florida, New York, and Illinois are top destinations with established communities and familiar cultural connections.

• TN Visa under USMCA for qualifying Mexican professionals — requires a job offer in a listed occupation
• H-1B Specialty Occupation Visa for employer-sponsored workers
• L-1 Intracompany Transfer Visa for multinational employees
• Family-based immigration for US citizen or permanent resident relatives
• EB categories for employment-based green cards
• Consular processing at the US Embassy in Mexico City or Monterrey

• Open a US bank account — some banks like BBVA and Citibank have presence in both countries
• Build US credit history early — secured credit cards or ITIN-based credit building
• ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) needed before SSN is issued
• Transfer funds via Wise, Remitly, or bank wire for competitive MXN-to-USD rates
• Maintain Mexican accounts for ongoing obligations or family support

• The US taxes residents on worldwide income — federal plus state taxes apply
• Mexico-US Tax Treaty prevents double taxation on most income types
• Notify SAT (Mexico's tax authority) of your change of fiscal residence
• US state income taxes vary — Texas, Florida, and Nevada have no state income tax
• Social Security Totalization Agreement allows combining work credits from both countries

• Cross-border trucking is standard — most moves from northern Mexico take 1–3 days
• Sea freight from southern Mexico available through ports like Veracruz and Manzanillo
• Personal effects enter the US duty-free under CBP Form 3299 for transferring residents
• Vehicles must meet US EPA and DOT standards — some Mexican-spec vehicles may need modifications
• Food items, plants, and agricultural products have strict USDA restrictions at the border

• Established Mexican communities in Houston, LA, Chicago, and Dallas offer familiar amenities
• Rental applications require SSN or ITIN, credit check, and proof of income
• Cost of living varies dramatically — research specific cities and neighborhoods carefully
• Many areas have bilingual services and Spanish-language community resources

• Public schools are free for all children regardless of immigration status
• ESL (English as a Second Language) programs available in most school districts
• Bring attested transcripts and school records — apostille may be required
• Bilingual education programs available in many states with large Hispanic populations

• Employer-sponsored health insurance is the primary coverage method in the US
• No universal healthcare — ensure coverage before IMSS benefits expire
• ACA Marketplace plans available for those without employer coverage
• Community health centers offer affordable care regardless of immigration status