BajaNomad

Residencia Permanente card?

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Howard - 2-6-2013 at 12:57 PM

Has anyone in the Loreto area actually received their residencia permanente? Lots of people are waiting after being fingerprinted with lots of promises but proof is in the pudidng!

Has anyone actually received their card in any other areas?

David K - 2-6-2013 at 12:59 PM

Is that like a Kaiser Permanente card? :lol:

(sorry, couldn't resist)

Leo - 2-7-2013 at 07:13 AM

Nope, nada in LAP

Hook - 2-7-2013 at 07:50 AM

My wife received a call yesterday, telling her she can pick hers up in Hermosillo. We'll be going in tomorrow. I'll let everyone know how it goes. It has been almost exactly two months since she applied for it.

CortezBlue - 2-7-2013 at 08:09 AM

I'm in San Felipe and I am told that there are two steps

1. We have to come in and get my photo's done and sign the paperwork

2. Those documents and photos are sent to TJ and then off to D.F. for the permanent card.

My original documents were sent in Jan 3 and I am told it will be at the end of Feb or first part of March before we are "listo"

DENNIS - 2-7-2013 at 09:12 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by comitan

no time frame for this to be corrected.



Not even a "Mañana"? That's not good.

Russ - 2-7-2013 at 10:51 AM

If you're already inmigrado our guy in Santa Rosalia says not to bother unless you want to spend the $

Hook - 2-7-2013 at 12:13 PM

Picked up my temporary resident card today. Mine has the correct two year expiration but there are NUMEROUS cases of persons who applied for a four or three year one out of the Guaymas office and their expiration date has shorted them a year. No means of fixing it, according to the INM agents. Certainly it is their fault as I suspect it resulted from the misleading Prorroga numbers on the back of the old FM3s.

BTW, I repeatedly heard an INM officer in the Guaymas office refer to the "Permanente" card as being a TEN YEAR CARD, not the "infinity" card that was originally talked about. Is anyone really surprised at that?

vandenberg - 2-7-2013 at 12:30 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Russ
If you're already inmigrado our guy in Santa Rosalia says not to bother unless you want to spend the $


I have the inmigrado status stamped in my old green FM2 book. So, you're telling me that this should suffice if ever get asked for my status? Definitely do not want to bring unnecessary attention to myself.:biggrin: Could be costly.:biggrin:

Hook - 2-7-2013 at 12:38 PM

Inmigrado is no longer an official classification, according to the INM agents we have dealt with. It is Residente Permanente.

vandenberg - 2-7-2013 at 12:42 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Hook
Inmigrado is no longer an official classification, according to the INM agents we have dealt with. It is Residente Permanente.


According to Russ's guy, it's still valid.

DENNIS - 2-7-2013 at 12:43 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Hook

BTW, I repeatedly heard an INM officer in the Guaymas office refer to the "Permanente" card as being a TEN YEAR CARD, not the "infinity" card that was originally talked about. Is anyone really surprised at that?


No surprise at all. Problem is that it may be close to it's first expiration before we first see it.

Hook - 2-9-2013 at 11:23 AM

Wife has hers in her possession. There is no expiration date on it. When I asked the agent in HMO about it, he stated that it does not expire; it is permanent until you relinquish it.

That's today's answer.............:lol:

It is virtually identical to the temporal cards except for the word "permanente" instead of temporal and the lack of an expiration date. It even comes adhered to a cover letter that is EXACTLY the same for both types of cards.

El Jefe - 2-9-2013 at 02:06 PM

Great news. Paula put in for her permanente at the end of November. Should be ready in Cabo next week according to our agent. As has everyone, we've been wondering.......

Anyone else get one?

Howard - 2-18-2013 at 09:41 AM

Lots and lots of promises here in Loreto but has any actually receved one in Loreto or anywhere else besides Hook's wife??

Hook - 2-18-2013 at 09:49 AM

There are others on the Mazatlan board that have received them. But there are still lots of people over here that are waiting, even ones that used an agent.

Scorpimon - 2-18-2013 at 06:16 PM

Howard, I received my Residente Permanente today in Loreto after 3 1/2 weeks with the paperwork in Mexico City. Here is the timeline for getting them (my wife and I).

I applied in the Denver Mexican Consulate before moving down here full time the first day the new regulations went into effect. Crossed at Tecate and obtained a free FMM for the documentation of entry into Mexico 19 December. Checked in at the Loreto INM office the first day after the Xmas shutdown 03 January and submitted all the additional paperwork they requested. The paperwork was sent to La Paz and returned 3 weeks later and we did the fingerprint thing and then it was off to Mexico City with the paperwork. It took 3 1/2 weeks there before the it was returned to Loreto INM office.

If anyone else in Loreto is waiting for theirs to arrive I would check because there was a stack of letters from Mexico City waiting to be signed for. The entire process took over 3 months but in all fairness the 50 days between 11/13 and 1/3 was on me waiting to move and the timing of the Xmas shutdown. We are pretty happy with the outcome and length of time it took considering we did not have any current immigration documents and started from scratch. The green color card has a CURP number and no expiration date and no restrictions upon entering and exiting Mexico. The effective date of the card is 19 December, the day we entered Mexico for our move. Good luck to everyone else waiting for their cards, the system is moving along, only at manana speed.

Ernie

Leo - 2-18-2013 at 06:32 PM

Yes it moving along at 'snail's pace'. I just checked this morning on our status and it actuall said on the immigration website that we have to come in to the office. I hope it's for finger-printing. Since it took so long, I am not in a hurry. Will go to LAP next week probably.

MitchMan - 2-18-2013 at 07:27 PM

If you get your Residente Permanente status, can you still drive your US plated and registered vehicle in Baja (assuming you have one)?

DENNIS - 2-18-2013 at 07:37 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by MitchMan
If you get your Residente Permanente status, can you still drive your US plated and registered vehicle in Baja (assuming you have one)?


Don't ask....Don't tell.

Hook - 2-18-2013 at 07:45 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by MitchMan
If you get your Residente Permanente status, can you still drive your US plated and registered vehicle in Baja (assuming you have one)?


No one is certain, one way or another. There are rumors that a ruling on that is "coming".........

Never mind asking INM; it's not their bailiwick. It's an Aduana thing.

durrelllrobert - 2-18-2013 at 07:54 PM

THE NEW REQUIREMENT FOR ALL US PLATED VEHICLES TO BE TEMPORALY IMPORTED TO MEXICO DOES NOT APPLY TO BAJA:



Actualmente las únicas excepciones a los requisitos son para viajes a la Península de Baja California y el estado de Sonora, y solo para vehículos entrando por el puerto de entrada de Nogales.

Currently the only exceptions to the requirements are for travel to Baja California and Sonora, and only for vehicles entering through the Nogales port of entry.

Leo - 2-19-2013 at 04:20 PM

To answer Mitch Man's question; not sure about this, but keep in mind that the 'permanente' status does not make you a Mexican, so I believe you can drive whatever you want.

Hook - 2-25-2013 at 09:52 PM

WHO says you have to nationalize your car?

Isnt your Isuzu built in Japan? Wont that be ineligible for importing?

oladulce - 2-26-2013 at 07:27 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by soulpatch
My family and I finally got our cards.... my kids have to renew every 4 years until they are 18....
My wife and I? Never.
I can apply for citizenship in 4 years.



Soulpatch,
Did you guys have fm3's before you moved to Mex fulltime? If not, and you used tourist cards for your Baja trips, what criteria did they use for your Permanentes?

Great to hear all is well over there.

[Edited on 2-26-2013 by oladulce]

MitchMan - 2-26-2013 at 11:17 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by soulpatch
My family and I finally got our cards.... my kids have to renew every 4 years until they are 18....
My wife and I? Never.
Have to Nationalize my Isuzu and the Toyota won't fly.... whatever.

I can apply for citizenship in 4 years.

Life is good here in Nayarit!:biggrin:


For those located in the Mainland of Mexico, there is definitely a requirement to nationalize your vehicle if you have Resedente Permanente status, and, Nayarit is certainly in Mainland Mexico.

I've read some literature lately that may indicate that nationalizing of US plated vehicles may not be a requirement in Baja because the Baja is, in its entirety, a "Free Zone".

Every time I see the wording, however, it is not absolutely conclusive. When you read about the requirements for nationalizing such vehicles by those that get their Residente Permanente, there is always a separate phrase saying that nationalizing of US plated vehicles requirements does not apply to any part of the Baja because it is a Free Zone.

I would like to see something authoritative that specifically says that those who reside in Baja that get their Residente Permanente status do not have to nationalize their vehicles. Haven't seen that wording yet anywhere, but I have seen the phrase saying that Nationalizing of foreign vehicles is not a requirement in Baja. There is a difference.

[Edited on 2-26-2013 by MitchMan]

DENNIS - 2-26-2013 at 11:31 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by soulpatch

I can apply for citizenship in 4 years.



Why would you consider this? I'm just curious.

MitchMan - 2-26-2013 at 11:38 AM

Not have to pay cap gains tax or IETU or IVA on the sale of a personal residence as a Mexican citizen could be a reason.

Leo - 2-26-2013 at 04:00 PM

Yep, MitchMan, good thinking!

gpm414 - 3-15-2013 at 08:04 AM

Anyone received their Residente Permanente card from the LaPaz immigration office yet. How long did it take? We turned all the paperwork in on Feb. 7th, have been through all the approvals and did the final fingerprints on March 5th and were told another month until the card is back in LaPaz. Wondering if it will take a full month or is Mexico City starting to process the Permanente cards a little faster ?? Apparently the La Paz office will call us when the card is there.

Thinking of leaving after Easter and just pick up the card when we return in the Fall if it is not back by when we leave. The office in La Paz is jammed with people flying out of the country and waiting to get letters to allow them to leave as the process is taking so long for final cards to be returned.

monoloco - 3-15-2013 at 08:12 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by gpm414
Anyone received their Residente Permanente card from the LaPaz immigration office yet. How long did it take? We turned all the paperwork in on Feb. 7th, have been through all the approvals and did the final fingerprints on March 5th and were told another month until the card is back in LaPaz. Wondering if it will take a full month or is Mexico City starting to process the Permanente cards a little faster ?? Apparently the La Paz office will call us when the card is there.

Thinking of leaving after Easter and just pick up the card when we return in the Fall if it is not back by when we leave. The office in La Paz is jammed with people flying out of the country and waiting to get letters to allow them to leave as the process is taking so long for final cards to be returned.
You would have to get an en tramite letter to leave the country without your credencial, which I believe is only good for a maximum 60 days.

bajaguy - 3-15-2013 at 08:21 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by gpm414
Anyone received their Residente Permanente card from the LaPaz immigration office yet. How long did it take? We turned all the paperwork in on Feb. 7th, have been through all the approvals and did the final fingerprints on March 5th and were told another month until the card is back in LaPaz. Wondering if it will take a full month or is Mexico City starting to process the Permanente cards a little faster ?? Apparently the La Paz office will call us when the card is there.

Thinking of leaving after Easter and just pick up the card when we return in the Fall if it is not back by when we leave. The office in La Paz is jammed with people flying out of the country and waiting to get letters to allow them to leave as the process is taking so long for final cards to be returned.





You have 90 days to pick up the card at INM once it is ready

akshadow - 3-15-2013 at 08:50 AM

Quote:
You have 90 days to pick up the card at INM once it is ready


different maybe? San Felipe We are getting a temporary resident card. sent in paperwork Dec. had been on third year of renewal, left for two months, went back to Immigration in Feb. color pictures and finger prints. told it may be back in one to two months.
Told officer we are leaving mid April, he said it may not be back then asked us when we are returning. We said October, he said not problem, just as long as we got back before it expired.
So appears that 90 days after final approval may not apply?

bajaguy - 3-15-2013 at 08:59 AM

Quote:
Quote:
Originally posted by akshadow
You have 90 days to pick up the card at INM once it is ready


different maybe? San Felipe We are getting a temporary resident card. sent in paperwork Dec. had been on third year of renewal, left for two months, went back to Immigration in Feb. color pictures and finger prints. told it may be back in one to two months.
Told officer we are leaving mid April, he said it may not be back then asked us when we are returning. We said October, he said not problem, just as long as we got back before it expired.
So appears that 90 days after final approval may not apply?





Lo Siento.....forgot this is Mexico........the 90 day info came from Ensenada INM.....ymmv, depending on location, day of week, time of day and who (whom) you talked to

Riom - 3-15-2013 at 06:18 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by akshadow
San Felipe We are getting a temporary resident card. sent in paperwork Dec. had been on third year of renewal, left for two months, went back to Immigration in Feb. color pictures and finger prints. told it may be back in one to two months.
Told officer we are leaving mid April, he said it may not be back then asked us when we are returning.


I did the fingerprints and photos in San Felipe around Jan 20th, then picked up my temporary resident card (and signed the book) around Feb 24th, so there's a good chance your card will arrive in time, keep checking (they're neatly filed with your application when they arrive).

There are lots of entries in the book for the cards that are available, but not many of them have been collected (signed for) yet. Immigration won't notify you when the card is ready.

Rob

gnukid - 3-16-2013 at 09:45 AM

Quote:
Quote:
Originally posted by akshadow
You have 90 days to pick up the card at INM once it is ready


different maybe? San Felipe We are getting a temporary resident card. sent in paperwork Dec. had been on third year of renewal, left for two months, went back to Immigration in Feb. color pictures and finger prints. told it may be back in one to two months.
Told officer we are leaving mid April, he said it may not be back then asked us when we are returning. We said October, he said not problem, just as long as we got back before it expired.
So appears that 90 days after final approval may not apply?


You must pick up the card within a time limit or it will expire, I would not trust the conversation you had, it may have been a misunderstanding or perhaps the agent is inexperienced or perhaps the rules changed but I would not risk losing all that effort to a misunderstanding as has happened to many frineds who expected to be able to go back after 6 months and pick up a waiting card that was expired. Worse, you beleive your legal and drive through the border with your temp exit papers to arrive to pick up the new card and find that not only did you lose the time, money and years on a visa in good standing to find that you are now a criminal in the country illegally and you are in big trouble. Take a nice trip and go get your card when it is ready. Sheesh.

DENNIS - 3-16-2013 at 09:45 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by soulpatch
Hey Dennis,
MitchMan nailed with the citizenship answer.




Well....I was just asking, but, personally, I would need a more emotional reason to want to be a citizen of any country other than my own.

greengoes - 3-16-2013 at 10:07 AM

Living in Ensenada makes it sooooo easy to nationalize your car......

Just take all the license plates off it and it will blend right in.

:)

RnR - 3-16-2013 at 01:24 PM

Quote:
Quote:
Originally posted by gnukid
Quote:
Originally posted by akshadow
You have 90 days to pick up the card at INM once it is ready


different maybe? San Felipe We are getting a temporary resident card. sent in paperwork Dec. had been on third year of renewal, left for two months, went back to Immigration in Feb. color pictures and finger prints. told it may be back in one to two months.
Told officer we are leaving mid April, he said it may not be back then asked us when we are returning. We said October, he said not problem, just as long as we got back before it expired.
So appears that 90 days after final approval may not apply?


You must pick up the card within a time limit or it will expire, I would not trust the conversation you had, it may have been a misunderstanding or perhaps the agent is inexperienced or perhaps the rules changed but I would not risk losing all that effort to a misunderstanding as has happened to many frineds who expected to be able to go back after 6 months and pick up a waiting card that was expired. Worse, you beleive your legal and drive through the border with your temp exit papers to arrive to pick up the new card and find that not only did you lose the time, money and years on a visa in good standing to find that you are now a criminal in the country illegally and you are in big trouble. Take a nice trip and go get your card when it is ready. Sheesh.



I can't possibly see how it would be okay to leave in April and pick up the card in October.

My understanding of the official (and legal) process:

1. You submit your application for a new card. (and they take your old card as part of the process).

2. While your application is being processed, you decide to leave the country.

3. To leave legally (w/o a current immigration card), you must apply for a "Permission to Leave and Return" letter.

4. The "Permission" letter has a maximum term of 60 days. You must return to Mexico before the 60 days expire.

5. April to October is more than 60 days ...... ??

:?:

monoloco - 3-16-2013 at 01:52 PM

Quote:
Quote:
Originally posted by RnR
Quote:
Originally posted by gnukid
Quote:
Originally posted by akshadow
You have 90 days to pick up the card at INM once it is ready


different maybe? San Felipe We are getting a temporary resident card. sent in paperwork Dec. had been on third year of renewal, left for two months, went back to Immigration in Feb. color pictures and finger prints. told it may be back in one to two months.
Told officer we are leaving mid April, he said it may not be back then asked us when we are returning. We said October, he said not problem, just as long as we got back before it expired.
So appears that 90 days after final approval may not apply?


You must pick up the card within a time limit or it will expire, I would not trust the conversation you had, it may have been a misunderstanding or perhaps the agent is inexperienced or perhaps the rules changed but I would not risk losing all that effort to a misunderstanding as has happened to many frineds who expected to be able to go back after 6 months and pick up a waiting card that was expired. Worse, you beleive your legal and drive through the border with your temp exit papers to arrive to pick up the new card and find that not only did you lose the time, money and years on a visa in good standing to find that you are now a criminal in the country illegally and you are in big trouble. Take a nice trip and go get your card when it is ready. Sheesh.



I can't possibly see how it would be okay to leave in April and pick up the card in October.

My understanding of the official (and legal) process:

1. You submit your application for a new card. (and they take your old card as part of the process).

2. While your application is being processed, you decide to leave the country.

3. To leave legally (w/o a current immigration card), you must apply for a "Permission to Leave and Return" letter.

4. The "Permission" letter has a maximum term of 60 days. You must return to Mexico before the 60 days expire.

5. April to October is more than 60 days ...... ??

:?:
From my personal experience I believe you are correct RnR. Seeing how it is illegal to get a tourist card if you have another immigration status and the letter of permission to leave is only valid for 60 days, theoretically, you would have no LEGAL way to re-enter Mexico.

laventana - 6-1-2013 at 05:08 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by MitchMan
Quote:
Originally posted by soulpatch
My family and I finally got our cards.... my kids have to renew every 4 years until they are 18....
My wife and I? Never.
Have to Nationalize my Isuzu and the Toyota won't fly.... whatever.

I can apply for citizenship in 4 years.

Life is good here in Nayarit!:biggrin:


For those located in the Mainland of Mexico, there is definitely a requirement to nationalize your vehicle if you have Resedente Permanente status, and, Nayarit is certainly in Mainland Mexico.

I've read some literature lately that may indicate that nationalizing of US plated vehicles may not be a requirement in Baja because the Baja is, in its entirety, a "Free Zone".

Every time I see the wording, however, it is not absolutely conclusive. When you read about the requirements for nationalizing such vehicles by those that get their Residente Permanente, there is always a separate phrase saying that nationalizing of US plated vehicles requirements does not apply to any part of the Baja because it is a Free Zone.

I would like to see something authoritative that specifically says that those who reside in Baja that get their Residente Permanente status do not have to nationalize their vehicles. Haven't seen that wording yet anywhere, but I have seen the phrase saying that Nationalizing of foreign vehicles is not a requirement in Baja. There is a difference.

[Edited on 2-26-2013 by MitchMan]


They are also saying people with work permits can not drive foreign plated vehicles either on the mainland.

Also here is the kicker. the new insurance regs for a life went from USD$50k to USD$300k in baja sur at least. so if you are illegal by Mexicos laws if you are in a US plated vehicle the insurance company can deny the claim. They certainly do that in the USA all the time.

So with the new costs for a death this would leave a person in jail a long time. Who wants to be the test case for this one.... All I am doing here is just letting people who are risk adverse know what the potential is now.

Can anyone tell me what it costs to import cars. I was recently told that at the Otay Mesa Office to remove the TIP stickers there is a business across the street from them that says they can nationalize a car in 6 hours.

Lets have this information if anyone has it.

DENNIS - 6-1-2013 at 05:21 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by laventana
Can anyone tell me what it costs to import cars.


Depends on the vehicle's age. A ten year old Baja beater will cost around 500 dollars.

Don't let you FM3/FM2 expire before submitting aplication for Residente Permanente

durrelllrobert - 6-1-2013 at 06:46 PM

A friend here in Punta Banda hired and paid an agent to apply for her RP 30 days before her FM2 expired. The agent did not submit the application until the day after it expired so it was rejected and she now has to start the 4 year period all over with a Residente Temporal card

[Edited on 6-2-2013 by durrelllrobert]

J.P. - 6-1-2013 at 07:22 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by durrelllrobert
A friend here in Punta Banda hired and paid an agent to apply for her RP 30 days before her FM2 expired. The agent did not submit the application until the day after it expired so it was rejected and she now has to start the 4 year period all over with a Residente Temporal card

[Edited on 6-2-2013 by durrelllrobert]




The same thing happened to me. Needless to say the Responsible party is no longer working for me. And will never again.

UnoMas - 6-1-2013 at 07:54 PM

I left Mexico three months in to the P/R application on a 60 day temporary exit visa. After 30 days was notified I needed to come in for finger printing so I contacted my INM attorney and explained that I was having some medical procedures done and also wanted to file income taxes before returning to Mexico. I was told everything would be fine and I entered Mexico 30 days late on my temp and no one said anything about it. Went in to The INM office had prints taken and 14 days later had my card in hand. I think they may be very flexible on the exit visas.

RedBear - 6-4-2013 at 10:54 PM

It's been quite interesting to read everyone's immigration process experiences. I was just in Sta. Rosalia to process my new status, and deposte calling ahead to notify the office that I would process late due to personal issues, I was told that I had to start the entire process over because my FM3 (which i've had for nine years) had expired. Funny, because I was told by phone in April that I had six months to apply for the new immigration status once my FM3 had expired. Now I understand that only applies to people with FM2's. Those have to expire and then you have six months to apply for new status. Had I showed up one day before my card expired, I would have been fine. Long story short, after paying a hefty fine for being late and feesf or the new card, I left Sta. Rosalia with the infamous letter and will return for my new "Residente Temporal" card after getting an email from La Paz...hopefully sometime in July/August. So basically, don;t let your FM3 expire. I just lost nine years of resident status despite having notified them in advance...oh well, lessons learned....

Bob and jane - 6-5-2013 at 05:38 AM

Regarding the importacion/nationalization of cars at Otay Mesa:
The office is right next door to the banjercito office at the border. The business is called Sanchez y Asociados. Their phone number is 664-217-9131. Their e-mail (or at least the e-mail of the man we spoke to) is: luisimporta@yahoo.com. They were recommended to us by the people at the banjercito office. Luis said that a newer pickup (you can't import one newer than 2007 I believe) would cost around $1000 USD and the price would go down with the age of the vehicle. And, yes, he said it could be done in 6 or 7 hours. We will be nationalizing our truck through them in September and will let you know how it goes.

villafontana - 6-5-2013 at 11:48 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by David K
Is that like a Kaiser Permanente card? :lol:

(sorry, couldn't resist)


Hahahahaha. Good one, King Nomad!

Suzie - 6-9-2013 at 05:24 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Howard
Has anyone in the Loreto area actually received their residencia permanente? Lots of people are waiting after being fingerprinted with lots of promises but proof is in the pudidng!

Has anyone actually received their card in any other areas?

Suzie - 6-9-2013 at 05:25 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Howard
Has anyone in the Loreto area actually received their residencia permanente? Lots of people are waiting after being fingerprinted with lots of promises but proof is in the pudidng!

Has anyone actually received their card in any other areas?


My husband and I received ours in Ensenada last week. No
expiration date.

Ensenada

bajaguy - 6-9-2013 at 05:29 PM

Got mine in hand, easy squeezy!!

monoloco - 6-9-2013 at 05:37 PM

Everyone that I know who has applied through the La Paz office has gotten theirs with no problem. Ours took two weeks after being fingerprinted.

RnR - 6-10-2013 at 07:56 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by RedBear
... and will return for my new "Residente Temporal" card after getting an email from La Paz...



Don't just sit back and wait for the La Paz INM office to email you, (like they say they will) The emails are NOT happening.

Be pro-active and keep checking. They had asked for my email two or three times "for notifications".

The current notification system is to post a list on the wall in the waiting room. Stopped in one day, checked "the list", my name was on it, walked out with my card in about twenty minutes. "The list" was dated two weeks prior, and, NO email.

Also, after fingerprinting, your status is not updated or tracked on INM's "sigue su tramite" (follow your application) website.

Marinero - 6-10-2013 at 07:56 AM

Except for the comic replies, this thread is a tribute to what happens when one tries to make sense out of nonsense. No offense meant to any posters, just a reflection on us gringos and the Mexican way of doing things.

Marinero - 6-10-2013 at 08:34 PM

BTW, just received word my RP card is ready to pick up at my agents. Total time from submission to card 6 weeks including journey to Mex. City for processing. Not bad. Early applicants had a hell of a time. Looks like the learning curve is flattening out.

DENNIS - 6-11-2013 at 06:59 AM

I got mine and I'm done with it....until they change things anyway. :fire:

Leo - 6-11-2013 at 11:28 AM

Good for you Dennis, finally!
And you beated me, mine is on its way but took forever also.

DENNIS - 6-11-2013 at 11:37 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Leo
Good for you Dennis, finally!
And you beated me, mine is on its way but took forever also.


Stay on top of it, Leo. Mine was in Immigration for I don't know how long before I finally called the agent to look into it. It seems they don't communicate with each other unless they're asked to do so. That's the Ensenada way.

RnR - 6-11-2013 at 02:03 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by DENNIS
Quote:
Originally posted by Leo
Good for you Dennis, finally!
And you beated me, mine is on its way but took forever also.


Stay on top of it, Leo. Mine was in Immigration for I don't know how long before I finally called the agent to look into it. It seems they don't communicate with each other unless they're asked to do so. That's the Ensenada way.


X2, Leo

At the risk of repeating myself from earlier in the thread:

Don't just sit back and wait for the La Paz INM office to email you, (like they say they will) The emails are NOT happening.

Be pro-active and keep checking. They had asked for my email two or three times "for notifications".

The current notification system is to post a list on the wall in the waiting room. Stopped in one day, checked "the list", my name was on it, walked out with my card in about twenty minutes. "The list" was dated two weeks prior, and, NO email.

Also, after fingerprinting, your status is not updated or tracked on INM's "sigue su tramite" (follow your application) website.

weebray - 6-11-2013 at 02:54 PM

"A friend here in Punta Banda hired and paid an agent to apply for her RP 30 days before her FM2 expired. The agent did not submit the application until the day after it expired so it was rejected and she now has to start the 4 year period all over with a Residente Temporal card"
This is a quote from a previous post.
WHAAAAAAAAAT? We went into migracion today and asked when we should apply for our permanente status. Our FM2's expire at the end of August 2013. The agent said we cannot apply until AFTER our FM2's expire. We then have 6mo. to apply for perm. status. I asked what if we flew out of Mexico and returned after our FM2,s had expired, she said our expired doc's would be legal and we should just tell migracion at the airport that we were going to apply for perm. status. She said we cannot apply before our FM2's expire.

Leo - 6-11-2013 at 03:22 PM

Weebray, don't believe it. Everyone tells you different.
To my knowledge, one can and has to apply within ONE month of expiry. My FM2 was to expire January 30 and we went in January 15 and started the proces. The RP's were done on April 17. Then there can always be a surprice like mine had someone elses picture and signature on it which took them another 4 weeks to fix.

weebray - 6-11-2013 at 04:09 PM

We went into migracion today with our questions in writing and in Spanish so there could not be any confusion. The agent showed us the back of our cards where it said "refrendo 3" and said we would not be able to start the application process until AFTER our current FM2's expired at the end of August. She really seemed to know what she was talking about and we are sure we understood what she said. We aren't sure what refrendo 3 means but maybe that has something to do with it???

chuckie - 6-11-2013 at 05:42 PM

I amstill struggling with this....aside from the annual fee, and for me the non problem of renewal....what are the benefits? If I have to import my vehicles, possibly pay taxes on my income etc....why do it?

Leo - 6-12-2013 at 09:19 AM

If the income is from mexican sources, Chuckie, you have to declare that anyway. They are not taxing your US income. You will get sort of a dual-citizenship status so you can drive your foreign plated car with your US driver's license but don't let any Mexican drive that car.
Down the road you might save a lot of tax when selling your mexican home (if you have one) I believe it is after 5 year residental status your lawyer who is closing the deal for you can apply for tax-exempt status on any profits you might have.

laventana - 6-12-2013 at 09:42 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Leo
If the income is from mexican sources, Chuckie, you have to declare that anyway. They are not taxing your US income. You will get sort of a dual-citizenship status so you can drive your foreign plated car with your US driver's license but don't let any Mexican drive that car.
Down the road you might save a lot of tax when selling your mexican home (if you have one) I believe it is after 5 year residental status your lawyer who is closing the deal for you can apply for tax-exempt status on any profits you might have.


I am not sure this the car part is complete, people on the mainland side with the new permanent residency are being told and rejected from getting TIP passes for US plated vehicles. That you must have Mexican plated vehicles as a permanent resident. I read they are telling people if you are driving north back to the USA your car will not be confiscated.

This seems accurate to me as I have read several people already have been stopped from taking the Ferry to the mainland from LaPaz that for the first time had permanent residency. I also had a friend years back who had his FM2 and he could not take his vehicle to the mainland and once in a while being pulled over in LaPaz they would threaten to confiscate his car, but they never did.

So the concern here is they may with so many people now being permanent residents now enforce that part down in baja sur.

also not sure if the capital gains is up to date, it may only be up to a certain amount, which may be about USD$400k-600k.

And the income issue is also touchy, do find a tax attorney on that one as you may be liable for all income you make including in the USA businesses. Just like as a US citizen you have to declare all money you make all over the world but you are not double taxed in the usa if you pay in another country, but if you pay less then you are taxed in the USA for the additional amount. It would not be unreasonable for the same logic in Mexico as a permanent resident.

These are the areas of why I have not ventured into FM2 old and now permanent residency for the 14 years I have been here.

[Edited on 6-12-2013 by laventana]

I think this is the needed CLARIFICATION

durrelllrobert - 6-12-2013 at 09:51 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by weebray
We went into migracion today with our questions in writing and in Spanish so there could not be any confusion. The agent showed us the back of our cards where it said "refrendo 3" and said we would not be able to start the application process until AFTER our current FM2's expired at the end of August. She really seemed to know what she was talking about and we are sure we understood what she said. We aren't sure what refrendo 3 means but maybe that has something to do with it???

1. In order to apply for RP (without having to show income, etc.) you have to have held your FM3/FM2 (or combination of both) for 4 years MINIMUM.
2. The first year you held your new FM it does not show a "refrendo"
3 At the start of the second year it shows "refrendo 1" meaning that 1 full year is completed.
4. At the start of the third year it shows "refrendo 2" meaning that 2 full years are completed.
5. At the start of the fourth year it shows "refrendo 3" meaning that 3 full years are completed.
6. When that FM expires (and only after it expires) you have completed the 4 years MINIMUM required to apply for RP and you must apply within 60 days of expiration.
7. Since my friends FM2 already showed a"refendo 4" she had to apply BEFORE it expired and since she didn't her application was rejected.

weebray - 6-12-2013 at 01:49 PM

OK, Sr. Durrell to clarify: If a person has an FM2 with refredo 3 on the back they must wait until the tarjeta expires then apply for RP within 60 days?? That is what the migracion agent told us except she said that we had to apply within 6 months of experiy. She also said that our expired FM2's would be legal and valid for 6 months. Crazy but you would think that a refrendo 4 would be a better status than 3 but things aren't always intuitive here.

DaliDali - 6-12-2013 at 02:31 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by weebray
OK, Sr. Durrell to clarify: If a person has an FM2 with refredo 3 on the back they must wait until the tarjeta expires then apply for RP within 60 days?? That is what the migracion agent told us except she said that we had to apply within 6 months of experiy. She also said that our expired FM2's would be legal and valid for 6 months. Crazy but you would think that a refrendo 4 would be a better status than 3 but things aren't always intuitive here.


I was told the very same thing by the Loreto Migra.
The FM-2 MUST expire FIRST.....then one must apply for the permanent status with 6 months. The time period after your card expires to the time you start the process for permanent.....that FM-2 card is valid.

I asked them again.....twice more in fact, in front of more than one agent.
Both times, both agreed. Apply for the permanent within 6 months AFTER the FM-2 visa expires.

rhintransit - 6-12-2013 at 03:49 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by DaliDali
Quote:
Originally posted by weebray
OK, Sr. Durrell to clarify: If a person has an FM2 with refredo 3 on the back they must wait until the tarjeta expires then apply for RP within 60 days?? That is what the migracion agent told us except she said that we had to apply within 6 months of experiy. She also said that our expired FM2's would be legal and valid for 6 months. Crazy but you would think that a refrendo 4 would be a better status than 3 but things aren't always intuitive here.


I was told the very same thing by the Loreto Migra.
The FM-2 MUST expire FIRST.....then one must apply for the permanent status with 6 months. The time period after your card expires to the time you start the process for permanent.....that FM-2 card is valid.

I asked them again.....twice more in fact, in front of more than one agent.
Both times, both agreed. Apply for the permanent within 6 months AFTER the FM-2 visa expires.


well, Loreto INM has its own interpretation of the rules. as does every other local office, I would assume.
having done it myself for seven years, and having studied the law, I chose to have a lawyer deal with the Loreto folks for me this last time. they said I couldn't apply for PR, I said I could
see older post: 'they said it couldn't be done. free at last'
for those who don't want to refer to it, I couldn't resist sharing my photo one more time:

[Edited on 6-12-2013 by rhintransit]

DSCN5671.JPG - 24kB

DaliDali - 6-12-2013 at 05:22 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by rhintransit
Quote:
Originally posted by DaliDali
Quote:
Originally posted by weebray
OK, Sr. Durrell to clarify: If a person has an FM2 with refredo 3 on the back they must wait until the tarjeta expires then apply for RP within 60 days?? That is what the migracion agent told us except she said that we had to apply within 6 months of experiy. She also said that our expired FM2's would be legal and valid for 6 months. Crazy but you would think that a refrendo 4 would be a better status than 3 but things aren't always intuitive here.


I was told the very same thing by the Loreto Migra.
The FM-2 MUST expire FIRST.....then one must apply for the permanent status with 6 months. The time period after your card expires to the time you start the process for permanent.....that FM-2 card is valid.

I asked them again.....twice more in fact, in front of more than one agent.
Both times, both agreed. Apply for the permanent within 6 months AFTER the FM-2 visa expires.


well, Loreto INM has its own interpretation of the rules. as does every other local office, I would assume.
having done it myself for seven years, and having studied the law, I chose to have a lawyer deal with the Loreto folks for me this last time. they said I couldn't apply for PR, I said I could
see older post: 'they said it couldn't be done. free at last'
for those who don't want to refer to it, I couldn't resist sharing my photo one more time:

[Edited on 6-12-2013 by rhintransit]


I believe you!!....those of us who have tramped through the forest (desert) here long enough understand "this is the way it works" and have accepted it as a just another adventure.

If your attorney is local...or not...what a pearl of information he/she might be able to provide the "real" scoop. (or his/her interpretation of it)

Like maybe publish it for all concerned to digest what is says, with quotes of the actual statute which states the law as written and highlighted links to that actual statute.

Nah.....that would be asking too much I am sure.

Congratulations on your new status.
I am hoping to join you in a few short months. (if the water does not rise)

durrelllrobert - 6-12-2013 at 06:53 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by durrelllrobert
Quote:
Originally posted by weebray
We went into migracion today with our questions in writing and in Spanish so there could not be any confusion. The agent showed us the back of our cards where it said "refrendo 3" and said we would not be able to start the application process until AFTER our current FM2's expired at the end of August. She really seemed to know what she was talking about and we are sure we understood what she said. We aren't sure what refrendo 3 means but maybe that has something to do with it???

1. In order to apply for RP (without having to show income, etc.) you have to have held your FM3/FM2 (or combination of both) for 4 years MINIMUM.
2. The first year you held your new FM it does not show a "refrendo"
3 At the start of the second year it shows "refrendo 1" meaning that 1 full year is completed.
4. At the start of the third year it shows "refrendo 2" meaning that 2 full years are completed.
5. At the start of the fourth year it shows "refrendo 3" meaning that 3 full years are completed.
6. When that FM expires (and only after it expires) you have completed the 4 years MINIMUM required to apply for RP and you must apply within 60 days of expiration.
7. Since my friends FM2 already showed a"refendo 4" she had to apply BEFORE it expired and since she didn't her application was rejected.


I should have prefaced this clarification with "This is how my agent in Ensenada described it. May not apply to other INM offices.

Bob and jane - 6-12-2013 at 07:22 PM

Another experience in Loreto:
We were in our 4th refrendo (meaning in our fifth year of Fm2). We applied a month before the expiration date of our FM2 at the Loreto migracion. Everyone was very helpful and appreciative that we had done all the paperwork on our own. Three weeks later we had our fingerprints taken and the application was sent to DF. We are told that our new "residente permanente" visas will be here in a few weeks. We feel confident that that will happen. Good vibes all around. Just our experience.

chuckie - 6-13-2013 at 04:12 AM

There is always LOTs of discussion re: Getting the RP.....But little in the way of defining what our responsibilities are AFTER getting one. We came close here a couple of times, but I am not clear yet on Auto imports and taxes. The downsides may be significant, and the paperwork worse....

Marinero - 6-13-2013 at 05:05 AM

For what it is worth, the cover letter that came with my new RP says

"Immigration document renewals must be made within thirty calendar days prior to its expiration."

bajaguy - 6-13-2013 at 06:54 AM

If you wait till it expires, you are toast. You have to apply no sooner than 30 days prior to expiration.

ncampion - 6-13-2013 at 07:38 AM

I too am concerned with possible "unintended consequences" of the RP. What with all the uncertaities, we're considering going back to the bi-annual "Tourist Visa". Simple, cheap and easy.

Does anyone know for sure if property ownership (FTD) requires and RP or RT? When we got our FTD we were never asked for our FM3. Do all those time-share and condo owners in Cabo have FM3's?

(FTD = Fideicomiso Traslativo de Dominio)
Quote:
Originally posted by chuckie
There is always LOTs of discussion re: Getting the RP.....But little in the way of defining what our responsibilities are AFTER getting one. We came close here a couple of times, but I am not clear yet on Auto imports and taxes. The downsides may be significant, and the paperwork worse....

DENNIS - 6-13-2013 at 08:07 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by ncampion

Does anyone know for sure if property ownership (FTD) requires and RP or RT?


If you or your property get jambed up in litigation, you will have to have proper status to defend yourself in court and they know a tourist when they see one. Obviously, property owners living here aren't tourists and that's how the courts will see it, and they will, if you're lucky, insist you normalize your status before your case goes on. I've seen this happen.

LaTijereta - 6-13-2013 at 08:33 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by ncampion
I too am concerned with possible "unintended consequences" ...
Does anyone know for sure if property ownership (FTD) requires and RP or RT?


Loreto INM office has been great to work with in getting the RP card (process time was just over 5 weeks back in April)..That being said.. I was able to use my "Fido" on my casa to secure the card with only one year on my old FM2..
Another plus for the RP card maybe the capital gain exemption if you have lived in your property for over five years, as "permanent residence".. (see your Notario)
As INM gets this sorted out, they will have more time to go out check your immigration status around town.. This was done back in 2001 here in Loreto..as they went door to door looking for persons living here on FMMs.. That's when we all went out and got our FM-3s

DENNIS - 6-13-2013 at 08:51 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by LaTijereta

As INM gets this sorted out, they will have more time to go out check your immigration status around town.. This was done back in 2001 here in Loreto..as they went door to door looking for persons living here on FMMs.. That's when we all went out and got our FM-3s


WOW.....This is the first time I've ever heard of this drastic procedure. It would really be a mess if the US decided to use these police- state methods. I always figured that's why Mexico never did; so as not to antagonize a tit-for-tat response NOB.

The Ensenada INM office has in the past threatened similar intentions, but nothing was done. They only huffed and puffed this nonsense to appease the local public when there was immigration turmoil going on in the states and people here were screaming for an official pay back response.

ncampion - 6-13-2013 at 08:51 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by LaTijereta
Quote:
Originally posted by ncampion
I too am concerned with possible "unintended consequences" ...
Does anyone know for sure if property ownership (FTD) requires and RP or RT?


Loreto INM office has been great to work with in getting the RP card (process time was just over 5 weeks back in April)..That being said.. I was able to use my "Fido" on my casa to secure the card with only one year on my old FM2..
Another plus for the RP card maybe the capital gain exemption if you have lived in your property for over five years, as "permanent residence".. (see your Notario)
As INM gets this sorted out, they will have more time to go out check your immigration status around town.. This was done back in 2001 here in Loreto..as they went door to door looking for persons living here on FMMs.. That's when we all went out and got our FM-3s


That strategy didn't work for us (showing the Fido) with Loreto INM. They still told us we needed two more years on our current FM3 before we get RP. So now we have RT and are not unhappy. Still not sure of the property ownership requirement for RP or RT vs FMM. Also have not seen the exemption from capital gains officially quoted. So many "ifs"

DaliDali - 6-13-2013 at 10:34 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by bajaguy
If you wait till it expires, you are toast. You have to apply no sooner than 30 days prior to expiration.


I think this applies only to FM-3 and FM-2 renewals only.

Once one moves to the permanent status card, the FM-2 must expire first.

At least this is how multiple agents in Loreto explained it to me recently.

Now it's even more obfuscated than ever!!!!!!

Next week I am going to have another chat with them about this and see if I can get the EXACT statute citation that says this.

monoloco - 6-13-2013 at 11:43 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by DaliDali
Quote:
Originally posted by bajaguy
If you wait till it expires, you are toast. You have to apply no sooner than 30 days prior to expiration.


I think this applies only to FM-3 and FM-2 renewals only.

Once one moves to the permanent status card, the FM-2 must expire first.

At least this is how multiple agents in Loreto explained it to me recently.

Now it's even more obfuscated than ever!!!!!!

Next week I am going to have another chat with them about this and see if I can get the EXACT statute citation that says this.
I applied for mine BEFORE my FM2 expired. The whole process took about 6 weeks. If you let your FM-2 or FM-3 expire, you will have to start the process from the beginning, from your home country for either a residencia permanente or temporal.

Pay attention

bajaguy - 6-13-2013 at 12:23 PM

^^^^^ What M'loco said

DaliDali - 6-13-2013 at 12:27 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by monoloco
Quote:
Originally posted by DaliDali
Quote:
Originally posted by bajaguy
If you wait till it expires, you are toast. You have to apply no sooner than 30 days prior to expiration.


I think this applies only to FM-3 and FM-2 renewals only.

Once one moves to the permanent status card, the FM-2 must expire first.

At least this is how multiple agents in Loreto explained it to me recently.

Now it's even more obfuscated than ever!!!!!!

Next week I am going to have another chat with them about this and see if I can get the EXACT statute citation that says this.
I applied for mine BEFORE my FM2 expired. The whole process took about 6 weeks. If you let your FM-2 or FM-3 expire, you will have to start the process from the beginning, from your home country for either a residencia permanente or temporal.


Indeed Mono, there is some confusion at different Migra locations so it seems.
I will get to the bottom of this here locally next week. (maybe)

colamex4 - 6-13-2013 at 12:56 PM

My FM3 is coming up to its expiry date. I have already had 3 renewals and I think I can qualify for Permanente at that time.

Can anyone here in the Ensenada area provide me with the name and phone number of a decent lawyer or agent in the area, who can help me get my Permanente?

Thanks!

Yes sir boss..pickin it up here boss

DaliDali - 6-13-2013 at 01:05 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by bajaguy
^^^^^ What M'loco said


You could have gone all day without the condescending remarks Bajaguy.

Todos los lugares pueden no ser los mismos..... as has been discussed at length here many times.

redmesa - 6-13-2013 at 01:34 PM

So far 4 months and counting....

msteve1014 - 6-13-2013 at 01:48 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by redmesa
So far 4 months and counting....


Do you have someone in Santa Rosalia working on it for you?

bajaguy - 6-13-2013 at 02:18 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by colamex4
My FM3 is coming up to its expiry date. I have already had 3 renewals and I think I can qualify for Permanente at that time.

Can anyone here in the Ensenada area provide me with the name and phone number of a decent lawyer or agent in the area, who can help me get my Permanente?

Thanks!





Carlos Victorica
He has a small office in front of, and attached to the INM building.
646-175-7893 office
646-112-5480 cell
carlosvictorica7@hotmail.com
both phones are in Ensenada

Ask for Carlos or his daughter, Gabby.

[Edited on 6-13-2013 by bajaguy]

bajaguy - 6-13-2013 at 02:21 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by DaliDali
You could have gone all day without the condescending remarks Bajaguy.





Actually, I couldn't :lol:

DaliDali - 6-13-2013 at 02:28 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by bajaguy
Quote:
Originally posted by DaliDali
You could have gone all day without the condescending remarks Bajaguy.


Actually, I couldn't :lol:


Try harder again next time Bajaguy.
It's so easy, even a cave man can do it.

bajaguy - 6-13-2013 at 02:34 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by DaliDali

Try harder again next time Bajaguy.
It's so easy, even a cave man can do it.





Nah, I learned from Dennis :bounce:

DaliDali - 6-13-2013 at 03:20 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by bajaguy
Quote:
Originally posted by DaliDali

Try harder again next time Bajaguy.
It's so easy, even a cave man can do it.





Nah, I learned from Dennis :bounce:


Yuck yuck......he IS el maestro de todos nosotros.
Being the polite guy I am....I want to sincerely thank you for
your input on the conundrum of this permanent visa stuff.

As we speak, I have a local amiga attorney pounding the pages of the las páginas de la ley.....in search of the truth. If the truth is to be had, she will find it.

On edit.....I should ask you and Mono if you started the permanent process BEFORE the new rules were in place?...

[Edited on 6-13-2013 by DaliDali]

bajaguy - 6-13-2013 at 03:26 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by DaliDali
Yuck yuck......he IS el maestro de todos nosotros.
Being the polite guy I am....I want to sincerely thank you for
your input on the conundrum of this permanent visa stuff.

As we speak, I have a local amiga attorney pounding the pages of the las páginas de la ley.....in search of the truth. If the truth is to be had, she will find it.





Ah, the truth......and the facts. An elusive quarry in Mexico, akin to finding a Unicorn.

If she finds it, it will only be good for today, for tomorrow it will certainly be different.

Good luck Amigo, I am off to Happy Hour!!!

DENNIS - 6-13-2013 at 03:51 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by DaliDali

As we speak, I have a local amiga attorney pounding the pages of the las páginas de la ley.....in search of the truth. If the truth is to be had, she will find it.



The "truth," should it differ from SOP of the office you deal with, will be your worst enemy.
Being instructive with the personnel in that office will have the same effect.

NoNoNo.......shouldn't be telling the boss how to do his job.

DENNIS - 6-13-2013 at 03:54 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by bajaguy


Nah, I learned from Dennis :bounce:


Thank you, Grasshopper. :biggrin:

different question-- same subject

capitolkat - 6-14-2013 at 10:20 AM

The lady who has been handling our process in La paz told us we could- with proof of income receive the RP card this time and we got our 6 months of bank statements, but she ways they want same name on passport as the bank statements and are being very firm.

The name on passport is "first, middle and last names" the name on bank statement is "first, middle initial, and last name", she says no go and try to get the bank statements changed- like that's easy to do for the last 6 months--another helpful facilitator advised me no such problem in LaPaz.

Anyone else in this boat-- I don't want to go ahead and get waylaid by some beauracrat coming up with some hurdle that he decided on his own.

DENNIS - 6-14-2013 at 10:34 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by capitolkat
but she ways they want same name on passport as the bank statements and are being very firm.




No problem. Do what I did and make your own bank statements.
With an old statement, copy the back side with all the microscopic data..........turn it over and print your monthly statements that you need on the front.
You can then convert it to an editable PDF file and fix your names.......or, just like the old days, physically cut 'n paste new names over the old.

Just be sure to use color where it's in color......back side too.

DaliDali - 6-14-2013 at 10:49 AM

Today, June 14,2013, I had a chit chat with the local IMS agents in Loreto.
Both, separate and apart, answered my questions again about how and when to initiate the process for obtaining the permanent status card.

Again, they both told me in order for it to be legally accepted as a change from FM-2 to permanent status, the FM-2 must have expired. Then and only then is it submitted for review and issuance. There reasoning was, according to them and MX IMS regulations, if you submit at the 360 day point of the FM-2, your short 5 days of being here the full year on that FM-2, and therefore your application is not valid for being in MX for the full 365 days.

The agents went on to say that a FM-2 holder, at his/her discretion, could initiate the proceedings prior to the actual expire date. But in no instance, would the actual documentation be submitted before the expire date.
They stated a person could submit the photos necessary, pay the bank the renewal fees and submit the application prior to the expire date...but the actual submission date would necessarily have to be after the FM-2 expires.

In addition, both of these agents again, told me, once that FM-2 expires, the applicant has 6 (six) months within which to initiate the application process to go to permanent.
During this 6 month period, if the applicant chooses to take this option, the FM-2 currently being held is still valid for entry into MX. Yes, even though it says expired (their words not mine)

One agent gave me an example scenario.....if your FM-2 expires on July 1 , 2013, you have until 6 months later to start your permanent process. But in no case can you be late past the 6 months date.

[Edited on 6-14-2013 by DaliDali]

[Edited on 6-14-2013 by DaliDali]

monoloco - 6-14-2013 at 10:53 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by DaliDali
On edit.....I should ask you and Mono if you started the permanent process BEFORE the new rules were in place?...

After, I just picked mine up, took 6 weeks. Instead of wading into it this time, I hired Margarita at the Paperchase in La Paz to file the documents, two trips to La Paz, once to give my fingerprints and once to pick up the card. It cost less than a hundred bucks, best money I ever spent.
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