How can a foreigner get a job in Mexico?

Whether you want to take advantage of the relatively lower cost of living in Mexico, immerse in its rich culture, travel around the region, or even give your CV a boost, there are plenty of reasons to work in the country. If you’re not sure where to begin, this Pacific Prime Latin America article is for you, as it takes a closer look at in-demand expat jobs, guides you on work permits and employee rights, as well as gives you insights into the business culture.

In-demand expat jobs in Mexico

It goes without saying that Spanish-speakers will have far more opportunities. But if you’re an anglophone, there’s no need to fret. There are plenty of expat jobs in Mexico for you.

Teaching English:

By far one of the most popular jobs in Mexico for native English speakers is teaching the language to children, adults, and business professionals. Typically, the minimum academic requirement is a university degree and a teaching qualification (e.g. TESOL, TEFL, CELTA, etc.), although this can vary depending on the institution and the role.

Resort Jobs:

Resort jobs in Mexico don’t always require Spanish, as activities are often conducted in English to cater to foreign tourists. If you’ve got relevant skills, it’ll be easier to get hired. For example, those with diving experience may look for work as a diving instructor. But regardless, you can apply as long as you’re energetic, outgoing, fun-loving and hardworking. You can check out job portals specifically related to the tourism sector, especially for summer or short-term hires.

Professional Jobs:

If you’re eying professional jobs in Mexico, you’ll likely need to have specialist skills or strong experience to compensate for your lack of Spanish. Some of the most in-demand jobs suitable for expats include software engineer, architect, marketing manager, product manager, web developer, and UX designer. It’s best to look at multinational companies or those with an international culture. Alternatively, work in your home country and ask for a transfer to Mexico.

Work permits and employee rights

Of course, it’s not as easy as getting hired and starting a job. As a foreigner in Mexico, you’ll need to have the required work permit, as well as know what your employee rights are.

Visas and work permit:

In order to work in Mexico, you’ll need a temporary residency with work permissions. You’ll need to have a valid job offer in Mexico, as your employer will first have to apply for a work permit for you. You’ll then need to apply for a temporary residence visa at a Mexican embassy, which should be swapped for a temporary residence card once in the country. This allows you to stay for longer than 6 months, but shorter than 4 years.

Note: After four years, or through another route (i.e. having close family ties in Mexico), you can apply for permanent residency. This allows you to work without needing to get a work permit. 

Social Security:

If you’re a legal resident in Mexico who is formally employed in the country, you will be enrolled in the Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social (IMSS) system. You’ll have to pay a certain percentage of your salary each month, in exchange for comprehensive health coverage for you and your immediate family. If you don’t fall in this category, you can sign up on a voluntary basis for around 2,000 to 5,500 pesos a year.

Note: Many expats prefer to opt for expat health insurance in Mexico, as that’ll allow for access to the best private healthcare without paying out of pocket. 

Business culture: Things to bear in mind

As a Latin country, social and business etiquette in Mexico are very much intertwined. If you’d like to fit in, it’s best to familiarize yourself with them.

Tips:

• Respect hierarchy, as this is part of the business culture. Important decisions are usually made by senior members, who expect to deal with those on the same level.

• Avoid using first names, unless you’re specifically told to do so. You can use Señor (Mr.), Señora (Mrs.) or Señorita (Miss), followed by their family name.

• Personal relationships play an essential role. It’s common to invest time and effort getting to know work colleagues and business contacts.

• Be warm and friendly, as well as ask about personal aspects. For instance, people at the workplace often talk about family, friends, customs, hobbies, and more.

• Learn the basics of Spanish to show that you’re willing to integrate, even if your colleagues may be able to speak English.

• Note that Mexicans tend to have a looser sense of time compared to what you may be used to. Aim to arrive on time for a meeting, but be prepared for delays.

Get in touch with Pacific Prime Latin America for expat health insurance in Mexico

If you’re working as an expat in Mexico, you’ll be covered under IMSS. Nevertheless, you may face a language barrier and long wait times. What’s more, public hospitals also tend to provide limited care to those admitted and rely on family members helping out by bringing some basic amenities. If you don’t have a support system in the country, you will most likely struggle.

On the other hand, going private can offer you ease of access, world class amenities, English-speaking staff, and more. As alluded to previously, this is why expat health insurance in Mexico remains a popular option, as it allows expats to receive the best possible care, without having to worry about the costs.

Looking for health insurance? Pacific Prime Latin America can help. We’re a health insurance broker, partnering with top insurers in the region to bring you vetted plans that suit your needs and budget. You can compare health insurance plans through us, using our handy online tool or by speaking to an advisor. Contact us today!

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Suphanida aims to demystify the world of insurance by creating informative and engaging content. As a wordsmith, she spends the majority of her day writing and editing website content, blog posts, in-depth guides, and more.

Outside of work, Suphanida enjoys traveling to new places and immersing herself in different cultures.

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