Mexico Immigration Delays: Weeks-Long Waits for Visas, Appointments, and Travel

If you’re trying to navigate Mexico’s immigration system right now, brace for delays. The National Immigration Institute (INM) is in the middle of a messy restructuring, and it’s hitting foreign nationals hard, especially in following cities;

1. Mexico City
2. Monterrey
3. Querétaro
4. Aguascalientes
5. Toluca
6. Guadalajara

Here’s a breakdown of what’s going on, what’s causing the immigration slowdown in Mexico, and what travellers and employers should watch out for.

What’s Causing the Immigration Delay?

1. Appointments Are Nearly Impossible to Get

INM’s online appointment system which is used for everything from temporary residence renewals to permanent residence applications is practically frozen. Slots are either completely unavailable or vanish within minutes.

Even cases flagged as urgent, or those involving family groups, are stuck in limbo because the system can’t coordinate multiple bookings.

2. In-Person Capacity Has Been Slashed

Trying to handle your application in person? That’s not much easier. INM offices in many cities have drastically reduced their daily visa appointment slots, forcing applicants to wait weeks just to get through the door. Immigration hubs like Toluca, Aguascalientes, and Querétaro feel the impact the most.

3. Extra Scrutiny for Certain Nationalities

Foreign nationals from China, Colombia, Cuba, and Venezuela are facing an extra layer of delays. Even after approvals, biometric appointments are being held up by internal reviews. The result: a longer wait for resident cards and legal stay documents.

How This Affects You

Resident Cards Are Delayed

Resident cards are essential, not just for legal residence, but for basics like enrolling in payroll. If you’re moving for work, your start date could be pushed back, even if everything else is ready.

Travel Plans Could Be Disrupted

If you haven’t received your resident card yet, you must get an Exit Permit to leave the country. But here’s the catch: INM won’t issue the permit until you file your application. In some cases, once INM approves your application but hasn’t issued the card, they may deny the Exit Permit altogether.

Why It’s Happening

The delays stem from a major shake-up within the INM. A new Commissioner took over in May 2025 and reshuffled senior staff, triggering a shift in how officials handle immigration cases.

The result: slower adjudications, fewer available appointments, and tighter reviews.

What Travellers and Employers Should Do

• Plan for delays. Expect several weeks of wait time, especially if you’re in one of the major cities.
• Don’t wait to book. If you can grab an appointment slot, take it—even if it’s not ideal.
• Coordinate closely. Families and groups should be prepared for fragmented or staggered appointments.
• Watch the travel window. If your application is pending, avoid travel unless you’ve secured an Exit Permit in advance.

Final Thoughts

Mexico’s immigration system is under pressure, and the bottlenecks aren’t clearing up anytime soon. Whether you’re an expat worker, employer, or relocating family, this is a good time to double-check your immigration timelines and brace for slower-than-usual processing.