Mexico is not just a vacation destination; it is the most accessible "Plan B" residency for Americans. It offers immediate proximity to the US time zones while placing you outside the immediate jurisdiction of US domestic policy. ## The Strategy ### 1. Temporary Residency (Residente Temporal) Based on economic solvency. If you have savings of ~$50,000 USD or monthly income of ~$3,000 USD, you qualify. This status can be renewed for 4 years. ### 2. Permanent Residency (Residente Permanente) Immediate permanent status is available for retirees (pensioners) or after 4 years of temporary residency. You never have to renew it. ### 3. The "Tax Neutrality" Play Mexico does not tax foreign-sourced income for non-tax residents. By carefully structuring your "Center of Vital Interests," you can live in Mexico while legally optimizing your global tax bill. --- **Strategic Insight:** Mexico represents the ultimate "insulation" strategy. You are close enough to fly back for meetings, but far enough to disconnect from the US news cycle and cost of living. [Back to American Headquarters](/usa/)