Getting Dual Citizenship in Mexico

Jul 14, 2025

Immigration

The recent ramp-up of immigration enforcement in the U.S., which has seen controversial Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids in cities such as Los Angeles, New York, Chicago, Boston, and more, has gotten a boost not only from the passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB) Act, but also increasingly militant statements from President Trump. The bill allocates over $75 billion for ICE’s interior enforcement efforts, including detention and deportation, over the next four years. At the same time, Trump mused to the press during his tour of “Alligator Alcatraz,” a new detention facility in Florida, that he favors denaturalizing and deporting U.S. citizens who have committed crimes.

As recent immigration policies had been taken effect in the U.S.A., hispanic residents fearful that they may be vulnerable to detention even if they are legal, law-abiding citizens. Some are even exploring their options for a Plan B in Mexico, rather than taking the chance that an unfortunate encounter might end with them, or their children, sent to another country where they have no ties or legal status. Fortunately, both Mexico and the United States permit their citizens to hold dual citizenship, making it possible to gain the rights and benefits of a Mexican citizen without relinquishing your American citizenship. Further, if you have a Mexican parent, the process may be easier than you expect. Here’s what you need to know about the eligibility criteria and process of applying for dual Mexican citizenship, whether by descent or as a foreigner.

Mexican Citizenship by Descent

By Mexican law, anybody with a Mexican direct descent, such as a grandmother, grandfather, mother or father can claim dual citizenship, regardless of where they were born. To apply, individuals must provide:

• A completed application form
• The applicant’s U.S. birth certificate
• Valid official identification for the applicant with a recent photograph
• Birth certificates of both the direct descent relative
• Preferably a valid identification with photo of the direct descent relative

 Additional requirements apply if the applicant’s Mexican relative is deceased. While this process is less complicated than that of naturalization for a foreign-born individual, it is still strongly advised to retain an attorney with expertise in Mexican law to ensure that all requirements are met.

Becoming a Naturalized Citizen of Mexico

For those who do not have a Mexican parent, it is still possible to gain Mexican citizenship. In most cases, this will require living in Mexico for five years with a valid visa before applying. However, this waiting period is shortened for U.S. citizens if they have been married to a Mexican citizen or if they have a Mexican child.

When they have met the eligibility requirements, applicants must provide an array of documents, including a valid passport from their country of origin, a valid resident card, an apostilled original birth certificate, a Spanish translation of the birth certificate, criminal records checks, an application form listing entry and exit dates from the country for the previous two years, and more. The applicant will also be required to take Spanish language and Mexican history and culture exams and is responsible for paying an application fee.

The process and requirements can differ if someone is applying to become a naturalized citizen through residency, marriage, or as the parent of a Mexican child, so it is always best to work with the support of an immigration attorney who can provide advice specific to each individual’s situation.

Applying for Dual Citizenship in Mexico

Recent U.S. immigration raids have prompted fear and panic among those who worry about being wrongfully targeted, but that is the last thing you should have to feel. The immigration legal team at MBL can help you determine your options for dual Mexican citizenship and skillfully guide you through the requirements to ensure that every step is completed accurately and on time. To schedule your consultation, contact us here today.