Wednesday, 18 September 2024

How request a duplicate INM FM3 card in case of loss?

You must go to INM office to request a new FM3.

- Fill out an application form online
- Passport
- Police report of the robbery or loss of the document
- Fee

Better to visit INM with passport & police complaint, they will explain the latest process, fee & timeline involved.

Thursday, 12 September 2024

Indian Embassy in Mexico

The Embassy of India in Mexico is located at:

Address:
Musset 325, Col. Polanco,
Mexico City, 11550,
Mexico

Contact Information:

Phone numbers: +52 55 5531-1002 / 1050 / 4636 / 6638
Fax: +52 55 5254-2349

Email:
Ambassador’s Office: contactamb.mexico@mea.gov.in
For passport, visa, and consular services: cons.mexico@mea.gov.in

Emergency contact for Indian nationals in distress:

Phone: +52 1 55 4847 7539

Website:
www.indiainmexico.gov.in

Steps to contact the Embassy:

1. Visit their official website for information on services and guidelines.

2. For consular queries, you can either call during working hours or email the consular office.

3. In emergencies, use the dedicated emergency contact number.



Office hours: are Monday to Friday, from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM.

Tuesday, 10 September 2024

Risk and Safety in Mexico

Crime levels in Mexico vary by region, with some areas having higher crime rates than others. However, expats can still live safely in Mexico by taking the proper precautions. Here’s a step-by-step guide for expats to avoid risks and stay safe:

 

 1. Research Specific Areas

   - High-Risk Zones: Some regions in Mexico, particularly near the U.S. border and certain parts of states like Michoacán and Guerrero, are known for higher crime rates due to cartel activity.

   - Safer Cities: Popular expat destinations like Mérida, Puerto Vallarta, and San Miguel de Allende tend to have lower crime rates. Check government travel advisories (such as the U.S. State Department or your home country’s guidance) for updated risk assessments by region.

 

2. Stay Aware of Your Surroundings

   - Street Smarts: Avoid walking alone at night, particularly in unfamiliar or less-populated areas. Stick to well-lit, busy streets.

   - Crowded Places: Be cautious in markets, public transportation, and tourist sites where pickpocketing and petty theft are more common.

 

3. Blend In

   - Avoid Flashy Displays: Don’t wear expensive jewelry, watches, or carry large amounts of cash. Avoid drawing unnecessary attention to yourself as a foreigner.

   - Clothing: Try to dress similarly to locals to avoid standing out.

 

 4. Transportation Safety

   - Taxis: Use registered taxis or ride-sharing apps like Uber, as some unlicensed taxis may pose risks.

   - Driving: Avoid driving long distances at night, particularly in rural areas where road conditions and visibility may be poor, and the risk of highway robbery is higher.

 

 5. Be Cautious with Strangers

   - Scams: Be wary of people who approach you with sob stories or offers that seem too good to be true. Common scams include fake police officers demanding bribes or individuals asking for money.

   - Friendships: Take time to build trusted relationships before disclosing personal information or becoming too familiar with new acquaintances.

 

 6. Housing Precautions

   - Security Measures: Choose housing in a safe neighborhood, preferably with 24/7 security. Ensure your home has good locks and consider installing security cameras.

   - Rent Contracts: Ensure your rental agreement is legitimate, and verify that you’re dealing with reputable landlords or agents.

 

 7. Health and Insurance

   - Health Insurance: Ensure you have adequate health insurance coverage, as public hospitals may not always meet expat standards.

   - Emergency Services: Know the local emergency numbers (e.g., 911) and the nearest hospital or clinic.

 

 8. Stay Informed

   - Local News: Stay updated on local news for developments in crime, protests, or natural disasters. Consider joining expat forums or communities to stay connected with other foreigners.

   - Embassy Registration: Register with your country’s embassy or consulate upon arrival. This will help you get emergency alerts and assistance if needed.

 

 9. Protect Your Documents

   - Important Papers: Keep copies of your passport, visa, and important documents stored securely, and don’t carry them unless necessary.

   - Banking: Use ATMs in secure locations (such as inside a bank) and monitor your bank statements for any suspicious activity.

 

 10. Learn Basic Spanish

   - Language Skills: Knowing basic Spanish can help you navigate daily life, understand local news, and avoid misunderstandings. It can also improve your communication with local authorities and service providers.

 

 11. Develop a Safety Plan

   - Emergency Contacts: Have a list of local emergency contacts and the nearest embassy or consulate.

   - Meeting Points: In case of an emergency, have a designated meeting place for friends or family members.

 

By following these precautions, expats can significantly reduce their risk and enjoy a safe and fulfilling life in Mexico.

 


Monday, 9 September 2024

Income Tax in Mexico

 Questions:

1. How much Income tax need to pay on your Salary in Mexico?

2. What is the official site for Tax details?

3. How to file Income tax?

4. Can I get income tax return?

Answers:

1. It depends on your Salary/Income. Please refer below link

 https://taxsummaries.pwc.com/mexico/individual/taxes-on-personal-income

2. Login with your SAT / RFC username and password. Please refer below link:

https://www.sat.gob.mx/aplicacion/login/28889/obten-tu-cedula-de-identificacion-fiscal


3. Please refer below link:

http://omawww.sat.gob.mx/english/Paginas/English/obligations_who_make_payments_to_foreigners.aspx


4. Yes, after year end you can see you’re the tax deduction on sat.gob.mx site and submit the application for return the amount. If Income tax department approve it, you will get the refund within 1 month. Keep checking the status of refund. some time you need to book a appointment and visit the SAT office for your refund. They provide the service free of cost.



 

 

Currier service in Mexico

Questions:

1. What are the best currier service available in Mexico?

2.  Is currier  pick-up from home service available in Mexico?

Answers:

1. DHL and FedEx both provide excellent service and available in every city at many location.

2. Yes, currier pick-up from home service available in Mexico, You can call them and ask to come at your place to collect the parcel. 

Police and government in Guadalajara Mexico

 Questions:

1. Does police or government official speak English?

2. How to contact police over phone?

 

Answers:

1. No, mostly they do not understand English, so use google translator.

2. Dial 911 in emergency.

 

 

Banking and finance in Mexico

 Questions:

1. What you get apart from Salary?

2. How to track your retirement fund?

3. What are the best preferred banks to transfer the account from Mexico to India?

4. Can I transfer money via Crypto Apps?

5. Is banking system is good like India?

6. Can I invest in Stock market in Mexico?

7.What documents require to open bank account in Mexico?

8. What is the FD interest rate in Mexico?

9. Can I withdraw fund before retirement?

 

Answers:

1. Mexico govt deduct retirement fund which goes such as EFP in India. These fund divides in 3 category.


2. There are third party vendor or company. You can open you account with them they invest your retirement fund.


3. Santander (Pay send app), HSBC (HSBC MX to HSBC India), Global 66 app.


4. Yes. But avoid such transfer which might cause any issue on amount or account.


5. Opening bank account takes 1 day but verification take around 1 week time. Banking services are far better in India.


6. Yes, Bank can provide such investment plan and schemes. you should enquire at your home branch. Check more...


7. Passport, TR card, RFC, Company employment letter and Address proof(Internet bill/Electricity/waster bill) All original.


8. As compared to India it is very less FD interest rate. Approx. 1-4% yearly.


9. Yes, you can contact legal adviser and can withdraw the fund.


 

Temples in Guadalajara Mexico

Questions:

1.       1. Where is Indian Temple in GDL?

2. 2. Where Indian celebrate their festivals?

3. 3. Where can I get the worship items?

Answers:

1. There is Iskcon temple. Check timing in google before you go.  

Address: C. Pedro Moreno 1791, Col Americana, Lafayette, 44160 Guadalajara, Jal.

2. Yes, you can visit Iskcon temple or follow Expats groups, some Indian organizers arrange the festivals and they share the venue of it. (e.g. Holi, Pongal, Durga pooja. Krishna Janmashtami, Ganesh Chaturthi  and Diwali etc.


3. You have get in near to Iskcon temple, local market and supermarket

 

Sunday, 8 September 2024

To get a visa for Mexico from India, here’s a step-by-step guide:

To get a visa for Mexico from India, here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Determine the Visa Type
- Visit the [Mexican Embassy in India](https://embamex.sre.gob.mx/india/) website.
- Determine the type of visa you need (tourist, business, work, student, etc.).

 Step 2: Fill Out the Application Form
- Download and fill out the **Visa Application Form** from the official website of the [Mexican Embassy in India](https://embamex.sre.gob.mx/india/index.php/visas).

 Step 3: Gather the Required Documents
Depending on the visa type, generally required documents include:
1. **Valid passport** (with at least six months of validity).
2. **Visa application form** (properly filled out).
3. **Passport-sized photographs** (two recent).
4. **Proof of financial solvency** (bank statements, payslips, etc.).
5. **Confirmed flight tickets** (round trip).
6. **Accommodation details** (hotel booking or invitation letter).
7. **Proof of employment or studies** (if applicable).
8. **Visa fee** payment receipt.

 Step 4: Schedule an Appointment
- Book your appointment online through the [Mexican Embassy's visa appointment system](https://mexitel.sre.gob.mx/).
- Select the **New Delhi** or **Mumbai** location (or any other available consulate in India).

Step 5: Attend the Visa Interview
- On the appointment day, bring all required documents.
- Be prepared for an interview, where the consular officer will verify your purpose of travel and documents.

Step 6: Pay the Visa Fee
- Pay the applicable visa fee (varies depending on visa type). Check the [official website](https://embamex.sre.gob.mx/india/index.php/visas) for updated fee structures.

Step 7: Wait for Processing
- The visa processing time is generally around 2 to 10 working days. You can track your visa status through the embassy's website or contact them.

Step 8: Collect Your Visa
- Once approved, collect your visa from the Mexican Embassy or Consulate.

For more information and any updates, you can visit the **[Mexican Embassy in India’s Visa Section](https://embamex.sre.gob.mx/india/index.php/visas)**.

Driving in the Mexico

Questions:

1. Can I drive in Mexico with Indian driving license?

2. How to apply to get driving license in Mexico?

3. Can I buy Bike or car?

 

Answers:

1. Yes, 1st one year you can drive.

2. List and please refer below link:


A. Your printed driver's exam results.
B. Your appointment confirmation email.
C. Your temporary or permanent residency card.
D. Your CURP.
E. Your passport, copy of photo page.
F. Proof of address, less than 3 months old.
Steps are
: https://mexicoliving.com/how-to-get-your-drivers-license-in-mexico/


3. Yea, anytime.

 

School education in Mexico

Questions:

1. Does English school available in GDL?

2. What about school fee?

3. What about bilingual school?

4. School charge is Admission fee?

5. Is there are Gymnastic or Swimming classes available in GDL?

 

Answers:

1.       Very less English school in the Mexico

2.      Govt schools are free. Private English school fee around 8000-15000 Pesos.

3.       Yes, it available but very less and costly.

4.       English school fee around 8000- 15000 Pesos.

5.       Yes, It cost around 3000- 10000 Pesos.

 

Stay in the Mexico

 

 Questions:

1. Where to Stay in GDL?

2. How to contact Indian folks?

3. What is the approx. rent of house/flat/room?

4. Is there any contract system and deposit system while renting house?

5. How to get PR in Mexico?

 

Answers:

1. Always prefer to stay with Indian folks or Indian community. Avoid remote area, Downtown area(Old city). Check with your company HR.

2. Please check on the linked-in, WhatsApp's group and FB marketplace.

3. Rent: House/Flat-  2BHK at 10K-18K, 1BHK flat at 6K-12K, Studio at 6K-12K,
 individual and share room at 3.5K-8K pesos.

 4. Yes, mostly property owner asks for 1-2 month rent as deposit and 6-12 month of contract agreement with local guarantor who stay in same city.

5. If you stay 4 years in Mexico. you will be eligible to get PR.

 

Saturday, 7 September 2024

Local Markets in GDL Mexico

Questions:

1. Where is the local vegetables market?
2. Does individual people sales Vegies?
3, Where is the most famous Vegies and glossary local market in GDL?
4. What are the Indian vegetables rarely or not available in the any local market?
5. What about fruits?
6. What is the famous super-market?
7. Where I can get Indian glossary?
8. Can I get Indian curd and butter milk in the market?
9. Can I get Tulsi and curry leaf’s tree?

10. Where is the seafood market in GDL?

11. Where i can get orka (bhindi) in gdl)

Answers:

1. There are multiple local vegetables market available in GDL. If you want to buy fresh veggies in less price than avoid going to the supper market.


2. There are few people sale Indian Vegetables, which does not available in local market but these sellet do not have specific shops and they rarely come to the given location. These seller use WhatsApp's groups to sell the vegetables. 


3. Abastos is the vegetable and glossary market in the cheaper price. (Some other market also available.) Av. del Mercado 2330, Mercado de Abastos, 44530 Guadalajara, Jal.

Link: Local Market


4. Small Eggplant, Curry leaf's, Bottle guard, bitter gourd, apple gourd, Ridged gourd, Lady figure, Taro or Yam, Long Beans or Snake Beans ,Fenugreek Leaves (Methi , Long Redis, Indian Gooseberry, Jackfruit, Natal Plum, Zucchini, Peppermint, Green Pumpkin, Raw Banana Flower, Snake Gourd, Tenali.


5. Yes, Fruits are very fresh and always available.


6. Soriana, Costco( for membership) , Walmart, OXXO. Waldo etc.


7. Many shops at Abastos local market, Lakshmi Indian store, Taj House of Spices and Mayan Spices. Contact and location is available on google.


8. No, You will not get Indian curd or butter milk in super market. Yogurt name is- LALA, OIKOS, Danone, Griego.


9. Some people sell and some time if people leave from Mexico they gives to other.

10. Click on the link: Seafood markets in GDL, Mexico

11. In Abostos local market. Okra you can get in Abastos…. Shop name - Verduras & Frutas Selectas

Location:  https://g.co/kgs/Ak8qjXd

Visiting place in Mexico

Questions:

1. What are the visiting places near to GDL?

2. Is tourist places being safe in Mexico?

3. How to book for vacation?

4. Does snow fall happen in Mexico?

5. Best place to visit in Mexico?

Answers:

1. Just explore on Internet. There are lot of tourist places to visit during weekend with family and friends.

  • Guadalajara Cathedral
  • Teatro Degollado
  • Templo Expiatorio del Santísimo Sacramento
  • Plaza de Armas
  • Guachimontones Archaeological site
  • The Rotonda de los Jaliscienses Ilustres,
  • Bosque Los Colomos. This place really takes you away from the city!


2. Yes, It’s safe, avoid night time travel (after 8-9 PM ).


3. There are some travelling WhatsApp's groups for Indian. You can contact and plan for your vacation with Indian folks.

4. North of Mexico gets snow mostly every year: Chihuahua, Durango and not as often, Coahuila and Nuevo Leon. Also Sonora mountains get snow mostly every year but not on coastal cities. Mexico City has not seen snow in its mainland since 1967, but mountains around it get some snow every couple of years.

5. List of places to visit in Mexico:-

The Best Places To Visit in Mexico

1. Mexico City -  you can get Indian restaurants as well.

2. Guadalajara - you can get Indian restaurants as well.

3. Monterrey - you can get Indian restaurants as well.

4. Puerto Vallarta – Definitely One of The Best Places to Visit in Mexico! you can get couple of India restaurants as well.

5. Huatulco

6. Tulum

7. Teotihuacan

8. Palenque (best place to go in Mexico for ruins)

9. Chichén Itzá

10. San Miguel de Allende

11. Oaxaca City (one of the best cities to visit in Mexico for culture)

12. Guanajuato

13. Yelapa

14. Los Cabos

15. Zihuatanejo

16. Cozumel (one of the must visit places in Mexico for scuba diving)

17. San Pancho

18. Isla Holbox (one of the top places to visit in Mexico to relax)

19. Isla Mujeres

20. Morelia

21. Puerto Morelos

22. Tijuana

23. Puerto Escondido (one of the best places to visit in Mexico for surfing)

24. Mazatlan

25. Valladolid

26. Merida

27. San Cristobal de las Casas

28. Cancun

29. Sayulita

30. Puebla

31. Playa del Carmen

32. Lake Chapala

33. La Paz

34. Valle de Guadalupe (best place to go in Mexico for wine)

35. Bacalar


Food and Dining in Mexico

Questions:

1. Where can I get India food in Guadalajara, Mexico ?

2. How to contact to Indian cloud kitchen?

3. What is the famous food in Mexico?

4. Is vegetarian food easily available in restaurant?

 

Answers:

1. There are many cloud kitchens run by Indian and you can order food.
Also there are 4-5 Food shops to get Indian foods (Goa restaurant, Ali corner, Delhi 6, Almiraj etc.) check more…


2. Indian food seller publish everyday in WhatsApp groups. 

3. Here is the list:

  • Tacos al pastor
  • Tacos al Pastor
  • Barbacoa
  • Tlacoyos
  • Chiles en nogada
  • Pambazo
  • Torta de Tamal
  • Mole
  • Tlayudas
  • Churros
  • Ceviche
  • corn tortillas
  • Birria
4. No, vegetarian food is not much available in Mexico, Even Chicken item and eggs items are less. You should try Mexican food. 

 

Indian SIM Card and Internet in Mexico

 Questions:

1. Does Indian SIM card support in Mexico to get the SMS?

2. Is it mandatory to recharge with international roaming pack to get the SMS?

3. Does Indian eSIM support?

4. How to get new Indian SIM in Mexico?

5. Does Prepaid or postpaid Indian SIM card support?

6. What is the best SIM/Network the Mexico?

7. What is good plan for office work in the Mexico?

 

Answers:

1. Expect BSNL, all Indian SIM, eSIM have network here.

2. Recharge Indian plan to keep SIM active here. No need to pay for international plan to get the SMS for your banking things or any other OTP.

3. Yes, eSIM does supports.

4. If your Indian SIM damaged, you blood relative have contact to your service provider India to get new SIM card and They will ask your VISA details and some other detail and will issue the new SIM card to your blood relative. Your relative can currier to your in Mexico address.

5. Yes, both works in Mexico.

6. Telcel is one of the best telecom company. Other networks are - Movistar, AT&T Mexico

7. You can get good Internet monthly plan in 500-600 Pesos.

 

INM - Office for your TR card and address update

 Questions:

After reaching to Mexico what things need to do? 

Answers:

"1. Get your INM TR identity card from INM office. Only 1 office in GDL. No fee need to pay for this. You should get you TR card within 30 days.

Av. Fray Antonio Alcalde 500, Centro, 44200 Guadalajara, Jal.

Phone: 33 3942 0290

Please refer below link https://inm.gob.mx/spublic/portal/inmex.html

2. Get you RFC card. Your company HR will help to get this. There are many SAT/ RFC centers. No fee need to pay for this. Please refer below link -

 http://m.sat.gob.mx/contacto/Paginas/directorio_modulos.aspx?Paged=TRUE&p_Estado=Jalisco&p_Title=Ciudad%20Guzm%C3%A1n&p_ID=240&PageFirstRow=121&&View=%7BB7370B37-94FC-416C-9341-C02E272FCA67%7D

 3. Get your address update with internet bill/water bill/electric bill. No fee need to pay for this.

4. Get the local SIM card (Telcel is the best network here in GDL) Recharge price start from 100, 150, 200 Peso monthly. 

No need to provide any ID or document to get the SIM card. you can get it from OXXO supper market.

Note:  You will get monthly data, not per day data for internet uses.

5.  INM office always takes blank and white photocopy of your documents.

 

Bus and train travel in Mexico

Questions:

1. Can I travel via bus in the Mexico?

2. Does interstate bus service check your ID card?

3. Can I book/buy online bus tickets (e.i Mexico city to GDL)?

4. Do we get toilet facility in bus?

5. What are the bus services names?

6. Does Bus service provide WIFI and charging points?

7. Is there Train available between Mexico city to GDL city?

8. Is there metro train available in Mexico city and GDL?

9. Local city bus is available in GDL and Mexico city?

10. What are the apps I can use for CAB?

 

Answers:

1. Yes, Bus charges are fixed in GDL and you can get bus card which you can use in BUS and Metro train.  

You can get the card from any metro station by giving 50 Pesos and can recharge from OXXO store.

2. Yes, available carry your TR card or passport.

3. Yes (Bus service are very good but make sure to book ticket with trusted bus service)>

4. Yes.

5.  Bus serivce provides name are: 

Primera Plus,BlueBus,Liderazgo end Movimiento CDMX,Settur,Ado,
Terminal Autobuses ADO Cancún,Touring Coach Expressos,
Tutto Il Mondo,Ballard Tour services,Cora Transfers,Thomas More Travel,Trips Trips Los Cabos,Cabo Shuttle Services,Autobuses Estrella Blanca,Marlin Espadas,Omnibus de México,Bus Stop (Ruta Del Desierto / Desert Drive),UNIPER Cozumel, ETN.


6.  Yes, mostly bus services have WIFI and charging points facilities. 

7. No.

8. Yes, it is available.


9. Yes, there is MoveIT mobile app to know the bus route and timing.


10. Download Uber, InDrive and DiDI apps.

 

 

Air travel from India to Mexico

 Questions:

1. Do we have direct flight from Amsterdam to GDL?

2. How to get luggage at GDL instead of Mexico City.

3. Does begs checking happens at GDL airport?

4. Does begs checking happens at Mexico city airport?

5. How to move from international airport to domestic airport in Mexico City?

6. How to get Mexican Pesos at Mexico airport?

7. Is transit visa is mandatory to travel via Istanbul airport?

 

Answer:

1. Yes, if you have valid visa of US or Canada. Check more...

2. While check-in at Indian airport ask them to send your luggage to GDL airport as you have contact flight from Mexico City to GDL within 5 hours.

3. Mostly, they do not check your baggage at GDL airport.

4. Mostly, they do check your baggage at Mexico City.

5. There is Free memo train available, there is red color bus service available which charge around 25 pesos, And CAB is available, I suggest avoiding CAB near to airport if you are new in Mexico City.


6. There are many money exchange shop available at airport but I suggest to use your Forex card to withdraw money from ATM machine inside the airport only. 

Avoid money exchange counter to be safe.


7. Yes, you have to fill the form online and download it. It’s free.

 

 

Health Care in Mexico

 Questions:

1. Does clinic and hospital doctors and employee speaks English?

2. How to get English speaking doctor?

3. Can you get immediate doctor appointment like India?

4. Is doctor consultation fee higher than Indian?

5. Can I have option to get free health care in Mexico?

6. Can I get basic medicine without Dr. prescription from Farmacy shop?

7. Can I carry medicine from India to Mexico? 

 

Answers:

1. No, its little hard to get English speaking doctors in the Mexico.

2. Follow Indian Expats groups or check with your HR and medical polices. Keep saving doctor number for emergency.

3. No, mostly you will not get the same day doctor appointment like India. But you can get the Emergency health care service and it will cost more to your pocket.

4. Yes, the one time consultation fee can be, approx. 500- 1200 pesos in GDL. It might be more fee in the Mexico city.

5. If you have required document and patience then you can go to the IMSS center. Check center location in google and check with your company HR for more details.

6. Yes, you can buy basic medicines without prescription. But always take consultation with doctor instead of buying your own medicines.

7. Yes, always carry basic medicine with prescription as same medicines you will not get in pharmacy.