Los Cabos’ charms are so obvious–gorgeous golden sand beaches, breathtaking Pacific Ocean and Sea of
Cortez vantages, a perpetually temperate climate–that many Americans and Canadians have taken the leap from enjoying the area as a favored vacation destination to enjoying it on a year-round basis. Of the more than one million Americans currently living in Mexico, a significant percentage have settled in cape cities Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo.
For some it is the perfect retirement home, for others an ideal place to work at online jobs that have no actual geographic requirement. In either case, the transition is typically smoother than one might expect. Yes, Mexico has its own language and culture–a much older and more complex culture, by the way, than its North American neighbors–but Los Cabos’ history as a premier international travel destination has translated to a largely English fluent population. Thus, although a facility in Spanish is certainly an advantage to expats and transplants, it is by no means a necessity.
Paperwork too requires very little stress. There are basically two types of visas/residency cards: Temporary and Permanent. All visitors to Mexico are issued an FMM visa that is good for up to six months. People with the intention of staying between six months and four years must have a Temporary Resident card, with various classifications defined by work status or financial means. This card must be updated at six month intervals until the four year mark, when it may be exchanged for a Permanent Resident card (those who meet certain criteria may be eligible to receive this identification card immediately). Dual citizenship is an option that may also be considered after permanent residency status is achieved. Fortunately, for those for whom even a little paperwork is too much, the area boasts many skilled immigration professionals, who are happy to do everything but sign your name and put your fingerprints on the relevant forms.
In many cases, time shares and regular yearly visits serve as first steps, a lead-up to a permanent move south of the border. The biggest aspect of this commitment is not the paperwork, which is largely pro forma, but buying or renting property; and due to a recent building boom that has spawned dozens of new luxury hotels and residential developments, there has never been a larger and more varied selection of ocean view homes, condos and villas than there is right now. There are several aspects of this process that are unique to Mexico, however, so it is important to consult with local experts before agreeing to terms.
For more information about the local rental and real estate market, including currently available properties, email us at info@loscabosvillas.com or info@loscabosrealestate.pro.
Photo courtesy of the U.S. Passport Service.
