Puerto Vallarta, Mexico – Recent changes in the way the National Migration Institute (INM) in Puerto Vallarta operates have caused significant delays in the processing of documents for foreigners, leading to widespread frustration and financial losses for many. Procedures that were previously completed in a single day now take two to three weeks, resulting in missed flights and lost money for affected individuals.
Five managers, whose names have been withheld due to potential retaliation from INM staff, spoke with local CPS News. One of the primary complaints is that federal agents have allegedly requested incentives to receive paperwork or provide information.
This situation began a few weeks ago, during which time at least 50 percent of the workforce within the institute resigned, including former federal deputy representative Eduardo Antonio Vanegas López. In his place, Leticia Medina Sánchez was appointed, but her authority does not extend to approving the procedures for foreigners. Consequently, all documentation must be sent to Guadalajara for authorization, causing delays of up to 20 business days.
Previously, individuals with all necessary documentation could complete their procedures and receive approval within two to three hours on the same day. Now, people must arrive before 7 a.m. to secure an appointment, and the office often opens 30 minutes late, around 9:30 a.m. Despite having four counters, only two are operational, leading to long wait times and further delays in obtaining authorization.
For a legal entity to hire foreigners, it is necessary to register as an employer. However, the requirements for registering a company are often subjective and do not always comply with established laws. For instance, personal account statements from legal representatives are sometimes requested.
“The requirements are constantly modified based on the criteria of the immigration staff. This causes procedures to be rejected for not complying with something that was modified a day before, without prior notice,” commented the managers. This issue affects not only those who use professional services to complete their procedures but also many foreigners who navigate the process independently and face the same challenges.
During Puerto Vallarta’s low season, approximately 80 people visit the INM office daily, located in front of the maritime terminal. In high season, this number can triple, exacerbating the delays and increasing frustration among foreigners seeking to complete their immigration procedures.
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico – Recent changes in the way the National Migration Institute (INM) in Puerto Vallarta operates have caused significant delays in the processing of documents for foreigners, leading to widespread frustration and financial losses for many. Procedures that were previously completed in a single day now take two to three weeks, resulting in missed flights and lost money for affected individuals.
