Immigration Application Processing Delays in Monterrey Continue

The situation

The processing delays for immigration applications filed in ​Monterrey are continuing, with no time frame for an expected resolution.

A closer look

• Delays due to resignation of officials. Delays in the processing of work permits, permanent residence and corporate registration processes, among others, have continued (since the last update in July) due to the resignation of multiple immigration officials in Monterrey and the lack of replacements.
  • Impact. Foreign nationals and employers can expect delays of several weeks beyond their normal processing times at this time.
• Lack of materials. Monterrey’s processing office also has a shortage of resident identification cards, which prevents the office from printing renewal residence cards, among other identification cards.
  • Impact. Foreign nationals who require an identification card must await the resolution of this issue as there is no possible solution or workaround. Those without initial or renewed identification cards may face restrictions in traveling abroad, initiating certain government services, such as obtaining a driver’s license, or initiating financial processes, such as opening a bank account.

Reminder for those leaving Mexico

As a reminder, foreign nationals in Mexico with pending immigration processes who are seeking to leave for short-term trips should contact their immigration provider to obtain a re-entry permit, which takes seven business days to process and is not impacted by the delays caused by the resignations or lack of materials.

Background

A national election in June 2018 resulted in the gradual resignation of first senior-level, then lesser-level officials, who left office to campaign for their positions. This stalled government processes that require the signature of government officials such as most immigration applications. Delays continued due the transition to a new government.

Looking ahead

Fragomen has been following up with the National Migration Institute (INM) on a weekly basis for updates on the delays and lack of materials issue. Fragomen does not expect these issues to resolve soon, as the government official replacement process is still ongoing and the INM has not specified a resolution date for either matter.

This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen or send an email to [email protected].