Mexico: Immigration Processing Delays in Chihuahua

Immigration authorities in Chihuahua are experiencing delays in issuing some residence approvals while they finalize the administrative transition (and issuance of federal appointment credentials) to the office's newly appointed head immigration official. Foreign nationals with residence applications that were approved but not signed by the former head immigration official can expect delays in obtaining their Residence Cards while immigration authorities re-issue approval notices and the new immigration head signs them. Importantly, affected foreign nationals may face travel restrictions until they receive their Residence Cards, since Exit Permits are generally not issued when an application is approved in the system. Foreign nationals with pending immigration applications need an Exit Permit for each trip outside Mexico.