Veterans in Mexico
The largest U.S. retiree population abroad, U.S. time zones, and American Legion posts at Lake Chapala and Puerto Vallarta.
Entering Mexico
No visa needed. Stays are up to 180 days, but the immigration officer sets the number. Don't assume you'll get 180.
Long-stay and retirement visas
- Temporary Resident (Residente Temporal) by economic solvency: monthly income or savings tied to Mexico's UMA index. 2026 consulate figures run roughly USD 4,000–4,600/month income, and they vary by consulate.
- Permanent Resident (pensionado): a higher pension income requirement.
- Pension income counts, and military retired pay documented by DFAS should qualify. Ask your consulate about VA disability compensation.
VA care and benefits in Mexico
There are no VA facilities in Latin America. Care for service-connected conditions is reimbursed through the Foreign Medical Program. Be wary of any clinic that claims to be a "VA clinic". FMP has an in-country toll-free line in Mexico: 001-877-345-8179.
Healthcare
Good private hospitals in Guadalajara, Mexico City, Monterrey and Querétaro. Residents can join IMSS voluntarily for an annual fee (pre-existing conditions excluded).
Where veterans live
- Lake Chapala / Ajijic: Largest U.S. retiree community, mild climate, American Legion Posts 7 and 9.
- Puerto Vallarta: Beach, direct U.S. flights, Legion Post 14.
- San Miguel de Allende: Colonial arts town.
- Mérida: Lower crime, Yucatán culture.
- Mazatlán: Affordable beach city.
- Querétaro: Safe, growing, good hospitals.
Cost of living
Roughly USD 1,500–2,500 a month for a single retiree. Costs vary a lot by city and lifestyle. Health insurance is not included.
Money, language and time
Mexican peso (MXN) · Spanish · mostly UTC-6
Buying property
Within 100 km of a border or 50 km of a coast, foreigners hold property through a bank trust (fideicomiso). Always use a notario.
Watch out for
State Department advisory levels vary by state. Jalisco and Guanajuato have carried higher levels than the national level, so check before you choose a city. Watch for timeshare pitches and "virtual kidnapping" phone scams.
Veteran organizations
The American Legion's Department of Latin America (formerly Department of Mexico) has posts at Lake Chapala (7), Ajijic (9), Banderas Bay (12), Puerto Vallarta (14) and Mexico City. See veteran organizations abroad.
Common questions
Does a military pension qualify for Mexican residency?
Pension income counts toward Mexico's economic solvency test. A DFAS retiree statement is the usual proof. Confirm the current amount with your consulate.
Is there an American Legion in Mexico?
Yes. The Department of Latin America has posts at Lake Chapala, Ajijic, Puerto Vallarta, Banderas Bay and Mexico City.
Last reviewed November 2026. See something out of date? Tell us.