As globalization continues to bridge economies, business travel has become an essential part of fostering international connections and exploring new market opportunities. When it comes to Mexico, a dynamic and diverse country, understanding the cultural, logistical, and legal aspects of business operations is crucial for ensuring successful engagements.
This guide focuses on providing comprehensive insights into business travels to Mexico, covering key areas such as business customs, the Mexico visitors tax, travel advisories, and visa requirements. By familiarizing yourself with these aspects, you can navigate business interactions and logistics with confidence, paving the way for fruitful collaborations in this vibrant nation.
Business Customs
In major Mexican cities, appearance holds significant value, and business attire often leans more formal than in many U.S. cities. It is recommended to wear professional clothing when meeting potential business partners in Mexico. Avoid overly casual clothing and athletic shoes during business meals.
Understanding typical business hours and mealtimes is crucial. Offices often open around 10:00 a.m., with workdays extending until 8 p.m. or later. Consequently, many Mexicans have a five-meal pattern during the week:
- a light desayuno (fruit or pastry) between 7 and 9 a.m.;
- a heavier almuerzo around 10:30 or 11:30 a.m.;
- a substantial lunch, comida, generally after 2 p.m.;
- an evening snack called merienda, and/or a light dinner, cena, after 8 p.m.
Avoid scheduling meetings between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. unless it coincides with lunch.
The business lunch is a fundamental tool in Mexico to build relationships and discuss matters at leisure. It is common to engage in social conversations about family or recent events before business discussions.
Mexican businesspeople and government contacts may smoke and drink during meals, which often last over two hours and typically start at 2:00 p.m. or 3:00 p.m. Note that many cafes do not open for lunch before 1:30 p.m., and most do not serve dinner before 7:30 p.m.
Patience is vital when conducting business in Mexico, as meetings often take longer than in the United States. Social etiquette involves more small talk before business, and it’s customary to avoid saying “no” directly.
A “yes” may not always be definitive. Mexicans tend to use tactful and indirect phrasing and may be more expressive with praise and emotions than Americans. Email communication is generally more formal compared to the U.S., and it’s courteous to match this formality. For quick, informal chats, WhatsApp is popular. Avoid aggressive negotiation tactics, as they are considered rude.
Time is viewed flexibly in Mexico. Guests for social events (outside of Northern cities) may arrive up to an hour late, but punctuality is expected for most business and government appointments.
Business cards are widely used, so have plenty ready. The currency is the Mexican peso, and while U.S. dollars are occasionally accepted in border regions and tourist areas, they are not commonly used elsewhere.
Travel Advisory
The State Department offers a security assessment for each Mexican state. U.S. travelers and investors should review the State Department’s Mexico Travel Advisory and other country-specific information. It is also recommended to register trips through the Safe Traveler Enrollment Program, allowing you to receive security updates and instructions in case of natural disasters or other incidents.
Visa Requirements
U.S. businesspeople staying long-term in Mexico need a Temporary Mexico Resident Card. All U.S. citizens require a passport or passport card for entry. A new digital system, FMMD, replaces the old Visitor Card for indicating stay duration. Select airports are testing E-Gates for tourists, allowing passport scanning and ticket issuance for 180-day stays.
Additionally, tourists should be aware of the visitor’s tax, which may apply during their stay. This system is only for tourists, not residents.
