Necessary for land within 50 km (31 miles) of the coast or 100 km (62 miles) of international borders. The bank holds the title, but you have full rights to sell, rent, or pass it to heirs.
You must obtain a permit from the Mexican Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Secretaría de Relaciones Exteriores) to acquire property as a foreigner. Step-by-Step Purchase Process Buying property in Mexico as an American: 2026 guide
Unlike a U.S. notary, a Mexican Notario Público is a state-appointed lawyer who oversees the entire transaction, verifies title records, and registers the deed.
Buying a home in Mexico from the U.S. is a structured process that varies significantly based on the property's location. While Americans can own property outright in the interior, coastal and border areas (the "Restricted Zone") require a bank trust called a . Key Legal Requirements