Healthcare in Mexico for Foreigners: What You Need to Know

Mexico has become a top choice for retirees and travelers from North America and Europe—offering great weather, a vibrant culture, and a lower cost of living. One of the most important considerations when relocating is healthcare. Fortunately, Mexico offers high-quality, affordable care—both in public and private systems.

Here’s what you need to know about how healthcare works in Mexico and how to access it as a foreigner:

1. Public vs. Private Healthcare

Mexico has a dual healthcare system: public (government-funded) and private (out-of-pocket or insured).

• Public System:

  • IMSS (Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social): Funded by employer and employee contributions; also available for voluntary enrollment.

  • INSABI: Free care for low-income individuals not covered by IMSS—mainly for Mexican citizens and residents.

  • These systems are affordable but may have longer wait times and limited English-speaking staff.

• Private System:

  • Offers faster, higher-quality service with English-speaking doctors.

  • Available in major cities and tourist hubs.

  • Ideal for most foreigners, especially those who want flexibility and shorter wait times.

2. How to Apply for Healthcare in Mexico (IMSS Enrollment)

Foreigners with temporary or permanent residency can apply for voluntary enrollment in Mexico’s IMSS public healthcare system.

Here’s how:

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for IMSS:

1. Get Your Residency Card
   You must hold a valid Temporary Resident or Permanent Resident visa.

2. Gather Documents

   • Valid passport

   • Residency card (temporary or permanent)

   • CURP (Unique Population Registry Code)

   • Proof of address (utility bill in your name)

   • Completed application form (you can get it from your local IMSS office)

   • Marriage certificate (if applying as a couple)

   • Birth certificates (if applying for children)

3. Visit Your Local IMSS Office
   Locate your nearest IMSS subdelegación (sub-office). Apply in person with all documents.

4. Pay the Annual Fee
   As a foreigner, you’ll pay an annual fee based on your age:

   • Under 19: approx. $4,650 MXN

   • Age 40–59: approx. $8,650 MXN

   • Age 60–69: approx. $12,300 MXN
     (Rates change annually)

5. Wait for Activation
   After approval and payment, coverage typically begins the first day of the following month.

💡 Note: IMSS does not cover pre-existing conditions for the first 2 years. Many foreigners still keep private insurance during that time or use IMSS for basic services and private doctors for specialized care.

3. Private Health Insurance for Foreigners

Many foreigners prefer private health insurance, which offers:

• Coverage in top-tier hospitals

• Access to specialists without referrals

• English-speaking support

You can buy:

• Mexican private plans (in-country only, lower premiums)

• International insurance (covers multiple countries)

4. Cost of Healthcare in Mexico

• General doctor visit: $30–$60 USD

• Specialist consultation: $50–$100 USD

• Dental cleaning: $30–$50 USD

• MRI: $300–$500 USD

• Hospital stay (private): ~$100–$300 USD per night

Prices vary by region—Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey are higher; beach towns can be more affordable but may have fewer specialists.

5. Prescription Medications

Many prescription drugs are available over the counter and cost significantly less than in the U.S. or Canada. For controlled substances, a Mexican doctor’s prescription is required.

6. Emergency and Medical Tourism

• Ambulance services are available (public and private).

• In emergencies, head directly to a private hospital if possible—service is faster and more comprehensive.

• Mexico is a global hub for medical tourism, especially in dentistry, orthopedics, and cosmetic surgery.

Final Thoughts

Healthcare in Mexico is accessible, affordable, and high-quality—especially when you understand the options available. Whether you enroll in IMSS, purchase private insurance, or use a mix of both, you can enjoy peace of mind while living abroad.

If you’re planning to stay long-term, apply for residency and then consider enrolling in IMSS as a backup to private care. For short-term stays, travel insurance or international coverage may be sufficient.