Paul, thank you for your videos! They have been an amazing source for all tasks extraordinarily arduous here in Mexico! I just wanted to add that I received an email from SAT approving my application for the Constancia de Situacion (CIF) with a PDF of the document attached. Unfortunately, I did not realize that I still needed to generate a password for the SAT site and that the attached CIF actually was only good for 30 days. I was not able to get to the CFE office in Cancun until today and learned that the CIF that I had printed on May 18th was no longer valid because it was now June 28th. So, in case there are any other dummies out there like me, be sure to properly translate the SAT email so that you can generate a password and access your CIF to print current dated copies. The attached PDF is only valid for 30 days from the date of the SAT email and now when I click on the link in the email I receive a message that the access link has expired and is no longer valid. There is no option for generating a new password. I am guessing that I have to start all over and hoping that is all I need to do to get a new password issued so that going forward I will be able to log in and obtain current copies of my CIF as needed. Thanks again for all you do. I really think you should write a book called “Navigating Mexico’s Bureaucracy for Dummies.” It would be a best seller 😎
After watching your latest videos, I’m finding the process of moving to Mexico even part time daunting. My plan was to buy a condo in San Miguel de Allende to spend my summers in, while having my main residency in Arizona. Unless I can get some kind of immigration service/ lawyer to lead me by the nose to complete all these tasks I feel like I’m sunk. I’m 66 and technologically challenged:( I hope I can throw money at this problem and make it all happen. I want to add a laughing face emoji but I can’t even figure out how to find it….that’s how lame I am. Thank you for all you do to educate us Paul. You’re a treasure.
There's a service that appears to be pretty well-regarded that helps with these processes and they have offices in San Miguel. Look for Sonia Diaz Mexico. She also wrote a good book called The Move to Mexico Bible. I plan to use their office in Puerto Vallarta to help with the second half of the temporary residency visa process.
You can buy a condo through a real estate broker without referring to any of this legal stuff (so far). I have a condo in Cabo for 2 yrs now and so far nobody asked me to do any of this legality; yet.
@@MrJx4000 For what it's worth, that doesn't work for me right here, using a Mac & Firefox. Maybe it does in Windows or other browsers? However, as I'm typing this there's a little smiling face icon to the left side below the line where I'm typing and I can click that and put an emoji in right here -> 😊
Hi Paul, thank you for the detailed video. Applied November 23, received approval 24. Completed the process as you described. Two things I want to mention: 1. If you don't have a reasonable understanding of Spanish, don't rely on a web translator, get someone to help you. 2. Those CAPTCHA's, oh boy 🙂
Thanks, Sir, as I would have never figured that out. Happy Holidays! If you ever come to San Miguel de Allende come along on a tour as my guest or at least let me give you a book from the best-selling series - San Miguel de Allende Secrets.
No matter what you are applying for, I find they want to see the originals and you have to supply two black and white copies! Thank you for your helpful videos. It's made getting my residency card, drivers license, find my CURP and apply for a RFC so much easier! All the best to you and Linda.
Sooooo bizzarly, I just did this yesterday but had not watched the video all the way through so I submitted my USA passport and miracle of miracles, the accepted it and today I got my CIF ("Constancia de Situación Fiscal") attached to my approval letter. Just proving AGAIN that the government of Mexico continues to be consistently inconsistent. Cheers!
I've been approved for RT and currently planning a trip to Cuernavaca in July. Your videos are helping me get organized. It appears I first need an INM visit for my RT card and CURP number, then an SAT appointment for my RFC number and CSF form. Tantos acrinimos tontos. jajaja
Qroo provided to you incorrect information. Imagine all the needless hassles he created by not researching this carefully. This is why you should always do your own research and not rely solely on a UA-camr. Qroo no disrespect to you, but the OECD document on this issue entitled, “Information on Tax Identification Numbers” clearly states that Residente Temporal without land nor legal association, are not required to obtain the RFC. That document claims the citizens and permanent residents are required without exception, although the less formal blog entitled, “RFC Requirements- Myth vs Reality” claims that even PRs are not required to unless they involve in certain activities.
Thank you so much for proving such a clear instructable. I was able to complete it second time and am waiting for my password. I truly appreciate the assistance you are proving and will share your channel with all my friends here in Ajijic.
Thank you, thank you, thank you for your video on obtaining the Constanzia Identificacion Fiscal. Very, very helpful and covered every aspect of the process. And thank you for all your other helpful videos for living here in Mexico!
Paul, thanks for another great video. This is going to be very difficult for many expats, especially those seniors and seasonal snowbirds when they cant'get RFC online but in person
That is true. Well, if the time comes that they are asked for this document and they happen to be in Mexico, they will know where to find the tutorials to get it done. :)
@@qroo not trying to be a pita, but the OECD document on this issue entitled, “Information on Tax Identification Numbers” clearly states that Residente Temporal without land nor legal association, are not required to obtain the RFC. That document claims the citizens and permanent residents are required without exception, although the less formal blog entitled, “RFC Requirements- Myth vs Reality” claims that even PRs are not required to unless they involve in certain activities.
Thank you so much! This came at the right time for us. We sold our condo this week because the condo life is not for us. Like you we would like a house.
Paul, I have a favor or suggestion for another video. I set up my password and now where do I go on the SAT website to print my document. With the sale of our condo the notary wants one with a date within three months. Thanks again for all you do!🤗
I had a translator. He offered to complete the process, but he needed me to give him my flashdrive, or meet with him to finish the process. I'm a little confused as to the last step of adding my email address and the importance of the flashdrive. I appreciate any information you have to share. Thanks.
The flashdrive is to set up your e-signature (e.firma) with the government to be prove your identity and access government sites. They take your biometric data to do that so it is impossible for anyone else to do this on your behalf.
If you planning to come to Mexico only to live from your retirement funds from USA, it is ok you dont have to do anything with regular tax reports, only when you decide to sell you will have to report income tax on capital gains, may be it result to pay or maybe not but you have to report it, BUT IF YOU DEICIDE TO MAKE BUSSINESS WITH YOUR PLACE, arbb or regular renting, then you have to deal with tax reports, and the best thing you can do is contact to tax proffesional (CONTADOR PUBLICO) in Mexico the experts on tax laws are the Accountants not the lawyers. So contact one and becareful the professional is registerd by Instituto Mexicano de Contadores Publicos.
Do not even waste your time on that website. Go to your nearest SAT office in Mexico. Show them your Mexican ID and ask them to print your current year’s fiscal certificate with the RFC on it. That website will reject your application for any reason and you’ll be stuck for weeks. I had my certificate printed at the SAT office within 15 minutes of arriving.
Agree 100% - something has changed within SAT. I did this last year without issue when I needed it to buy a new car, but this year (August 2024) my wife has been rejected 4x in a week. Signature doesn't match, bad RP copy, wrong ID type, blah.
Hola Paul. My husband uses Google to translate all of the Spanish language pages. So when the phrase came up for him to read with the camera on, he read it in English. Within a day, he had his Constancia de Situación Fiscal in email without issue. So for those people who are intimidated by having to read Spanish into a camera, it might be helpful to know what he did and that it worked fine. We're in La Paz, BCS -- the wild wild west - so maybe they are more lenient here.
Another data point. I let chrome translate the phrase into English. SAT rejected it for that reason. Then I turned off auto translation in my browser and resubmitted it, and it was approved.
FYI on response to Anne who added this link to FB group.. Thanks Anne for linking video. We had an attorney get the RFC for us (still upset about $$$ to get this done, but worked and I could not wait on a "virtual line" or make special trip to MX right now, but needed for closing on a house). I followed the video for the Constancia exactly. We were like we get this RFC preventing us from closing, and then still have to do something.... The Constancia is just a little different than the document we got when RFC was approved/given. I got the Constancia back in one day as email with attached pdf of the document after I completed steps in video. My wife and I were laughing at all the steps though. We were like "Is this really necessary?" Could we not have just gotten this when the RFC was granted? The part about having to use our passport when we have MX residency cards is strange. But I just uploaded our passport image. And why the document we got when granted RFC which has same info showing Name, CURP, and the granted RFC is not the same is beyond me. I still laugh thinking about the process. Expected a part where you had to stand on one foot, pat your head, and recite the MX national anthem😊 I parked the pdf on a cloud drive for future use. Will print a copy since I feel a lot in MX is still paper happy. Thanks to Mr Paul for video too.
Just a thought, only residents can get RFC numbers and Constancias de Situaciónes Fiscales, BUT you don't need to be a resident to purchase a house. How in the heck is THAT going to work out? - Anne
These videos are amazingly helpful. In Puerto Vallarta I was given the Constancia de Situación Fiscal when I went in to SAT to apply for the RFC. Everything in one appointment. Other than the two or three hour wait it was all pretty smooth. One question: now that I have the requisite documentation, do I need to do something to link it to the condo I own, such as in the property title or the property tax? Or do I just ignore it until I go to sell? I've linked it to Telmex and CFE, by the way.
Thank you so much for this video. It worked great for me. When I followed the link to Generate a Password, I was stumped on the first line to fill. "Page of the Procedure" I don't know what is being asked.
Hi Hector. Health insurance policies vary so much in price and coverage. Also prices vary by age of the person. Let me give it some thought and see if I can come up with a way to make the information relevant to most folks.
Hello everyone... My wife went to her appointment this morning (Playa Del Carmen) and this is what happen: She brought: Passport and 2 copies, Copy of a friend CFE bill, copy of the appointment confirmation, her residency card and one USB flashdrive. They didnt use the USB flashdrive... she had to prove where she was living by showing on google map the exact house. My appointment is on Wednesday... let see what happen !!!
Oof! I already had my CIF, now I find out I need this. Thanks for the heads up. Just finished the process, very easy. I used my iPad and was able to just take photos of my resident card. The signature was the hardest part, fingers crossed that all goes well.
Good luck, but you probably could have waited until you were asked for it. Some businesses are requesting CIF or a constancia. One of our Patreon members sent me the request from his Internet provider out of Cancun. They specifically requested a constancia citing the new 2022 rules. You know Mexico. The only thing that is consistent is that things will be inconsistent...lol.
@@qroo Only took a minute, so I’m covered either way. I have a suggestion for a video topic that might help expats living in the center of Mexico. How to read your CFE bill and why your “Tarifa” is so important. Now that we are in the hottest part of the year in the central highlands (pretty much all Tarifa 1) people really should understand how few KwH they can consume before being assigned to “Tarifa DAC”. 250 KwH per month averaged over 12 months is not much but that is what is allowed in Tarifa 1.
Hello Paul - thanks for your helpful video on obtaining the SAT CONSTANCIA. It was helpful and within 3-4 days I received the CONSTANCIA and a password. Do you have a video showing what to do next with the password. I tried and screwed the whole thing up an error message saying that the RFC and password are not correct - verify and try again. Something is not correct. I hope you have a video with the answer.
I just did mine a few days. It was a typical MX challenge. I wish you would have gone through to the setting up your password part as there is were I ran into problems. You need to use an 8 digit password (Only 8). Usually they are at least 8 so I did my typical 10. So when I tried to log in after it said my password was incorrect. I finally got help to figure it out and then only used the first 8 digits of my 10 digit password. Also, I could not figure out how to log out for me on Chrome, so I could log in for Paul. I had to use a different browser. Safari did not want to generate the PDF so I switched to Firefox for Paul.
Yes, I thought that the 8 digit password was so odd and limiting. I liked when you wrote "it was a typical MX challenge"...lol. That is certainly the truth. Getting things done in Mexico can often be unnecessarily arduous.
But but but - After numerous attempts I managed to have SAT accept my signature. Great. They sent me a "FOLIO" number, a link to a page to generate a SAT password and the constancia - as you describe in this video. Interestingly when I look at the constancia it says "Regimen : Sin obligaciones fiscale" - which I guess means I don't work in Mexico nor own a business. Ok - now it is time to generate the SAT password. It took me dozens of attempts. It kept saying it did not like my captcha response. Finally I got a message that my password was successfully generated. (By the way - I dropped the case of all letters to lowercase in the end). NOW WHAT ? We must be supposed to login in to SAT (somewhere) and do something. No ? I will share with you that my bank has already asked me for my constancia ! Turns out I was lucky, that was the day after SAT actually sent it to me. And yesterday it was time for me to re-up my 2 year AT&T phone plan. I asked for a factura - my first in Mexico...
CAPTCHA was the toughest part of the procss for me...lol. You can log into the SAT site now. Once you do, it will ask for a Mexican phone number and a valid email address for notifications. If you don't provide those, it deactivates your account in like 15 days or so. They are sooooo strict. Thanks for sharing that the bank asked for your constancia. :)
Haven't watched the video yet (I'm sure it'll be excellent as always), but I noticed that when I hover my mouse pointer over the video thumbnail (on my computer) it looks like you're doing a little dance move 🙂.
Thanks for the video but you lost me when you signed on your computer screen using your finger. Does this mean you need to have a touch screen or use a smart phone or pad of some sort?
Qroo not trying to be a pita, but the OECD document on this issue entitled, “Information on Tax Identification Numbers” clearly states that Residente Temporal without land nor legal association, are not required to obtain the RFC. That document claims the citizens and permanent residents are required without exception, although the less formal blog entitled, “RFC Requirements- Myth vs Reality” claims that even PRs are not required to unless they involve in certain activities.
Thank you so much for these videos. I have finally received a residency. Now on to RCFs, and now a new document. I’ll be checking back regularly. Since things seem to be changing daily. Check up the “super” work.
Not sure if this is correct. As I have had it explained to me by my accountant, businesses should not require that full multi-page document. Instead, just the "Cédula" which is a small image containing a QR code which is enough to verify the information of the personal física/moral
This document contains the cédula as well. Many of the people contacting me are being asked specifically for the constancia by their service provider or some other company. Others say they are asked for either their cédula or their constancia. It is important to keep in mind that, most of the people who watch this video are expats who never bothered getting either and don't speak Spanish. That's why I focus on the single document that will satisfy any requests coming in. This document will also be emailed to them without having to activate their password to enter the SAT system.
Hi Paul - I have an email to say that I was approved for my Constancia de Situation and need to set up a password etc. Help....we need the next steps video from you! Thanks and you have been amazing!
And what happens if you do not get a RFC? Many Mexican vendors will only do business in cash to avoid the Mexican government tracking them... through their RFC. The only problem with an RFC is that it gets you deeply embedded in the Mexican governmental system, more so than just having a residency card so, buyer beware. Once you are in the paperwork jungle, and especially if you don't speak fluent Spanish.you will spend a great idea of time getting anything done and dealing with government agencies will feel like a full time job. Same for CFE, the national electricity provider, where it takes about 50 pages of documentation for them to change the name on an electricity bill! They'll send it to you for payment, but it's hell to get them to change it to your name! That's why other vendors may want to see a CFE bill but don't care who's name is on it. Insane.
You can still get by fine in that cash world and even when paying by credit card but answering no when they ask if you want a factura. However, with some services and purchases it is not an option to turn down a factura. For example, when you buy a new car, that is recorded on a factura and the original factura serves as your car title. Utility bills are facturas. You will continually encounter the need for an RFC. I suspect that it will become even more so based on the recent legislative changes.
Holly mole! Well I have a problem. I’m Mexican residing legally in USA for 40+ years, I don’t have any of those documents except my Mexican birth certificate. I am bilingual but since I don’t practice my Spanish specially at the level required for these documents I’ll have trouble understanding fully. I’m in the process of moving to Baja and this is going to complicate things, specially since I’m not tech savvy. Thanks for yet another very informative video as always.
Thank you for sharing this great information! It worked perfectly for my personal RFC. Do you have any guidance on how to download one for a corporation RFC? I tried to follow the same steps, but it wouldn't allow it.
Thanks for the this helpful video! I'm wondering... did anyone else get a text to set up their password, but no email with the constancia de situación fiscal? I'm wondering if that will come later, or if things changed and now we need to request that separately. I have access to the portal, but no way to view the constancia de situación fiscal. I'm only able to obtain my CIF.
I do not work or do business in Mexico, but have residency. Do I need an RFC? If so, how can I get an RFC? Would I need a Constancia de Situación Fiscal? Is there a fine for not applying or applying late?
I did it exactly as you said, and it seemed to work, but I've been waiting for 10 business days, and still nothing (of course I checked my spam and all mail). Then I try to do it again, and the system won't let me; it says there is already an open request. I don't know what to do but hoping for a cita (on a long waiting list, and I'm not even in Mexico until October).
Has anyone done the signature with their PC mouse? I don't have a touch screen PC so that's what I plan to do, but my mouse signature always looks terrible. So I'm wondering if others have tried that. (Super helpful video Qroo Paul. Gracias.)
It turns out my wife has an RFC. How she acquired one I have no idea. How do you sign when all you have is a mouse or a touchpad? It seems pretty clumsy.
I am using a desktop computer --- how do I take a photo of myself? The compu has a camera but I use an external camera (for Skype). If I disconnect my external camera, does my compu camera have an option to snap the required photo?
Getting an appointment at SAT is not timely for this whole process. People who are selling their properties are having difficulty getting their RFC. Do you feel they will need to put an extension on these dates as their system is now overwhelmed?
Thank you so much for your video. I went to my bank yesterday with my requested RFC and it is dated for Feb 2018. The bank person said I need to get another paper with the updated RFC for this year. Can you suggest how to obtain this paper?
My whole life I've just scribbled for my signature. I practically can't write in cursive, and if I print carefully it's barely legible. I had to sign literally about 30 times to try to make my visa signature look close enough to my passport signature. I suspect the problems caused by signature verification far outweigh any dubious, ostensible benefits.
Thank you so much for your very helpful You Tube videos. Using the CURP video, I was able to determine that I had an existing RFC. Yeah! From there I proceeded to trying to obtain the ‘Constancia de situación fiscal’. Following your instructions to ‘Generación de contraseña’ I encountered a problem. Under SATID, I entered my RFC and email per your very easy to follow instructions but when I pressed Continuar to obtain the ‘Captcha’ I received the following message: “No fue posible obtener la imagen captcha. Error de comunicación.” I tried using a PC running Windows 7, iPad Mini 5 and, even, my iPhone 13. The error message persisted on all devices. Any thoughts or suggestions would be very much appreciated. Thank you, Rita
People who have had a similar problem said they fixed it by changing the browser. For exampe, try Chrome or Firefox. I can't remember which one they said worked best. It is a fickle site on some devices.
Thank you for your kind and prompt reply. Sorry for not mentioning it in my note. Having had problems with banking in the past, I did use different browsers on the PC (Mozilla Firefox and Google Chrome) and Safari on the Apple devices but no luck. I even tried Explorer but I think it went the way of the Dodo 🦤 recently. You’ve been very helpful. Thanks again.
Hi Paul, thanks for the great videos, super helpful and clear! I've managed to follow all the steps to the point where I provide my signature but immediately after I get a message that I've exceeded the time limit - same message like five times... I didn't think there was any time limit after inputting the code they e-mail to you... Has anyone else experienced this. Would you recommend that I continue to try or make an appointment for a face-to-face? Thanks!
Sorry, no! When I did it on my computer, I had my phone nearby to grab the code, because I learned in setting up the SAT appointment the turn around was quick.
Hi, guys! I submitted a year ago and never received that email that says I was approved with the attached Constancia de Situación Fiscal. Do you reco I go to the SAT office to iron this out? The online chat is asking for a a password! mil gracias, Greg
Thank you for your informative videos, they are great! I have a silly question, I see that you have a touch screen laptop but I don't. With U.S. docs I just type my name, just wonder if it would work there.
Question Paul: Now as a "Residente Temporal" I recently did a NAME CHANGE for my motorcycle and my car, previously registered in the name of a Mexican friend. Went well! And I changed insurance for both. Again, no problem. So I am curious: are they giving me a generic RFC? CAR INSURANCE has one RFC, and MOTORCYCLE has another. Neither number is the one I see provided on internet as Generic Foreigner. This worries me. I have not been to the SAT office.
They are most likely fictitious RFCs based on the algorythm. Basically a "rough estimate" so it looks like a legit RFC. This is very common in Mexico, especially with vehicles, and it should be fine. The important thing is that the vehicles are in your name with the correct vehicle identification numbers.
I think I registered online for a cita with SAT back in May (2022) and just now in November was notified I had an appt for the RFC at the Cancun SAT in December. I think it would be super easy to miss the email from them; at first I wondered if it was even valid, but it was!
I went through this whole process, thank you for the clear guidance. After 3 weeks they replied to me that my signature did not match and to please try again. I will try again, BUT, is there a way to get this done in person at the SAT office? I tried to register for an appointment for an RFC and they wouldn't let me do it, saying that I already had an RFC associated with my CURP. Thanks for any help on this.
Only certain browser/device combinations will work with this. Safari on any device (iOS or Mac, not sure about PC) will not work, only Chrome and Firefox. Firefox on IOS does not work (it’s not recognized as Firefox) but Chrome on iOS does (I think). Firefox on a Mac does not work … it couldn’t use the camera properly. On Chrome/iOS, at least I was able to get all the way through the process. I have two concerns, though. It did not ask me to include or provide a way to include the back side of my card so I did not add it. And after recording the video where I recited the phrase, I was unable to see what I had recorded … the video area was black even though it was asking me to confirm that the video was correct. I confirmed it anyway. I’ll wait and see if everything worked.
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I absolutely love your diligence to ensure you explain things simply. It really sets you apart- thank you!
Thanks for watching. :)
Paul, thank you for your videos! They have been an amazing source for all tasks extraordinarily arduous here in Mexico! I just wanted to add that I received an email from SAT approving my application for the Constancia de Situacion (CIF) with a PDF of the document attached. Unfortunately, I did not realize that I still needed to generate a password for the SAT site and that the attached CIF actually was only good for 30 days. I was not able to get to the CFE office in Cancun until today and learned that the CIF that I had printed on May 18th was no longer valid because it was now June 28th. So, in case there are any other dummies out there like me, be sure to properly translate the SAT email so that you can generate a password and access your CIF to print current dated copies. The attached PDF is only valid for 30 days from the date of the SAT email and now when I click on the link in the email I receive a message that the access link has expired and is no longer valid. There is no option for generating a new password. I am guessing that I have to start all over and hoping that is all I need to do to get a new password issued so that going forward I will be able to log in and obtain current copies of my CIF as needed. Thanks again for all you do. I really think you should write a book called “Navigating Mexico’s Bureaucracy for Dummies.” It would be a best seller 😎
You do a fantastic job keeping us informed and confident about attempting this type of requirement. Thank you so much!
After watching your latest videos, I’m finding the process of moving to Mexico even part time daunting. My plan was to buy a condo in San Miguel de Allende to spend my summers in, while having my main residency in Arizona. Unless I can get some kind of immigration service/ lawyer to lead me by the nose to complete all these tasks I feel like I’m sunk. I’m 66 and technologically challenged:( I hope I can throw money at this problem and make it all happen. I want to add a laughing face emoji but I can’t even figure out how to find it….that’s how lame I am. Thank you for all you do to educate us Paul. You’re a treasure.
There's a service that appears to be pretty well-regarded that helps with these processes and they have offices in San Miguel. Look for Sonia Diaz Mexico. She also wrote a good book called The Move to Mexico Bible. I plan to use their office in Puerto Vallarta to help with the second half of the temporary residency visa process.
@@smithchuck Thank you Chuck. I know there are services available, but have not begun to explore them. I will look into the one you mentioned!
You can buy a condo through a real estate broker without referring to any of this legal stuff (so far). I have a condo in Cabo for 2 yrs now and so far nobody asked me to do any of this legality; yet.
To add en emoji to anything Internet nowadays, just right-click and select Emoji from the menu that appears, and have fun 🥰
@@MrJx4000 For what it's worth, that doesn't work for me right here, using a Mac & Firefox. Maybe it does in Windows or other browsers? However, as I'm typing this there's a little smiling face icon to the left side below the line where I'm typing and I can click that and put an emoji in right here -> 😊
Thankyou for your time! Me and my wife we like to move in Puerto Penasco Mexico ,buy some land ,build a house and move there full time.
Thanks for all the important work you do…. You make a huge difference in our lives and I imagine in The lives of expats throughout Mexico…. Bravo!!
Thank you for the super positive feedback. You made my day. Take care. :)
Thank you Thank you I truly… appreciate the information
You truly are a lifesaver. Thank you again for another informative video. Now I wait. The hardest is always matching my signature.
Mine wasn't exact in my opinion and it still went through. Good luck!
Mine wasn't very good and the accepted it.
Gracias Paul for keeping us informed and legal!!!!👍
You bet! Thanks for watching. :)
Hi Paul, thank you for the detailed video. Applied November 23, received approval 24. Completed the process as you described. Two things I want to mention: 1. If you don't have a reasonable understanding of Spanish, don't rely on a web translator, get someone to help you. 2. Those CAPTCHA's, oh boy 🙂
Thanks, Sir, as I would have never figured that out. Happy Holidays! If you ever come to San Miguel de Allende come along on a tour as my guest or at least let me give you a book from the best-selling series - San Miguel de Allende Secrets.
No matter what you are applying for, I find they want to see the originals and you have to supply two black and white copies! Thank you for your helpful videos. It's made getting my residency card, drivers license, find my CURP and apply for a RFC so much easier! All the best to you and Linda.
Sooooo bizzarly, I just did this yesterday but had not watched the video all the way through so I submitted my USA passport and miracle of miracles, the accepted it and today I got my CIF ("Constancia de Situación Fiscal") attached to my approval letter. Just proving AGAIN that the government of Mexico continues to be consistently inconsistent. Cheers!
Have you considered a video on how to change the email or home address with SAT ?
Yes, I would like to know that, too.
I've been approved for RT and currently planning a trip to Cuernavaca in July. Your videos are helping me get organized. It appears I first need an INM visit for my RT card and CURP number, then an SAT appointment for my RFC number and CSF form. Tantos acrinimos tontos. jajaja
It can be a pain getting everything set up but it ill be worth it in the end. Thanks for watching.
Qroo provided to you incorrect information. Imagine all the needless hassles he created by not researching this carefully. This is why you should always do your own research and not rely solely on a UA-camr. Qroo no disrespect to you, but the OECD document on this issue entitled, “Information on Tax Identification Numbers” clearly states that Residente Temporal without land nor legal association, are not required to obtain the RFC. That document claims the citizens and permanent residents are required without exception, although the less formal blog entitled, “RFC Requirements- Myth vs Reality” claims that even PRs are not required to unless they involve in certain activities.
Thank you so much for proving such a clear instructable. I was able to complete it second time and am waiting for my password. I truly appreciate the assistance you are proving and will share your channel with all my friends here in Ajijic.
Thank you Paul. Always the most useful and best produced in this space.
Thank you, thank you, thank you for your video on obtaining the Constanzia Identificacion Fiscal. Very, very helpful and covered every aspect of the process. And thank you for all your other helpful videos for living here in Mexico!
Glad it was helpful!
Paul, thanks for another great video. This is going to be very difficult for many expats, especially those seniors and seasonal snowbirds when they cant'get RFC online but in person
That is true. Well, if the time comes that they are asked for this document and they happen to be in Mexico, they will know where to find the tutorials to get it done. :)
@@qroo not trying to be a pita, but the OECD document on this issue entitled, “Information on Tax Identification Numbers” clearly states that Residente Temporal without land nor legal association, are not required to obtain the RFC. That document claims the citizens and permanent residents are required without exception, although the less formal blog entitled, “RFC Requirements- Myth vs Reality” claims that even PRs are not required to unless they involve in certain activities.
Bravo, mi amigo. You make this stuff easy. Travel safely.
Thank you so much! This came at the right time for us. We sold our condo this week because the condo life is not for us. Like you we would like a house.
Condo life is okay for awhile but it starts feeling a bit confining after awhile. There is nothing like having a house. :)
Paul, I have a favor or suggestion for another video. I set up my password and now where do I go on the SAT website to print my document. With the sale of our condo the notary wants one with a date within three months. Thanks again for all you do!🤗
Thanks so much! We couldn't have done it without you. And that Captcha - or should we call it GOTCHA? Took 8 tries when I was setting up my password!
I had a translator. He offered to complete the process, but he needed me to give him my flashdrive, or meet with him to finish the process. I'm a little confused as to the last step of adding my email address and the importance of the flashdrive. I appreciate any information you have to share. Thanks.
The flashdrive is to set up your e-signature (e.firma) with the government to be prove your identity and access government sites. They take your biometric data to do that so it is impossible for anyone else to do this on your behalf.
Thanks so much for yoyr feedback and for such incredibly informative videos
Thanks for a great video Paul. It made a potentially cumbersome process very straightforward!
Glad it was helpful!
If you planning to come to Mexico only to live from your retirement funds from USA, it is ok you dont have to do anything with regular tax reports, only when you decide to sell you will have to report income tax on capital gains, may be it result to pay or maybe not but you have to report it, BUT IF YOU DEICIDE TO MAKE BUSSINESS WITH YOUR PLACE, arbb or regular renting, then you have to deal with tax reports, and the best thing you can do is contact to tax proffesional (CONTADOR PUBLICO) in Mexico the experts on tax laws are the Accountants not the lawyers. So contact one and becareful the professional is registerd by Instituto Mexicano de Contadores Publicos.
Thank you for giving such great advice in these highly technical areas!
Happy to help. :)
Thanks so much for figuring all tis out & SHARING IT !
Do not even waste your time on that website. Go to your nearest SAT office in Mexico. Show them your Mexican ID and ask them to print your current year’s fiscal certificate with the RFC on it.
That website will reject your application for any reason and you’ll be stuck for weeks.
I had my certificate printed at the SAT office within 15 minutes of arriving.
Agree 100% - something has changed within SAT. I did this last year without issue when I needed it to buy a new car, but this year (August 2024) my wife has been rejected 4x in a week. Signature doesn't match, bad RP copy, wrong ID type, blah.
Hola Paul. My husband uses Google to translate all of the Spanish language pages. So when the phrase came up for him to read with the camera on, he read it in English. Within a day, he had his Constancia de Situación Fiscal in email without issue. So for those people who are intimidated by having to read Spanish into a camera, it might be helpful to know what he did and that it worked fine. We're in La Paz, BCS -- the wild wild west - so maybe they are more lenient here.
That's great! Thanks for sharing that info.
Awesome help. I was about ready to ask Paul about this.
Another data point. I let chrome translate the phrase into English. SAT rejected it for that reason. Then I turned off auto translation in my browser and resubmitted it, and it was approved.
Thanks for all of this info Paul, you’ve been a huge help!
Happy to help! Thanks for watching.
Thank you thank you! All done due to your very helpful You Tube videos.
FYI on response to Anne who added this link to FB group.. Thanks Anne for linking video. We had an attorney get the RFC for us (still upset about $$$ to get this done, but worked and I could not wait on a "virtual line" or make special trip to MX right now, but needed for closing on a house). I followed the video for the Constancia exactly. We were like we get this RFC preventing us from closing, and then still have to do something.... The Constancia is just a little different than the document we got when RFC was approved/given. I got the Constancia back in one day as email with attached pdf of the document after I completed steps in video. My wife and I were laughing at all the steps though. We were like "Is this really necessary?" Could we not have just gotten this when the RFC was granted? The part about having to use our passport when we have MX residency cards is strange. But I just uploaded our passport image. And why the document we got when granted RFC which has same info showing Name, CURP, and the granted RFC is not the same is beyond me. I still laugh thinking about the process. Expected a part where you had to stand on one foot, pat your head, and recite the MX national anthem😊 I parked the pdf on a cloud drive for future use. Will print a copy since I feel a lot in MX is still paper happy. Thanks to Mr Paul for video too.
Thanks for sharing your time with us Paul
Godspeed J&D
🙏🇨🇦🇨🇦🇲🇽🇲🇽🇨🇦🇨🇦🙏
Thanks for watching. You guys are quick!
Just a thought, only residents can get RFC numbers and Constancias de Situaciónes Fiscales, BUT you don't need to be a resident to purchase a house. How in the heck is THAT going to work out? - Anne
Just got a request for this document, excellent timing!
Glad it was helpful!
Thank you so much for this! HUGE HELP! Always enjoy your videos!
Happy to help!
These videos are amazingly helpful. In Puerto Vallarta I was given the Constancia de Situación Fiscal when I went in to SAT to apply for the RFC. Everything in one appointment. Other than the two or three hour wait it was all pretty smooth. One question: now that I have the requisite documentation, do I need to do something to link it to the condo I own, such as in the property title or the property tax? Or do I just ignore it until I go to sell? I've linked it to Telmex and CFE, by the way.
Thank you so much for this video. It worked great for me. When I followed the link to Generate a Password, I was stumped on the first line to fill. "Page of the Procedure" I don't know what is being asked.
Could you guys make a video about health insurance in Mexico? Like how much you pay how much it covers, etc. Thanks nice videos 👍
Hi Hector. Health insurance policies vary so much in price and coverage. Also prices vary by age of the person. Let me give it some thought and see if I can come up with a way to make the information relevant to most folks.
Another excellent job, mucho bueno, Gracias, Theo in California
Thank you!
Done. Thanks, once, again, Paul! 🙏🏻
Thanks, Paul. I just went on the site and it was all in English. :-)
That's great!
Hello everyone... My wife went to her appointment this morning (Playa Del Carmen) and this is what happen: She brought: Passport and 2 copies, Copy of a friend CFE bill, copy of the appointment confirmation, her residency card and one USB flashdrive. They didnt use the USB flashdrive... she had to prove where she was living by showing on google map the exact house. My appointment is on Wednesday... let see what happen !!!
Thanks Paul.
You're the KING! Thank you!
Jane, you are always so sweet. ;)
I did it! Yay!
Thanks, but WOW, what a process!
Mexico does tend to make things unnecessarily arduous, in my humble opinion.
Oof! I already had my CIF, now I find out I need this. Thanks for the heads up. Just finished the process, very easy. I used my iPad and was able to just take photos of my resident card. The signature was the hardest part, fingers crossed that all goes well.
Good luck, but you probably could have waited until you were asked for it. Some businesses are requesting CIF or a constancia. One of our Patreon members sent me the request from his Internet provider out of Cancun. They specifically requested a constancia citing the new 2022 rules. You know Mexico. The only thing that is consistent is that things will be inconsistent...lol.
@@qroo Only took a minute, so I’m covered either way. I have a suggestion for a video topic that might help expats living in the center of Mexico. How to read your CFE bill and why your “Tarifa” is so important. Now that we are in the hottest part of the year in the central highlands (pretty much all Tarifa 1) people really should understand how few KwH they can consume before being assigned to “Tarifa DAC”. 250 KwH per month averaged over 12 months is not much but that is what is allowed in Tarifa 1.
That is a great video idea. I'll add it to my list. Thanks. :)
Hello Paul - thanks for your helpful video on obtaining the SAT CONSTANCIA. It was helpful and within 3-4 days I received the CONSTANCIA and a password. Do you have a video showing what to do next with the password. I tried and screwed the whole thing up an error message saying that the RFC and password are not correct - verify and try again. Something is not correct. I hope you have a video with the answer.
I just did mine a few days. It was a typical MX challenge. I wish you would have gone through to the setting up your password part as there is were I ran into problems. You need to use an 8 digit password (Only 8). Usually they are at least 8 so I did my typical 10. So when I tried to log in after it said my password was incorrect. I finally got help to figure it out and then only used the first 8 digits of my 10 digit password. Also, I could not figure out how to log out for me on Chrome, so I could log in for Paul. I had to use a different browser. Safari did not want to generate the PDF so I switched to Firefox for Paul.
Yes, I thought that the 8 digit password was so odd and limiting. I liked when you wrote "it was a typical MX challenge"...lol. That is certainly the truth. Getting things done in Mexico can often be unnecessarily arduous.
But but but - After numerous attempts I managed to have SAT accept my signature. Great. They sent me a "FOLIO" number, a link to a page to generate a SAT password and the constancia - as you describe in this video. Interestingly when I look at the constancia it says "Regimen : Sin obligaciones fiscale" - which I guess means I don't work in Mexico nor own a business. Ok - now it is time to generate the SAT password. It took me dozens of attempts. It kept saying it did not like my captcha response. Finally I got a message that my password was successfully generated. (By the way - I dropped the case of all letters to lowercase in the end). NOW WHAT ? We must be supposed to login in to SAT (somewhere) and do something. No ?
I will share with you that my bank has already asked me for my constancia ! Turns out I was lucky, that was the day after SAT actually sent it to me. And yesterday it was time for me to re-up my 2 year AT&T phone plan. I asked for a factura - my first in Mexico...
CAPTCHA was the toughest part of the procss for me...lol. You can log into the SAT site now. Once you do, it will ask for a Mexican phone number and a valid email address for notifications. If you don't provide those, it deactivates your account in like 15 days or so. They are sooooo strict.
Thanks for sharing that the bank asked for your constancia. :)
Haven't watched the video yet (I'm sure it'll be excellent as always), but I noticed that when I hover my mouse pointer over the video thumbnail (on my computer) it looks like you're doing a little dance move 🙂.
Hahaha, I just tried it. You're right.
have fun going to SAT..all day affair
Fuck SAT. Fuck taxes.
Thanks Paul - very helpful!
Excellent information! Thank you so much!
Glad it was helpful!
I am trying to learn Spanish. How close does the phase have to be. haha. Thanks so much for the step by step.
As long as the person watching it can tell that you are you. :)
Thanks for the video but you lost me when you signed on your computer screen using your finger. Does this mean you need to have a touch screen or use a smart phone or pad of some sort?
Yes, I believe you will need a touch screen or a touch pad.
You know more than us mexicans
I enjoy stayimng current on Mexican current events, laws and regulations. I really need to get a hobby....lol.
Gracias
Qroo not trying to be a pita, but the OECD document on this issue entitled, “Information on Tax Identification Numbers” clearly states that Residente Temporal without land nor legal association, are not required to obtain the RFC. That document claims the citizens and permanent residents are required without exception, although the less formal blog entitled, “RFC Requirements- Myth vs Reality” claims that even PRs are not required to unless they involve in certain activities.
Thank you so much for these videos. I have finally received a residency. Now on to RCFs, and now a new document. I’ll be checking back regularly. Since things seem to be changing daily. Check up the “super” work.
Congrats on getting your residency!
Not sure if this is correct. As I have had it explained to me by my accountant, businesses should not require that full multi-page document. Instead, just the "Cédula" which is a small image containing a QR code which is enough to verify the information of the personal física/moral
This document contains the cédula as well. Many of the people contacting me are being asked specifically for the constancia by their service provider or some other company. Others say they are asked for either their cédula or their constancia. It is important to keep in mind that, most of the people who watch this video are expats who never bothered getting either and don't speak Spanish. That's why I focus on the single document that will satisfy any requests coming in. This document will also be emailed to them without having to activate their password to enter the SAT system.
Hi Paul - I have an email to say that I was approved for my Constancia de Situation and need to set up a password etc. Help....we need the next steps video from you! Thanks and you have been amazing!
And what happens if you do not get a RFC? Many Mexican vendors will only do business in cash to avoid the Mexican government tracking them... through their RFC. The only problem with an RFC is that it gets you deeply embedded in the Mexican governmental system, more so than just having a residency card so, buyer beware. Once you are in the paperwork jungle, and especially if you don't speak fluent Spanish.you will spend a great idea of time getting anything done and dealing with government agencies will feel like a full time job.
Same for CFE, the national electricity provider, where it takes about 50 pages of documentation for them to change the name on an electricity bill! They'll send it to you for payment, but it's hell to get them to change it to your name! That's why other vendors may want to see a CFE bill but don't care who's name is on it. Insane.
You can still get by fine in that cash world and even when paying by credit card but answering no when they ask if you want a factura. However, with some services and purchases it is not an option to turn down a factura. For example, when you buy a new car, that is recorded on a factura and the original factura serves as your car title. Utility bills are facturas. You will continually encounter the need for an RFC. I suspect that it will become even more so based on the recent legislative changes.
I’m confused by the difference between “already scanned into your system” and having a photo of the ID.
Any recommendations how to write your signature (so it's accepted) if you don't have a touch screen?
No, you will need to find a touchscreen or go to a SAT office in person to get the constancia.
Holly mole! Well I have a problem. I’m Mexican residing legally in USA for 40+ years, I don’t have any of those documents except my Mexican birth certificate. I am bilingual but since I don’t practice my Spanish specially at the level required for these documents I’ll have trouble understanding fully. I’m in the process of moving to Baja and this is going to complicate things, specially since I’m not tech savvy. Thanks for yet another very informative video as always.
I went through the whole process. Got my constancia and set up the new password. After one time I using it, doesn't work anymore.
I followed your great instructions, got a reference number at the end but it's been over 5 days and I have not heard anything. Suggestions?
It takes some people up to to weeks to get the email. They are verified by actual people.
@@qroo Gracias!
Thank you for sharing this great information! It worked perfectly for my personal RFC. Do you have any guidance on how to download one for a corporation RFC? I tried to follow the same steps, but it wouldn't allow it.
Thanks for the this helpful video! I'm wondering... did anyone else get a text to set up their password, but no email with the constancia de situación fiscal? I'm wondering if that will come later, or if things changed and now we need to request that separately. I have access to the portal, but no way to view the constancia de situación fiscal. I'm only able to obtain my CIF.
Thanks!
Thank you!
I do not work or do business in Mexico, but have residency. Do I need an RFC? If so, how can I get an RFC? Would I need a Constancia de Situación Fiscal? Is there a fine for not applying or applying late?
did you have to save the copy of your residency card in a certain format?
I saved mine as a JPG
I did it exactly as you said, and it seemed to work, but I've been waiting for 10 business days, and still nothing (of course I checked my spam and all mail). Then I try to do it again, and the system won't let me; it says there is already an open request. I don't know what to do but hoping for a cita (on a long waiting list, and I'm not even in Mexico until October).
Has anyone done the signature with their PC mouse? I don't have a touch screen PC so that's what I plan to do, but my mouse signature always looks terrible. So I'm wondering if others have tried that. (Super helpful video Qroo Paul. Gracias.)
Answering my own question. Signature with mouse works fine. So for those of you without touchscreens, don't worry.
It turns out my wife has an RFC. How she acquired one I have no idea. How do you sign when all you have is a mouse or a touchpad? It seems pretty clumsy.
so once you register and get that document dont you also have to hire accountant ?
I am using a desktop computer --- how do I take a photo of myself? The compu has a camera but I use an external camera (for Skype). If I disconnect my external camera, does my compu camera have an option to snap the required photo?
Getting an appointment at SAT is not timely for this whole process. People who are selling their properties are having difficulty getting their RFC. Do you feel they will need to put an extension on these dates as their system is now overwhelmed?
Is the “constancia ….. “ required of everyone? Sounds like it might be for businesses .
Thank you so much for your video. I went to my bank yesterday with my requested RFC and it is dated for Feb 2018. The bank person said I need to get another paper with the updated RFC for this year. Can you suggest how to obtain this paper?
That's what this document is. You can get it online or stop by a SAT office. It shows the latest info and is dated.
Im having a problem as it says Enter a valid RFC for Natural person when i put my RFC number in and it wont go any further
My whole life I've just scribbled for my signature. I practically can't write in cursive, and if I print carefully it's barely legible. I had to sign literally about 30 times to try to make my visa signature look close enough to my passport signature. I suspect the problems caused by signature verification far outweigh any dubious, ostensible benefits.
I wish you had explained how you signed. I cannot sign on my macbook pro.
I signed on the screen. It requires a touchscreen.
Hello, I have tried Chrome on my laptop and also on my iphone and no luck. Can you help?
Thank you so much for your very helpful You Tube videos. Using the CURP video, I was able to determine that I had an existing RFC. Yeah! From there I proceeded to trying to obtain the ‘Constancia de situación fiscal’.
Following your instructions to ‘Generación de contraseña’ I encountered a problem. Under SATID, I entered my RFC and email per your very easy to follow instructions but when I pressed Continuar to obtain the ‘Captcha’ I received the following message: “No fue posible obtener la imagen captcha. Error de comunicación.” I tried using a PC running Windows 7, iPad Mini 5 and, even, my iPhone 13. The error message persisted on all devices.
Any thoughts or suggestions would be very much appreciated. Thank you, Rita
People who have had a similar problem said they fixed it by changing the browser. For exampe, try Chrome or Firefox. I can't remember which one they said worked best. It is a fickle site on some devices.
Thank you for your kind and prompt reply. Sorry for not mentioning it in my note. Having had problems with banking in the past, I did use different browsers on the PC (Mozilla Firefox and Google Chrome) and Safari on the Apple devices but no luck. I even tried Explorer but I think it went the way of the Dodo 🦤 recently. You’ve been very helpful. Thanks again.
Hi Paul, thanks for the great videos, super helpful and clear! I've managed to follow all the steps to the point where I provide my signature but immediately after I get a message that I've exceeded the time limit - same message like five times... I didn't think there was any time limit after inputting the code they e-mail to you... Has anyone else experienced this. Would you recommend that I continue to try or make an appointment for a face-to-face? Thanks!
Sorry, no! When I did it on my computer, I had my phone nearby to grab the code, because I learned in setting up the SAT appointment the turn around was quick.
Great info as always Paul, but it feels like we're being set up to fail tbh - Anne
Hi, guys! I submitted a year ago and never received that email that says I was approved with the attached Constancia de Situación Fiscal. Do you reco I go to the SAT office to iron this out? The online chat is asking for a a password! mil gracias, Greg
Thank you for your informative videos, they are great! I have a silly question, I see that you have a touch screen laptop but I don't. With U.S. docs I just type my name, just wonder if it would work there.
There was not an option to type your name. You might have to borrow a friend's device.
Ugh, this was my question too. Crud.
Hello Paul and thanks again for the valuable information.
I have a Constancia. Is there a way to reprint it? I can not find a way on the SAT website.
Question Paul: Now as a "Residente Temporal" I recently did a NAME CHANGE for my motorcycle and my car, previously registered in the name of a Mexican friend. Went well! And I changed insurance for both. Again, no problem. So I am curious: are they giving me a generic RFC? CAR INSURANCE has one RFC, and MOTORCYCLE has another. Neither number is the one I see provided on internet as Generic Foreigner. This worries me. I have not been to the SAT office.
They are most likely fictitious RFCs based on the algorythm. Basically a "rough estimate" so it looks like a legit RFC. This is very common in Mexico, especially with vehicles, and it should be fine. The important thing is that the vehicles are in your name with the correct vehicle identification numbers.
@@qroo THANKS! I was wondering about that, BUT ONCE I GET a new RFC, should I have all these changed? My house deed, etc?
How to create a manufacturing company in mexico to produce there and export to usa and canada? Are there some visas available related to nafta?
Thank you Paul. I located my RFC how do I get a actual physical card?
Is there any person that actually got RFC from virtual line. If so how long did it take.
Yes, and depends on the office. On average, two months.
I think I registered online for a cita with SAT back in May (2022) and just now in November was notified I had an appt for the RFC at the Cancun SAT in December. I think it would be super easy to miss the email from them; at first I wondered if it was even valid, but it was!
Thanks!
Thank you!
Does SAT give the Constancia de Situación Fisica when I have to bring a thumb drive to the SAT appointment to get the RFC number?
I went through this whole process, thank you for the clear guidance. After 3 weeks they replied to me that my signature did not match and to please try again. I will try again, BUT, is there a way to get this done in person at the SAT office? I tried to register for an appointment for an RFC and they wouldn't let me do it, saying that I already had an RFC associated with my CURP. Thanks for any help on this.
That is very frustrating. You can go to a SAT office to get this printed out. Many people report being able to do it without an appointment.
@@qroo Thanks for the reply. I tried another online and will see how it goes. If not, I'll head to an office and try.
Only certain browser/device combinations will work with this. Safari on any device (iOS or Mac, not sure about PC) will not work, only Chrome and Firefox. Firefox on IOS does not work (it’s not recognized as Firefox) but Chrome on iOS does (I think). Firefox on a Mac does not work … it couldn’t use the camera properly. On Chrome/iOS, at least I was able to get all the way through the process. I have two concerns, though. It did not ask me to include or provide a way to include the back side of my card so I did not add it. And after recording the video where I recited the phrase, I was unable to see what I had recorded … the video area was black even though it was asking me to confirm that the video was correct. I confirmed it anyway. I’ll wait and see if everything worked.
Thanks for sharing that info. I used Chrome and never tested it with other browsers.