×
Interested in our Partner Program for businesses or our Local Guide Program for experienced expats and digital nomads? Click here to learn more.
Expat Exchange - How to Enroll in the Public Healthcare System in Mexico
Expat Exchange
Free MembershipSign In
Mexico City


How to Enroll in the Public Healthcare System in Mexico

By Betsy Burlingame

Welcome Home Mexico
Welcome Home Mexico

Summary: A primer on how to enroll in the public healthcare system in Mexico.

If you're planning to enroll in the public healthcare system in Mexico, this article covers the requirements for foreigners to be able enroll in the public healthcare system, the steps involved and more.

Mexico's public healthcare system is known as the Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social (IMSS). It is a government-operated system that provides a wide range of healthcare services to Mexican citizens and legal residents. The quality of care provided by the IMSS varies, with some patients reporting excellent care and others experiencing long wait times and less-than-optimal conditions. The cost of enrolling in the IMSS is relatively low, making it an affordable option for many people.

Enrollment in the IMSS is not mandatory, but many residents choose to use it due to its affordability. However, it's important to note that not all medical services are covered by the IMSS, and some treatments or medications may require out-of-pocket payment. Additionally, while the IMSS does provide coverage for many common medical conditions, it may not cover certain specialized treatments or procedures.

Foreigners who are legally residing in Mexico are allowed to enroll in the IMSS. This includes individuals who hold a temporary or permanent resident visa. Tourists and those on a visitor's visa are not eligible for IMSS coverage.

Steps for Enrolling in the IMSS

  1. Obtain a copy of your birth certificate and have it translated into Spanish by a certified translator.
  2. Obtain a copy of your Mexican visa and passport.
  3. Obtain a CURP number. This is a unique identification number for residents of Mexico. You can apply for a CURP number at the local Registro Civil (Civil Registry).
  4. Visit your local IMSS office and fill out the application form. You will need to provide your birth certificate, visa, passport, and CURP number.
  5. Pay the enrollment fee. The amount will depend on your age and health condition.
  6. Once your application is approved, you will receive an IMSS card. This card will allow you to access healthcare services at IMSS clinics and hospitals.

It's important to note that the IMSS is not the only healthcare option in Mexico. Many foreigners choose to purchase private health insurance, which can provide access to private hospitals and clinics that may offer shorter wait times and a wider range of services. Some people also choose to pay out-of-pocket for healthcare services, as the cost of medical care in Mexico is often significantly lower than in countries like the United States.

Regardless of the healthcare option you choose, it's important to do your research and understand what is covered and what is not. This will help you avoid unexpected medical bills and ensure that you have access to the care you need.

Welcome Home MexicoWelcome Home Mexico
Connect

Welcome Home Mexico occupies a niche in the market as a successful relocation and real estate firm helping expats moving to Mexico! As seen on CBS news, PBS, in the L.A. Times and more, we are one of the leading companies in this field. Welcome Home Mexico offers a wide range of services, multi-lingual knowledgeable brokers with experience, efficient and professional service.

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

Welcome Home MexicoWelcome Home Mexico

Welcome Home Mexico occupies a niche in the market as a successful relocation and real estate firm helping expats moving to Mexico! As seen on CBS news, PBS, in the L.A. Times and more, we are one of the leading companies in this field. Welcome Home Mexico offers a wide range of services, multi-lingual knowledgeable brokers with experience, efficient and professional service.
Connect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.


Welcome Home Mexico
Welcome Home Mexico

Welcome Home Mexico
Welcome Home Mexico

Mexico City
Cigna Global Health
Cigna Global Health

Get a quote in 2 minutes from our partner, Cigna Global Health.
Get Quote

Cigna Global HealthCigna Global Health

Get a quote in 2 minutes from our partner, Cigna Global Health.
Get Quote

Welcome Home Mexico
Welcome Home Mexico

Copyright 1997-2025 Burlingame Interactive, Inc.

Privacy Policy Legal Partners & Local Guides