Thousands of North Americans now call Banderas Bay home year-round. Here's the practical groundwork before you make the move.
Visas
Most relocating residents enter on a temporary resident visa, which is applied for at a Mexican consulate abroad and proven with income or savings. After four years it can convert to permanent residency.
Cost of living
Costs vary widely by lifestyle, but many residents live comfortably for a fraction of a comparable US or Canadian coastal city — especially on housing, dining and services.
Where to live first
Renting before buying is wise. Many newcomers start with a furnished long-term lease to test neighborhoods — see our long-term rentals guide and the neighborhood guides.
Healthcare, internet and getting around
Private healthcare is excellent and affordable, fiber internet is widely available (a draw for digital nomads), and the bay is walkable, bus-friendly and a short drive end to end.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most long-stay residents use a temporary resident visa, applied for at a Mexican consulate and proven with income or savings; it can convert to permanent residency over time.
For most lifestyles, yes — particularly on housing, dining, domestic help and healthcare.
