
More Chinese people applied for temporary residency in Mexico during 2023 than Cubans, making it the third most common country of origin among migrants in Mexico. According to data from the Mexican government, 5,018 Chinese people arrived in Mexico in 2023 to settle as temporary residents, a jump of 157% between 2019 and 2023. The Asian country went from being the fifth most common place of origin in 2022 to third in one year.
The United States is by far the most common country of origin, with 10,782 migrants seeking temporary residency in their neighboring country in 2023. Colombia follows, with 6,734. Other very common countries of origin are Venezuela, India, and Argentina. The arrival of foreigners to Mexico has to do with border policies that retain those who seek to live in the United States, either as refugees, exiles, or with visas, and they must remain in Mexico while their request is processed.
People who received temporary residency in 2023
in Mexico, by country of origin
Temporary residencies in 2023Change since 2019
China
5,018
157%
Canada
2,930
132%
India
1,995
96%
United States
10,782
64%
Argentina
2,273
47%
Venezuela
1,975
47%
Cuba
4,765
45%
Colombia
6,734
43%
Brazil
1,890
1%
Spain
1,758
0%
The moment coincides with a decline in the Chinese economy, which grew 5.2% in 2023, reaching the Government’s target objective. However, this is a relatively low rate compared to the expansions seen in the past decade. In 2018, 2020 and 2021 China saw slowdowns and today concerns persist about growth momentum amid a prolonged housing crisis, weak consumer and business confidence and weak global growth.
“2023 marked a significant increase with 5,018 visas granted to Chinese citizens, a “100% year-on-year increase that highlighted Mexico’s growing global appeal,” wrote in a report the international real estate firm Far Homes, whose market is for people looking to leave their home country to acquire property abroad. “Mexico’s temporary residency visa program is a key factor in the influx of Chinese citizens. It allows people to live in Mexico for one year, with the possibility of renewal for up to four years. This visa is particularly attractive for those looking to test the waters before committing to a permanent relocation,” the Washington-based firm said.
According to a report published by Mexican media outlet N+ on Tuesday, undocumented people of Chinese origin are relying on social media and information through the TikTok social video platform to cross the border into the US, a trend that is on the rise.
Source: elpais