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Letters to the Editor: No more snowbirding in Mexico. Not without a CURP!

Becoming a SNOWBIRD in Mexico: Think again!

Why? Because in Mexico you are allowed to buy condos that cost millions of pesos but you are not allowed to buy a car to get around, and this has been the case since January 1st, 2026: AN ABERRATION!

Personally, I bought a condo at about 7 km from Playa del Carmen five years ago and during that time, I was able to easily register my car to get around, but since January 1st 2026, this is no longer possible. I need a CURP and to get a CURP I must become a permanent resident of Mexico to register my car.

What options do I have left as a Snowbird, i.e. living in Mexico 4 to 5 months a year?

One, the taxi or a rental car which will cost me a fortune and two, becoming a permanent resident of Mexico, which does not interest me as a Snowbird.

So, if you think you can be a Snowbird in Mexico because the United States no longer interests you, think again because your travels may not be easy and could also cost you a lot of money.

In Mexico, tourists are welcome as long as they don’t stay too long ….

Michel Gaulin
Canadian