Mexico (MX)
Mexico is one of the world's most important expat destinations, especially for US and Canadian retirees, remote workers, entrepreneurs, families and lifestyle migrants.
Digital Services
Digital ID, e-government and essential apps in Mexico.
CURP, RFC, e.firma and agency portals
Mexico does not have one single foreigner-friendly digital identity equivalent to some EU systems. Daily digital life is built around CURP for identity, RFC for tax, e.firma for SAT/legal filings, Mexican phone numbers for OTPs, bank apps for SPEI, and agency-specific portals.
How to get it: CURP is usually generated through immigration/residence processes. RFC registration and e.firma are handled by SAT and often require in-person appointments, passport, resident card, CURP, proof of address, USB drive for e.firma and tax information. Banks and telecoms run their own KYC.
E-Government Portal
https://www.gob.mxDigital access is uneven for foreigners. Some systems accept passport/CURP, others assume Mexican voter ID or a local phone. Expect in-person verification for SAT, banks, driving licences and some immigration or civil registry tasks.
Essential Apps
ExpatCheapRent
FreeExpat-focused cheap rental finder at expatcheaprent.com — compares listings across major rental portals to help newcomers find affordable apartments.
Inmuebles24
FreeMexico's leading real estate portal for apartment and house rentals in CDMX, Monterrey, Guadalajara and all other cities.
Default messaging for landlords, doctors, schools, agents, neighbours and service providers.
Google Maps / Waze
FreeTraffic, route planning, toll estimates and road disruption awareness.
Uber
FreeCommon ride-hailing option in major cities and some tourist zones.
DiDi
FreeRide-hailing and delivery; often competitive with Uber depending city.
Cabify
FreeUseful in some urban markets and corporate contexts.
Rappi
FreeFood, groceries, pharmacy and errands in major cities.
Mercado Libre / Mercado Pago
FreeMajor ecommerce and wallet ecosystem; check seller reputation and official stores.
Amazon Mexico
FreeReliable for imported and domestic goods; check seller and warranty details.
BBVA/Banorte/Santander/HSBC bank apps
FreeSPEI transfers, bill payments, cards, statements and alerts.
CFE Contigo
FreeElectricity bill lookup and payment where account setup works.
Mi Telcel / AT&T / Movistar apps
FreeTop-ups, packages, roaming and account management.
SkyAlert / SASSLA / 911 apps where available
PaidEarthquake alerts and emergency awareness; coverage and alert timing vary.
Wise
PaidInternational transfers and FX records before or alongside Mexican banking.
Doctoralia
FreeFind doctors, dentists and specialists with reviews and language filters.
Use a Mexican phone number early and keep it active. Losing access to the number can lock you out of bank, SAT, utility, delivery and medical accounts. When you renew a passport or resident card, update banks, SAT, insurers, mobile operators and hospitals rather than assuming records sync.