If you’re a temporary resident in Mexico, you’ll need an RFC number (Registro Federal de Contribuyentes) for conducting financial activities like opening a bank account, getting a job, or managing taxes. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through how to obtain your RFC as a temporary resident, ensuring you have everything you need for the process.

What is an RFC Number and Why Do You Need It?

The RFC number is a unique tax identification number used by Mexico’s tax authority, SAT (Servicio de Administración Tributaria). This number is required for any tax-related transactions or official dealings in Mexico. Whether you’re working, freelancing, or simply managing a business from Mexico, you will need to obtain your RFC number.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to get your RFC number as a temporary resident in Mexico in a few simple steps.

Step 1: Ensure You Have Your Temporary Residency Card

The first requirement for applying for an RFC number is that you already have your temporary residency. The temporary residency card is issued by the INM (Instituto Nacional de Migración), allowing you to live legally in Mexico for a period of time. This card is essential when registering for the RFC.

You will also need your CURP (Clave Única de Registro de Población), which you receive along with your residency card. This unique identification number is necessary for applying for your RFC.

Documents you’ll need:

• Temporary Residency Card (original and copy)
• CURP number (if you don’t have it, request it from the INM office)

Step 2: Gather the Required Documents for Your RFC Application

Before heading to the SAT office, make sure you have all the necessary documents:

• Temporary Residency Card (original and black and white copy)
• Passport (original and black and white copy)
• Proof of Address in Mexico, such as a utility bill or bank statement (issued within the last 3 months)
• CURP number (original and copy)
• Completed SAT Application Form (You can download it from the SAT website or fill it out at the office)

This ensures that your application is processed without delays.

Step 3: Schedule an Appointment with the SAT Office

Now that your documents are in order, it’s time to schedule an appointment at the nearest SAT office.

You can do this online through the official SAT website. Follow these steps:

1. Go to SAT Appointment Scheduler
2. Select “Registro RFC” as the service you need.
3. Choose your preferred SAT office location.
4. Pick a convenient date and time. In my case, I chose the office and got added to the virtual line, in which they emailed me the assigned date and time a few days later.
5. Save or print your appointment confirmation.

While walk-ins may be possible, scheduling an appointment online is recommended to avoid long wait times.

Step 4: Visit the SAT Office

On the day of your appointment, bring your documents and your appointment confirmation. Once there:

• Present your documents at the reception.
• You will be assigned a window or a queue number.
• Submit all the documents and let the SAT officer know that you’re applying for your RFC as a temporary resident.

Pro Tip: If you are not fluent in Spanish, it might be a good idea to bring a friend who can help with the language barrier. I also recommend arriving early to save your spot in the line.

Step 5: Optional – Register Your Digital Signature (FIEL)

In some cases, you may be asked to register your digital signature, known as Firma Electrónica or FIEL. This digital signature allows you to manage tax-related matters online.

The SAT officer will guide you through this process if necessary. You will need a USB drive to store your digital signature certificate.

Step 6: Receive Your RFC Number

Once your documents are verified, the SAT officer will issue your RFC number. You will receive a printed document with your RFC number, which you should keep for your records.

You can also log into the SAT portal later to verify or retrieve your RFC if needed.

Step 7: Obtain Your Cédula Fiscal (Tax ID Card)

After you receive your RFC number, ask the officer for your Cédula Fiscal, which is your Tax ID card. This card contains your RFC number and a QR code that links to your tax information.

Key Takeaways

• The process to get an RFC number as a temporary resident is straightforward but requires careful preparation of your documents.
• Book an appointment with the SAT online to avoid delays.
• Make sure you bring all originals and black and white copies of required documents, such as your residency card, passport, and proof of address.
• The process is free and can be completed in about 30 minutes once at the office.

By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to obtaining your RFC and fulfilling the legal requirements to manage your financial activities in Mexico.

Watch the video with a little explanation about how the process went for me

Check out one of my most recent adventures in Mexico on the Tamaulipas beach road trip blog.

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