Requirements to Rent an Apartment in Mexico

You found the perfect apartment, so now what will they ask you for? Rental requirements vary from landlord to landlord, but nearly all of them come down to the same things: proving your identity, proving you can pay, and providing a guarantee. In this guide we explain all the requirements to rent an apartment in Mexico and how to prepare so you can close the deal faster.

1. Documents you'll be asked for

The basic requirements that almost any landlord will ask for:

• Valid official ID (INE or passport).
• Proof of income: pay stubs or bank statements.
• Proof of current address.
• References, either personal or from previous landlords.

As a rule, your monthly income is expected to be several times the amount of the rent, to show that you can pay it comfortably.

2. Guarantor, co-signer or rental policy

The guarantee is what worries tenants the most. One of these options is usually required:

If you don't have a guarantor, the póliza jurídica is the most common alternative. Find more options in our guide on the aval for renting and its alternatives.

3. Deposit and first month's rent

The usual practice is to pay the first month's rent plus a security deposit (generally equal to one month's rent) at signing. The deposit is returned at the end of the lease if the property is handed back in good condition and with no outstanding balances. Make sure the conditions for returning the deposit are clearly spelled out in the lease.

4. The lease agreement

Before you sign and pay, review the lease agreement (contrato de arrendamiento): rent amount and payment date, annual increase, term, deposit, and maintenance responsibilities. Never hand over money without a contract or without having seen the apartment in person.

How to rent faster

• Have all your documents ready and scanned.
• Decide on your guarantee (guarantor or policy) ahead of time.
• Respond quickly and schedule viewings promptly.
• Be transparent about your employment situation and income.

Frequently asked questions

What documents do I need to rent an apartment?

Generally an official ID, proof of income, proof of address and references, plus a guarantee such as a guarantor (aval) or a legal rental policy (póliza jurídica).

Can I rent without a guarantor?

Yes. The most common alternative is to purchase a legal rental policy (póliza jurídica de arrendamiento), which replaces the guarantor for a fee. Some landlords also accept a larger deposit.

How much do I pay at signing?

The usual arrangement is the first month's rent plus a security deposit equal to one month, although this can vary depending on the landlord and the guarantee agreed upon.

Do I get my deposit back?

Yes, at the end of the lease, as long as you return the apartment in good condition and with no unpaid utility bills. The conditions should be clearly stated in the lease.