Job Discussion Forums

wendykohn · Joined: 13 Apr 2005 Posts: 3

I would like to go to Mexico on a tourist visa and look for work once I am in the country. I know that most schools prefer this method for acquiring the visa even if they hire you while you are still in the U.S. Does anyone know anything about the likelihood of finding jobs when I am already in Mexico? Is it easier or harder? Is it not preferred by the Mexican government? I see a lot of ads that will only hire people who already live in the city where the school is.

saraswati · Joined: 30 Mar 2004 Posts: 200

To answer your question, yes, it's easier to find a teaching position once you've arrived. Most DOS prefer interviewing applicants in person. You don't mention what teaching credentials you have but I'd recommend obtaining a TEFL certification, at least. Many immigration offices won't process a work permit without some indication that you've been trained to teach English.

TheLongWayHome · Joined: 07 Jun 2006 Posts: 1016 Location: San Luis Piojosi

Yes, everything in Mexico is easier in person, just make sure you get at least 90 days if not 180 on your tourist visa. If not you can extend it at immigration for a small fee.

travelinhobo · Joined: 23 Apr 2003 Posts: 35 Location: U.S.

What part of Mexico are you talking about? I lived in Aguascalientes for almost a year only on a tourist visa. The school was supposed to get me a working visa, but suddenly it req'd a lawyer and then this, then that. I think the director was trying to screw me out of money. At any rate, I made a border run, however turned out that wasn't even necessary. If you're American, it doesn't matter if you're there legally or not really. I never did work on a working visa.