Tax Implications of Owning Property in Mexico [2023 Policies]

Mexico Tax Residency Rules

One of the first things to consider when investing in property in Mexico is your tax residency status.

Mexico has specific rules for determining tax residency, which can impact the taxes you owe on your property.

In general, if you spend more than 183 days in Mexico in a calendar year, you will be considered a tax resident of Mexico.

If you are a tax resident, you will be required to pay taxes on your worldwide income, including any rental income you earn from your property.

If you are not a tax resident of Mexico, you will only be required to pay taxes on income earned within the country. This can include any rental income you earn from your property, as well as any capital gains you realize from selling the property.

However, non-residents are subject to higher tax rates on rental income than residents, so it is important to factor this into your investment decision.

How to Avoid Capital Gains Tax on Foreign Property

One of the biggest tax implications of owning property in Mexico is the capital gains tax you will owe when you sell the property.

Capital gains tax is the tax you pay on any profits you make from selling an asset, such as real estate.

In Mexico, capital gains tax is calculated based on the difference between the purchase price and the selling price of the property, adjusted for inflation.

As a foreign property owner, you may be able to avoid or reduce your capital gains tax liability by taking advantage of certain tax exemptions.

For example, if you have owned the property for more than five years, you may be eligible for a tax exemption that can reduce or eliminate your capital gains tax liability.

Additionally, if you reinvest the proceeds from the sale of your property in another Mexican property within 180 days, you may be able to defer your capital gains tax liability.

Capital Gains Tax in Mexico

If you are not eligible for any tax exemptions or deferrals, you will be subject to capital gains tax on the sale of your property in Mexico.

The capital gains tax rate varies depending on your tax residency status and the length of time you have owned the property.

For tax residents of Mexico, the capital gains tax rate ranges from 1.92% to 35%.

For non-residents, the capital gains tax rate is a flat 25%.

It is important to note that the capital gains tax rate in Mexico is calculated based on the selling price of the property in

Mexican pesos, regardless of the currency in which the property was purchased or the currency in which the sale is made.

This can impact the amount of tax you owe if there are fluctuations in the exchange rate between the time you purchased the property and the time you sell it.

Owning Rental Property in Another Country

If you own rental property in Mexico, you will be required to pay income tax on any rental income you earn.

The income tax rate for rental income in Mexico is based on a progressive scale, with rates ranging from 0% to 35%.

Non-residents are subject to higher tax rates on rental income than residents, so it is important to factor this into your rental income calculations.

Foreign Property Tax Deduction

If you are a U.S. citizen who owns property in Mexico, you may be eligible for a foreign property tax deduction on your U.S. income tax return.

This deduction allows you to reduce your taxable income in the U.S. by the amount of foreign property taxes you paid on your Mexican property.

However, it is important to note that you cannot claim a foreign property tax deduction for any taxes that were refunded or reimbursed to you.

Pitfalls of Buying Property in Mexico

While investing in property in Mexico can be a great opportunity, there are also some potential pitfalls to be aware of.

One common issue is the lack of transparency and regulation in the Mexican real estate market.

It is important to do your due diligence when purchasing property in Mexico and work with reputable agents (like Riviera Maya Cozy!) and attorneys to ensure that the transaction is legitimate and that all necessary taxes and fees are paid.

Another potential issue is the language barrier. If you do not speak Spanish, it can be difficult to navigate the Mexican real estate market and understand the tax laws and regulations.

Working with a bilingual attorney or agent can help to ensure that you are fully informed and that all necessary documentation is in order.

U.S. Citizen Selling Property in Mexico

If you are a U.S. citizen selling property in Mexico, you will be subject to both Mexican and U.S. tax laws.

In addition to paying capital gains tax in Mexico, you will also be required to report the sale on your U.S. income tax return and pay any applicable taxes.

If you are eligible for a foreign property tax deduction, you can use this to reduce your taxable income in the U.S.

Selling Inherited Property in Mexico

If you inherit property in Mexico, you will be subject to the same tax laws as if you had purchased the property yourself.

This includes any capital gains tax you owe if you decide to sell the property. It is important to consult with a tax attorney or accountant to ensure that you understand your tax liabilities and obligations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, owning property in Mexico can be a great investment opportunity, but it is important to be aware of the tax implications involved.

By understanding the tax residency rules, taking advantage of tax exemptions and deductions, and working with reputable agents and attorneys, you can minimize your tax liabilities and maximize your investment returns.

Whether you’re interested in investing in Tulum, Playa del Carmen, Cancun, or other Riviera Maya destinations, make sure to get in touch with our team to safely walk you through the process.