Fideicomiso is a legal trust that allows foreigners to buy property in Mexico’s restricted zones, such as coastal and border areas while complying with Mexican laws.
This setup ensures non-Mexican citizens can own real estate through a bank-managed trust, giving them full ownership rights while following local regulations.
Fideicomiso in English
The word Fideicomiso translates to trust in English.
It is a real estate trust agreement established between a buyer (the foreign investor), a Mexican bank, and the seller.
Through this trust, the bank holds the title to the property on behalf of the foreign buyer, who retains all ownership rights, including the ability to sell, lease, or bequeath the property.
How Does a Fideicomiso Work?
A Fideicomiso is set up with a Mexican bank, which acts as the trustee.
However, the foreign buyer remains the beneficiary and fully controls the property. Here’s how it works:
- A Mexican bank establishes the trust – The bank holds the property title but does not own it.
- The foreign buyer is the beneficiary – The buyer has the right to use, rent, improve, sell, or pass on the property.
- The trust lasts for 50 years – It can be renewed indefinitely for additional 50-year terms.
- The buyer pays an annual fee – This covers trust maintenance and banking services.
What is a Fideicomiso Inmobiliario?
A Fideicomiso Inmobiliario refers specifically to a real estate trust.
It operates under the same principles as a standard Fideicomiso but is exclusively used for property transactions.
This structure ensures legal security for foreign buyers while allowing them to invest in Mexico’s most sought-after areas, such as Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Los Cabos.
Benefits of a Fideicomiso
Choosing a Fideicomiso offers several advantages:
- Legal ownership rights – Foreigners gain complete control over their property while adhering to Mexican regulations.
- Flexibility – Owners can sell, rent, or transfer the property anytime.
- Inheritance planning – The trust allows owners to designate heirs without needing a will in Mexico.
- Renewability – The 50-year trust can be renewed indefinitely, ensuring long-term ownership.
Do You Need a Fideicomiso?
If you are a non-Mexican looking to buy property within 50 km of the coast or 100 km of the borders, you are legally required to set up a Fideicomiso.
This applies to popular real estate markets like Cancun, Tulum, Puerto Vallarta, and Baja California.
For those interested in other types of property investment, such as commercial real estate, setting up a Mexican corporation may be an alternative to consider.
Secure Your Investment with a Fideicomiso
A Fideicomiso is a secure and straightforward way for foreigners to own property in Mexico.
Understanding its purpose and legal structure allows you to invest in the Mexican real estate market without complications confidently.
Whether buying a vacation home or an investment property, having a Fideicomiso Inmobiliario ensures your purchase is legal and protected.
