Obtain a Mexican Criminal Background Check - Steps & Requirements

Table of Contents

Description

What is it?

A Mexican Criminal Background Check, also known as ‘Carta de No Antecedentes Penales’, is an official document issued by Mexican authorities confirming that an individual does not have any criminal record within the country. This certificate is often required for various purposes such as immigration, employment, or legal processes.

Who needs it?

Ideal customers for this service include expatriates living in Mexico, Mexican citizens applying for immigration to other countries (such as Canada), employers requiring background checks for their employees, and individuals needing the document for visa or residency applications. It is particularly crucial for those involved in legal processes or seeking employment that demands a clean criminal record.

Procedure

  1. Visit the official website of the Public Security Ministry or locate the nearest issuing office.
  2. Book an appointment online if required, or visit the office directly.
  3. Fill out the application form for the ‘Carta de No Antecedentes Penales’.
  4. Submit the required documents as per the checklist provided by the office.
  5. Pay the applicable fee for processing the background check.
  6. Wait for the processing time as advised by the authorities, which can vary.
  7. Collect your criminal background check certificate from the office or receive it via mail if that option is offered.

Required documents

  • Official Identification (Passport, Mexican ID): Obtain from your local government office or consulate.
  • Proof of Address: Bank statements, utility bills, or rental contracts, available through your service providers.
  • Completed Application Form: Available online through the Public Security Ministry’s website or provided at the office.
  • Payment Receipt: Obtain from the payment counter at the issuing office or through online payment confirmation.

Providers that can do it for you

(We are currently curating the best providers. If you are or know a provider, please contact us or edit the page directly)

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Additional details

  • Processing times may vary; typically, it can take from a few days to several weeks.
  • Certain offices may offer express services for an additional fee.
  • Ensure all documents are recent and correctly formatted to avoid application rejection.
  • For expatriates or those living abroad, obtaining the document might require additional steps such as notarizing documents or using a proxy.

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