How to get a bank account in Mexico

To open a bank account you must go in person to the bank with the documents listed below. At our local bank in LA Peñita expect to spend 2 or 3 hours. As of January 2010 the English language skills at the bank were not very good so you may need an interpreter.

It has been reported that you now need to own property in Mexico in order to get a bank account (Aug. 15,2010). To prove that you own property you need to present a copy of the escritura or fideicomiso with your name on it. It is not sufficient to be the spouse of someone who owns property.

We would greatly appreciate a comment below from anyone who has opened a bank account since August to verify or debunk this.

You need the following documents to open a bank account:

Passport
Document certifying legal status in Mexico (tourist card, fm3 or fm2)
Recent Proof of resedency (electric, phone or water bill)
Proof Of property ownership (escritura or fideicomiso)
RFC (Mexican Tax ID) if you have one
Social security number or equivalent