Paperwork
CURP for Foreigners in Mexico: What It Is and How to Get It
The CURP is Mexico's population identification code, and many everyday procedures ask for it. Here is what it is, how foreign residents get one, and what it does not do.
What the CURP is
The Clave Única de Registro de Población (CURP) identifies a person in Mexico's population registry. It is managed under RENAPO, which works with other authorities for its assignment. Many procedures, from banking to health services, may ask for it.
How foreign residents get a CURP
For foreign temporary and permanent residents, the INM's residence-registration process provides for the assignment of a CURP. You do not usually apply for it separately: it comes with your registration as a resident. Visitors are not registered this way, and a visitor stay does not give you a CURP.
If your CURP was assigned, check that your name, date of birth, and other personal details match your passport and your immigration records. A mismatch can cause trouble later with banks and offices.
Where it fits in the process: it follows the canje, when you get your resident card.
Check and print your CURP
You can consult and print your CURP record through the official CURP website at no cost. Be careful with sites that charge for it or ask for more personal data than you expect: the official service is free.
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The 2025 biometric CURP
Mexico updated its population law in July 2025 to establish a biometric CURP identification system, which adds a photograph and fingerprints. How it is being implemented, and which identification a specific procedure accepts, should be checked with the office you are dealing with.
What the CURP is not
- It is not a residence permit: your resident card is.
- It is not a passport or a substitute for identification.
- It is not a work authorization.
- It is not the RFC, which is the tax registration: see the RFC for foreigners.
A CURP number or a printed CURP record, a resident card, an RFC, and a printed tax record each have a different function. Before an appointment, check which of them the office accepts.
Frequently asked questions
What is a CURP in Mexico?
The Clave Única de Registro de Población is the code that identifies a person in Mexico's population registry. Many procedures ask for it.
Do foreigners get a CURP?
Foreign temporary and permanent residents do: the INM's residence-registration process provides for its assignment. A visitor stay does not.
How do I check or print my CURP?
Through the official CURP website, at no cost. Check that your details match your passport and immigration records.
Is the CURP a residence permit or a work permit?
No. A CURP number or record is not a residence permit, a passport, or a work authorization.
What changed with the biometric CURP?
In July 2025 Mexico updated its population law to establish a biometric CURP identification system with a photograph and fingerprints. Check with the specific office what identification it accepts.
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