Once
ratified, the regulations for the New Immigration Law
will considerably change the current visa system, moving
it toward a system that divides foreigners into visitors,
temporary residents and permanent residents. The FM3,
as we know it now, will likely disappear.
Valladolid Antonio Rodriguez, head of the National
Immigration Institute, talked to the Association of
the Maquiladora Industry and Export and explained that
the new laws will change the present focus on the qualities
and characteristics of migration and instead address
and define the conditions of a foreigner's stay in Mexico
. As an example, he indicated that when the new regulations
are sanctioned, foreigners will not have to obtain a
permit from the National Institute of Migration to marry
a Mexican citizen, they can do it directly through the
Civil Registry.
"On 25 May this year, two weeks ago, the President
publically announced the new Immigration Act. The Act,
now in transition, has up to 180 days to be ratified
by the Executive Authority of Regulations," said
Antonio Valladolid. He added, "The law came into
force in some places and in others is waiting for precisely
worded regulation, especially on the subject of Immigration
Regulations, because issues and terms have changed.
Right now people don't have to worry about the enforcement
of the new laws. During the time of transition, it will
be gradually implemented in a comprehensive manner."
He explained that there will be a transition period
to make adjustments to required permits, and indicated
that the offices of the National Migration Institute
in Otay will give special attention to the maquiladora
executives.