This page is the plain-English overview Cabo360 (Cabo 360) gives US entrepreneurs before they talk to a licensed Mexican professional. It is general information, not legal advice, and the details for your business are confirmed by independent Mexican counsel and a notary before anything is filed.
Can a US citizen own a business in Mexico?
In many industries, yes. Foreign nationals can own 100% of a Mexican company, with no local partner required. Some sectors are restricted or reserved, and owning land near the coast generally involves a bank trust rather than direct title. A licensed Mexican professional will confirm what applies to your business before anything is filed.
What forming the company involves
Cabo360 does not form companies. Independent Mexican counsel and a notary do, under their own engagement with you. In broad strokes, the work they handle is:
- Choosing the entity. Most small and mid-sized businesses use one of two forms, an S.A. de C.V. or an S. de R.L. de C.V. Counsel recommends which fits your ownership and tax situation.
- Authorizing the company name with the Mexican federal authority before the deed is drafted.
- Signing the incorporation deed before a Mexican notary, who then registers the company in the public commercial registry.
- Tax registration (an RFC number) with Mexico's tax authority, which the company needs before it can invoice or open a bank account.
- Opening a Mexican business bank account, which in practice is often the slowest step.
Timing and cost depend on the entity, the sector, and how quickly documents can be gathered on your side. Ask counsel for a written estimate before you start.
How Cabo360 fits in
Tell us your plan
We talk through what you want to build and where.
Meet licensed professionals
Independent Mexican counsel and a notary prepare and register the company.
You own and run it
Your business, under your ownership.
Cabo360 is the introduction and the explanation. The legal, notary, tax and accounting work is done by independent, licensed Mexican professionals, and Cabo360 may receive compensation from the firms it refers clients to.
Property in Los Cabos
If your plan involves a home or a commercial space, Cabo360 can also introduce you to an independent brokerage in Los Cabos. Cabo360 does not sell real estate. See the featured listings on the home page.