Mexico Business Registration
Lighthouse helps launch or expand companies in Mexico by offering tailored legal guidance in corporate structuring, tax compliance and regulatory approvals for Playa del Carmen, Tulum and Cancún.
Your partner for opening a business in Mexico
Specialist guidance for opening a business in Mexico
At Lighthouse, we provide comprehensive legal services for registering a company in Mexico. Our bilingual attorneys assist with every stage of the process, from reserving your trade name and drafting incorporation documents to registering with the Public Registry of Commerce (PRC) and obtaining your Federal Taxpayer Registry (RFC). We ensure all documentation is correct, advise on corporate structures and manage filings so your business can operate legally and efficiently.
We gather information about the proposed shareholders, help you choose the right entity type (e.g., S.A. or S. de R.L.) and collect identification and proof of address for all parties.
Our team submits up to three potential company names for approval, drafts the Articles of Incorporation and designates a local representative with an RFC to handle tax obligations.
Once the documents are finalised, shareholders sign before a notary. The notary authenticates the deed and registers the company with the Public Registry of Commerce, and we obtain the RFC on your behalf.
If applicable, we register with the National Registry of Foreign Investments, secure any necessary local or sector‑specific permits, and advise you on annual filings, meetings and corporate governance to keep your company in good standing.
Company formation in Mexico
Opening a Business in Mexico
Fixed, Transparent Pricing
Clear costs and peace of mind. We provide fixed pricing for company formation and related filings so you know your expenses up front.
Fast, Bilingual Response
Prompt responses in English and Spanish. Our attorneys reply within one business day and communicate clearly with you and Mexican authorities.
Comprehensive Protection
Due diligence and legal compliance. We verify all documents, ensure proper registration with government entities and guide you through tax and licensing requirements.
How We Support You
Brief, bilingual guidance for secure company formation in Mexico.
- Personalised briefing: We outline each step, timeline and required documents.
- Due diligence: We verify shareholder IDs, corporate names and address requirements.
- Fiscal review: We explain tax obligations and available exemptions.
- Name registration: We conduct trade‑name searches and handle filings.
- Notary coordination: We prepare documents and schedule the signing.
- Registration and compliance: We file with the PRC, obtain your RFC and assist with permits.
What Our Service Includes
A Mexico business attorney manages key legal tasks from registration to start‑up.
- What does “Mexico business registration” involve?
- Can foreigners open a business in Mexico?
- What documents are required for company formation?
- How long does it take to register a company in Mexico?
- Do I need a local representative?
- What are typical costs and fees for Mexico company registration?
FAQs
What are real estate legal services in Playa del Carmen and the Riviera Maya?
It involves reserving a trade name, drafting and notarising incorporation documents, registering with the Public Registry of Commerce and obtaining an RFC. Lighthouse manages each step so your company complies with Mexican law.
Do I need a Mexico real estate attorney to buy property?
Yes. Foreigners can own companies in most sectors. At least two shareholders are required, but they do not have to be Mexican citizens or residents. We assist foreigners in forming corporations and complying with investment rules.
What do property lawyers do during the real estate process?
You’ll need identification for shareholders and legal representatives, proof of a registered address, and an incorporation application. We prepare and review all documentation to avoid delays.
What are the steps to purchase property in Cancún or the Riviera Maya?
Once the articles are drafted and signed, registration with the PRC and the tax authority usually takes about ten business days. We expedite the process by filing online via authorised notaries.
How does due diligence work, and why is it important?
Yes. A local representative with an RFC acts as the company administrator to sign tax returns and maintain compliance. We help you appoint and limit their responsibilities.
What is a fideicomiso, and why is it necessary?
Costs include notary fees, trade‑name search, government registration fees and our legal services. We offer fixed pricing so you have complete cost transparency.
Our Team
Partners at Lighthouse
Javier Contreras Nieto
CEO / Principal Attorney - Real Estate Law Specialist
After finishing law school, my journey commenced in various notary offices across Mexico City, where I had the honor of collaborating with esteemed banks like Santander and BBVA. Team primary focus was bridge financing for national and international investment projects, including renowned ventures and FIBRA -supported initiatives.
Expanding my expertise, I ventured into the mortgage sector, serving financial institutions such as Banorte, Scotiabank, and BanBajío. Here, I took charge of title transfers for diverse real estate developments, prioritizing exceptional service standards.
A significant highlight was collaborating in the vertical housing sector, engaging in every aspect from land acquisition and fiduciary services to anti-money laundering compliance, construction contracts, credit acquisition, and comprehensive title coordination for the entire development.
Shane Mullholland
Serial Entrepreneur and Business Manager
I am an experienced serial entrepreneur in the US and Mexico, with a deep understanding of the Playa del Carmen business landscape.
With over 28 years of entrepreneurial success and a proven track record in opening, operating and scaling businesses, I bring a wealth of knowledge to the table.
24 years ago, my journey took left turn when I acquired Tequila Barrel in Playa del Carmen, Mexico. Recognizing the need for local expertise, I enlisted the assistance of an astute individual who helped me navigate the intricacies of the local business environment and overcome operational challenges. Drawing upon my previous experiences and strategic vision, I transformed Tequila Barrel into a thriving and iconic landmark establishment of Playa del Carmen.
Now, with Lighthouse Real Estate and Legal Services, my mission is to share the wealth of experience, knowledge, and wisdom accumulated throughout my entrepreneurial journey.
Belinda Contreras
Director of Operations
Alicia Ledesma
Lawyer specializing in the notarial, real estate, and tax sectors
Nadia Garrido
Lawyer specializing in civil, commercial, labor and administrative law
Karime Martinez
Lawyer
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