How to Get IMMEX Approval for Your Business in Baja California: Step-by-Step Guide
If you’re looking to grow your business in Baja California by taking advantage of Mexico’s export manufacturing programs, obtaining IMMEX approval is one of the smartest moves you can make. The IMMEX program (Industria Manufacturera, Maquiladora y de Servicios de Exportación) allows businesses to temporarily import goods and equipment for use in export production, free of many taxes and duties. It’s a powerful tool for increasing profitability and staying competitive—but the application process can be complex and time-consuming.
Below, we outline the essential steps you need to follow to get IMMEX approval for your business in Baja California. Remember: Even a small mistake can set your project back by months. That’s why it’s crucial to have the expert team at Rosarito Legal guide you through every stage of the process.
Step 1: Verify Eligibility
Before anything else, ensure your business meets the IMMEX program requirements:
- You must be engaged in manufacturing, assembly, transformation, or export services.
- Your business must be legally established in Mexico (with a Mexican corporation and tax registration).
- You should have an export plan, with at least 10% of total sales projected for foreign markets.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
The documentation for IMMEX is extensive and must be complete and accurate. You will need:
- Articles of incorporation and proof of legal establishment.
- Current tax registration (RFC) and compliance certificates (opinión de cumplimiento SAT).
- Valid proof of domicile (utility bill, lease, or property deed).
- Municipal business license (licencia de funcionamiento).
- Proof of ownership or lease for the facility where operations will take place.
- Machinery and equipment inventory.
- Export contracts or purchase orders from foreign clients.
- Environmental permits and compliance documents.
- Detailed production and export plan.
Step 3: Register for the Mexican Federal Taxpayer Registry (RFC)
Your business must be fully compliant with the SAT (Servicio de Administración Tributaria), including all up-to-date tax filings and positive compliance opinions.
Step 4: Prepare Your IMMEX Application
The application must be submitted electronically through the Ministry of Economy’s VUCEM portal. This requires:
- Registration on the VUCEM (Ventanilla Única de Comercio Exterior Mexicano) platform.
- Accurate digital copies of all documents listed above.
- Filling out all IMMEX forms, including details on operations, projected exports, and product lists.
Step 5: Submit the Application and Monitor Responses
Once submitted, the Ministry of Economy will review your application and may request clarifications or additional documentation. Common causes for delays are missing paperwork, inconsistencies in the information provided, or lack of clarity regarding export activities.
Step 6: On-Site Inspection
In some cases, authorities will conduct a site visit to verify your facility, equipment, and operational capacity. All information and documents must match your application.
Step 7: Approval and IMMEX Program Registration
If all requirements are met and the inspection is satisfactory, your business will receive IMMEX approval, enabling you to import materials and equipment under preferential tax conditions. You’ll be assigned an IMMEX registration number and be subject to ongoing compliance and annual reporting requirements.
Why Hire Rosarito Legal for Your IMMEX Process?
The IMMEX approval process is not just paperwork—it’s a comprehensive legal, tax, and operational challenge. Even one missing document or minor inconsistency can result in rejection or months of delays. At Rosarito Legal, our experienced team has helped numerous businesses in Baja California secure IMMEX status efficiently and with full legal compliance.
We handle:
- Document preparation and verification
- VUCEM platform registration and submission
- Direct communication with authorities
- Response to any requests or clarifications
- Guidance during on-site inspections
- Ongoing compliance and annual updates
Don’t risk your investment or your timeline. Hire the experts at Rosarito Legal and ensure your IMMEX approval process is done right—the first time.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the next step toward growing your export business in Baja California!