Languages:

The official language is Spanish, however, in some rural areas, dialects like Nahautl, Maya, Otomi, Mixteco, and Zapoteco are still spoken.

Cost of living:

In Mexico, the cost of living can be generally lower than it is in Europe and the U.S., although a growing range of items (especially clothing, domestic appliances, electronics, and some luxury goods) are more expensive in Mexico.
            Wages and salaries tend to be lower in Mexico than relative U.S./EU wages. Mexperience keeps a regular price index of everyday items, updated twice a year which gives you a good indication of prices in Mexico today. For more information on living in Mexico refer to:  http://www.mexperience.com/liveandwork/living_in_mexico.htm#CostOfLiv

Visa and Work Permits:

Permits are gained from the Mexican government and are issued to people who are sponsored by companies in Mexico (or foreign companies with Mexican operations/subsidiaries), or by people with specific skills required in Mexico.  You can enter Mexico to work for a foreign company provided that you do not receive any remuneration directly from a Mexican company or subsidiary.  Other kinds of jobs that can be held include teaching English, opening your own small business, and working on community and social projects.  For more information regarding working regulations and obtaining the right permits in Mexico refer to: http://www.mexperience.com/liveandwork/working_mexico.htm

Job Searching in a Foreign Country:

 Looking for work in Mexico can be done in various ways including job fairs at universities, internet sites, etc. However, the most common, and effective way, is often through your network of friends, family members, peers and work contacts. It’s vital to have good contacts in Mexico.

The key Internet sites for job openings are:

http://www.occ.com.mx/                       http://www.lucas5.com/
http://www.laborum.com.mx                 http://www.banir.com.mx
www.el-universal.com.mx                  http://www.wtxmexcio.com

Cultural Differences in Workplace:

Be on time for your appointment, but expect your Mexican counterparts to be 15 to 30 minutes late.  Do not complain about their lateness. Mexican believe people are more important than time schedules. Likewise, during a meeting, be prepared for interruptions such as telephone calls and people dropping in.  Never show your irritation at these delays.

            If you are a newcomer to the Mexican market, be prepared to make small talk to develop the relationship before Mexicans will make a commitment; conversation is important.

            Always use a person’s title when addressing someone. Do not use first names until the Mexican counterpart initiates it.

            Mexicans are very appreciative  and kind to those who attempt to speak Spanish.  If you expect to work in Mexico over a long period of time, Spanish lessons are worthwhile investment.

            Mexicans are very status conscious, even down to their watches, and will most certainly notice what you are wearing.  Dress business professional:  men in dark suits and ties and women in dark suits and heels.

Money and Banking:

Although some banks offer cash and traveler's check exchange, they are not the ideal place to undertake this kind of business: go to an exchange house instead.   If you need to transfer money to or from Mexico, this is probably best done through an agency set up for the purpose.
The main banks in Mexico with ATMs and branches nationally are:

      Bancomer (owned by BBVA of Spain), Banamex (owned by CitiBank/Group of USA),  Banco Santander (part-owned by Bank of America), HSBC (Formerly Bital), and Banorte (Wholly Mexican-owned bank).

Security/Safety:

 For complete safety and security information please visit: http://www.travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_970.html