Minimum Wage in Mexico: Rates, Trends & Compliance

What Is the Minimum Wage in Mexico?

As of January 1, 2025, Mexico's general minimum wage increased by 12%, rising from 248.93 pesos to 278.80 pesos per day. In the Northern Border Free Zone, the minimum wage increased from 374.89 pesos to 419.88 pesos per day. This adjustment aims to improve the standard of living for workers across the country.

How Does Minimum Wage Apply to Different Workers in Mexico?

Mexico's minimum wage laws ensure fair compensation across various employment categories. The general minimum wage applies broadly, with specific provisions for full-time employees, part-time employees, interns and trainees, and expatriates.

Full-Time Employee Wages

Full-time employees in Mexico are entitled to the general minimum wage, which is set at 278.80 pesos per day as of January 1, 2025. Certain professions have designated professional minimum wages that are higher than the general rate. For example, skilled trades such as electricians and mechanics may have higher minimum wage thresholds to reflect specialized skills and industry standards.

Part-Time Employee Wages

Part-time employees are generally entitled to a prorated amount of the daily minimum wage based on the number of hours worked. Employers must ensure that part-time workers receive compensation aligned with minimum wage laws, proportionate to their working hours.

Interns and Trainees

In Mexico, interns and trainees may or may not be entitled to the minimum wage, depending on the nature of their agreement and the duration of their training period. Unpaid internships are permissible under certain conditions, particularly when they are part of an educational program and do not exceed specified time frames. However, if interns or trainees perform productive work beyond training purposes, they are generally entitled to receive at least the minimum wage.

Expatriates

Expatriates working in Mexico are subject to the same minimum wage laws as local employees. Employers must ensure that expatriate workers receive compensation that meets or exceeds the established minimum wage rates. Additionally, expatriates should be aware of any bilateral agreements between Mexico and their home country that may affect their employment terms.

Factors Influencing Minimum Wage in Mexico

Industry-Specific Variations

Minimum wage laws in Mexico recognize differences across industries. Certain sectors, such as manufacturing and construction, may have higher minimum wage thresholds due to the specialized skills required and labor demand. Conversely, industries with lower skill requirements may adhere to the general minimum wage. High-demand industries often offer wages that exceed the minimum to attract and retain qualified workers.

Economic Conditions

Economic factors such as inflation and employment rates play a significant role in shaping minimum wage policies. The recent 12% increase in the minimum wage was implemented to address inflation and improve workers' purchasing power. The government aims to ensure that wage growth keeps pace with the cost of living to maintain the real income of workers.

Government Policies and Legislation

The Mexican government, through the National Minimum Wage Commission (CONASAMI), regularly reviews and adjusts the minimum wage to reflect economic conditions and policy objectives. Recent increases are part of a broader initiative to enhance the purchasing power of Mexican workers and reduce income inequality. The government collaborates with employers and labor unions to reach consensus on wage adjustments.

Minimum Wage History and Trends in Mexico

Over the past several years, Mexico has implemented significant increases in the minimum wage to improve workers' living standards. From 2018 to 2025, the minimum wage has seen a cumulative increase of 135%, rising from 88.40 pesos to 278.80 pesos per day. This upward trend reflects the government's commitment to enhancing the economic well-being of its workforce.

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