Your First 30 Days
Arrival Checklist
Reviewed on
45+ actionable items to help you settle into San Luis Potosí successfully
7 CategoriesInteractive CheckboxesOfficial Links
📱First Week Essentials
🏛️Administrative Tasks
🔌Home & Services
🏦Financial Setup
🏥Healthcare
🛒Practical Daily Life
Essentials for San Luis Potosí
Gear and home items our community recommends for life and adventure in SLP.
Brita Metro water filter pitcher
Clean drinking water at home — a must-have setup item for expats arriving in Mexico.
Levoit HEPA air purifier
SLP is dry and dusty. A HEPA purifier helps expats avoid respiratory issues in the first months.
Essential Resources
Emergency Numbers
- 911 - General Emergency
- 066 - Police
- 065 - Red Cross / Ambulance
San Luis Way Guides
Frequently Asked Questions
What documents do I need to move to San Luis Potosí?▼
At minimum: valid passport, visa (FMM for <180 days, Temporary Resident visa for longer), proof of address, CURP (Mexican ID number), and your birth certificate with apostille if applying for residency. Bring certified copies of everything.
Can I open a bank account in San Luis Potosí as a foreigner?▼
Yes. You need your passport, proof of Mexican address (utility bill or lease), and either an FMM or resident visa. BBVA and Banorte are the most expat-friendly banks. The process takes 1-2 hours at the branch. Some banks require a minimum deposit of $2,000-5,000 MXN.
How do I get a Mexican phone number?▼
Buy a prepaid SIM card from Telcel, AT&T México, or Movistar at any OXXO or convenience store for ~$100-200 MXN. Telcel has the best coverage in SLP. For postpaid plans, you'll need a Mexican ID (INE) or your passport + proof of address.
How long does it take to get settled in SLP?▼
Most expats report being functionally settled within 2-4 weeks: housing secured (week 1), bank account and phone (week 2), grocery routines and basic Spanish phrases (weeks 3-4). Full social integration takes 3-6 months, especially if you join expat groups and take Spanish classes.
You might also like
Get the best of SLP in your inbox
Free events, new restaurants, updated guides — every week.
Stay in the Loop
Get weekly updates on new places, events, and expat tips delivered to your inbox.
We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at any time.
👥Social & Community