Mexico Importer Registry (Padrón de Importadores): Requirements 2026

The Padrón de Importadores (Importer Registry) is the SAT's mandatory registry authorizing individuals and companies to import goods into Mexico. Without enrollment, you cannot perform any import operation — your customs broker will be unable to clear your merchandise. It is based on Article 59, Section IV of Mexico's Customs Law and registration is free, though meeting all requirements may involve indirect costs. There are two types: the General Importer Registry and the Specific Sector Importer Registry for sensitive goods.

Requirements for General Registry Enrollment

• Active RFC (tax ID) registration with no outstanding tax obligations.
• Valid e.firma (advanced electronic signature) from the SAT.
• Verifiable fiscal domicile — the SAT may conduct a physical verification visit.
• Not listed as a non-locatable taxpayer or in the fictitious operations list (Art. 69-B CFF).
• Active RFC status — not suspended or canceled.
• Positive tax compliance opinion (32-D).
• No outstanding confirmed tax debts, unless guaranteed.

Specific Sector Registry

Beyond the General Registry, certain products require enrollment in the Specific Sector Importer Registry. This applies to sensitive or regulated goods such as: textiles and apparel (sector 10), footwear (sector 11), chemicals (sector 3), hydrocarbons (sector 5), steel products (sector 8), electronics (sector 12), automotive (sector 15), among others. Additional requirements vary by sector and may include minimum capital, specialized personnel, specific infrastructure, and minimum operation volumes.

Step-by-Step Enrollment Process

• Log into the SAT portal with your e.firma or Contraseña (tax mailbox).
• Select the Padrón de Importadores enrollment procedure.
• Complete the electronic form with company data: RFC, legal name, fiscal domicile, economic activity.
• Indicate the type of goods you will import and, if applicable, specific sectors.
• Upload digitized supporting documentation.
• Sign and submit the application electronically.
• Wait for SAT resolution (up to 10 business days for general, 20 for specific sectors).
• If approved, your RFC is enabled for import operations.

Common Reasons for Rejection

• Non-verifiable fiscal domicile — SAT could not confirm your address during a visit.
• Tax irregularities — debts, missed filings, or pending requirements.
• Expired or inactive e.firma — must be current at the time of application.
• Listed on the fictitious operations list (Art. 69-B CFF).
• Negative tax compliance opinion — must regularize before applying.
• Incomplete or inconsistent application data.

How Camtom Supports You from Day One

The Importer Registry is just the first requirement. You then need to correctly classify your products, determine applicable taxes, and comply with non-tariff regulations. Camtom helps with all of this: automatic product classification under the TIGIE, estimated tax calculations, and identification of required NOMs and permits before you import.

Ready to start importing? Try Camtom for free and prepare your import operation with the right information from the start.