If you've started looking for apartments in Mexico, you've probably encountered the dreaded "aval" requirement. For foreigners, this is often the single biggest obstacle to renting. But don't worry — there are alternatives.
What is an Aval?
In Mexico, landlords traditionally require a guarantor ("aval") — a Mexican citizen who owns property in the same city and co-signs your lease. If you stop paying rent, the landlord can legally pursue your aval's property as compensation.
For obvious reasons, finding someone willing to put their property on the line for you — especially as a newcomer — is extremely difficult.
Alternatives to an Aval
The good news: Mexico's rental market is evolving, and many landlords now accept alternatives. Here are your options, from most to least common:
1. Póliza Jurídica (Legal Insurance Policy)
This is the most popular alternative. A póliza jurídica is an insurance policy that covers the landlord if you stop paying rent. The insurance company handles legal proceedings and covers lost rent.
- Cost: $200–$400 USD/year (usually paid by the tenant)
- Process: The insurance company runs a background and credit check on you
- Requirements: Proof of income (usually 3x the rent), valid ID, and sometimes bank statements
- Acceptance: Most modern landlords and property managers accept this
On Nido Urbano, listings that accept póliza jurídica are marked with a "Sin aval" badge so you can filter for them directly.
2. Larger Deposit
Some landlords will waive the aval requirement if you offer a larger upfront deposit — typically 3–6 months' rent instead of the standard 1–2 months.
This works best when you can demonstrate financial stability. The deposit should be clearly documented in your contract and fully refundable at the end of the lease.
3. Proof of Income
Showing bank statements, employment contracts, or tax returns that prove you can comfortably afford the rent can sometimes replace the aval requirement. International income is generally accepted, though landlords may want to see:
- Last 3–6 months of bank statements
- Employment letter or contract
- Tax returns or pay stubs
- Proof of remote work income
4. Corporate Lease
If your company is sponsoring your move to Mexico, they can sign the lease on your behalf. This removes the aval requirement entirely since the company (often a Mexican subsidiary or registered entity) takes legal responsibility.
5. Furnished Short-term Rentals
Furnished apartments with shorter lease terms (3–6 months) often have more flexible requirements. The trade-off is higher monthly rent, but it eliminates the aval issue and gives you time to establish yourself before committing to a longer lease.
How to Find No-Aval Rentals
- On Nido Urbano: Filter for "sin aval" to see only listings that don't require a guarantor
- Ask directly: In your first message to a landlord, ask: "¿Aceptan póliza jurídica en lugar de aval?" (Do you accept legal insurance instead of a guarantor?)
- Target newer buildings: Modern apartment complexes and younger landlords tend to be more flexible about aval requirements
- Work with a property manager: Agencies are more likely to offer póliza jurídica as a standard option
Red Flags to Watch For
While searching for no-aval rentals, stay alert for scams:
- Never pay before signing a contract — no deposit, no "reservation fee," nothing
- Never send money to someone you haven't met in person or verified through a legitimate platform
- Get everything in writing — even if in Spanish, a written agreement is enforceable
- If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is — an amazing apartment at a below-market price with no requirements is likely a scam
Your Rights
Under Mexican law, rental agreements are governed by the Civil Code. Whether you use an aval or an alternative, you have the same tenant rights. The key difference is only in the guarantee mechanism — your actual lease terms and protections remain the same.