Since the pandemic, Mexico City has become a global hub for foreign remote workers, some of whom are using Airbnb to find long-term rentals, pushing prices for those rentals, and housing in general, higher. Between January and October, more than 9,500 permits were issued to U.S. residents allowing them to temporarily reside in Mexico City, according to federal immigration statistics, nearly double the 5,400 issued in the same period in 2019. Many more entered on tourist visas, which allow them to work from Mexico for up to six months as long as they are paid abroad. Mexico City Mayor Claudia Sheinbaum has embraced the transplants, partnering with Airbnb on a campaign that promotes the city as a “capital for creative tourism” that encourages foreigners to spend money in less well-off neighborhoods. The alliance has ignited an argument that’s enveloped the platform in other major cities, where critics have accused it of driving up housing costs.
New York Times (12/29/22) David Shortell
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