Mexican Immigration Records Through the Centuries

Exploring the movement of people into Mexico across centuries, this webinar—hosted by Legacy Family Tree Webinars and presented by genealogist Nefi Arenas Salazar—unpacks the rich variety of immigration records that reveal ancestral stories. Focusing on those who entered Mexico rather than those who left it, the session guides genealogists through resources spanning from the 1500s conquest era to the 20th century. With detailed case studies and practical research examples, Salazar demonstrates how to trace immigrant origins, uncover personal details, and understand the broader historical context of migration into Mexico.

Key Takeaways

• Early Immigration Records: Foundational sources such as the Icaza Dictionary and passenger lists to the Indies provide biographical details of conquistadors and settlers from the 1500s, often listing origins, family members, and even personal exploits—essential for uncovering Spanish roots in colonial Mexico.

• Marriage Dispensations & Licenses: Unique documents like Dispensas de ultramarinos and passenger licenses extend genealogical detail into the 17th and 18th centuries. These records, often created to verify eligibility for marriage or travel, frequently include extensive genealogical data about parents, grandparents, and places of origin.

• Modern Immigration Registries: By the 20th century, foreign registries and F14/F5 immigration forms became invaluable sources, offering photographs, physical descriptions, languages spoken, religious affiliation, and detailed family information. These resources open doors for tracing immigrants from Europe, the Middle East, and beyond.

This webinar illustrates how immigration records serve as both genealogical treasure troves and cultural touchstones, enriching family histories with vivid details of ancestors’ lives and journeys. Viewing the full session will equip genealogists with step-by-step strategies to locate and interpret these diverse resources, while also providing valuable context for Mexican migration history.

For those eager to deepen their research, the accompanying syllabus offers additional resources, references, and research avenues. Explore it alongside the complete webinar replay to unlock new insights into your ancestors’ paths to Mexico and to strengthen your genealogical toolkit.