The Mexican Banking Association (ABM – Asociación de Bancos de México) announced a set of measures aimed at strengthening anti-money laundering (AML) controls, combating illegal activities, and raising supervision standards across Mexico’s financial system.
Among these measures, one of the most relevant for individuals and businesses is the implementation of enhanced controls for large cash deposits and withdrawals at bank branches, specifically for high-value transactions.
What is the new requirement to withdraw cash in Mexico?
According to ABM’s official statement (October 29, 2025), starting July 1, 2026, banks must identify individuals making cash deposits or withdrawals at or above a certain threshold, communicated by ABM as MXN 140,000.
This means that anyone attempting such transactions in cash will be required to undergo enhanced identity verification, including:
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Presenting a valid official identification document
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Registering at least one biometric data point, as part of stronger traceability and branch-level control measures
What is ABM aiming to achieve with this measure?
ABM frames these actions as part of an industry strategy to go beyond minimum regulatory compliance, closing gaps with international best practices and strengthening banks’ internal AML programs.
These actions align with a global trend: increasing traceability and control over cash transactions, particularly in contexts where there is growing pressure to improve the financial system’s ability to detect irregular flows.
When does it take effect?
According to ABM’s timeline:
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As of July 1, 2026: identification required for high-value cash deposits/withdrawals (from MXN 140,000)
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Complementary measures related to international transfers and cash payments are expected toward 2027, also involving reinforced requirements.
Practical implications for companies and international groups
For Mexican companies, multinationals, or foreign investors operating in Mexico, the impact will be mainly operational and compliance-related:
1) Higher documentary and traceability requirements
Companies still handling significant cash transactions should anticipate:
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branch withdrawals may require physical presence or additional validation steps;
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stricter checks before banks authorize cash delivery.
2) Treasury planning and operational logistics
Such controls may directly affect:
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exceptional petty cash operations,
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urgent purchases,
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withdrawals for activities in low-banked environments,
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branch-intensive cash movements.
3) Recommendation: shift toward transfers and bank-based methods
This measure reinforces a structural message from the banking system: reduce reliance on cash and favor traceable methods (bank transfers, SPEI, etc.). This may require updating internal corporate procedures in regional operations.
Englobally’s recommendations
At Englobally, we recommend preparing in advance, especially if your organization operates in Mexico:
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Update banking authorizations and powers of attorney for authorized individuals (legal representatives/agents)
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Review internal policies for cash withdrawals and cash management
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Align finance and compliance teams to avoid operational disruptions
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Implement treasury planning that prioritizes banked/traceable transactions
Strengthening AML best practices not only reduces regulatory risks, but also improves internal control standards and corporate reputation.
At Englobally, we support foreign-owned companies and multinational groups in Mexico with: company setup, compliance accounting, payroll, and regional corporate support.