Getting Out of a Timeshare Contract in Mexico: Myths and Truths
- Guillermo Cruz-Rico
- 3 days ago
- 4 min read
Learn the myths and truths about getting out of a timeshare contract and fighting timeshare scams in Mexico. Protect your rights with expert legal advice.
How to Enforce a Canadian Judgment in Mexico: A Step-by-Step Guide
Mexican law provides robust consumer protections for both Mexicans and foreigners and gives you a roadmap for fighting timeshare scams in Mexico.
Introduction
The Timeshare Dilemma
Mexico remains one of the top destinations for Canadians, attracting millions each year for vacations, retirement, and investment. According to Mexican official data, by the end of 2025, over 3 million Canadians are expected to visit Mexico. For many, the appeal of sandy beaches and resort living is irresistible—and timeshare offers seem like an easy way to secure a slice of paradise.
But there’s a catch. After high-pressure sales presentations, countless Canadians later discover that their timeshare contract contains unexpected fees, misleading promises, or terms they don’t fully understand. Since 2007, I have been assisting Canadians as a Foreign Legal Consultant for Mexico in Ontario, and since 2024 as an Ontario lawyer, helping clients challenge and exit unfair contracts.
From this experience, I can confirm that many people believe getting out of a timeshare contract is impossible—when in fact, Mexican law gives them strong rights and remedies.
The truth? Mexican law provides robust consumer protections for both Mexicans and foreigners. In this post, we separate myths from truths, explain how to protect yourself, and give you a roadmap for fighting timeshare scams in Mexico.
The Legal Framework for Timeshare Contracts in Mexico
Federal Consumer Protection Law (LFPC)
Right to cancel within 5 business days of signing.
Contracts must contain mandatory clauses and cannot include abusive terms.
Non-compliance can lead to fines, rescission, or even closure of operations.
NOM-029-SE-2021: Timeshare Regulations
Contracts must be clear, truthful, and registered with PROFECO.
Must include supplier details, total price, maintenance fees, and the cancellation right.
Contracts must be drafted in Spanish, though translations can be attached.
Foreigners enjoy the same protections as Mexican consumers.
Takeaway: The law is designed to help consumers, including Canadians, with getting out of a timeshare contract when their rights are violated.
Myths vs. Truths About Getting Out of a Timeshare Contract
Myth 1: “Foreigners cannot cancel a Mexican timeshare.”
✅ Truth: Foreign consumers have the same rights under Mexican law as nationals.
Myth 2: “You can only cancel on the same day you signed.”
✅ Truth: You have five business days to cancel without penalty.
Myth 3: “If it’s not in the contract, cancellation is impossible.”
✅ Truth: Cancellation rights are inalienable under Mexican law.
Myth 4: “Once you pay, you cannot get your money back.”
✅ Truth: If you cancel in time, the provider must refund all payments.
Myth 5: “PROFECO does not help foreigners.”
✅ Truth: PROFECO handles complaints for both Mexicans and foreigners.
If you entered into a timeshare contract in Mexico under pressure, misrepresentation, or unfair terms, you don’t have to face it alone. The law gives you tools to challenge and cancel abusive agreements. At MC Law Firm, we specialize in helping Canadians and international clients protect their rights and recover their peace of mind.
Book your consultation today and take the first step toward getting out of a timeshare contract the right way.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Cancel a Timeshare in Mexico
If you want to start fighting timeshare scams in Mexico and protect your investment, follow these steps:
Act quickly: Send written cancellation within 5 business days.
Include documentation: Attach your contract, receipts, and any misleading advertising.
Notify both the provider and PROFECO: Delivery by email, registered mail, or in person.
Request confirmation: Always ask for written acknowledgment.
Escalate to PROFECO if the provider refuses to cancel.
Important Warning: Avoid Risky Mistakes
In the past year, there have even been reports of foreign nationals detained in Mexico for not paying their timeshare fees. While each case is different, one general piece of advice applies to everyone: if you want to begin getting out of a timeshare contract, do not cancel your credit card or stop payments before filing a formal claim and taking proper legal action. Otherwise, you risk being considered the party in breach of the contract. This can reduce your chances of success dramatically and may even expose you to unnecessary headaches, including collection actions or facing fraud charges. The safer path is to follow the legal procedures, file your complaint with PROFECO, and seek legal assistance to protect your rights.
John & Maria’s Experience
(Names are fictional and for illustrative purposes only.)
John and Maria, a Canadian couple, signed a timeshare in Cancún believing it would be an “investment” with rental income. Later, they realized the contract contained high maintenance fees and empty promises.
They thought getting out of a timeshare contract was impossible. With legal guidance, they exercised their five-day cancellation right, filed with PROFECO, and secured a full refund. Their case shows that fighting timeshare scams in Mexico is not only possible—it’s a protected legal right.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I cancel after 5 days?
Yes, but it requires legal action—such as rescission for abusive clauses or misleading advertising.
What if the provider ignores my cancellation request?
File a complaint with PROFECO, which can impose sanctions and facilitate conciliation.
Do verbal promises count?
Only written terms are binding. However, misleading advertising can still be challenged in court or before PROFECO.
Key Takeaways
✅ Do act fast—send cancellation within 5 business days.
✅ Do file with PROFECO if the provider refuses.
❌ Don’t believe foreigners lack rights.
❌ Don’t rely solely on verbal promises.
Conclusion & Call-to-Action
Getting out of a timeshare contract in Mexico is not a myth—it is a legal right. Mexican law protects consumers, including Canadians, with clear cancellation rights, PROFECO oversight, and remedies against abusive clauses. If you’re facing pressure or misleading practices, remember: fighting timeshare scams in Mexico is possible, and you are not alone.
At MC Law Firm, we help Canadians and international clients navigate Mexico’s consumer laws and defend their rights against unfair timeshare practices.
👉 Contact us today to review your timeshare contract and ensure your will is effective in both Canada.