Questions RE: arrival/customs...

Hey All,

I am coming down to Puerto Vallarta Jalisco for 6th months. I have my rental all worked out contract in hand first month and damage deposit paid.
I was going to stay7 months and then found out about needing a Visa and the added issue of same. I decided I could just stay for 6 (what's a few days after winter is done). I have a question though that I can't seem to find the answer to.
It seems that Canadians are automatically granted (depending on ??) 180 day Visa upon arrival.
So when I get my tourist card on the plane do I put 180 days (having my rental agreement)I can show them where I intend on living.
Or do I put down 90 days and then go to some gov't office close to the expiration date of the 90 and renew for another 90?
I am a bit confused by all this.
I realize that the immigration official has the final say.
Are there things I should be careful of when passing immigration (no shiny metal-purple wigs -et., et.) Thanks for any help anyone can give me.

Saludos

You can stay in Mexico, as a visitor, up to 6 months. You can renew, your status here as a visitor prior to the 6 mo. expiration date. From, personal experience, and conversation with others that do not hold a Mexican passport, it is a very cumbersome process. It is easier if you exit the country for 5 minutes and re-enter. San Diego could be an option for you.

But when you enter the first time, declare yourself a visitor, and you will get the 6 months "tourist visa". Make sure, you do not loose the document that you complete at customs, otherwhise, it will cost you $$$$$, not pesos, when you want to exit the country.

Lucian