The new Mexico visitor tax has been in place since April 2021 and many travelers still have questions about how it works. The goal of this article is to clear up any confusion surrounding the VISITAX program and help you prepare for your trip to Cancun or another Mexican destination.
This tourist tax is a requirement by the state of Quintana Roo which includes Cancun, Riviera Maya, Cozumel, Tulum, and Isla Mujeres. If you’re staying at a hotel, resort, or vacation rental property in these destinations you will be required to pay this fee when checking in. It’s important to keep in mind that this is a separate charge from your hotel stay and airfare which will still be included in your trip package.
How much is the Mexico visitor tax?
The VISITAX program charges tourists a mandatory tourism tax of 224 pesos (approximately $11 USD) per person. This tax is a requirement for all foreign visitors and can be paid when booking, when arriving at their hotel, at an airport kiosk before departure, or via the official website for VISITAX.
The VISITAX tax is used to improve and maintain public services that benefit both locals and tourists, such as improved waste management, transportation options, and the cleanliness of beaches. This is a necessary step to ensure the sustainability and growth of tourism in Cancun and other popular Mexico destinations and is something that all visitors should be willing to contribute to.