Quintana Roo is home to some of Mexico’s most stunning beaches, world-renowned archaeological sites, and vibrant nightlife. If you’re planning a trip to Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, or any other destination in Quintana Roo, Mexico, you may have heard about a new tourist tax called Visitax. Starting April, 2021, this fee applies to foreign visitors. It is an important requirement for those traveling to this beautiful region. In this blog, we’ll explain everything about Visitax, including its purpose, cost, payment process, and what happens if you don’t pay it.
Understanding this tax will help you avoid last-minute surprises and ensure a smooth travel experience.
What Is Visitax and How Does It Affect Tourists?
Visitax is a mandatory tax by the government of Quintana Roo for international tourists visiting the state. This tax was introduced to support tourism development and improve infrastructure in the region. The goal is to generate additional revenue that can help to maintain attractions, improve tourist services, and fund conservation efforts.
For tourists, Visitax is an extra cost to consider when they make their budget for their trip. While the tax is relatively small, it is an important requirement. Fortunately, the payment process is simple and available online prior to travel to prevent any inconvenience.
Some travelers may not be aware of this tax until they arrive at the airport or during their stay in Quintana Roo. However, we recomend you to pay Visitax ahead of time to ensure compliance with local regulations and avoid potential issues when departing from the region.
Why Should Visitax Be Paid?
Visitax is a requirement by law for all foreign visitors entering Quintana Roo. The funds collected are used to maintain and enhance tourism services, protect natural attractions, and support local communities that rely on tourism. Paying this tax helps ensure that travelers continue to enjoy high-quality services and experiences in the region.
The money collected from Visitax goes directly toward preserving the natural beauty of the area, maintaining public infrastructure, and supporting initiatives that improve tourist safety. This includes conservation programs for coral reefs, improvements in public transportation, and the maintenance of popular tourist sites such as Chichén Itzá and Tulum.
By paying Visitax, travelers are actively contributing to the sustainability of tourism in Quintana Roo. The tax helps ensure that future visitors can continue to enjoy the region’s stunning beaches, clear blue waters, and rich cultural heritage.
How Much Does Visitax Cost?
As of the latest update, the Visitax fee is $283 MXN, or approximately 15 USD per person. The price may vary slightly due to exchange rates, so it’s recommended to check the official Visitax payment platform for the most accurate and up-to-date cost.
This fee applies to all foreign tourists. And its per person, meaning that a family of four will need to pay around $60 USD in total. While this may seem like an additional expense, it is relatively small compared to other travel costs and goes toward maintaining and improving the tourist experience in Quintana Roo.
Who Must Pay Visitax?
Visitax applies to all foreign tourists visiting the state of Quintana Roo. This includes tourists of all ages and nationalities, with no exceptions. Mexican citizens and residents are exempt from this tax. If you are a foreign national, whether you are visiting for a short stay or an extended vacation, you need to pay the tax.
This tax applies regardless of the purpose of your visit. Whether you are in Quintana Roo for a vacation, business, or visiting friends, you have the obligation to pay Visitax. The only exception is for Mexican residents and citizens who do not fall under this category.
Is Visitax Mandatory?
Yes, Visitax is a mandatory tax for foreign travelers. While some visitors may not be asked to show proof of payment upon arrival or departure, it is an official requirement. Authorities may conduct random checks.
Failure to pay Visitax could result in unnecessary delays at the airport, potential fines, or complications during your departure. To avoid any last-minute stress, it is best to complete the payment ahead of time and keep a copy of your confirmation as proof.
How and Where Can I Pay Visitax?
Paying Visitax is a simple and quick process. You can pay it online through the official Visitax website or authorized third-party platforms. The payment process typically involves:
- Visiting the official Visitax payment website. The Mexican government has an official website where visitors can securely make their payments. Be sure to use a legitimate source to avoid scams.
- Entering your personal details. You will need to provide essential information, including your name, passport number, and travel dates.
- Making a secure online payment. The Payment can be charge using a credit or debit card. Some websites also allow payment through PayPal.
- Receiving a confirmation receipt. Once your payment is processed, you will receive a confirmation email with a QR code or reference number. It’s essential to keep this confirmation, in case you need to present the confirmation at the airport.
To ensure travelers can complete it in just a few minutes, the payment process is easy and fast.
How Long Does It Take to Get Confirmation of Payment?
After completing the payment, you will receive a confirmation email within minutes. This email contains a QR code or a receipt. It is what you should save and present if requested by authorities at the airport.
If you do not receive a confirmation email within an hour, be sure to check your spam or junk folder. If it is not there, you may need to contact the official Visitax support team to resolve the issue.
Can I Pay Visitax Directly at the Airport?
Yes, it is possible to pay Visitax at the airport before your departure. However, this is not the recommended option due to potential delays and long queues. If you choose to pay at the airport, you may find designated kiosks or officials assisting travelers with the payment process.
It is important to note that airport payment stations may not always be available or fully staffed, which can lead to last-minute stress. Additionally, some payment kiosks may only accept specific forms of payment, such as cards, and may not accept cash.
It’s a recomendation to pay visitax online before traveling to avoid any issues. This way, you will have your confirmation receipt ready, ensuring a smooth departure without unnecessary delays.
What Happens If I Don’t Pay Visitax?
Failing to pay Visitax could lead to delays at the airport or potential fines if checked by authorities.
In some cases, travelers have been asked to pay the tax at the airport before being allowed to proceed to their flight. This can cause unnecessary stress and delays, especially if you are in a hurry. It is best to take care of the payment in advance to avoid any last-minute issues.
There is also the possibility that future enforcement of Visitax will become stricter, meaning that travelers who have not paid may face greater consequences.
How Long Is Visitax Valid for Each Tourist?
Once paid, Visitax is valid for the duration of the visitor’s stay, up to a maximum of 180 days. It covers a single visit, meaning that if you leave and re-enter the state at a later date, you wiil need to pay the tax again. However, for travelers staying in the state for an extended period, Visitax remains valid for their entire trip as long as they do not exit and re-enter.
If it’s in your plans to stay for an extended period, be sure that your travels dates reflects the period when you make your Visitax payment. This will help you to avoid complications
What Else Should I Know Before Visiting Quintana Roo, Mexico?
Before traveling to Quintana Roo, it’s important to be aware of local customs, safety tips, and travel regulations. Here are a few key points to keep in mind:
- Currency: The official currency is the Mexican Peso (MXN), but US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas. However, it is advisable to have some local currency for small purchases.
- Safety: While Quintana Roo is generally safe for tourists, always be cautious with your belongings, avoid isolated areas at night, and use official transportation services.
- Weather: The region has a tropical climate, meaning hot temperatures and occasional heavy rains, especially during the hurricane season (June to November).
- Health Precautions: Stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and be mindful of food and water safety to avoid any health issues during your trip.
- Cultural Sites: Visiting Mayan ruins such as Chichén Itzá and Tulum can enrich your travel experience. Be respectful of the historical significance of these places.
By keeping these factors in mind, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip to one of Mexico’s most breathtaking destinations.
Conclusion
Visitax is an essential tax for international tourists visiting Quintana Roo, supporting the region’s tourism industry and local economy. The payment process is easy, and while enforcement may not be strict for all travelers, it is still a legal requirement. To ensure a hassle-free experience, pay Visitax in advance and keep your confirmation receipt handy.
By complying with Visitax, you contribute to the sustainability and improvement of one of Mexico’s most beautiful travel destinations. Make your trip to Cancun, Playa del Carmen, or Tulum stress-free by taking care of Visitax before you travel.
If you need more information or do you wanna plan your next trip, contact us and we will help you!
