Understanding The VISITAX: What You Need To Know

If you’re planning a trip to Quintana Roo, Mexico, it’s important to understand the VISITAX. This tourist tax is imposed by the Mexican government and all visitors must pay it. This blog post will provide an overview of the VISITAX and explain how and where to pay it. Armed with this knowledge, you’ll be able to prepare for your trip and avoid any unwanted surprises.

What Is The VISITAX?

The VISITAX is a new tourist tax that was introduced in Quintana Roo, Mexico in April 2021. It is a small fee that must be paid by anyone visiting the state for tourist purposes, including both domestic and international visitors. The VISITAX is charged per night of stay and the proceeds go towards supporting the local tourism industry, promoting sustainable tourism, and conserving the environment.

This new tax was introduced to help generate revenue for the state and improve tourism infrastructure. The money raised from the VISITAX will go towards improving tourism infrastructure such as transportation, roads, and other public facilities. Additionally, the money raised will go towards environmental conservation and protecting the region’s natural resources.

If you are planning a trip to Quintana Roo, it is important to be aware of this new tax and to factor it into your budget. The VISITAX is an essential aspect of the state’s tourism industry and plays a vital role in supporting local communities. Understanding what the tax is, who needs to pay it, and how to pay it is crucial to avoid any unexpected expenses during your visit.

What Locations In Quintana Roo Are Included In the VISITAX?

The VISITAX applies to all visitors staying in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo, which is home to popular tourist destinations such as Cancun, Cozumel, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Isla Mujeres and the Riviera Maya. If you are staying in any hotel, resort, or rental property within these locations, you will be required to pay the VISITAX. It’s important to note that this tax only applies to Quintana Roo and not the entire country of Mexico. If you are traveling to other states, you won’t be subject to this tax. Be sure to check if your accommodations are located in Quintana Roo to avoid any surprises during your trip.

Why Was It Implemented?

The VISITAX was implemented as a way for the state of Quintana Roo to generate additional revenue to invest in tourism infrastructure and to improve the overall visitor experience. With an increasing number of tourists visiting the region each year, it was important for the state to find a sustainable way to support the growth of tourism while also maintaining the quality of its offerings. The revenue generated from the VISITAX goes towards initiatives such as beach restoration, ecological conservation, and the maintenance and expansion of tourism facilities. It’s a way for visitors to contribute to the preservation and enhancement of the beautiful landscapes and cultural attractions of Quintana Roo.

Who Needs To Pay The VISITAX?

All tourists and visitors who are over 15 years of age and are not residents of Quintana Roo must pay the VISITAX. This tax applies to both domestic and international tourists and is applicable for any type of accommodation, including hotels, hostels, apartments, or rental homes. If you are a resident of Quintana Roo, you are exempt from paying this tax, but you will need to provide proof of your residency, such as an ID or a utility bill.

It is important to note that the VISITAX is a mandatory tax, and failure to pay it may result in penalties or fines. Therefore, it is essential to make sure that you include the cost of this tax in your travel budget to avoid any unnecessary surprises during your stay in Quintana Roo.

How Much Is The VISITAX?

The VISITAX varies depending on the location you’re visiting in Quintana Roo, but the fees are generally affordable. Below are the fees for each location in both Mexican pesos (MXN) and US dollars (USD) for reference:

• Cancun: MXN $224 (USD $11.25)
• Cozumel: MXN $306 (USD $15.50)
• Isla Mujeres: MXN $30 (USD $1.50)
• Playa del Carmen: MXN $224 (USD $11.25)
• Riviera Maya: MXN $224 (USD $11.25)
• Tulum: MXN $224 (USD $11.25)

It’s worth noting that the VISITAX is a one-time fee per person, and it’s valid for up to 24 hours in all destinations except Cozumel, where it’s valid for up to 15 days. Also, keep in mind that the exchange rate can vary depending on where you’re changing your money, so the USD conversion may fluctuate slightly.

It is important to note that the VISITAX fee is subject to change, so it is best to check with your accommodation provider or the local tourism board for the latest updates. Keep in mind that the VISITAX fee is in addition to other taxes, such as the hotel tax and the airport tax, so be sure to factor this into your travel budget. However, the VISITAX fee does not apply to Mexican citizens or residents, children under the age of 18, or people with disabilities.

Where Do You Pay The VISITAX?

Paying the VISITAX is a simple process that can be done in various ways. The easiest way is to pay the tax online through the official website. This can be done prior to your trip or during your stay in Quintana Roo. You can also pay the tax in cash or with a credit card at various points throughout the state. These locations include hotels, airports, and kiosks set up specifically for VISITAX payments.

If you’re arriving in Cancun International Airport, you’ll have the option to pay the tax upon arrival. The payment process is streamlined and won’t take much of your time. However, it’s important to note that it’s best to have your payment confirmation available throughout your stay in Quintana Roo.

It’s crucial to ensure that you’ve paid the tax in full, as not doing so could result in being denied access to certain tourist activities. Be sure to keep a record of your payment confirmation and have it on hand at all times to avoid any issues. It’s worth noting that if you’re staying in an all-inclusive resort, the cost of the VISITAX may be included in your overall price. Be sure to double-check with your resort to avoid paying twice.

In summary, paying the VISITAX is a simple and straightforward process that can be done in various locations. It’s important to ensure that you’ve paid the tax in full and have a record of your payment confirmation with you throughout your stay in Quintana Roo. By doing so, you’ll be able to enjoy all that this beautiful state has to offer without any unnecessary setbacks.

When Do You Need To Pay The VISITAX?

The VISITAX must be paid by all visitors over the age of 15 who are staying in Quintana Roo. This includes both domestic and international visitors. You are required to pay the VISITAX upon arrival or departure from the state, depending on your mode of transportation.

If you arrive by plane, the VISITAX fee will typically be included in your airfare. However, if you are arriving by land or sea, you will need to pay the fee separately. It’s important to note that the VISITAX is a daily fee, meaning that you will need to pay for each day that you are staying in Quintana Roo. So, if you’re staying for a week, you’ll need to pay the fee for seven days.

You may be wondering how the VISITAX is enforced and how authorities are able to track how many days you’ve been in the state. Well, when you arrive in Quintana Roo, you’ll be issued a bracelet or a sticker that serves as proof of payment. It’s important to keep this on you at all times during your stay, as you may be asked to show it to authorities at any time. If you are caught not paying the VISITAX or attempting to evade the fee, you may be subject to fines or penalties. So, be sure to pay the fee on time and keep your proof of payment handy to avoid any issues during your visit.

How Is The VISITAX Enforced?

The VISITAX is enforced by law, meaning that anyone who fails to pay it can face fines and legal penalties. When you arrive in Quintana Roo, you will be required to present proof of payment of the VISITAX at immigration checkpoints and to local authorities.

Hotels, resorts, and vacation rental properties are responsible for collecting the tax from guests upon check-in. If you are staying in an Airbnb or a private home, it is your responsibility to pay the tax and provide proof of payment to the relevant authorities. In addition to presenting proof of payment upon arrival, visitors may also be required to show proof of payment when leaving the country or transferring to another state within Mexico. This is to ensure that all tourists have paid the tax during their stay in Quintana Roo.

It is essential to keep all documentation related to the VISITAX during your stay in Mexico to avoid any issues with enforcement. It’s best to have a print copy of your receipt, but digital copies are also acceptable. To ensure compliance, authorities conduct spot-checks and audits of businesses and travelers to verify that they have paid the required tax. So, if you want to enjoy your stay in Quintana Roo, it’s essential to pay the VISITAX and keep your documentation up-to-date.

Exemptions From The VISITAX

While most visitors to Quintana Roo will need to pay the VISITAX, there are a few exemptions to be aware of. If you are a Mexican citizen or permanent resident of Mexico, you are exempt from paying the VISITAX. Additionally, children under the age of 4 are not required to pay the tax.

If you are a diplomatic or consular agent, or a representative of an international organization recognized by the Mexican government, you are also exempt from paying the VISITAX. Similarly, if you are a passenger in transit who will be in Quintana Roo for less than 24 hours and will not leave the airport or maritime terminal, you do not need to pay the tax. It’s important to note that even if you are exempt from the VISITAX, you may still need to show proof of your exemption at border crossings or during hotel check-in. If you have any questions about your eligibility for an exemption, it’s best to check with the Mexican government or your travel agent.

Do Children Need To Pay For VISITAX?

Yes, children over the age of 3 need to pay the VISITAX just like adults. However, there are certain exemptions for families traveling with children. Families who are residents of Quintana Roo and have up to 2 children under the age of 18 can travel tax-free, but they need to provide identification proving their residency status. It is important to note that non-resident families traveling with children will still need to pay the VISITAX for each child. Therefore, it’s important to factor this into your travel budget when planning your trip to Quintana Roo.

Do I Need A Print Copy Of The VISITAX?

No, you do not need a print copy of the VISITAX. When you pay the tax, you will receive a receipt with a QR code that serves as proof of payment. You can save this QR code on your phone or print it out as a backup. It is recommended to have a digital copy on your phone, as it is easier to access and harder to lose. The QR code will be scanned at various points during your trip to confirm that you have paid the tax. So, remember to keep it handy throughout your stay in Quintana Roo.

The Bottom Line

While it may seem like an extra expense, the VISITAX in Quintana Roo is a necessary fee to support the development of tourism in the region. All tourists over the age of 15 are required to pay the tax when visiting certain areas in Quintana Roo, including popular tourist destinations like Cancun and Tulum. Remember to plan for the additional cost when budgeting for your trip, and ensure you pay the tax before leaving the designated areas to avoid any penalties. By contributing to the development of tourism in the area, you can enjoy all the beauty and attractions that Quintana Roo has to offer with peace of mind.