Baja Tourist Tax (Embrace It): What Travelers Need to Know 2026
If you're planning a trip to Baja California Sur, there’s an important travel requirement to be aware of: the Baja tourist tax, also known as the “Embrace It” tax. While it’s not new, enforcement and visibility have increased—making it more important than ever to understand how it works before you arrive.
What Is the Baja Tourist Tax?
The Embrace It tourist tax is authorized under Article 129 Bis of Baja California Sur’s state tax law. It applies to international visitors aged 12 and older who stay in the state for more than 24 hours. Whether you arrive by air or land, the tax still applies.
This includes travelers visiting popular destinations such as:
• Los Cabos
• Cabo San Lucas
• San José del Cabo
• La Paz
• Loreto
This is the official Embrace It logo. Check to be sure you are paying on the official website and not an imitator!
Table of Contents
- What Is the Baja Tourist Tax?
- Who Needs to Pay the Baja Tourist Tax?
- How to Pay the Embrace It Tax
- What happens if I lose my QR Code?
- Where You May Be Asked for Proof?
- What Happens If You Don’t Pay?
- Baja Tourist Tax vs. Visitax (Quintana Roo)
Who Needs to Pay the Baja Tourist Tax?
✔ Required:
-
All foreign visitors to Baja California Sur staying over 24 hours
-
Adults and Children over 12 years old
❌ Not Required:
-
Mexican citizens
-
Temporary or permanent residents of Mexico
- Children under 12 years old
- Visitors staying less than 24 hours
If you hold any type of Mexican residency card, you are exempt from the Embrace It tax.
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How to Pay Embrace IT Tax Online — Step-by-Step Guide
Travelers are required to complete payment online either before departure or upon arrival. After paying, you’ll receive a digital confirmation with a QR code, which serves as your proof of payment. The process takes about 2–3 minutes. Here’s exactly how to do it safely.
Step 1: Go to the Official Website
Visit the official Baja Sur Embrace IT portal:
www.EmbraceIt.bcs.gob.mx
Avoid third-party websites with higher fees or unofficial processing. The site above is the only way to make a direct payment for your Embrace It tax.
Step 2: Enter Traveler Details
Provide passport details, email, and travel dates for each foreign traveler or visitor over 12 years. You can register up to 9 travelers at a time.
Step 3: Confirm the Total and Proceed to Payment
The site will calculate your total based on the number of travelers. Enter your payment details. You can pay with all major credit cards. You will be charged in the currency you select.
Step 4: Save Your QR Code
Once you have completed payment you will receive an official receipt with a QR code via email as confirmation. This receipt serves as a legal proof of compliance with state law and forms part of your required travel documentation while in Baja California Sur. This is an important document, make sure you dont lose it!
This is an example of what your confirmation and official printable QR code will look like.
What Happens If I Lose my QR Code?
If you lose your QR Code while traveling and need to get a replacement head over to www.EmbraceIt.bcs.gob.mx/status. Here you can enter your personal details to retrieve and print your QR code.
Where You May Be Asked for Proof
Enforcement has become more visible in recent years both in airports and when passing through checkpoints. A significant number of foreign travelers enter by land and asking for proof of payment at regular points is common. If you're renting a car or exploring beyond resort areas, it's especially important to have your QR code ready.
You may be asked to show proof of payment:
• At airport entry points
• At roadside checkpoints within the state
• Near state borders when traveling by car
What Happens If You Don’t Pay?
To avoid disruptions, it’s best to take care of this before your trip. It could result in delay when checking in for your flight or being stopped roadside to make payment. Consider the difficulty of making a roadside payment without good cell service! This could cause a stressful disruption to your road trip.
If you haven’t paid in advance, you may be:
- Asked to complete payment on the spot
- Delayed at checkpoints or airport screening areas
Baja Tourist Tax vs. Visitax (Quintana Roo)
If you’ve traveled to Cancun, Tulum, or Playa del Carmen, you may already be familiar with Visitax in Quintana Roo.
Read our full guide here: Visitax Mexico: What You Need to Know Before You Go
While both are tourist taxes for international visitors, there are a few key differences:
- Visitax applies in Quintana Roo (Caribbean side)
- Embrace It applies in Baja California Sur (Pacific side)
- Enforcement in Baja is increasingly visible, especially at checkpoints
Final Thoughts & Tips
The Baja tourist tax is a simple but important step in planning your trip to Baja California Sur. While easy to complete, many travelers are still unaware of it until they arrive. Taking a few minutes to pay ahead of time can help you avoid delays and enjoy a smoother, stress-free experience.
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Agency Certifications:
-
Los Cabos Destination Specialist
Certified by the Los Cabos Tourism Board (Visit Los Cabos) -
Loreto Destination Specialist
Certified by the Loreto Tourism Board -
Baja California Destination Specialist
Certified by the Baja California Tourism Board
Final Tips for Travelers
Keep a hard copy or screenshot on your phone.
Save a screenshot on your phone and keep a backup copy in case you don’t have cell service.
Don't Drive Without Your QR Code.
If you plan to explore beyond your hotel—especially driving between La Paz and Los Cabos—pay the tax in advance and keep your QR code easily accessible.
Only use the official website — many third-party sites overcharge.
There are some websites taking Embrace It payments and charging more. Make sure you have the official website and be cautious about sharing your personal info in phishing sites.
Every traveler needs their own QR code, including minors over 12.
Unfortunately there are no senior discounts but kids under 12 are no charge. Each traveler should keep their QR code with them.
Residents should carry their residency card if questioned.
Because of the increased enforcement you may be questioned about your Embrace It payment, even as a resident. If you have temporary or permanent residency status you are exempt from the visitor tax. Always carry your residency card when you travel outside of the country.
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Frequently Asked Questions About the Baja Tourist Tax
What is the Baja tourist tax?
The Baja tourist tax is a visitor fee charged to travelers visiting the state of Baja California Sur, Mexico. The tax helps support tourism infrastructure, environmental conservation, public services, and local projects in popular destinations like Cabo San Lucas, San José del Cabo, and La Paz.
Is the Baja tourist tax mandatory?
The tourist tax is officially required for many international visitors entering Baja California Sur. Enforcement and collection methods can vary, but travelers are encouraged to pay it as part of responsible tourism and to avoid potential issues during travel.
How much is the Baja tourist tax?
The amount can change over time depending on government updates and exchange rates, but it is generally a relatively small fee per traveler.
Always verify the current amount through official payment platforms before your trip.
Who has to pay the Baja tourist tax?
Typically, international tourists visiting Baja California Sur are expected to pay the tax. Requirements may vary based on:
- Length of stay
- Entry method
- Residency status
- Age exemptions
Some travelers, including certain residents or minors, may be exempt.
How do I pay the Baja tourist tax?
The tax is usually paid online through an official portal before or during your trip. After payment, travelers typically receive:
- A confirmation email
- A receipt
- A QR code or proof of payment
It is a good idea to save a screenshot or PDF copy on your phone.
Do I need to print my Baja tourist tax receipt?
It is not always required, but carrying either a printed copy or digital screenshot is recommended in case airline staff or officials ask for proof of payment.
When should I pay the Baja tourist tax?
Many travelers choose to pay:
- Before departure
- Shortly before arrival
- During their stay if they forgot beforehand
Paying ahead of time can help avoid last-minute stress.
Is the Baja tourist tax included in airfare or hotel fees?
Usually no. In most cases, the Baja tourist tax is separate from:
- Airfare taxes
- Hotel taxes
- Resort fees
Travelers often need to complete payment independently.
What happens if I do not pay the Baja tourist tax?
Enforcement can vary, but travelers may be reminded to pay at:
- Airports
- Hotels
- Departure checkpoints
While experiences differ, it is best to comply with local tourism regulations and avoid unnecessary complications.
Why does Baja California Sur charge a tourist tax?
The tax is intended to help support:
- Environmental preservation
- Beach maintenance
- Tourism infrastructure
- Conservation projects
- Public services in heavily visited areas
With tourism continuing to grow in Baja, the fee is designed to help maintain the destinations travelers come to enjoy.
Can I pay the Baja tourist tax in U.S. dollars?
Most official payment systems charge the fee in Mexican pesos, though your bank or credit card may automatically convert the amount into your local currency.
Using a card with low foreign transaction fees is usually the best option.
Are cruise passengers required to pay the Baja tourist tax?
Requirements for cruise travelers may differ from those arriving by air or land. Some cruise-related fees may already be included in port or tourism charges, but travelers should verify directly with their cruise line or the official tax portal.
Is the Baja tourist tax the same as the Cancun or Quintana Roo tourist tax?
No. Baja California Sur and Quintana Roo have separate tourism taxes administered by different state governments.
Travelers visiting destinations like Cancún or Tulum may encounter different tourist tax systems than travelers visiting Los Cabos or La Paz.
Is the Baja tourist tax refundable?
Generally, tourist taxes are non-refundable once paid, though policies can vary depending on the payment platform and specific circumstances.
Always double-check your travel dates and information before submitting payment.
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