VISITAX for Mexico Travelers
What It Is, How to Pay It, and Who Needs to Pay
If you’re traveling to Cancún, Tulum, Playa del Carmen, Cozumel, Isla Mujeres, Bacalar, or any destination in Quintana Roo, you’ll likely hear about something called VISITAX. Here’s everything you need to know — what it is, how much it costs, who must pay it, and how to complete the payment correctly.
This is the official government VISITAX logo. Check to be sure you are paying on the official website and not an imitator!
Table of Contents
What Is VISITAX?
VISITAX is a mandatory tourism tax required by the state of Quintana Roo. It was created to support public services, infrastructure, environmental management, and tourism improvements in popular destinations across the region.
Introduced in 2021, the tax applies to all foreign visitors traveling to Quintana Roo for tourism, business, or short stays. This tax is not the same as your hotel environmental fee. VISITAX is a state-level contribution paid directly to Quintana Roo’s government.
Who Needs to Pay VISITAX?
✔ Required:
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All foreign visitors to Quintana Roo
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Tourists of all ages (including children)
❌ Not Required:
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Mexican citizens
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Temporary or permanent residents of Mexico
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Visitors entering through the southern land border (near Belize)
*If you enter and exit by land using a private vehicle there is no collection point for the tax. If you enter by land and leave by air you will be asked to provide proof of payment. If you do not have proof of payment you will be required to pay at the airport.
If you hold any type of Mexican residency card, you are exempt from VISITAX.
What’s New
How Much Is VISITAX in 2026?
The fee is 2.5 UMA, which equals 283 Mexican pesos per person. (Usually around $15–$16 USD depending on exchange rates.) The amount will NOT increase for 2026.
Why You Should Pay VISITAX?
It’s legally required. As a foreign visitor in Quintana Roo, paying VISITAX is part of state law.
It may be checked at the airport. Agents at airports may request to see your VISITAX QR code before your departure.
It supports tourism services. The contribution funds local infrastructure, beaches, security, and environmental protection.
How to Pay VISITAX — Step-by-Step Guide
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 Quintana Roo VISITAX portal:
visitax.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 VISITAX.
Step 2: Select “Make Your Payment”
On the homepage, choose the option to Make Your Payment.
You’ll be taken to a form for traveler information.
Step 3: Enter Your Details
You will need to fill in your Departure Date & Number of Travelers and click “Next”
Fill in each travelers First Name, Last Name & Passport Number. Click “Next”.
Step 4: Confirm the Total and Proceed to Payment
The site will calculate your total based on the number of travelers.
Click “Confirm” to proceed.
Step 5: Pay With a credit Card
You can pay with all major credit cards. Once the payment is processed, you’ll receive confirmation on screen.
Step 6: Save Your QR Code
A unique QR code will be issued to you.
This is your official proof of payment.
Keep it accessible on your phone or print it — airport staff may ask for it.
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Do You Need to Pay VISITAX Again If You Re-Enter the State?
Yes — VISITAX is tied to each visit, not the duration of your stay. If in your travels you leave Quintana Roo and return later (for example, after visiting Merida in Yucatan or Belize), you must pay again.
What Happens if I lose my qr code?
If your QR code is lost, you can verify your codes selecting the “recover your receipt” option, you must enter the passport number individually and there you can download your QR code.
If your QR code is lost you will need to replace it or pay the tax again before departure.
Enforcement of the VISITAX was lax for some time. Recently, enforcement has increased significantly. When you are checking your luggage or getting your boarding pass you will be asked to provide VISITAX proof of payment or show your QR code. If you do not have your QR code you will need to go pay the tax and provide proof of payment before boarding your flight. If you are running late this can be a nightmare delay.
Final Tips for Travelers
Pay VISITAX before heading to the airport to avoid delays.
You can pay the tax online and get your QR code in a few minutes. Make sure you get the QR code before heading to the airport counter. If you haven’t paid you will need to before departure.
Only use the official website — many third-party sites overcharge.
There are tons of imitation websites taking VISITAX payments and charging much more. Make sure you have the official website and do not pay more than $283 MXN ($15-16 USD)
Every traveler needs their own QR code, including minors.
Unfortunately there are no discounts for kids or seniors. All travelers must pay the VISITAX, including infants.
Residents should carry their residency card if questioned.
Because of the increased enforcement you may be questioned about your VISITAX 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.
Let's Go!
Ready to Start Planning Your Mexico Trip?
If you want expert guidance, local insight, and a stress-free vacation planning experience, we’re here to help.