02/01/2025
Mexico has had the Visitax rule for tourists for all airports on the East side of Mexico, including Cancun, in place since 2022. They very rarely have been doing random spot checks at the airport for it. These spot checks are becoming much more frequent in the last few weeks and you will not get through security without paying it, if they spot check you.
FAQ:
Q: Which website is legitimate to pay Visitax on?
A: https://www.visitax.gob.mx/sitio/ is the official government website . There are many non-authorized sites that have convincing URLS, these are not ligitimate.
Q: When do I pay Visitax?
A: It should be paid prior to arriving at the Mexico airport when you are LEAVING Mexico. You may do it before you leave Canada if you wish.
Q: Can I pay Visitax at my hotel or the airport in cash?
A: It may be able to be paid at the airport at the Visitax desk, but they will likely just direct you online. It cannot be paid at hotel. It is best to simply play in advance.
Q: What is the cost of Visitax?
A: It is 271MXN (approx $19 CAD) per person directly to the Mexican government.
Q: Why do I have to pay this tax if no one may be checking?
A: Because it’s a mandatory tax and is the law.
Q: What happens if I don’t pay?
A: If you are spot checked at the airport gate side and you don't have a QR code, there is no penalty system in place yet and the only recourse is to pay for your current visit. If they inquire about previous visits to the state since December 2022 then you will be made to pay for past visits as well. As per direct communications with the government via their support channels, they reserve the right to place observations on your passport for any unpaid taxes back to December 2022. An official source commented that they plan to implement spot checks for missed payments.
Q: I see there is a tourism tax included in my airline ticket. Is that Visitax?
A: No, that is a different tax. Visitax is not included in any airline tickets or vacation packages
Q: When flying out of Cabo or Puerto Vallarta do I need to pay Visitax?
A: No, Visitax is only for tourists flying out of Quintana Roo: Cancun airport, Cozumel airport, Tulum airport and Chetumal airport.
Q: I am traveling with children. Do they need to pay Visitax?
A: Yes, all visitors have to pay, regardless of age.
Q: It asks for “departure date”. Is that departure from the US/Canada or Mexico?
A: It is departure from Mexico-the date you leave Mexico.
Stay informed, use a travel agent.
Audra Langton
Horizons Travel by Audra
306-540-7567
[email protected]
www.horizonstravel.ca
