Quintana Roo’s Tourism Tax (Visitax)
What You Need to Know About Cancun’s New Visitax
If you're planning a trip to Cancun, Tulum, or any other destination in Mexico’s Quintana Roo state, there’s a tourism tax you should know about — the Visitax. This fee is required for all international visitors and must be paid before departure or upon arrival.
No need to stress — here’s a simple breakdown of everything you need to know.
To pay your Visitax online, use this website only: https://www.visitax.gob.mx/sitio/
DO NOT USE OTHER WEBSITES TO PAY VISITAX AS THERE ARE MANY NON-AUTHORIZED (SCAM) SITES THAT EMULATE THE REAL WEBSITE
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When Did Visitax Start?
The Visitax was introduced on April 1, 2021, and has been in effect ever since. If you’re traveling to the Mexican Caribbean from that date forward, you’ll need to pay this tax before heading home.
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How Much Does Visitax Cost?
The tax may vary through time, but roughly expect to pay 283 Mexican pesos per person — approximately $15 USD, depending on the exchange rate.
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How Can You Pay Visitax?
You can pay online through the official VISITAX website, which supports both English and Spanish. You’re able to pay for multiple travelers at once, and the process is user-friendly.
Need help while paying? You can reach out by phone or email:
Phone: +52 (998) 223 6842, (998) 329 5745, or (998) 483 7659
Email: assistance@satq.qroo.gob.mx
Hours: 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM
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Can I Pay at the Airport Instead?
Yes, you can. At Cancun International Airport, there are payment kiosks available where you can pay in pesos or US dollars (card not accepted at the airport).
Tip: If you plan to pay in person, there can be a lineup, so allow extra time. After paying, you’ll receive a QR code to show at security. You may not be asked to present proof of purchase, but if you are asked and you don’t have it you may be fined.
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When Should You Pay the Tax?
You can pay:
Before traveling to Mexico
While staying at your resort
At the airport before your return flight
If you wait to pay at the airport, make sure to have cash ready in pesos or dollars.
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Does This Apply Only to Cancun?
No, the Visitax applies to all international tourists visiting any part of Quintana Roo, including:
Cancun
Playa del Carmen & Riviera Maya
Tulum
Cozumel
Isla Mujeres
Holbox
Maya Ka’an
Grand Costa Maya
If you’re heading to the beach in this region, you’ll need to pay it.
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Why Was This Tax Introduced?
The state government created the Visitax through SATQ (Quintana Roo Tax Administration System) to generate additional revenue — around $29 million USD. The goal? To create jobs, support local infrastructure, and invest in tourism development.
While taxes aren’t the most exciting part of travel, this one aims to help the region bounce back after the economic impact of COVID-19.
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Is Visitax Included in My Airline or Vacation Package?
No. Unlike some tourism fees, the Visitax is not automatically included in flight tickets or vacation bookings. You’ll need to take care of it yourself, either online or at the airport.
This tax is only for tourists, and many residents fly into this state, so it cannot be included in the airline tickets without much hassle for those living here.
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Tip
Q: How can you verify if you’ve purchased Visitax or find it if you don’t know how to access it?
A: Enter your passport number here: https://www.visitax.gob.mx/sitio/busqueda.php. If you cannot INSTANTLY verify your QR code by typing in your passport number, then you have purchased through a fraudulent site and should dispute the charge with your credit card company immediately