Shawna LevetWhat to Know About Mexico’s New ‘Tourism Tax’
Do you have clients planning a trip to Quintana Roo, Mexico in the near future? If so, you will need to prepare them for Mexico’s new tourism tax. Mexico is a beautiful destination with lots to see and do. It rose greatly in popularity during COVID-era travel and continues to be a top vacation spot for US tourists.
So what is this new tourism tax and how does it work? Do other countries have a tourism tax? We answer all these questions in the article below!
Please note: This travel information is accurate at the time of posting. Since travel regulations change quickly, please carefully research all travel guidelines independently before planning any trip.
How does a tourism tax work?
Several countries, especially throughout Europe, have started implementing tourist taxes. These may be collected in various ways. A tax might be included in your hotel bill or airline ticket, or it might be collected when leaving the country. The public opinion of this practice varies greatly. However, most countries view it as a way to help combat the costs of overtourism. When popular destinations spots are swarming with people during high season, it can sometimes put an extra burden on a city. Infrastructure needs repair, landmarks need upkeep, resources need replenishing.
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What is Mexico’s new tourism tax?
Although Mexico’s new tourism tax went into effect in April of 2021, it is not widely known yet. This new tax currently applies to tourists visiting the Mexican state of Quintana Roo. Quintana Roo is home to popular vacation spots such as Cancun, Playa Del Carmen, and Tulum. While the tax is only 224 pesos ($11 USD), it may surprise your clients if they are unprepared for it. Since this tax is collected as they depart from Mexico, you’ll want to make sure you prepare your clients to pay this in advance. There is no worse end cap for a vacation than unexpected fees.
How to pay Mexico’s new tourism tax
All tourists 15 years of age or older must pay the tourism tax – children 14 and under are exempt. While new electronic terminals allow tourists to pay the fee in cash right at the airport, you can also take care of this tax in advance. The relatively simple process takes place online at the VISITAX website here. You will fill out a quick form asking the following information:
▪ Number of people in your group
▪ Name, birthdate, and passport number of each traveler
▪ Departure date
Then you can make the payment securely on the website. Once completed you will have a QR code you can show to airport security when you depart.
Do other countries have a tourism tax?
Many countries have started requiring a tourism tax, and it is a trend that seems to be rising. Countries in Europe, such as Italy, France, and Germany have ways of taxing tourism one way or another. In recent years Japan has adopted a similar departure tax to Mexico, called the sayonara tax. Keep an eye on this trend moving forward!
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