Wow! This was so helpful. Thanks for arranging to have Tim join and set us straight. I had NO idea. I'm sure it sounds pretty straightforward from his perspective, but this is a royal fubar cluster of execution and clarity on behalf of the QR government. How in the world they expect tourists to comply with this tax with inconsistent and misappropriated information is beyond me. It's already a royal headache to get through customs and maneuver your way through the airport without being bombarded with people selling you stuff. Why make this more complicated? Streamline it through the airlines or set up a payment queue at the airport so that it can be over and done (we did something similar when traveling to Egypt: you have to either purchase your tourist visa online in advance or purchase on site prior to going through customs). Kudos to you for getting to the source and getting the facts straight for all of us!
Cancun is changing,not much people trying to sell you Time shares...in fact not one approached me a cpl weeks ago..also nothing about visitax except a sign by the gate 57 about paying it to avoid delay,but no one is asking for it...Customes and immigration is a breeze now,no more red tape.
Great information! One day prior to my departure (February 2024), I received an email from the Cancun airport's authority - their official site - which mentioned the necessity of paying for VisiTax prior to the arrival and provided a link to pay for it on the airport's site (not the official site specified in this video's description). After paying, a few minutes later I received a 10-character code - it was not a QR code, just a plain text format. The code is linked to my passport #. Seems like the rules of notifying international travelers are definitely in effect now.
I just returned from Cancun a few days ago. Since there was a chance I might extend my stay, I postponed paying online as they were asking for the date of my return flight. Then I forgot all about it until I was on the way to the airport. When I first looked into paying, I read that it would take a few days to process my payment and receive a QR code, so I figured at this point my only option was to pay in cash at the airport. I checked a source online which said I could pay in cash at the airport. At terminal 4 I found a large desk marked as the tax payment spot, but it was deserted. Then I approached two uniformed individuals who shrugged and said the tax could not be paid at the airport. I proceeded with check-in and security, expecting to be stopped and directed to where I could pay the tax, but it never came up. Most peculiar!
I came back from Cancun on December 2nd. Maybe it depends on the airport terminal (I was at Terminal 2), but no one asked me about QR codes and I didn't see any posters about them. This gentlemen was hired by the State government to collect this "tax". He will use any means at his disposal to persuade everyone to pay the "tax": it's illegal, no one should avoid paying, pay in advance, etc. An extra 3 dollars is added to each transaction by them. The annual number of visitors is 9.5 million, resulting in a revenue of about 30 million annually from thin air. It's not too bad.
After watching this video, I decided to pay the Visitax using the official site to have peace of mind at the airport. However, I must testify that, for something that is mandatory, it was in no way enforced while leaving the Cancun airport. We traveled for a week and returned two days ago (April 25th, 2024). Not one person asked if we paid the Visitax, and after speaking to a few travelers, I found out most were not aware about Visitax. We visited Cancun in 2022 and had no idea about the tax then nor was it mentioned to us... I must say that for something that was implemented 3 years ago, the enforcement or lack-there-of makes you question its credibility.
I would question the veracity of this information. Unfortunately in Mexico things work way different than abroad. trains and upgrades like This guy says are not paid from visitax. That’s BS, to me as a Mexican residing legally in US and traveling frequently to Quintana Roo this sounds very squetchy
@@3Days3Noches I think everyone would have some hesitation regarding this issue. I truly appreciate your concern and support to inform the community! Excellent work
Just left Cancun and got hit with this Visitax just before getting our bags scanned. $18 plus some change per person. Yes I got a number or code, which included a QR code. Definitely keep a copy of your receipt.
I just read that tourist are not paying the Visitax and no one at the airport is asking for it..I am leaving on Monday for 10 days and let's see what happens...i also plan not to pay it..
Great video. There was a ton of confusion when I was there in May, 2023. Going back in 2024. Am in agreement that I’m not 100% thrilled with a website having all my passport information, not a QR code that could be copied without RDIF in my bag/purse.
It is an abuse. When you visit the parks or other tourist areas they charge you the amounts to maintain their eco premises. For sure this tax will not change or be eliminated in the long term but most tourists will not appreciate it and this will affect tourism in Cancun. Even a 10 dollars fee would have been too much but acceptable. Thanks for the update.
Why would a government impose the same tax twice? We already pay the eco-tax per day of stay in Riviera Maya, and it is enforced. This seems like it just goes in somebody's pocket and their website is so full of scare tactic lies that are not real. They want it paid before you leave because they will stop you n the Cancun Aeroport ---completely FALSE They will demand it at the hotel --FALSE They will demand it when you exit Mexico - FALSE The connect it with your passport - ABSOLUTELY FALSE AND ILLEGAL!!! They have electronic enforcement - WHERE? on Tim's desktop PC? He is just a webpage code writer with many failed business attempts. He can't keep his story straight.
Travelling to Cancun on Monday 11th September from the UK and our travel agent (TUI) sent us the Visitax information and link for payment (same link as you have included for the official website). Your videos have been great in preparation for us travelling to Cancun for the first time, thank you!
As a tax professional, it is clear that the implementation and administration of this tax violates every element that is supposed to be used for a good tax: fairness, adequacy, simplicity, transparency, and administrative ease. As demonstrated by the mere fact that this representative stated that they could not get the airlines to agree to the tax, there is a question as to administration since it is apparent that the state government could not require it of the airlines (meaning they don't have jurisdiction/authority over the airline for some legal reason). Also, I understand that this tax is not collected at immigration, which demonstrates that it is not in harmony with that agency's objectives. Candidly, I'm wondering if this could be an issue worthy of the international court of justice as often local jurisdictions impose taxes, fees, and other charges that are at odds with certain treaties and protocols.
@lleyko I'm not trying to attack a country's sovereignty or the right to choose how it manages its affairs, but when a nation decides to join in some agreement with other nations (which covers everything from taxes to the use of phone lines), I feel that the country should keep its promise. I'm aware of many of the multi-national agreements involving taxes. This tax imposed by the state appears to violate the terms the United States of Mexico has agreed to follow when dealing with other countries (or its citizens).
@@MrDixon- ahora te vas hacer la ingenua cuando en estados unidos te cobran literalmente por hechar te un pedo. No mames no seas hipocrita. Callase y obedezca las órdenes el gobierno de México así como los mexicanos hacemos en estados unidos.
@lleyko Hmm. Since I was living in CDMX in 1985, I guess I'm just too old to know the current issues of international law. Oh well. At least I still get to see Los Bukis where I live.
Just got back from Cancun yesterday and no one I talked to there who were visiting from the US even heard of this. It was never mentioned/enforced anywhere. I never got notice about it in any process of booking the trip. The only place I’d heard of this was your videos.
We were there in October We paid the tax in advance to avoid any hassels and no one asked for any proof at all We were probably the only people on our flight that paid lol I guess if they are using the money for infrastructure its not so bad but it still feels like a shakedown The whole area is funded by the tourism industry and we always spend money while we are there as well as tip generously
Thank you for clearing this up. We'll be back in Mexico in November. I'll refer back to your video if i need to so I'll have the correct website. Great job.
We used to have a similar tax to come in to the Dominican Republic and it was collected directly by the immigration officer when you checked into the country.
Rewatching this video at 13:00, it is very clear that Tim Scurry (Founder and Executive Chairman) company Travelkore has failed to make any meaningful effort in his words "our job to make us aware" that the tax exists and has to be paid before we arrive in Mexico. He and his company failed miserably on this rollout.
So we returned from Cancun airport to the UK on the 26th Aug. Tui (UK travel agent) had sent us the link to visitax through the Tui app. However... Our rep on site at our hotel said it wasn't "mandatory" and the current system had no way of checking if you'd paid it or not. ... For the sake of £24 approx $20 for 2 people, we paid it online just didn't want any hassle at the airport. From getting to the airport, checking in, security and boarding the plane we were never asked ONCE if we had paid the tax fee. We spoke to others on the flight who said the same, any many hadn't paid it. So seems it's all in all a bit of a scam.
Thank you for all your hard work. My husband and I will be going back to Cancun for our wedding anniversary. You took my anxiety away from planning our trip.
I was in Cancun in Mid-Oct 2023 and there was no notice of this tax and no means to collect this at the airport. There is not information being shared at the airport and they are not enforcing this anywhere.
This was very good content. It reminds me of the form you have to fill out when you go to the Dominican Republic. It's not a tax but it's something you MUST do and its easy to do if you take care of it in advance but a pain if you wait until you are there and it's panic time. Even with the DR form I was asked for it way before I expected to be asked for it. BTW this brings up a topic that you don't see very often on any of these travel TH-cam channels. People do plenty of videos on what to pack but there is also a planning angle to these trips. A lot of it is obvious but the game is making the whole process as smooth as possible and for that you have to do your research and line those ducks up carefully.
So, we did pay this online in November. Our entire group. Today, I choose to pay it again on the “ official website”, and when filling it out I decided to ask a question about departure date. The info email like it on the home page of the site. Anyway, I send the email, and immediately it bounces. Now I have to wonder ….
It is very important to use the official link. My friend just got charged $48 USD per person. Some people are really taking advantage of tourists. I suggested she get the charge cancelled and go through the official site.
Came back from Cancun December 12 after a week with Sunwing. Didn't see any signs or booths about Visitax on entry & flight attendant(s) didn't mention it except passing out the declaration form. On return trip, Sunwing is at Terminal 2; Air Canada is at Terminal 3 & Westjet is at Terminal 4. Again did not see any signs or booths about Visitax either at Terminal 2. Went through airport security check & that's it. No immigration to go through like Canada when one leaves Canada to another country. May be Terminal 3 & 4 is different? I feel pity for the people who paid for this Visitax.
Just came from Cancun Oct 2024 and was stopped by a rep for VisiTax (same spot like the video) but I had already paid online as suggested by the airline (link was provided). The rep for VisiTax said they would ask for the QR code at security, however, Not one person asked to see it!
Thanks for the video. This is such a mess for collecting sub $20 admission. It's like going to aquarium, got stopped at the parking lot, asked to go to the website, pay and save the QR code that you get asked place to place. Great way to ruin the experience. Did the state government actually tried to negotiate airlines or hotels? His explanation sounds like total neglect of the proper process to introduce a new tax. They cut the wrong corner and the tax now belongs to the airport shark tank. We were thinking to go back to Cancun next year, but we have to find a new destination.
We've paid th Visitax since inception as it's the right thing to do. We left Cancun in October with receipts ready, we saw an unmanned Visitax stand. We have been approached in the past by Visitax workers who were very timid in asking and wouldn't even make eye contact. Guess I can see why many think this is a joke.
Hello, just wanted to let you know that we paid the visitax before we left for our trip to Cancun on September 6, 2023. There were some signs in the Cancun airport, but no one asked to see our QR code, or even mentioned that we needed to pay the visitax. We just left Cancun on September 14,2023. We paid it because it's the right thing to do but just wanted to give you a heads up that absolutely no one from the airline check in counter, to TSA to customs at either Cancun airport or Denver airport said a word about it at all. If they want people to pay it, they have to enforce it in some way. I only saw two signs in the Cancun airport and they were difficult to spot, not very prominent.
Thank you so much! Yes it def seems like there is contention between the airports and hotels versus this tax. It will be interesting to see over the next few months how the enforcement goes because starting Sat they are supposed to be checking the QR
@indysteve2875 supposedly! But I don’t know if that’s just trying to get more people to pay it. Here is the official Facebook page m.facebook.com/groups/673266771151773/?ref=share&mibextid=S66gvF
@@indysteve2875 No! The Aeroports are federal and this is supposedly a State Tax by a Canadian and not legal to have a presence there.. Americans and Europeans and South Americans have never heard of it.
Thank you for this info and clarification. As long as the money truely gets used as intended, I have no problem . But, Mexico has a terrible track record on money abuse and corruption. Love Cancun , always have since my first trip over 30 years and trips ago .
If I did not see your video before we left for our Rivera Maya trip in Mid-October 2023, I would have had no idea about this tax. I looked everywhere upon our arrival at CUN and did not see any notice at the airport for this tax. Upon our return to the USA in Terminal 4, I did see a small and unmanned mobile kiosk that was shoved in a back hallway. It is obvious that there is ZERO official information being shared upon arrival and absolutely ZERO enforcement. I have to say this is probably par for the course on how Mexico rolls out policies. My advice, do not fret about paying this tax.
We left Cancun this afternoon from Terminal 3. There wasn’t any Visitax signs or QR code at all. The only thing I saw was an old Visitax kiosk that was pushed off into a corner with nothing in it nor anyone around it. No airport personnel said anything about it. So I don’t know what’s going on.
I just returned from Mexico 11/16/24 never even heard of the word Visatax until about 20 minutes ago. So your implementation of the tax, is lacking at best. I feel like that might be by design. Maybe get a double extortion payment when people return that haven't paid previously?
We are travelling to Cancun in June 2024 for the first time and we were a little apprehensive about choosing this destination. After watching particularly this and other videos on Cancun the word "scam" comes up all the time. In fact I would say the word "Scam" came up at least 10 times during this video alone. Since watching we are even more apprehensive about this trip as it just seems to be a destination of scammers, from airport taxis to Government taxes, bad shopping experiences et al. Is it really worth all the hassle?
We still have yet to be asked or reminded to pay the Visitax since 2021. This includes at the airport or by our travel agent so I’m still very confused.
What came to mind after doing research and watching your video is how do they enforce this with cruises going to Cozumel? It is a part of QR and according to Tim/the law is every person de-boarding the ship needs to pay if they are visiting the State. I assume it isn't built in the cruise tax and the ship personnel aren't going to check on behalf of the government unless required. Plus, what about those that board only using their birth certificate? Can't enter in passport info if you don't have one going through that way.
I do not understand why tourists have to pay a taxes in Mexico. When you shop in Europe they return to you the taxes the stores have collected from you before you leave the country . The repair and improvements of the state should be done from the money the government collects in taxes from the citizens of that state, the hotels, resorts and all the businesses that benefit from the tourist. I think they are shooting themself on the foot. This abuse is beyond comprehension. The taxis at the airport are already damaging the reputation of Cancun. Just very shortsighted people.
Thank you thank you thank you Blanche.. all your videos are soo informative.. We going to cancun in January 3rd-14th also. my husband and I birthdays. We are staying at TRS Yucatan have you stayed there before? I would to say you definitely respond back all the time❤
We're in Mexico now. Just paid the visitax. It was VERY EASY. Thank you so much for this video. I referred back to it for the website. Also, thanks again for the suggestion to not check a bag. We took a carry on and backpack each and it's incredible how much easier that has made our trip so far. We're staying 6 days and had plenty of space. You're awesome.
Maybe the hundreds of millions of dollars they want to collect could go to speeding up the arrival process in the cancun airport so that people can get outside and on with their holiday and start spending money in their state.
@@esh1877 We went through the e-gates last time and got through very quickly. I know what you mean, though. I've been there before and there was literally just a sea of people in every direction.
Returned from Cancun today, I paid the tax through is Govt web site. But no body asked me for any proof at the airport. After talking to couple of people at the gate i learned no body paid this tax, I felt stupid paying this. This is a scam, this guy cannot tell how they are going to enforce this. Never pay this tax, you do not need to.
Same thing. We tried so hard online from our resort. Our credit cards couldn’t work. We brought cash to the airport to pay in person. Couldn’t pay anywhere and more importantly official tour operator people that we asked told us “don’t worry you don’t have to pay it”. Breezed through our check in etc As the gentleman even admits it’s confusing as hell. It’s a gong show lol
Ooops, we forgot to pay the State Mexican tax while in Cancun, there was staff for Visitax at 0430am, asked around and told we have to go online, unfortunately, I did'nt carry my laptop or Ipad , Wifi is not secure, I will look into it now since I am back home and try to pay it.
I have paid this the last couple of years. I just don't want to take any chances of there being a hiccup at the airport. I see alot of comments about "they never ask to see a QR code." When you pay the tax, you enter your passport number. Wonder when you are leaving Cancun, if they see you paid the tax when they scan your passport at security? Also, whats the little piece of paper they give you after going through the e-gate when arriving? That has been confusing also. Once, it seemed like they were collecting it at the gate and other time, they did not ask for it at all. Thanks. I enjoy your videos and information.
Thanks for watching!! I pay it as well just to make sure there are no issues. The piece of paper is at the egates only. They don’t give you anything at the staffed passport gates. I don’t think they see if people have paid or not
I have to say not heard of this, till just now. I am heading to Cancun in November to meet up with my brother who is coming from the UK. So good to know this information prior to the chaos that will ensue at the airport. Many thanks to you both. At the very least if booking direct, ( you allude to this but I did not see any information by the company when booking the flight) cannot the companies flag up this additional mandatory payment? Just seems like chaos waiting to happen. As an aside I have to say what with the additional time requirements of arriving prior to departure, to getting through security such additional stress .....for myself makes such traveling less and less appealing. I do understand the need but really should be up front. If not for your blog we would have been clueless! A question: I have " Residente Permanente" status but not yet Mexican; I would be traveling from within Mexico, would I still have to pay the tax? I appreciate you may not comment on individual cases but generally speaking. Again many thanks much appreciated!
I agree with all of what you are saying. You may not have to pay if you are a permanent resident. I’ll ask Tim! It all seems still a little convoluted to me but that’s tourism sometimes 😅
I just purchased a flight/hotel to Cancun in October, and there is no mention of a Visitax by name, but does say there is a $15 charge per person "implemented by the QR govt" - is that the same thing? (p.s. another website said $2-7 per person... sigh) "...payable before you leave your home, OR at the hotel when you arrive or during your stay". Is this the same thing or will there be another extra fee? We are getting nickled and dimed on this trip, from the airlines and hotels. You think you're paying xyz and then you get the bill; dang it! 😆
I know it’s very confusing! And I agree with everything you said. Yes I believe that’s the same thing. Many people are waiting until they get to the airport. I think I’ll pay it before in January so that I can do a follow up video on it. But annoying AH lol
When I checked the link provided by my travel agent, it asked for departure date. I assume this means the date we depart from Mexico to come home. Can you please confirm,?
So I did it and I put all my information. My visa was charged and I got an email confirmation but the website looks frozen at the payment section and has been spinning for half an hour.
My TA said that although they have been inconsistent with checking, it is the law, so she recommend that I just pay it. So, I paid it. It's not that expensive.
We were there in june and in mid october 2023. didn't know about this tax. did not pay. We were in and out of the airport. We were not asked about anything. Will be going back end of november... probably wont pay this time around and will see what happens.
I will be traveling with my teen son who takes ADHD pills each day. Aderal and Intuniv. By any chance do you know if, Are there measures to take beforehand? I don't want to get arrested with these amphetamines PLUS not paying my visitax! lol Thank you in advance.@@3Days3Noches
What’s the update on this following on your trip from January? Do you think they will eventually deny people entry at Cancun if they’ve not paid the tax before?
I'm not sure about American and Canadian tour operators but TUI in the UK do not make it very clear, you have to expand out a paragraph of small print which starts by telling you about eco tax which is paid at the hotel and departure tax which they include in the cost of the holiday, We went to Rivera Maya Dec 2023 and were completely ignorant off this tax, we were not informed or reminded to pay Visitax by TUI and there was nothing making it obvious at the airport, no TUI rep in Mexico mentioned visitax, We have booked for July this year 2025 and have looked a bit closer and as mentioned about have found some pretty hidden info but there is nothing within our booking that highlights Visitax in an obvious way, I have no problem with paying it, the amount is so small compared with the holiday cost, less than £30.
Just saw your video, many thanks as we are traveling to Cancun in July. We wanted to book some tours but I see in some that they are wanting to charge an additional $20 for geological tax. Is this the same as the Visitax and if so, how can I prove that I've paid this tax to the tour agencies.
At this point, still two different sites that charge different amounts, He says they will be aligning "Soon". He's a representative of the company and he doesn't even have a firm date when this will happen so the confusion will continue. He also mentioned you will end up being "Enforced" if you don't pay the tax, so what exactly does this mean? It's the law now but I have never heard of a single incident of anyone being "Enforced" by a fine, detained, or otherwise. If they start scanning Qr codes before you get on a plane in the next few months there will be absolute pandemonium at the airport. This Visitax implementation was handled very badly.
Question, catching a flight out of Juarez, from Juarez, we are flying into Cancun. Besides a passport and the visitax, what other documents are needed?
approximately how much is this tax? When I paid something extra to go to Punta Cana last January, it was very minimal (I know, its probably a different tax) if its only a few dollars, i think its good for them to be making everything better, especially the roads
This isn't a Federal tax and airports are Federal jurisdictions. The local government can make as many pretend taxes they want, but they have no authority to enforce it at the airport.
I have just travelled to Cancun from the UK and I did not see anything about the Visitax. It would have been useful for the information to be provided by the airline crew in terms of informing us about it or instructing us where and how to pay it.
helpful video as always!l but had a quick question does the visitax cover departure tax in that fee? some sites says no.... you have to pay departure tax separate at the airport and others say its included in visitax so confusing. keep up the good work! never been to mexico and your videos help me so much!
People who drive into the state, stay there for 3 weeks then drive out of state, they don’t have to pay. It’s literally just for people flying in or out
Ok, so adding the tax to the airlines ticket is a pain --- why not require the hotels to collect this tax? That is how a lot of tax money is collected in the US ("visitor tax")
Just returned yesterday...No one is asking or mentioning visitax at Cancun airport..one empty booth before the escalators and a sign at gate 57 about delay and the website to pay it,but no mention of this Canadian website..I think it's more of a made up rule and not a law..and that's the reason they can't enforce it..And it's up to the passenger,but scaring passengers if they don't pay for no reason is not good..Cancun has become very expensive.
We just landed today in Cancun and honestly didn't see any signs at all about this tax at the airport. Not a single person said anything about it while traveling through and then once at our hotel the concierge said they weren't certain if it was being enforced yet. Had no idea this was a thing until I saw this video tonight relaxing in our room.
As your guest says, this needs to be clearly stated somewhere. Good that travel agencies are doing it, but not everyone uses a travel agency. I’m going to Cancun in a few weeks and if I didn’t run across your video, I would’ve never known about this. When I saw their kiosk, I would assume it was a scam or extortion. As an example, when I get to my hotel, I understand I have to pay an environmental fee. This is clearly stated.
Visitax is not mandatory. I just went to Cancun on 11th May. No body at Airport has asked anything about Visitax for Departure and arrival both time. It's voluntary contribution thing.
I believe you are correct. The website even states this is a contribution. "Visitax is the State Government application for the payment of contributions from foreign tourists." If it were a law, I'm quite sure the word "Law" would be in there somewhere in order to encourage payment.
Thank you for this video. It was mentioned that Mexican Citizens do not pay the tax. Would you please confirm whether Mexican Residents pay this tax. Thank you.
I'm traveling from Mexico City and have a flight connection/transfer at the CUN airport. Do I have to pay this departure tax due to connection of flights?
What about connecting flight? We use Cancun to go on to our actual destination which is domestic flight in mexico. We have a family of 6 which this will be a lot of money to just be passing through.
What proof do I have after payment? Can I print a receipt and the digital code rather than having to Hardwick at the airport if asked to prove payment (as I will not have data)
Great video, just curious, can you just pay cash at the airport booth and get a printed copy of the QR code at that time? I would like to avoid going on the website altogether especially at the air port. Thanks !
Hey just a recent update. Flew back from Cancun today and there was zero enforcement or even mention of this tax. There was a little kiosk that was actually moved to the corner with no one at it. Have they given up? Pretty crappy enforcement or making travelers aware if this is even legit. The airport wifi is also horrible so not sure how someone could pay if the wifi doesnt work.
15:55 I just got back from QR today and I asked both the Immigration desk (INM, where you get an exit stamp) before security and after security about this. Not that I needed an exit stamp. I let both officers “beat” me to the use of the word visitax (because I wanted to see if they knew & I was probing as if I didn’t know) and both told me that Mexican citizens are exempt from this tax. I couldn’t have been happier to hear this. 😊
So this still did not answer the question as to who is required to pay. Is it for travel out of Q ? So what if we travel into Cancun but are domiciled in Yucatan and are simply traveling in and out of Cancun, i.e. taking a bus to Merida, staying for three weeks and then returning to Cancun for our departure back to the US. And what about those who have permanent residency, or temporary residency?
Thank you! Also wondering if you’ve been since they supposedly are doing only facial recognition now upon entering? Hearing that there are no more passport stamps or people at the gates, just a face scan and entry 😬
Last time I was there no one was checking, but time before that I had to show proof of tax paid at the airport upon departure. I did it all from home b4 I even left my house for the trip, and printed out proof.
I am going to Cancun in Oct 13/18 and I put in the the 13th instead of the 18th when I paid my visitax. How can I get this changed or does it even matter?
Wow! This was so helpful. Thanks for arranging to have Tim join and set us straight. I had NO idea. I'm sure it sounds pretty straightforward from his perspective, but this is a royal fubar cluster of execution and clarity on behalf of the QR government. How in the world they expect tourists to comply with this tax with inconsistent and misappropriated information is beyond me. It's already a royal headache to get through customs and maneuver your way through the airport without being bombarded with people selling you stuff. Why make this more complicated? Streamline it through the airlines or set up a payment queue at the airport so that it can be over and done (we did something similar when traveling to Egypt: you have to either purchase your tourist visa online in advance or purchase on site prior to going through customs). Kudos to you for getting to the source and getting the facts straight for all of us!
I agree. He really didn’t answer my question as to why is this so difficult lol. Honestly it’s still crazy to me 🤣
Cancun is changing,not much people trying to sell you Time shares...in fact not one approached me a cpl weeks ago..also nothing about visitax except a sign by the gate 57 about paying it to avoid delay,but no one is asking for it...Customes and immigration is a breeze now,no more red tape.
Great information! One day prior to my departure (February 2024), I received an email from the Cancun airport's authority - their official site - which mentioned the necessity of paying for VisiTax prior to the arrival and provided a link to pay for it on the airport's site (not the official site specified in this video's description). After paying, a few minutes later I received a 10-character code - it was not a QR code, just a plain text format. The code is linked to my passport #. Seems like the rules of notifying international travelers are definitely in effect now.
Thank you so much. Your content is very timely as I am heading to Cancun soon. More power
Hope you have a great time!! Let us know how your experience was!!
I just returned from Cancun a few days ago. Since there was a chance I might extend my stay, I postponed paying online as they were asking for the date of my return flight. Then I forgot all about it until I was on the way to the airport. When I first looked into paying, I read that it would take a few days to process my payment and receive a QR code, so I figured at this point my only option was to pay in cash at the airport. I checked a source online which said I could pay in cash at the airport. At terminal 4 I found a large desk marked as the tax payment spot, but it was deserted. Then I approached two uniformed individuals who shrugged and said the tax could not be paid at the airport. I proceeded with check-in and security, expecting to be stopped and directed to where I could pay the tax, but it never came up. Most peculiar!
I came back from Cancun on December 2nd. Maybe it depends on the airport terminal (I was at Terminal 2), but no one asked me about QR codes and I didn't see any posters about them.
This gentlemen was hired by the State government to collect this "tax". He will use any means at his disposal to persuade everyone to pay the "tax": it's illegal, no one should avoid paying, pay in advance, etc.
An extra 3 dollars is added to each transaction by them. The annual number of visitors is 9.5 million, resulting in a revenue of about 30 million annually from thin air. It's not too bad.
Great points!!!!
Hi would you say it’s safe to travel to Cancun right now ? Since you just came from there
@czacky69 yes! We always feel safe!
After watching this video, I decided to pay the Visitax using the official site to have peace of mind at the airport. However, I must testify that, for something that is mandatory, it was in no way enforced while leaving the Cancun airport. We traveled for a week and returned two days ago (April 25th, 2024). Not one person asked if we paid the Visitax, and after speaking to a few travelers, I found out most were not aware about Visitax. We visited Cancun in 2022 and had no idea about the tax then nor was it mentioned to us... I must say that for something that was implemented 3 years ago, the enforcement or lack-there-of makes you question its credibility.
Agreed
I would question the veracity of this information. Unfortunately in Mexico things work way different than abroad. trains and upgrades like This guy says are not paid from visitax. That’s BS, to me as a Mexican residing legally in US and traveling frequently to Quintana Roo this sounds very squetchy
@CesarInna21 I understand the hesitation
@@3Days3Noches I think everyone would have some hesitation regarding this issue. I truly appreciate your concern and support to inform the community! Excellent work
@CesarInna21 Ty for watching!!!
Just left Cancun and got hit with this Visitax just before getting our bags scanned. $18 plus some change per person. Yes I got a number or code, which included a QR code. Definitely keep a copy of your receipt.
I just read that tourist are not paying the Visitax and no one at the airport is asking for it..I am leaving on Monday for 10 days and let's see what happens...i also plan not to pay it..
Keep us updated!!!
Great video. There was a ton of confusion when I was there in May, 2023. Going back in 2024. Am in agreement that I’m not 100% thrilled with a website having all my passport information, not a QR code that could be copied without RDIF in my bag/purse.
Agreeed!!
Great information and glad to have a representative clarify this as we're traveling late Feb 2024. THANKS!
Thanks for watching!
It is an abuse. When you visit the parks or other tourist areas they charge you the amounts to maintain their eco premises. For sure this tax will not change or be eliminated in the long term but most tourists will not appreciate it and this will affect tourism in Cancun. Even a 10 dollars fee would have been too much but acceptable. Thanks for the update.
Def feels like tax after tax!!
@@3Days3Noches exactly! Almost an official scam!
That dude even looks like a scam artist nothings official nothings in stone I don’t believe a bit of it
Don't worry, nobody check it in the airport, just got back from Cancun thus moment
Why would a government impose the same tax twice? We already pay the eco-tax per day of stay in Riviera Maya, and it is enforced. This seems like it just goes in somebody's pocket and their website is so full of scare tactic lies that are not real.
They want it paid before you leave because they will stop you n the Cancun Aeroport ---completely FALSE
They will demand it at the hotel --FALSE
They will demand it when you exit Mexico - FALSE
The connect it with your passport - ABSOLUTELY FALSE AND ILLEGAL!!!
They have electronic enforcement - WHERE? on Tim's desktop PC?
He is just a webpage code writer with many failed business attempts. He can't keep his story straight.
Travelling to Cancun on Monday 11th September from the UK and our travel agent (TUI) sent us the Visitax information and link for payment (same link as you have included for the official website). Your videos have been great in preparation for us travelling to Cancun for the first time, thank you!
Thank you so much for watching!!!
As a tax professional, it is clear that the implementation and administration of this tax violates every element that is supposed to be used for a good tax: fairness, adequacy, simplicity, transparency, and administrative ease. As demonstrated by the mere fact that this representative stated that they could not get the airlines to agree to the tax, there is a question as to administration since it is apparent that the state government could not require it of the airlines (meaning they don't have jurisdiction/authority over the airline for some legal reason). Also, I understand that this tax is not collected at immigration, which demonstrates that it is not in harmony with that agency's objectives. Candidly, I'm wondering if this could be an issue worthy of the international court of justice as often local jurisdictions impose taxes, fees, and other charges that are at odds with certain treaties and protocols.
Yes!!! All of the red flags are waving
México es un país soberano. No necesita permiso de ninguna orden para hacer lo que se le pegue la gana. Si no quieres pagar no vengas y listo.
@lleyko I'm not trying to attack a country's sovereignty or the right to choose how it manages its affairs, but when a nation decides to join in some agreement with other nations (which covers everything from taxes to the use of phone lines), I feel that the country should keep its promise. I'm aware of many of the multi-national agreements involving taxes. This tax imposed by the state appears to violate the terms the United States of Mexico has agreed to follow when dealing with other countries (or its citizens).
@@MrDixon- ahora te vas hacer la ingenua cuando en estados unidos te cobran literalmente por hechar te un pedo. No mames no seas hipocrita. Callase y obedezca las órdenes el gobierno de México así como los mexicanos hacemos en estados unidos.
@lleyko Hmm. Since I was living in CDMX in 1985, I guess I'm just too old to know the current issues of international law. Oh well. At least I still get to see Los Bukis where I live.
Just got back from Cancun yesterday and no one I talked to there who were visiting from the US even heard of this. It was never mentioned/enforced anywhere. I never got notice about it in any process of booking the trip. The only place I’d heard of this was your videos.
I know crazy right
It a total cluster, I got asked about it last year at the airport, I told them to leave me alone and they did.
We were there in October We paid the tax in advance to avoid any hassels and no one asked for any proof at all We were probably the only people on our flight that paid lol I guess if they are using the money for infrastructure its not so bad but it still feels like a shakedown The whole area is funded by the tourism industry and we always spend money while we are there as well as tip generously
Yeah I don’t like how it’s being rolled out.
Thank you for clearing this up. We'll be back in Mexico in November. I'll refer back to your video if i need to so I'll have the correct website. Great job.
Thanks for watching!!
We used to have a similar tax to come in to the Dominican Republic and it was collected directly by the immigration officer when you checked into the country.
Exactly 🤷♀️
That would be the federal government, this tax a state government.
@kimberlyfamoly1963 yes!! That’s the biggest difference here
Rewatching this video at 13:00, it is very clear that Tim Scurry (Founder and Executive Chairman) company Travelkore has failed to make any meaningful effort in his words "our job to make us aware" that the tax exists and has to be paid before we arrive in Mexico. He and his company failed miserably on this rollout.
It’s a hot mess 🤣
Then he is now stating "to exit the state". The F.U.D. lies have become very obvious.
So we returned from Cancun airport to the UK on the 26th Aug.
Tui (UK travel agent) had sent us the link to visitax through the Tui app.
However... Our rep on site at our hotel said it wasn't "mandatory" and the current system had no way of checking if you'd paid it or not.
...
For the sake of £24 approx $20 for 2 people, we paid it online just didn't want any hassle at the airport.
From getting to the airport, checking in, security and boarding the plane we were never asked ONCE if we had paid the tax fee.
We spoke to others on the flight who said the same, any many hadn't paid it.
So seems it's all in all a bit of a scam.
Definitely a lot of disconnect going on that makes you go 🧐
Thank you for all your hard work. My husband and I will be going back to Cancun for our wedding anniversary. You took my anxiety away from planning our trip.
Thank you for watching! I’m so happy! That’s why I do these videos!!
I was in Cancun in Mid-Oct 2023 and there was no notice of this tax and no means to collect this at the airport. There is not information being shared at the airport and they are not enforcing this anywhere.
@@minnesotagrassgeek7797 Airports are federal and cannot legally collect anything for States.
Great information. Thanks for taking the time to do the interview.
Thanks for watching!
This was very good content. It reminds me of the form you have to fill out when you go to the Dominican Republic. It's not a tax but it's something you MUST do and its easy to do if you take care of it in advance but a pain if you wait until you are there and it's panic time. Even with the DR form I was asked for it way before I expected to be asked for it. BTW this brings up a topic that you don't see very often on any of these travel TH-cam channels. People do plenty of videos on what to pack but there is also a planning angle to these trips. A lot of it is obvious but the game is making the whole process as smooth as possible and for that you have to do your research and line those ducks up carefully.
Yes great point!! My family laughs at me me because I’m an over planner but it def saves us from a lot
This sounds sketchy and by design to siphon off $$ through third party vendors. Most cities simply add a room tax.
I thought the same. He said because it’s a state tax it’s different 🤷♀️🧐
@@3Days3Noches We are there 9/8-12 will report back. Headed to the Hilton and just sent a request into Nacho. Thanks for the videos and tips!
@0dark35 thanks for watching yes please do!!
@EmeraldSpring071 online by credit card
So, we did pay this online in November. Our entire group. Today, I choose to pay it again on the “ official website”, and when filling it out I decided to ask a question about departure date. The info email like it on the home page of the site. Anyway, I send the email, and immediately it bounces. Now I have to wonder ….
It is very important to use the official link. My friend just got charged $48 USD per person. Some people are really taking advantage of tourists. I suggested she get the charge cancelled and go through the official site.
Thank you so much for this! Yes so many scam websites out there
Came back from Cancun December 12 after a week with Sunwing. Didn't see any signs or booths about Visitax on entry & flight attendant(s) didn't mention it except passing out the declaration form.
On return trip, Sunwing is at Terminal 2; Air Canada is at Terminal 3 & Westjet is at Terminal 4. Again did not see any signs or booths about Visitax either at Terminal 2. Went through airport security check & that's it. No immigration to go through like Canada when one leaves Canada to another country.
May be Terminal 3 & 4 is different?
I feel pity for the people who paid for this Visitax.
No they say they can’t collect it at the airport bc it’s a state tax so they are enforcing it digitally
I just returned days ago. Not only did no one mention this tax in terminal 4, but I didn't get a declaration form either on entry!
Came from Cancun last friday, Copa to Asuncion, T2, had my visitax paid but nobobody asked about it.
We just watched your video and it was super helpful. We’re due to arrive in 29 days 🎉
Yayyy have so much fun.
Seems like a nickle snd dime shakedown. When I go spend $5000 for a week at a destination I feel I've made my contribution to their economy.
👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
Just came from Cancun Oct 2024 and was stopped by a rep for VisiTax (same spot like the video) but I had already paid online as suggested by the airline (link was provided). The rep for VisiTax said they would ask for the QR code at security, however, Not one person asked to see it!
Ty!
Thanks for the video. This is such a mess for collecting sub $20 admission. It's like going to aquarium, got stopped at the parking lot, asked to go to the website, pay and save the QR code that you get asked place to place. Great way to ruin the experience.
Did the state government actually tried to negotiate airlines or hotels? His explanation sounds like total neglect of the proper process to introduce a new tax. They cut the wrong corner and the tax now belongs to the airport shark tank.
We were thinking to go back to Cancun next year, but we have to find a new destination.
Lots of questions for sure!!
We just came back 3 days ago from Cancun. No one asked us about visitax
Sigh lol
We've paid th Visitax since inception as it's the right thing to do. We left Cancun in October with receipts ready, we saw an unmanned Visitax stand. We have been approached in the past by Visitax workers who were very timid in asking and wouldn't even make eye contact. Guess I can see why many think this is a joke.
I was just in Cancun recently, I can tell you that there was no mention of this and no checking of this.
I knowwww so annoying
Hello, just wanted to let you know that we paid the visitax before we left for our trip to Cancun on September 6, 2023. There were some signs in the Cancun airport, but no one asked to see our QR code, or even mentioned that we needed to pay the visitax. We just left Cancun on September 14,2023. We paid it because it's the right thing to do but just wanted to give you a heads up that absolutely no one from the airline check in counter, to TSA to customs at either Cancun airport or Denver airport said a word about it at all. If they want people to pay it, they have to enforce it in some way. I only saw two signs in the Cancun airport and they were difficult to spot, not very prominent.
Thank you so much! Yes it def seems like there is contention between the airports and hotels versus this tax. It will be interesting to see over the next few months how the enforcement goes because starting Sat they are supposed to be checking the QR
My wife and I are flying out Saturday. So, there is supposed to be more enforcement starting Saturday? Has anyone paid it via the link you provided?
@indysteve2875 supposedly! But I don’t know if that’s just trying to get more people to pay it. Here is the official Facebook page m.facebook.com/groups/673266771151773/?ref=share&mibextid=S66gvF
@@indysteve2875 No! The Aeroports are federal and this is supposedly a State Tax by a Canadian and not legal to have a presence there.. Americans and Europeans and South Americans have never heard of it.
@@3Days3Noches Official fakebook page? How about their Tripadvisor forum where anybody with real information is banned and posts deleted?
Thank you for this info and clarification. As long as the money truely gets used as intended, I have no problem . But, Mexico has a terrible track record on money abuse and corruption. Love Cancun , always have since my first trip over 30 years and trips ago .
I know! You always have to wonder where the money is really going lol
If I did not see your video before we left for our Rivera Maya trip in Mid-October 2023, I would have had no idea about this tax. I looked everywhere upon our arrival at CUN and did not see any notice at the airport for this tax. Upon our return to the USA in Terminal 4, I did see a small and unmanned mobile kiosk that was shoved in a back hallway. It is obvious that there is ZERO official information being shared upon arrival and absolutely ZERO enforcement. I have to say this is probably par for the course on how Mexico rolls out policies. My advice, do not fret about paying this tax.
Seriously! This was not rolled out well lol
Thank you for the video, i am filling the form and going to Cancun in 3 weeks.
Ty for watching!!
We left Cancun this afternoon from Terminal 3. There wasn’t any Visitax signs or QR code at all. The only thing I saw was an old Visitax kiosk that was pushed off into a corner with nothing in it nor anyone around it. No airport personnel said anything about it. So I don’t know what’s going on.
Ugh I agree. I’m going to ask Tim!!
I just returned from Mexico 11/16/24 never even heard of the word Visatax until about 20 minutes ago. So your implementation of the tax, is lacking at best. I feel like that might be by design. Maybe get a double extortion payment when people return that haven't paid previously?
Not sure!!!
Thanks for the information. I didn’t know I had to pay it and looking to travel in August.
You're welcome - I'm still not clear myself on this!!
We are travelling to Cancun in June 2024 for the first time and we were a little apprehensive about choosing this destination. After watching particularly this and other videos on Cancun the word "scam" comes up all the time. In fact I would say the word "Scam" came up at least 10 times during this video alone. Since watching we are even more apprehensive about this trip as it just seems to be a destination of scammers, from airport taxis to Government taxes, bad shopping experiences et al.
Is it really worth all the hassle?
Any tourist destination is full of scams! It’s def worth it if you know how to avoid them before going!
We still have yet to be asked or reminded to pay the Visitax since 2021. This includes at the airport or by our travel agent so I’m still very confused.
I know me too!!!! Honestly
Thanks so much, this was really helpful!
Why don't they just add it to when you book your resort?
Because he was explaining that it costs money for resorts and airlines to update their systems to collect the tax and then distribute it
Not everyone stays at a resort. They may have their own place or Airbnb
Many visitors drive across state borders and they have no gates at the borders.
@user-tf5fm2ll7t visitax is only for people flying in, If you drive in, there's no visitax, if I understand it correctly.
What came to mind after doing research and watching your video is how do they enforce this with cruises going to Cozumel? It is a part of QR and according to Tim/the law is every person de-boarding the ship needs to pay if they are visiting the State. I assume it isn't built in the cruise tax and the ship personnel aren't going to check on behalf of the government unless required. Plus, what about those that board only using their birth certificate? Can't enter in passport info if you don't have one going through that way.
Great question and I’m not sure!
I do not understand why tourists have to pay a taxes in Mexico. When you shop in Europe they return to you the taxes the stores have collected from you before you leave the country . The repair and improvements of the state should be done from the money the government collects in taxes from the citizens of that state, the hotels, resorts and all the businesses that benefit from the tourist. I think they are shooting themself on the foot. This abuse is beyond comprehension. The taxis at the airport are already damaging the reputation of Cancun. Just very shortsighted people.
Yup a lot of taxes!
We’re going in early October. Guess we’ll see what happens
Exactly! Roll with it lol
Thank you thank you thank you Blanche.. all your videos are soo informative..
We going to cancun in January 3rd-14th also. my husband and I birthdays. We are staying at TRS Yucatan have you stayed there before?
I would to say you definitely respond back all the time❤
We have not! But one of our subscribers @scottlara does videos on that one I think!! Thanks for watching 🥰🥰
We're in Mexico now. Just paid the visitax. It was VERY EASY. Thank you so much for this video. I referred back to it for the website. Also, thanks again for the suggestion to not check a bag. We took a carry on and backpack each and it's incredible how much easier that has made our trip so far. We're staying 6 days and had plenty of space. You're awesome.
Awesome!! Right??? That’s why I’m so adamant about it
Maybe the hundreds of millions of dollars they want to collect could go to speeding up the arrival process in the cancun airport so that people can get outside and on with their holiday and start spending money in their state.
@@esh1877 We went through the e-gates last time and got through very quickly. I know what you mean, though. I've been there before and there was literally just a sea of people in every direction.
I never heard Tim say what the consequences were for NOT paying it. Your thoughts?
Neither did I lol!!
Returned from Cancun today, I paid the tax through is Govt web site. But no body asked me for any proof at the airport. After talking to couple of people at the gate i learned no body paid this tax, I felt stupid paying this. This is a scam, this guy cannot tell how they are going to enforce this. Never pay this tax, you do not need to.
I feel you!! They are saying though even though no one is checking it’s still the law. Kid of like a stop sign 🤷♀️
Same thing. We tried so hard online from our resort. Our credit cards couldn’t work. We brought cash to the airport to pay in person. Couldn’t pay anywhere and more importantly official tour operator people that we asked told us “don’t worry you don’t have to pay it”. Breezed through our check in etc
As the gentleman even admits it’s confusing as hell. It’s a gong show lol
@@3Days3Noches blowing a stop sign is enforced. I’ve received a ticket for that.
@esh1877 😎
@esh1877 straight facts 🤣
Ooops, we forgot to pay the State Mexican tax while in Cancun, there was staff for Visitax at 0430am, asked around and told we have to go online, unfortunately, I did'nt carry my laptop or Ipad , Wifi is not secure, I will look into it now since I am back home and try to pay it.
Video mentioned Tulum/train. These are federal projects. I doubt the Visitax are being used for it.
It’s def shady lol
I have paid this the last couple of years. I just don't want to take any chances of there being a hiccup at the airport. I see alot of comments about "they never ask to see a QR code." When you pay the tax, you enter your passport number. Wonder when you are leaving Cancun, if they see you paid the tax when they scan your passport at security? Also, whats the little piece of paper they give you after going through the e-gate when arriving? That has been confusing also. Once, it seemed like they were collecting it at the gate and other time, they did not ask for it at all. Thanks. I enjoy your videos and information.
Thanks for watching!! I pay it as well just to make sure there are no issues. The piece of paper is at the egates only. They don’t give you anything at the staffed passport gates. I don’t think they see if people have paid or not
I have to say not heard of this, till just now. I am heading to Cancun in November to meet up with my brother who is coming from the UK. So good to know this information prior to the chaos that will ensue at the airport. Many thanks to you both. At the very least if booking direct, ( you allude to this but I did not see any information by the company when booking the flight) cannot the companies flag up this additional mandatory payment? Just seems like chaos waiting to happen. As an aside I have to say what with the additional time requirements of arriving prior to departure, to getting through security such additional stress .....for myself makes such traveling less and less appealing. I do understand the need but really should be up front. If not for your blog we would have been clueless! A question: I have " Residente Permanente" status but not yet Mexican; I would be traveling from within Mexico, would I still have to pay the tax? I appreciate you may not comment on individual cases but generally speaking. Again many thanks much appreciated!
I agree with all of what you are saying. You may not have to pay if you are a permanent resident. I’ll ask Tim! It all seems still a little convoluted to me but that’s tourism sometimes 😅
Also if you are traveling from the south of Mexico you don’t have to pay it
@@3Days3Noches from Acapulco ✈️
@deadwalking100 you don’t have to pay it then
@@3Days3Noches ¡Muchisimo Gracias!
I just purchased a flight/hotel to Cancun in October, and there is no mention of a Visitax by name, but does say there is a $15 charge per person "implemented by the QR govt" - is that the same thing? (p.s. another website said $2-7 per person... sigh) "...payable before you leave your home, OR at the hotel when you arrive or during your stay". Is this the same thing or will there be another extra fee? We are getting nickled and dimed on this trip, from the airlines and hotels. You think you're paying xyz and then you get the bill; dang it! 😆
I know it’s very confusing! And I agree with everything you said. Yes I believe that’s the same thing. Many people are waiting until they get to the airport. I think I’ll pay it before in January so that I can do a follow up video on it. But annoying AH lol
When I checked the link provided by my travel agent, it asked for departure date. I assume this means the date we depart from Mexico to come home. Can you please confirm,?
Yes!
So I did it and I put all my information. My visa was charged and I got an email confirmation but the website looks frozen at the payment section and has been spinning for half an hour.
@nancymascio8230 ugh. Well you have proof of payment that’s all you need!
My TA said that although they have been inconsistent with checking, it is the law, so she recommend that I just pay it. So, I paid it. It's not that expensive.
Yes! Agreed. I guess if you’re traveling with a family of 4+ it could be but it is what it is!!!
How did you pay for it before your travels?
@@Stevelpaso I paid online.
@christinelinnea they just made a new Facebook page too! Put it on our group :)
Where do you find this info to pay? I'm really confused
It would help if the Visitax website didn’t use the word “contribution” which in English usually means voluntary contribution not mandatory tax.
We were there in june and in mid october 2023. didn't know about this tax. did not pay. We were in and out of the airport. We were not asked about anything. Will be going back end of november... probably wont pay this time around and will see what happens.
Definitely a hot mess situation lol
I will be traveling with my teen son who takes ADHD pills each day. Aderal and Intuniv. By any chance do you know if, Are there measures to take beforehand? I don't want to get arrested with these amphetamines PLUS not paying my visitax! lol Thank you in advance.@@3Days3Noches
What’s the update on this following on your trip from January? Do you think they will eventually deny people entry at Cancun if they’ve not paid the tax before?
I don’t know. We paid it online but no one checked. But they say they enforce it digitally
Hiring a 3rd party for this tax sounds like someone is getting a kickback. Typical goof politicians.
🧐🧐🧐 lots of questions for sure
I'm not sure about American and Canadian tour operators but TUI in the UK do not make it very clear, you have to expand out a paragraph of small print which starts by telling you about eco tax which is paid at the hotel and departure tax which they include in the cost of the holiday, We went to Rivera Maya Dec 2023 and were completely ignorant off this tax, we were not informed or reminded to pay Visitax by TUI and there was nothing making it obvious at the airport, no TUI rep in Mexico mentioned visitax, We have booked for July this year 2025 and have looked a bit closer and as mentioned about have found some pretty hidden info but there is nothing within our booking that highlights Visitax in an obvious way, I have no problem with paying it, the amount is so small compared with the holiday cost, less than £30.
Ty!
Just saw your video, many thanks as we are traveling to Cancun in July. We wanted to book some tours but I see in some that they are wanting to charge an additional $20 for geological tax. Is this the same as the Visitax and if so, how can I prove that I've paid this tax to the tour agencies.
It’s completely different!! So many taxes now!!!
At this point, still two different sites that charge different amounts, He says they will be aligning "Soon". He's a representative of the company and he doesn't even have a firm date when this will happen so the confusion will continue. He also mentioned you will end up being "Enforced" if you don't pay the tax, so what exactly does this mean? It's the law now but I have never heard of a single incident of anyone being "Enforced" by a fine, detained, or otherwise. If they start scanning Qr codes before you get on a plane in the next few months there will be absolute pandemonium at the airport. This Visitax implementation was handled very badly.
Agreed! He basically said that the only enforcement right now is your own conscience of breaking the law lol
Can't enforce a state donation with Federal aeroports. They were kicked out of Cancun International last year.
Hi. Thanks for the update. We are also going to Cancun in January :)
Yayy we will be there the end of January 27-30
Jan 08 - 18 for us :)
@alfnatalie1234 Yayy have so much fun
Did u guys ended up paying visa tax?
@sherwinjohnlim7604 we did!
My daughter is in Cancun now. The tax is now $56. Is that right???
No it’s $19 a person. Make sure she’s not on a scam site or telling you about a different tax.
Question, catching a flight out of Juarez, from Juarez, we are flying into Cancun. Besides a passport and the visitax, what other documents are needed?
That’s it!
Please give update from your January trip. Thank you.
We paid it but no one checked lol
Did he answer what would happens if you don’t pay it? Will they not let you into the country. Or how will the enforce it
Honestly I don’t know!!!
approximately how much is this tax? When I paid something extra to go to Punta Cana last January, it was very minimal (I know, its probably a different tax) if its only a few dollars, i think its good for them to be making everything better, especially the roads
$17 per person
This isn't a Federal tax and airports are Federal jurisdictions. The local government can make as many pretend taxes they want, but they have no authority to enforce it at the airport.
Love it. Ty!!
I have just travelled to Cancun from the UK and I did not see anything about the Visitax. It would have been useful for the information to be provided by the airline crew in terms of informing us about it or instructing us where and how to pay it.
Thank you for sharing! Yes supposedly it will start being enforced in a few weeks 🤷♀️
@@3Days3Noches Ooops. Another FALSEHOOD scare tactic.
helpful video as always!l but had a quick question does the visitax cover departure tax in that fee? some sites says no.... you have to pay departure tax separate at the airport and others say its included in visitax so confusing. keep up the good work! never been to mexico and your videos help me so much!
Ty so much for watching!! The departure and visitax are two different taxes
always great videos ...whats the smoking situiation like on the resorts?
Thank you so much! Every resort seems to enforce the new smoking ban differently!
I remember having an agent there telling us about the QR Code , we paid almost $20 per person
They don’t have that any more!
People who drive into the state, stay there for 3 weeks then drive out of state, they don’t have to pay. It’s literally just for people flying in or out
Ok, so adding the tax to the airlines ticket is a pain --- why not require the hotels to collect this tax? That is how a lot of tax money is collected in the US ("visitor tax")
Right?
Just returned yesterday...No one is asking or mentioning visitax at Cancun airport..one empty booth before the escalators and a sign at gate 57 about delay and the website to pay it,but no mention of this Canadian website..I think it's more of a made up rule and not a law..and that's the reason they can't enforce it..And it's up to the passenger,but scaring passengers if they don't pay for no reason is not good..Cancun has become very expensive.
Great points
We just landed today in Cancun and honestly didn't see any signs at all about this tax at the airport. Not a single person said anything about it while traveling through and then once at our hotel the concierge said they weren't certain if it was being enforced yet. Had no idea this was a thing until I saw this video tonight relaxing in our room.
We over heard someone chatting about it hence why we asked the concierge. And me looking for info on TH-cam. Thanks for posting this video.
@matthewkristenglenn good to know. Thank you!
As your guest says, this needs to be clearly stated somewhere. Good that travel agencies are doing it, but not everyone uses a travel agency. I’m going to Cancun in a few weeks and if I didn’t run across your video, I would’ve never known about this. When I saw their kiosk, I would assume it was a scam or extortion. As an example, when I get to my hotel, I understand I have to pay an environmental fee. This is clearly stated.
Definitely confusing!!
Any current news on the vistatax, some say pay some say no, I go to mexico in 4 weeks, any info would be great.
They are saying it’s still mandatory even though they aren’t checking. I’m going in a few weeks to and will update!
@3Days3Noches awe that will be awesome to know, I paid in Sept but was never asked and didn't see anyone else
Visitax is not mandatory. I just went to Cancun on 11th May. No body at Airport has asked anything about Visitax for Departure and arrival both time. It's voluntary contribution thing.
It’s actually law but they are not collecting at airport. It’s like our state taxes. We know it’s law so we file them.
I believe you are correct. The website even states this is a contribution. "Visitax is the State Government application for the payment of contributions from foreign tourists." If it were a law, I'm quite sure the word "Law" would be in there somewhere in order to encourage payment.
You don't have to pay but you will receive something in the mail or when you file your taxes like I did.
@KassieP-sf6nz Yes, most likely because this is a contribution. You get credit for contributions on your taxes.
Thank you for this video. It was mentioned that Mexican Citizens do not pay the tax. Would you please confirm whether Mexican Residents pay this tax. Thank you.
They do not!
Nobody has to pay it. It is racial and many other forms of discrimination against select people.
How far in advance can you pay this? Do you have to be in country or can you pay it weeks before your trip?
You can pay it weeks before online.
Very informative! Thank you!!
I'm traveling from Mexico City and have a flight connection/transfer at the CUN airport. Do I have to pay this departure tax due to connection of flights?
You do not. It’s o my for people staying in Quintana Roo
This tax should be in the hotels tax, that would be the best way to collect it.
That’s what I think too!!
It is not legal. It is discriminatory and there is already an eco-tax that is being enforced in the Quintana Roo.
What about connecting flight? We use Cancun to go on to our actual destination which is domestic flight in mexico. We have a family of 6 which this will be a lot of money to just be passing through.
No I only believe it’s for people vacationing in Cancun
I had a friend went cancun in december and she didnt pay no tax..am confuse about if it is enforced
Read through the comments. It’s being enforced digitally and not in person supposedly. The state says it’s a mandatory tax
What proof do I have after payment? Can I print a receipt and the digital code rather than having to Hardwick at the airport if asked to prove payment (as I will not have data)
It’s supposed to give you a QR code!
Great video, just curious, can you just pay cash at the airport booth and get a printed copy of the QR code at that time? I would like to avoid going on the website altogether especially at the air port. Thanks !
You could the last time I was there
Pay cash- do you mean USD or Pesos?
Tim told me that cash is no longer accepted to avoid scams
How much is the cost of the tax and can u pay it at the airport?
@clintbrewster9282 it’s $15 a person I think. Supposedly there are QR codes
I will travel to Mérida, Campeche and 2 days in Cancún on next Feb.. Visitax is working yet? Or Should I contact the mexican embassy? Thanks
It should be working either online or at the airport
@@3Days3Noches Never be at an International Aeroport. No es legal.
What if you were there between Dec 2022- July2023. Are you required to pay for that visit if you weren’t aware at the time?
You are not!!!
@@3Days3Noches awesome, thank you!!
Hey just a recent update. Flew back from Cancun today and there was zero enforcement or even mention of this tax. There was a little kiosk that was actually moved to the corner with no one at it. Have they given up? Pretty crappy enforcement or making travelers aware if this is even legit. The airport wifi is also horrible so not sure how someone could pay if the wifi doesnt work.
I know!! It's a hot mess
Not allowed in a Federal Aeroport.
15:55 I just got back from QR today and I asked both the Immigration desk (INM, where you get an exit stamp) before security and after security about this. Not that I needed an exit stamp. I let both officers “beat” me to the use of the word visitax (because I wanted to see if they knew &
I was probing as if I didn’t know) and both told me that Mexican citizens are exempt from this tax. I couldn’t have been happier to hear this. 😊
Awesome. Thank you!!
So a mexican citizen flying in from new york for a week stay is not required to pay this tax..while visiting QR.
@karleslanderos3445 yes!
So this still did not answer the question as to who is required to pay. Is it for travel out of Q ? So what if we travel into Cancun but are domiciled in Yucatan and are simply traveling in and out of Cancun, i.e. taking a bus to Merida, staying for three weeks and then returning to Cancun for our departure back to the US. And what about those who have permanent residency, or temporary residency?
If you’re a resident you don’t have to. It’s pretty chaotic it seems
No border gates. No tax to pay.
Is Visitax the same as Mexico - Tourism Tax on my Delta paid taxes?
No it’s different. It’s a state tax
Hi! Heading there in 2 weeks and I’m wondering if you’ve taken the train to Tulum yet? Is it even open to the public yet?
I haven’t! I think it is I follow the QR government on FB
Thank you! Also wondering if you’ve been since they supposedly are doing only facial recognition now upon entering? Hearing that there are no more passport stamps or people at the gates, just a face scan and entry 😬
Last time I was there no one was checking, but time before that
I had to show proof of tax paid at the airport upon departure. I did it all from home b4 I even left my house for the trip, and printed out proof.
Great thanks for the update!!!
I am going to Cancun in Oct 13/18 and I put in the the 13th instead of the 18th when I paid my visitax. How can I get this changed or does it even matter?
I don’t think it matters! As long as you pay it before you depart