Updated November 2026 · By Terry Barkhuizen, NOM-08 certified tour guide (credential N012608). Fees and collection methods can change; always confirm on the official portal.
Part of our Plan Your Trip guide.
Visitax is a fee that the state of Quintana Roo charges foreign visitors – it applies to Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Cozumel, Isla Mujeres, Bacalar and everywhere else in the state. It’s separate from your flight taxes and immigration, it’s paid online, and it’s increasingly checked at Cancun airport when you leave. Here’s what you need to know.
Quick answer
- Who: foreign visitors to Quintana Roo.
- How much: around 285–295 pesos (about USD 16) per person per stay in 2026. Sources quote slightly different figures, so the official portal shows the current amount.
- How: online at the official state portal, visitax.gob.mx, before or during your trip, or before you leave.
- Proof: a QR code for each traveller, sent by email. Keep it on your phone.
Who has to pay
Foreign tourists visiting the state of Quintana Roo pay Visitax, whatever their length of stay. Mexican citizens and residents are exempt. Age rules for children have been reported differently over time, so check the portal when you pay for your family.
How to pay, step by step
- Type visitax.gob.mx directly into your browser – don’t click ads or search results that look similar.
- Enter your travel dates and the details of each traveller.
- Pay by card.
- Download or save the QR code(s) you receive by email.
- Show the QR code if you’re asked at Cancun airport on departure.
Avoiding Visitax scams
- Copycat websites charge large “processing fees” on top of the real amount. Use only the official portal.
- At the airport, pay only at official kiosks or on the official site. If someone asks for cash, ask for identification and an official receipt.
- Don’t pay twice: if you’ve already paid, show your QR code.
More in our guide to common tourist scams.
Visitax vs other fees
| Fee | What it is | How you pay |
|---|---|---|
| Visitax | Quintana Roo state fee for foreign visitors | Online, separately |
| Federal tourist / non-resident fee (DNR) | National visitor fee | Normally included in international airfares |
| Airport fee (TUA) | Airport use | Included in your ticket |
| Environmental or sanitation fees | Charged by some municipalities per room per night | At your hotel |
| Park and reserve fees | Marine parks, biosphere reserves, archaeological sites | On site |
Frequently asked questions
Is Visitax mandatory?
Yes, for foreign visitors to Quintana Roo. Enforcement has varied over the years but checks at Cancun airport have become more common.
Do I pay Visitax if I’m only on a cruise stop in Cozumel?
Rules for cruise passengers can differ – check the official portal or ask your cruise line.
Do I need to pay before I arrive?
You can pay before, during or at the end of your stay. Paying in advance avoids queues and stress at the airport.
Visitax is one of several costs not included in booking prices – see the full trip-cost guide.