Tourist Tax Confusion at Cancún Airport

Visitors flying into our corner of paradise are facing some confusion over a tourist tax. At the Cancún airport, some travelers report being asked to pay nearly double the official price for the state's visitor tax, known as Visitax.

This has caused frustration for many international visitors. A Quintana Roo government communication reported a 2026 rate of 285 pesos, although other published guidance lists slightly different amounts.

Travelers should confirm the peso total displayed on the official portal before paying.

A report citing traveler complaints says that some payment modules in Terminal 2 requested as much as 550 pesos, compared with the 285-peso amount attributed to the state government. 

What is Visitax?

Visitax is a Quintana Roo tourism tax generally charged to eligible foreign visitors departing the state. Travelers should verify the current eligibility and age rules on the official government portal.

Visitax can be paid online before departure, and airport payment facilities are also reported to be available. Paying through the official portal in advance may help travelers confirm the amount and retain their receipt. 

The Problem at the Airport

The main issue is the difference in price of as much as 550 pesos. The official government rate is around 285 pesos, which is about $15 to $18 US dollars. When people asked why the price was so much higher, the staff did not give an explanation.

This is happening inside the airport, which is run by a company called Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste (Asur).

There is no clear information explaining the higher price. Airport employees have said that they often hear complaints from tourists who were surprised by the fee or the high cost.

How to Avoid Problems

To avoid any confusion or extra charges, it is best to pay your Visitax online before you travel.

After payment, save the QR code or receipt. Officials may request proof when you depart Quintana Roo, including at an airport.

Here are some key things to remember:

Pay Online: The safest way to pay is through the official government website: www.visitax.gob.mx.

Official Price: Published 2026 figures vary slightly, so travelers should rely on the amount shown by the official portal.

Eligibility may depend on age; current guidance indicates that travelers over age four are charged, rather than every child regardless of age.

Beware of Other Websites: Be careful of websites that are not the official government site. Some of these sites charge extra service fees.

Use the official portal at visitax.gob.mx, and check carefully for the exact domain before entering passport or payment information.

The official site also states that payments may be processed through companies authorized by Quintana Roo’s tax authority.

Keep Your Proof of Payment: After paying, you will receive a QR code. Keep this on your phone so you can show it if asked.

By paying online ahead of time, you can ensure you are paying the correct amount and avoid any stress at the airport. This way, you can focus on enjoying your time in our beautiful part of the world.