Canadian travellers to Mexico face higher costs with increased visitor tax

Canadians planning a trip to Mexico may want to factor in extra costs, as a popular tourist region has introduced a slight increase to its visitor tax.

Travellers in Mexico will now have to pay just a little more to visit Baja California Sur, a beloved sun-soaked holiday hotspot. In June 2025, authorities implemented the Embrace It Tax, a fee for all foreign visitors looking to spend the day in the northwest of Mexico.

Mexico Business News reports that the program generated up to MX$256 million or over C$20 million in revenue in 2025.

How much more do you have to pay?

When the Embrace It Tax was implemented in 2025, travellers were required to pay MX$470 or approximately C$37. As of Jan. 1 this year, the fee has gone up to MX$488 or approximately C$38.50, an increase of MX$18 per person or around C$1.40.

What is the Embrace It Tax?

International visitors aged 12 or older must pay the mandatory Embrace It tax when entering Baja California Sur by air or by land and plan to stay for more than 24 hours. The fee applies to popular spots such as Los Cabos, Cabo San Lucas, La Paz, and Loreto.

According to the Embrace It website, fees go towards improving security, infrastructure, and environmental protection.

"Your trip transforms. Your visit leaves a mark," states the site. "By paying Embrace It, you are part of a more conscious, responsible and committed to the future of Baja California Sur."

How can you pay the tax?

You can pay the tax online for yourself and for an entire group of up to nine people through the Travelkore platform. Enter yours and the other visitors' information, such as age, email, phone number, address, passport number, as well as arrival and departure dates.

You can choose the currency in which you want to pay (USD, CAD, GBP, or EUR), and once you pay, you'll receive a QR code via email. You can then present this QR code at any ports of entry across the state, whether you're travelling by plane, cruise ship, or by vehicle.

"We are proud of the acceptance Embrace It has had among international visitors," said Hugo Chapoy Córdova, director of revenue at Tourist Tax México. "Aggregated data confirms orderly behaviour, with payments often made in advance, higher activity on weekdays and clearly defined stay patterns."

In 2025, authorities were considering a proposal that would see a significant hike in entry fees at some of Mexico's most well-known sites.