The FMM and Visitax are not the same thing. The FMM (Forma Migratoria Múltiple), also called the Mexico Tourist Card, is part of Mexico’s federal immigration system. Visitax is a separate tourism tax charged by the state of Quintana Roo.
If you are visiting Cancun, Tulum, Playa del Carmen, or Cozumel, you may be subject to both systems, but that does not necessarily mean you need to file two applications before you fly. The process depends on how you enter Mexico.
FMM vs Visitax Mexico: Comparison
Use this table to see what each requirement covers and whether you need to act before traveling.
What Is the Mexico Tourist Card (FMM)?
The Forma Migratoria Múltiple is a federal immigration record administered by the Instituto Nacional de Migración (INM). It is not a tourist tax, and it does not replace a passport or a visa when a visa is required.
For travelers entering Mexico by land, the FMM may be completed through the official INM portal and printed for presentation at the border, or arranged at an INM office. The INM states that the land FMM is for a single entry and can be valid for up to 180 days, although immigration officers determine the actual permitted stay.
Foreign travelers arriving at international airports do not need to fill out the traditional paper or online FMM before flying. The immigration authority generates a digital FMM (FMMd) upon entry. Travelers can retrieve their record afterward from the INM service portal during their authorized stay.
What Is Visitax, and Who Has to Pay It?
Visitax is a mandatory tourism contribution established by the state of Quintana Roo. It applies to foreign tourists visiting destinations such as Cancun, Tulum, Playa del Carmen, Cozumel, Isla Mujeres, and other parts of the state. It is separate from the federal FMM, a Mexican visa, and airline fares.
The Visitax requirement applies to Quintana Roo regardless of how the traveler leaves the state, including by air or sea. It is not a nationwide Mexican entry tax: a tourist visiting only Mexico City or Guadalajara does not owe Quintana Roo Visitax for that trip.
Do You Need Both an FMM and Visitax for Cancun?
If you fly into Cancun for a vacation, Mexican immigration handles the FMM digitally at the airport, while Visitax remains a separate state-level payment.
You generally do not need to buy or submit a traditional FMM form before boarding your flight. If you enter Mexico by land and then travel to Quintana Roo, you may need to complete the land FMM process and pay Visitax separately.
For land travel, the U.S. Department of State describes an exception for stays of six days or less within approximately 12 miles (20 km) of the U.S. border. That exception does not cover a vacation in Quintana Roo.
How and When Do You Pay the FMM and Visitax?
FMM: Follow Your Arrival Method
- For land arrivals, complete the FMM and follow the payment and printing instructions if a fee applies.
- For air arrivals, the FMMd is generated after immigration processing, so there is no separate preflight FMM application to purchase.
- Immigration and tourist-related charges associated with flying are generally handled through the airfare.
Visitax: Pay Separately for Quintana Roo
- Visitax can be paid online before or during the trip through the official state portal.
- Enter the details requested for each foreign tourist, pay the displayed amount, and keep the QR-code receipt accessible.
- Payment is separate from the FMM process and is not automatically covered by purchasing an FMM assistance service.
Check the Right Requirements Before You Travel
Flying to Cancun? Focus on your passport and other applicable Mexico entry requirements, and make sure you arrange Visitax.
Entering Mexico by land before visiting Quintana Roo? Check whether you also need the land FMM. These are distinct requirements, so review each one against your itinerary instead of assuming a single payment covers both.
For the broader checklist, see Mexico entry requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions About FMM vs Visitax
Is the Mexico Tourist Card the same as Visitax?
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No. The Mexico Tourist Card is another name for the FMM, which is part of Mexico’s federal immigration system. Visitax is a separate state tourism contribution for foreign tourists in Quintana Roo. Paying either one does not automatically satisfy the other requirement.
Do I need an FMM and Visitax if I fly to Cancun?
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You will go through Mexico’s immigration process, but you do not need to complete a traditional FMM application before flying. The INM issues a digital FMMd record on entry. As a foreign tourist visiting Quintana Roo, you also need to pay Visitax separately.
What is the difference between FMM and Visitax fees?
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An FMM-related immigration charge covers federal entry procedures, and payment depends on how you enter Mexico and any applicable exemptions. Visitax is charged separately by Quintana Roo to foreign tourists. For the current Visitax amount and any applicable FMM charge, consult the official payment screens rather than relying on an outdated conversion into U.S. dollars.
Is Visitax required in Mexico City or other Mexican states?
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No. Visitax is required in Quintana Roo, not nationwide. If your itinerary includes only Mexico City, Guadalajara, or another destination outside Quintana Roo, Visitax does not apply. Federal immigration rules can still apply when entering Mexico.
Do children need to pay Visitax?
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Yes. The Quintana Roo Visitax is required for all foreign tourists, including children and infants. Check the details for each traveler before payment and retain the QR-code confirmation.
Can I pay both the FMM and Visitax on the same website?
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Yes, Tourist Card MX provides separate assistance services for the FMM and Visitax, but different authorities handle the official procedures. The FMM is administered by the INM, while Visitax payments are administered by Quintana Roo.
