As an experienced travel agent, I know how important it is to feel prepared and confident before embarking on your vacation!
If you’re planning a trip to one of the best All Inclusive vacations in Cancun in 2025, the good news is that the arrival process has been simplified, making it easier than ever for U.S. travelers to enjoy this tropical paradise.
Here's a breakdown of what to expect when you arrive in Cancun and some tips to ensure a smooth experience:
Simplified Immigration Process
Gone are the days of filling out paper or digital immigration forms prior to or during your flight. When you land in Cancun, you’ll go through immigration using one of two options:
Option 1: Standard Immigration Lines
Available in all terminals (2, 3, and 4).
Speak directly to an immigration agent who will stamp your passport.
Families with children under 18 MUST use the full-service Standard Immigration Line
Keep your boarding pass (digital or physical) handy in case it’s requested during the process.
Option 2: Electronic Passport
Control Machines
Only available in Terminals 3 and 4.
Open to travelers aged 18 and older.
Simply scan your passport, have your photo taken, and collect your QR-coded receipt.
Hold onto the QR code receipt—you might need it when you depart Mexico.
Note: There’s no need to fill out any additional online forms related to the QR code. Just keep the receipt safe until your departure.
There are some exceptions:
If you are flying to/from ANY OTHER airport in Mexico NOT listed above, then you may still need to fill out the Immigration Form "manually" when you arrive or depart from another airport in Mexico.
If you are visiting from a country that requires a VISA, then you still need to fill out the form. Please be aware that for the airports listed ABOVE you will need to fill out the form "manually" upon your arrival.
If you are NOT a "visitor," for example, a permanent resident in Mexico, then you still need to follow the normal arrival procedures as before.
Customs Process by Terminal
The customs process in Cancun varies depending on the terminal you arrive in:
Terminal 2:
You’ll receive a paper customs form either on the plane or in the baggage area after arrival.
All luggage is scanned after pickup and may be inspected.
Terminals 3 and 4:
No customs form is required.
After immigration, collect your luggage, and you might be randomly selected for a bag check.
Visitax: Mandatory Tourist Tax
How It Helps The Best All Inclusive Vacations in Cancun
The Visitax is a mandatory tax for visitors to Mexico’s Quintana Roo state (which includes Cancun).
WHAT is Visitax and why you need to pay:
VisiTAX is a mandatory tourist tax paid by foreign visitors to the Mexican state of Quintana Roo that funds a variety of projects, including:
Protecting the environment: Mitigating the impact on beaches and natural reserves, and containing sargassum
Improving infrastructure: Generating infrastructure to improve access to and surveillance of Mayan archeological sites
Creating jobs: Generating revenue to create jobs
Funding development: Funding development within the tourism industry
Improving public services: Generating better public services that benefit both tourists and the local population
VisiTAX was established in 2020 and became mandatory for tourists 15 years of age and older on April 1, 2021.
Here’s what you need to know:
Cost: Currently 271 MXN per person.
Pay ONLY for visitors 15 years of age and older.
Payment Options:
Pay online before your trip or during your stay.
The official website is https://www.visitax.gob.mx/sitio/. Beware of scam websites!
You may or may not be asked to show proof of payment upon departure, but it’s a good idea to have your receipt ready just in case. Enforcement has been stepped up recently and you may be stopped to show your QR code to an airport official before you are allowed to go to the security checkpoint.
Pro Tips for a Smooth Arrival
Choose the Right Immigration Option: If you’re traveling with kids or prefer face-to-face interaction, stick to the standard immigration line. If you’re eligible and want a quicker process, opt for the electronic machines.
Pack Smart: Keep your passport, boarding pass, and any receipts (Visitax or QR code) easily accessible.
Be Prepared for Customs: If flying into Terminal 2, complete the customs form as soon as you receive it to save time.
Pay Visitax Ahead of Time: To avoid last-minute stress, pay the Visitax online before your trip and keep the proof of payment in your travel documents.
Ask for Help if Needed: Cancun’s airport staff is friendly and accustomed to assisting international travelers. Don’t hesitate to ask questions if you’re unsure about any part of the process.
Planning a trip to Cancun is exciting, and with this information, your arrival will be a breeze.
Ready to let a professional to take over and help you plan one of the best All Inclusive Vacations in Cancun?
Click the button below and let's get started!
I'd love to make your dream getaway come true!
Note: this information is SUBJECT TO CHANGE at any time.
Comentarios