Los Cabos’ New Tourist Tax is Shaping their Travel Experience, Get the Details Here

Published on December 23, 2025

International visitors to the Mexican destination of Los Cabos will have a new required tourist tax called the “Embrace It” tax, after months of heated debate. The tax has been confirmed by local authorities as one that would be imposed on all international visitors to Baja California Sur, in order to support infrastructure and sustainability projects. This separate state levy does not feature in the cost of flights and hotels, but it is sure to dramatically change the traveling experience for tourists.

The “Embrace It” Tax: What Is It and Why Does It Matter?
The “Embrace It” tax is a new initiative set in place by the government of Baja California Sur to support the development of the region’s infrastructure and enhance the local tourism experience. The fee will be applied to all international tourists staying in the state for more than 24 hours. This tax is not included in your airline ticket or hotel accommodations, making it a separate charge that travelers will need to pay directly to the government before departing the region.

The tax amounts to 470 Mexican Pesos (approximately $25 USD, depending on the exchange rate). While this may seem like a small fee, it’s essential to pay it promptly, as failure to do so could lead to delays or complications when departing the country.

Who Has to Pay the Tax?
The “Embrace It” tax applies to all international visitors traveling to Baja California Sur. If you’re visiting Los Cabos, Cabo San Lucas, or San José del Cabo, you will need to pay this fee if your stay is longer than 24 hours. This tax is mandatory for tourists from around the world, regardless of their travel purpose (e.g., business or leisure).

It’s important to note that this fee only applies to tourists leaving the state, meaning that those visiting other regions of Mexico are not required to pay this levy unless they are departing from Baja California Sur.

Is the Tax Mandatory and How Is It Enforced?
Yes, the “Embrace It” tax is legally mandatory. However, enforcement has been a topic of some debate. Currently, enforcement is somewhat lax at Los Cabos International Airport (SJD), with authorities relying on an honor system. Unlike other destinations like Cancun, where tourists may be stopped by officials who scan QR codes for proof of payment, such spot checks are rare in Los Cabos at present.

That being said, travelers should be aware that enforcement policies could change at any time. If local authorities begin conducting more rigorous checks, travelers who have not paid the tax in advance could face delays, potentially causing them to miss their flights.

How to Pay the “Embrace It” Tax
Paying the “Embrace It” tax is simple, but it must be done through the official digital platform to ensure your payment is valid and secure. Here’s a step-by-step guide to paying the tax before you leave Los Cabos:

1. Visit the Official Site: Go to their website to avoid scams and ensure your payment is legitimate.
2. Select Your Language: The site allows you to switch to English, making it accessible for international tourists.
3. Enter Your Details: Provide your passport number, email address, and arrival date in the region. You can also pay for multiple travelers in a single transaction.
4. Make the Payment: Use a credit or debit card to complete the payment. The fee will be charged in Pesos (approximately 470 MXN).
5. Save Your QR Code: After completing the payment, you’ll receive a receipt with a QR code via email. Take a screenshot or save this QR code to your phone. This will serve as proof of payment if you are asked to show it at the airport.

Why the Tax Matters: Supporting Local Development
Though the “Embrace It” tax may seem like an extra financial burden, it plays a vital role in the continued development of Los Cabos. The funds generated from this tax are earmarked for local infrastructure improvements, including better roads, improved safety measures, and sanitation projects that directly benefit both locals and tourists.

With Los Cabos experiencing a boom in tourism, this tax is essential for maintaining the region’s infrastructure and ensuring a positive experience for all visitors. The money collected will help enhance the tourism experience, from cleaner beaches to safer public spaces, which ultimately benefits everyone in the region.

What Happens if You Don’t Pay the Tax?
Though enforcement is currently more lenient, the risk of being caught without proof of payment remains, and future enforcement may become stricter. It’s not worth the hassle or the potential risk of missing your flight. Paying the fee ahead of time ensures a smoother departure and guarantees you comply with local regulations.

If you fail to pay the tax before leaving, it may result in delays at the airport or issues when boarding your flight. Therefore, travelers should make the payment a priority to avoid these potential headaches.

Plan Ahead for a Smooth Departure

The “Embrace It” Tax in Los Cabos is here to stay, and although the process for completing the payment is easy, one must be aware about what is required in order to prevent any problems. The online payment system for the taxes prior to leaving the country may be a small inconvenience for the benefits received by ensuring an easy trip, but this is an important cost for the local economy in helping Los Cabos continue to be one of the world-class tourist destinations.