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$25 Tourist Tax Announced For All Los Cabos Travelers: Effective Immediately 

The government of Baja California Sur has enacted a mandatory $25 tourist tax for all foreign visitors staying longer than 24 hours, effective immediately.

Enshrined in Article 129 Bis of the State Finance Law, this new levy replaces the voluntary EmbraceIt Fund contributions first launched in 2022.

We at The Cabo Sun break down everything you need to know—how it works, where your money goes, and what it means for your next Cabo getaway.

Cabo San Lucas, Los Cabos, Mexico, Scenic panoramic aerial view of Los Cabos tourist destination Arch of Cabo San Lucas, El Arco, Playa Amantes and Playa del Divorcio

Why the switch from “optional” to “must-pay” matters

Back in 2022, the EmbraceIt Fund invited travelers aged 12+ to voluntarily chip in for local projects.

Fast-forward to today: the government has made that contribution compulsory.

Think of it as upgrading from a digital tip jar to a full-on VIP pass for supporting those sun-drenched roads you’ll be cruising on—and yes, we know you’ll want that flawless selfie against the crashing waves.

Luxurious Los Cabos Resort

Your $25 at work: more than just cocktail money

Wondering where your cash goes (besides funding your next frozen mango margarita)?

Every peso is funneled into the EmbraceIt trust to cover road maintenance, bolster public safety, underwrite splashy cultural events, support local sports programs and healthcare initiatives, and fund other sustainability projects that keep Los Cabos vibrant and visitor-ready.

Fonatur Roundabout in Los Cabos
Image: Ministry of Communications and Transportation

How you’ll pay—and where to watch out

For the most current payment instructions—including whether you’ll pay online via the EmbraceIt portal, at airport kiosks, or directly through your hotel or tour operator—please consult the official EmbraceIt FAQ at https://www.embrace.bcs.gob.mx/faq.

For now, it is recommended to pay online ahead of time before flying out.

Travelers may be randomly selected to show proof of payment, so to avoid delays at the airport, it is best to pay in advance.

According to the TTMX website, in a press release dated June 30, 2025, signed by the Minister of Finance and Administration, “All foreign visitors staying in Baja California Sur for more than 24 hours are legally required to pay a fee of $470 MXN (approx. $25 USD). This payment is mandatory and must be paid online.

Cabo tourist sign

Three quick hacks for breezy payment

To keep things as smooth as your beach-breeze hair:

  • Pre-pay online at the official EmbraceIT portal here. It’s slick, secure (powered by Travelkore’s platform, the same tech behind Quintana Roo’s levy), and means you can stroll straight to the tequila bar.
  • Double-check your booking: some platforms in the future could begin to automatically include the tax. Make sure you double-check so you don’t pay twice.
Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. The marina bay.

What this means for your Cabo adventure

We get it—extra costs aren’t the first thing on your vacation wishlist.

But consider this: those pristine beaches, newly repaved coastal highways, and vibrant festivals you’ll put on your Instagram?

They’re paid for in part by this fund. Every peso you contribute means better facilities, more sustainable tourism practices, and a Los Cabos that stays as breathtaking as the day you first laid eyes on it.

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Keeping you in the loop

We at The Cabo Sun are watching this rollout like a hawk-colored macaw.

Expect updates on enforcement timelines, any tweaks to the online portal, and firsthand reports from your favorite beachfront hangouts. Our motto?

If it affects your Cabo experience, you’ll hear it here first.

View of resorts in Cabo from the ocean

Whether you’re planning sunrise yoga on Médano Beach, whale-watching off the Pacific Coast, or that ultimate sunset horseback ride, remember to factor in the $25 EmbraceIt tax.

Pay it early, pay it online, and then let the countdown to tacos, tequila, and tropical bliss begin—because Los Cabos isn’t just a destination; it’s your next unforgettable story.

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J johnson

Tuesday 8th of July 2025

Residente permanente?

Gary

Saturday 5th of July 2025

How long can I drive around central Baja before I have to renew the permit?

PMD

Thursday 3rd of July 2025

Does the new tax include children? That means if you have 2 adults, 3 children you will have to add an additional 137.50 USD plus the additional resort increasing fees and increasing food prices. There are many beautiful beaches in the world and I agree that some fees are needed;however, Cabo-which I have been coming to for 40 years maybe to cost prohibitive to bring my family and grandchildren. Sad.

Tyler Fox

Friday 4th of July 2025

According to the TTMX site, the tax applies "to all international travelers staying in the state for more than 24 hours." I don't see any mention of children being an exception.

Roger

Thursday 3rd of July 2025

What if your a Permanent Resident?