Tax Refund Tourist USA information

How to get Tax Refund in USA as Tourist, Resident for Shopping ? FAQs

America is one of the best places to buy clothes, electronics, etc. You get the best value for the money spent. If you are a tourist from Asia or Europe, you will find the prices much cheaper when you buy things in the US at outlet malls.

Many are not aware that you may be able to get tax refunds as a tourist if you buy in some states like Texas in the US. In this article, we will cover all the details on how to get tax refunds, the requirements and conditions, and address some commonly asked FAQs.

Do you get a Tax Refund for Shopping in the US at Malls or Online Stores?

It depends on the US state you do shopping in. If you shop in certain states like Texas, you will likely get a tax refund for your purchases in the US as a tourist. The US Government or US Tourism websites do not have a published list that says that you get a Sales Tax Refund when you buy things in a certain US state.

It is unclear if you would get a tax refund if you buy stuff online. You need to check with the online retailer on this, as this depends on where you ship your goods and how the seller will charge you state tax. Also, even if you get a refund, there are way too many conditions to get a decent refund back. We will look at these details in later sections of the article.

Tax Refund:  State Sales Tax vs. Federal Sales Tax?

In America, there is no Federal Sales Tax (national-level sales tax). When you buy goods in the US, the respective State or Local Government charges you State Sales Tax . The US Federal Govt., usually imposes customs duty or tariffs on the federal level and is not charged directly to the end consumer.

The sales tax you pay for shopping in the US goes to the respective state govt. or local govt and does not go to the federal government.  So, you usually get the State Sales Tax or Local Govt. Sales tax as a refund if you are exporting the goods outside of the US.

Below is a reference image from Taxfoundation.org that shows approximate State tax by the state for your reference.

Sales Taxes in the US by State for Year 2023

As you would usually get the State Tax as a refund, it is important for you to review the respective tax you paid for you to get an estimate. You can see that in the purchase receipt. There will be a section that clearly tells as Sales Tax. That is nothing but the State Sales Tax.

Below is one of the purchases in Houston, Texas, done by me for your reference. You can see the Sales Tax highlighted to get an idea.

Sales Tax Receipt for Refund in US as Tourist Sample

The US Government does not refund Sales Tax to Visitors

US Customs and Border Protection has clarified on the CBP website that says the below:

“The United States Government does not refund sales tax to foreign visitors. Sales tax charged in the United States is paid to individual states, not the Federal government …” . – US Customs and Border Protection(CBP) Website

It means that the US Federal Government on a country level does not refund any sales tax and you need to check with the respective US State, where you made the purchase from.

Check the below screenshot from the US CBP Website that clarifies the tax refund status from the US Govt. side.

US Sales Tax Refund Clarification by CBP Website - 2023

Hence, it is important to be clear that the Sales Tax refund completely depends on the US State, where you purchased your goods as a visitor and has nothing to do with the US Govt. or Federal Govt. We will look at some states and requirements to get a tax refund in the next section.

Requirements to get Tax Refund in USA as Tourist or Resident

The requirements to get a tax refund varies by the US State. Also, they are slightly tricky to get a decent refund, as they force you to purchase more at a single store. Most of the requirements or conditions are common for foreigners and US Citizens. The only difference is where they can claim a tax refund and when.

Below are the general requirements for Tax Refund for Tourists

  • Minimum Amount : Depending on the state, there is a minimum amount of tax you need to have per receipt or purchase from a brand store or outlet store. In Texas, you need to have a minimum of $12 tax per receipt or combined receipts from the same brand stores. Technically, in Texas with an 8.25%  sales tax, you need to purchase for at least $150 USD in a single store or brand outlet to be eligible for the refund.
  • Original Receipts : You need to submit original receipts at the Tax refund counter. They do not accept duplicate, photocopy, or reprint sales receipts. You need to submit the first original receipt that is printed. No digital or e-mail receipts are accepted unless it is an online purchase item from a brand store and if the receipt has the delivery address of the goods in that state. You need the packaging slip of delivery for online purchases.
  • Within 30 days: You need to have the purchase done within 30 days from the day of your international travel or departure date from the US.
  • International Travel : You get a refund only if you are traveling outside of the US, and the items you buy will stay outside of the US. Technically exporting it to another country. That’s why they ask for the original receipt and take it for a refund. It means that the sale is final in the US, and there are no returns for the same goods you bought here in the US.
  • Physical Inspection : You need to show your item purchased for physical inspection and it has to be in new and unused condition with all the tags.
  • Passport, I-94 / Entry Stamp : You need to show your Visa/ Passport and I-94 with an entry stamp on it if holding a foreign passport.
  • Departure Information / Flight Tickets : You need to show your international departure info or flight ticket itinerary. For US citizens, you need to show the boarding pass to get a tax refund.
  • Items should Depart US & State: The items purchased in the US must be taken with you and should depart the state you purchased in and America.
  • Food or Services: No refund for food or services purchased.
  • Participating Stores: You get Tax Refund only if you purchase goods from the participating stores. This depends on the state as well. In Texas, they claim the stores’ list is over 6,500+ stores…but watch out for the brands. I purchased from a few brands that were not eligible for a refund, such as Abercrombie & Fitch.
  • Instant Cash : If you want instant cash, it is a 50% processing fee for a tax refund.
  • Check / PayPal : If you want a check or can get a refund to PayPal, then it is 35% of the tax refund. Also you may also be charged $4 USD for every single store or brand purchase.
  • Refund Locations: Both US Citizens and non-US citizens can claim tax refunds at all major international airport terminals. They usually would have a Tax refund desk at these locations. Check the airport for the details on the terminal. Also, if you are a non-US citizen, then you can even claim tax refunds at certain mall locations in the state. Check the state website for the exact locations in a state. For example, for Texas, here are the refund locations .
  • Tax Refund Policies: Tax refund policies can vary by state, and there is no standard sales tax percentage set as well. You should check the Sales Tax and Tax Refund policies in that respective state before you shop to ensure you get a tax refund. For instance, if you shop in Delaware, there is no sales tax, so no refund. For policies in Texas, check out Requirements for Sales Tax Refund in Texas

Tips for Tax Refund as a Tourist or Resident in the US

Overall, a Tax refund is definitely a good thing, if you are doing a lot of shopping and taking it home. The only downside is that you have to give the original receipt of purchase. I did shopping for over $900 USD, but could not get a sizable tax refund as I did not know all of these facts and conditions. If you plan it ahead of time, you may be able to get a decent tax refund. Below are some tips

  • Duplicate Receipt / Re-prints : When you buy your item, request a duplicate receipt or re-print of the receipt. You can use this duplicate receipt for a warranty in your home country or international location.
  • Take a Photo of Original Receipt: Take a picture of the original receipt and if requested by the warranty location outside of the US, then you can use the photo and duplicate the receipt.
  • Buy maximum at One Brand Store: Make sure you pick a few brands and do shopping in those brands’ outlets so that you meet the minimum requirement of a Tax refund. If not, you will not be eligible for a tax refund, as you will miss out on the minimum. I did not get anything as I bought in multiple brands and they were less than $150 purchase per store, so I was not meeting the minimum amount of tax refund in Texas.
  • Register for Warranty: If you are buying an electronic item and if there is an option to register online, register for warranty, when you have the original receipt.

Common FAQs

We have addressed some of the commonly asked questions below.

The sales tax refunds are paid by the respective State Govt. or local Govt. where you made the purchases. It is a state sales tax refund and not a Federal govt refund. IRS does not give any sales tax refunds.

Yes, your visa status does not matter for tax refunds. All visa types are eligible, including H1B, L1, F1, etc.  Anyone traveling outside of the US is eligible for a tax refund. All the tax refund conditions described in the above article apply to everyone.

Yes, US Citizens are also eligible for a tax refund, provided they travel outside the US within 30 days after the purchase of the goods. You can only claim it at airports on the day of your departure. All the conditions and requirements are described in the above article

When you shop in America, you are not subject to Value Added Tax (VAT) or Goods and Services Tax (GST). The concept of VAT and GST exist in many countries, but in the US it is different, and you are only subject to Sales Tax when you do shopping.

This depends on the state and if they offer the tax refund. In certain states, if they charge sales tax and have a policy in place to refund sales tax, then you would likely get the tax refund. It is best to check with the online vendor and then the state policy for the same.

What are your experiences with tax refunds as tourists? Did you get any tax refund as a Resident? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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63 comments.

I purchased a phone & watch at Apple Store in Cielo Vista Shopping Mall, El Paso, Texas, US and was directed to speak with MEARS for Tax Refund.

Unfortunately, I was told Tax Refund only applies to items purchased within 15 days to departure plus Customers will NEED to come a day before departure with the goods, receipts, passport and flight tickets.

I lost about USD $90.00 worth of Tax…Such a pain to get Tax Refund.

Pratik, Sorry to hear. Thanks for sharing your experience. It will help community.

Hey, I’m Emin from Armenia, currently I’m in the USA as an exchange student, and I’m going to leave the US in 26 days, before going back I want to get a new phone for my brother(going to buy online). So can I get a refund when I leave the US for the phone?

p.s. I’m hosted in New Mexico( and the phone is going to be iPhone 14 pro)!

Thank you in advance.

Hi Emin, As mentioned, everything depends on the state. I believe, New Mexico does not give anything as such. I suggest, you can double check with them to ensure, if there is any options left.

How about Items purchased on Amazon in Texas? Are those eligible for tax refund?

Ganesh, Usually, online purchases also have to pay Sales Tax. If so, you can claim the same. You can check Texas Gov website on the online shopping sales tax policy. I have not done it personally, so cannot really say. Give it a try, you lose nothing. Also do update here on how it goes for community benefit.

I didn’t get the tax refund for a apple product purchased in Atlanta. Asked info counter guys and it seems no one knows and unfortunately without refund travel back. How i can apply online? Can i get in touch with Apple store.

Shoeb, Atlanta does not have this as far as I know. No, you cannot apply online.

Can tax refund available from Columbus airport (John Glenn Columbus) . I am flying back to my country as i bought some item for gift and my own personal use.

I didn’t know I had to do this at the airport before leaving NY and now I’m back home. Can’t I ask for a tax refund online for the online purchases?

Onna, No, you cannot do that. It is only done at airports.

Hi, i am interested About it because i asked at the Miami (Florida) AirPort And people had no clue what i am asking for. Could you advise me what to look for at the AirPort next time ? What office please? Thank you . Juliana

I would also like to know that, as i am traveliong to miami in the next few weeks .

Hi, i am interested About it because i asked at the Miami (Florida) AirPort And people had no clue what i am asking for. Could you advise me what to look for at the AirPort next time ? What office please? Thank you

thank you for the info and please do write that article .. I am sure it will be a lot of work but it will help all of us

Jasmina, Sure, will do.

Hello Kumar! Thank you so much posting this. I am very impressed with how much information you know (thank you for making my job easier haha). Since the U.S. Government does not charge a national sales tax, it is up to each state to be in charge of that. And so with 50 states comes with 50 different tax policies. Unfortunately, out of all the 50 states, only TWO states offers tax refund on purchases. And that is Louisiana and Texas. There are states that don’t charge sales tax at all (Alaska, Oregon, Montana, Delaware, and New Hampshire) but there are restrictions in some of them so I would suggest doing more research. Since I am involved in the Texas Tax Refund industry, I will only be speaking on behalf of Texas. Pretty much the experience you went through can only happen in Texas. All the requirements, process, and fees are only applied in the state of Texas ONLY. Louisiana has different requirements so I would suggest do research on that as well. Besides that, that’s all pretty much I have to say. Every else you said was SPOT ON! Thank you SO MUCH for posting this. It will help people a lot! Feel free to reply back if there are any questions!

Texas Tax Refund Informer, Thanks for the kind words and sharing inputs. Would you mind sharing, how you were able to say only two states offer Tax refund ? Is there any official govt link or source, that can help clarify to users on this ? I will do research. many have asked how it works for other states and it is not fully clear and not credible online sources. As you are in that industry, would you mind giving any pointers on where to look or official sources ?

Yes definitely!

US: There is NO tax refund on the national level. Even U.S. Customs and Border Protection said it themselves. “The United States Government does not refund sales tax to foreign visitors. Sales tax charged in the U.S. is paid to individual states, not the Federal government – the same way that VAT is paid in many countries.” Link: https://help.cbp.gov/s/article/Article-373?language=en_US

Louisiana: I am not familiar with how Louisiana operates, but I would recommend starting from Louisiana Tax Free Shopping (https://www.louisianataxfree.com/) and the Louisiana Department of Revenue (http://revenue.louisiana.gov/).

Texas: To my best knowledge, there are currently three companies that process tax refunds. They are TaxFree Shopping (http://www.taxfreetexas.com/), Texas Tax Back (https://txtaxback.com/), and 4N Service (https://www.4nservice.com/). TaxFree Shopping is the biggest and the most well-known company among the three. Interesting fact, the requirements needed to process tax refund in all three companies are exactly the same because the requirements are actually state laws governed by the Texas Tax Code (https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/?link=TX) and the Texas Administrative Code (https://texreg.sos.state.tx.us/public/readtac$ext.TacPage?sl=R&app=9&p_dir=&p_rloc=&p_tloc=&p_ploc=&pg=1&p_tac=&ti=34&pt=1&ch=3&rl=360).

The other 48 states and to answer your question in general: When it comes to finding out each state’s tax refund policies, I would first look into two things: Import-Export Laws and Customs Broker. Let me explain: On the national level (U.S. Government), we have the “Import-Export Clause” of the U.S. Constitution and we have what is called a customs broker. Customs brokers are kind of like the customs officials you see at EU airports that need to check your merchandise before finishing the tax refund process. However, customs brokers are NOT customs officials, they are private individuals (or companies) who were trained and certified by the U.S. Government to perform certain export and import duties on their behalf. And so with that, the Texas Government (on the state level) took both of those things and added in more rules. Texas took the “Import-Export Clause” and put in more laws, creating the “Texas Import-Export Laws,” and it expanded the role of customs broker, creating their own “Texas Customs Broker.” And so with the creation of both of those, that’s how the Texas Tax Refund Industry was founded. Those are definitely the topics that I would recommend looking into when it comes to researching other states.

Texas Tax Refund Informer, Thank you so much for the details. Now, it is clear. I will try to write up an article highlighting your feedback. It is really important info that you shared and will help many. Appreciate you taking the time !

hello, i’m buying crashed cars from usa auction like copart or iaai, can i get tax refund? Thank you

tomaa, No, this is for consumers only who buy stuff from retail stores.

i am Indian and i have shopped in Chicago USA and i want tax back paid by me in shopping.

Yugesh, I am not sure, if you can claim tax refund from IL state…

Hello do you know if am eligible for tax refunds in San Francisco if I bought all my goods from Amazon

Simon, I am not aware of Tax refund for tourists in San Francisco. I don’t recall seeing anything in airport as well. You may call the airport to double check.

It is the first time I know about this tax refund.I wonder why they add sale tax to the amount of purchase then they refund sale tax to you.If I buy some Iphones in US, get tax refund at the airport then bring back to US after vacation outside US. That means I can buy iphone without sale tax?

It all varies by state, hard to say, there is no unified tax refund rules in US…In states like Texas, if you are tourist, you get the tax refund as explained above.

Thank for sharing!.

I was in Florida for 2 weeks, I purchased an Iphone 11 Max Pro, 2 Airpods, and many electronic products from Best Buy at millenia store orlando. and I asked the people there, a staff at apple store how can i claim the tax back. He mention that I can claim either at the airport, but on the days of my departure, I was hurry to airport for 6hours earlier my departure. I asked the airport central information desk, she looks at me like i am a criminal and said ” we don’t do any tax refund this country of United State” once you buy it, you have to pay for the tax. and I was like, whatt!!! OKEY I’M DONE. and i am not able to claim them sale tax i bought during my stay in FL in last fall 2019.

Tola, Every state is different, if the airport does not have an option, then very likely that state does not offer anything as such.

I buy goods from online stores like Amazon, ebay, Wayfair I ship to a post box in WA but live near the border in Canada. Then I go down and stay for a day or two and then I am allowed to take back $50. or $200. So since I ship to the US I am paying WA state tax am I allowed a refund of the sales tax on small item purchases? All items don’t come from WA but from other states but since shipped to WA. I pay the sales tax. I collected the on line receipts for one year but have no idea if I should bother trying to get the sales tax back? I do not have shipping labels but on the invoices there are tracking numbers and delivery dates clearly showing.

Judy, I am not sure, how it would work for WA. You would need to check with WA state, some of these are state centric. Check with the state and then see, if you can use the receipts.

Hello I was in Ohio for two weeks and asked at the Outlet if they refunded our taxes and they looked at me like I was a crazy person. And I flew via Boston Airport ad I has asked in the past if the had a tax office but again got the crazy look. Then to top it off I was stopped by our local customs at the airport and treated like a criminal for over an hour and paid 96 euros. This is crazy there should e an easy process to receive our taxes. We shouldn’t have to pay taxes twice like I did.

Rose, Sorry to hear about your situation. Taxes are paid only once. Duty free is not common in all US states and can vary..Now, what exactly happend at airport ? Why did you had to pay again, if you already paid taxes ? Please share the details for the community benefit.

Shocking!!! So many versions about Tax Refund but at the end of the day, they will try to discourage all tourists. I was in NYC two weeks ago and neither of the Airports has Tax refund offices. But in contrast, when they come to Europe, they expect to get all of it refunded, so is this FAIR????

Ana, Unfortunately, it is not very consistent in US across the states. Many countries do tax refund as you said…Well, wish everyone did it…

Im from London and just came back from New York City after doing some Christmas shopping. I was shocked to discover JFK airport does NOT have a tax refund office. I would have thought it was a major airport?

None of the major store workers knew anything about how to claim and no-one had forms available in store.

Mandy, It varies by state. If they are not aware of it, then that state does not offer it. Let me write up an article on this by state.

Does Austin Airport not have the Tax Refund Facility? My flight is today directly from Austin to Frankfurt

I am an Australian visiting US. I have placed an online order with Lenova for a laptop to be delivered in LA, which I will collect. I will be leaving to Australia from New York on the 30th of December. Can I get a tax refund for this from the NY airport and what is the process. Any info will help. Thanks

vas, You need to check with New York Airport. They had it in Houston Airport, not sure about NY. Write to them or search online. Do update here for community benefit after you research.

Hi I am leaving San Diego airport and wondering if there is tax refund desk at San Diego airport? thanks

Hong, As per my knowledge California does not have the Tax refund scheme. So, San Diego may not have it.

Hi Guys, do you have any Update regarding New York Tax refund for tourists? im traveling soon and trying to find out more about this, but none of the airports (Laguardia or JFK) knew what I was talking about… Maybe in some malls or government offices?

Amoi, No, New York also does not seem to have the tax refund thing. You can double check, when you shop, but I highly doubt it.

Hi! I’m from Costa Rica, I’m planning a trip to Florida by the end of November, and I want to buy many goods to export them to my origin country.

Do I have to do something on every shop when buying? Show my passport? Is there a specific office in the airport for ask this refund? Thanks!

I’m form Mexico, I bought a laptop in bestbuy online to pick up at the physical store, I went to the store from Monterrey, Mexico to McAllen, US in car, in other words, I didn’t went to the airport so how would I recover the taxes of the laptop? I’m in Mexico already and I picked up the laptop 3 days ago.

Jorge, It is probably not possible now as you have already exited the country. They need to see the product and receipt before you exit the country.

I’m citizen of EU. I purchased some items on US internet pages while being in US. Unfortunately, I didn’t get any receipts or invoices with my delivered goods. Is there a way to get Tax Refund when I leave US?

Konstantin, You need receipts or some purchase proof to claim the same in airport. If you have no proof, then you cannot claim anything…

I’m a Mexican citizen and resident, who plans to by a Mac at San Antonio. Yet, I need to use it during my 4-day visit. Does it mean I won’t get a refund, even if I show the case, ticket and wrapping? Best regards!

Luis, In general, they look at the Receipt and the item that you are exporting out of the US. If you do it in a week and carry it, should be fine. You may use it, as it is computer, it does not matter…You just need to show the product that you bought at the airport, when they ask.

I’m a Canadian citizen travelling to Seattle by car. What if you’re not flying out from US but using a port of entry by a car? Are you still eligible for VAT refund at a Port of Entry?

Dave, It totally varies by state, most of the times, they are at Airports…you need to check, if they have something on your way back to Canada…

I am from Texas! I am thinking to take an iphone which i want to take to my home country. I checked with stores of tax refund. They were asking for my passport and making some copies of my receipts. Will that affect any of my status here.

It will NOT affect your status or anything. It is just for their documentation to give you refund.

Hey planning to take the new iPhone from Indiana state USA to India. Will i be able to get a tax refund and if yes where can i avail that. tried to find the locations but couldnt find any. Can you please help me out on this?

I’m a US resident, flying to Australia in 2 weeks. I want to buy a new, expensive camera to bring to my extended family in Australia. I checked and Chicago Ohare doesn’t list a tax desk and neither does LA. Is it possible to get the tax back at all?

angel, Everything varies by state. Some states like texas has it, I have not come across that for IL. You can try calling any of the outlets and inquiring, if there is such practice. The Outlet malls would tell, if there is any provision as such.

Thanks for sharing this information with us. This information is really interesting and good. Keep sharing this type of articles with us.

California does not provide Sales Tax Refund. See this Q-n-A on Quora https://www.quora.com/Can-overseas-visitors-get-a-refund-of-the-sales-tax-paid-in-California

BEST Dear Redbus2us Owner Excellent Details a lot of thanks

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These Cities — Including 3 in the U.S. — Have the Most Expensive Tourist Taxes in the World, Study Shows

Honolulu, San Francisco, and Los Angeles make the list.

us tourist tax

The Hawaiian city of Honolulu charges the highest tourist tax in the world, adding hundreds of extra dollars to travelers' weekly budgets.

Honolulu typically charges $62.85 per night per person, which can vary depending on the cost of a room, according to a Money.co.uk study published this month and shared with Travel + Leisure . That equates to more than $439 in tax for a seven night stay.

The study found the reason for the exorbitant charge is a combination of Hawaii's 10.25% "transient accommodations tax" and Honolulu's additional 3% surcharge.

The study, which looked at the average tourist tax charged per night in the most visited cities around the world, found the three most expensive cities for tourist taxes were in the United States. San Francisco took the No. 2 spot, charging $36 per night, or $251.99 per week-long stay, while Los Angeles came in at No. 3, charging $23.49, or $164.40 for a week.

Amsterdam , which took the No. 4 spot overall, was the most expensive city in Europe with a nightly tax of $11.53.

Warm-weather vacation destinations also aren't cheap. A week-long stay in Orlando could add $98.69 to travelers' budgets. And Cancun , which is very popular with U.S. travelers, will cost $76.94 per week. In fact, Mexico charges about $11.10 to leave the country, the largest flat rate, according to the study.

Several destinations are in the process of adding taxes, including Venice , which will charge day-trippers a fee from 3 euros to 10 euros per person, depending on the time of year and how crowded the city is. The tax is expected to go into effect on Jan. 16, 2023. The city currently charges a 5 euro per night tax for overnight hotel visitors.

Europe as a whole also plans to introduce a 7 euro fee in May 2023 as part of the new European Travel Information and Authorisation System (or ETIAS). The authorization will be valid for three years or until the expiration date of someone's travel document.

Alison Fox is a contributing writer for Travel + Leisure. When she's not in New York City, she likes to spend her time at the beach or exploring new destinations and hopes to visit every country in the world. Follow her adventures on Instagram .

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Can U.S. tourists get a sales tax refund when leaving the country?

by TaxJar August 5, 2021

I remember traveling in Ireland and a nice shopkeeper reminding me that I could get any VAT I paid as a tourist back before leaving the country. How handy! But that led me to wonder, since the U.S. is so fragmented (what with 46 states and Washington D.C. all administering their own sales tax), does the U.S. do the same thing for tourists when it comes to sales tax?

The short answer is: not really.

But there are some exceptions. Let’s take a look at what tourists from outside the U.S. can expect when it comes to a sales tax refund. 

There’s No Federal US Sales Tax

Before we get into the how of sales tax refunds, it is first important to understand the “why.” Unlike Europe, where a nationwide value added tax (VAT) is applied to most transactions, the U.S. allows each state to set their own sales tax rules and laws. 

Sales tax is charged at the point of sale and is a percentage of the price of the product. Sales tax is a “consumption tax,” meaning that it is charged for use of the product. That’s why a retailer who is buying a product to resell does not have to pay sales tax while an end user does have to pay sales tax – because they are the one “consuming” the product. 

And even if sales tax weren’t a consumption tax, because the U.S’s sales tax is fragmented among the forty-six different states (and Washington D.C.) that all have a sales tax, there’s no easy or commonsense way for a tourist in the U.S. (especially one who has traveled and made purchases in multiple states) to collect any sales tax paid before leaving the country.

Exceptions to the Tourist Sales Tax Refund Rule

According to the Sales Tax Institute , there are a few exceptions which allow international tourists to claim sales tax paid. They are:

  • Louisiana tax free shopping program – Individuals traveling in the U.S. for less than 90 days and who hold a foreign passport, US Visitor’s Visa and an international transportation ticket to leave the country can apply for a refund on sales tax paid at a few qualifying retailers. Learn more at the Louisiana Tax Free Shopping Program website .
  • Texas private sales tax refunds – Some private companies in Texas will refund the sales tax paid by international visitors who shop at certain stores. This is very limited, and requires the buyer to purchase from a participating store and provide proof such as original receipts, travel documents, flight or transportation numbers and even spend a certain amount of sales tax per store in order to participate. 
  • Washington non-resident sales tax exemption – The state of Washington provides a sales tax exemption to buyers who make a purchase of an item in Washington but do not intend to use the item in the state of Washington. Learn more about Washington’s non-resident sales tax exemption here .

You can also read more about each program here: “ I am visiting from another country. Can I get a refund of sales tax paid? ”

Diplomatic Sales Tax Exemptions

Diplomats serving in the U.S., as well as their families and dependents, are not required to pay sales tax. In this case, the diplomat and their contingent are given a sales tax exemption card. According to the U.S. Department of State, “Diplomatic tax exemption cards can generally be used to obtain exemption in person and at point-of-sale from sales taxes and other similarly imposed taxes on purchases of most goods and services, hotel stays, and restaurant meals in the United States.” 

These cards must be presented each time the diplomat is required to pay sales tax. The vendor must look up the card’s validity or risk having to pay the unpaid sales tax out of pocket. 

You can learn more about the U.S. diplomatic sales tax exemption here .

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Hawaii Is the Latest Place to Consider a Tourist Tax—Here's Where Else Travelers Need to Pay to Enter

By Olivia Morelli

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Hawaii is the latest destination to consider taxing visitors to help address the effects of climate change and overtourism, two issues that are particularly front of mind in the Aloha State following the devastating Lahaina fire .

The so-called climate tax is part of a bill first introduced in January that could pass as early as this spring. If approved, visitors to Hawaii would be charged a $25 flat fee during check-in at hotels and short-term rentals. The money would go onto support sustainability initiatives in the state including wildfire and flood prevention, coral reef restoration, emergency water supplies, green infrastructure, and coastal restoration.

The concept of tourist tax isn’t a new one. They have long been the norm for many countries in Europe such as Greece, Spain, and Germany, and hotel tax is standard across many destinations, including US states. The impact of the pandemic on the travel industry was severe—hotels, restaurants and hospitality venues closed, people that relied on tourism for their livelihoods suddenly faced huge losses, and money that the government relied on for development and maintenance was depleted. As a result, many countries have decided to implement a tourist tax to help support local needs. Below, we take a look at what exactly tourist tax is, and which places are introducing the measure for 2024.

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Bhutan's tourist tax (one of the most expensive fees on the list) recently decreased from $200 to $100 per night.

What is tourist tax?

Originally, tourist tax was introduced by certain governments with the aim of tempering overtourism and generating income from large numbers of travelers entering the destination. Bhutan , for example, has asked tourists to pay a significant sum of money to enter since it opened to international visitors in 1974. The country uses the tax (called the Daily Sustainable Development Fee) in an attempt to preserve the country’s natural, undisturbed beauty and to protect traditional Buddhist culture . Barcelona , meanwhile, uses the city’s tourist tax to fund local construction and development projects. Most tourist taxes are added onto the cost of your accommodation in the form of a percent or flat fee.

Which destinations will begin imposing tourist taxes in 2024?

  • This January, Iceland reintroduced its tourist tax following a pandemic hiatus.
  • The Indonesian government began taxing travelers visiting Bali from February 14, 2024.
  • In 2024, the UK is imposing a new system called an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), whereby visitors from the US, Europe, Australia, and Canada will be required to apply for permission and pay to enter the country.
  • Pro tip: Next year, the EU will begin implementing a new tourist visa , whereby non-EU citizens traveling from outside the Schengen zone will need to fill out a €7 (around $7.57) application to enter the country.

woman carrying basket of flowers

Bali started charging tourists a $10 entrance fee on February 14, 2024.

Which destinations currently impose tourist tax?

The below destinations currently impose tourist taxes on travelers entering the country, but the amount of tax charged changes frequently. While we have included some guidance on projected costs, make sure you check with your accommodation or the tourism board for each destination before traveling.

  • Austria : The cost of tourist tax is typically added onto your accommodation bill, and is around 3.2% in Vienna.
  • Belgium : In Brussels, the tourist tax is typically below $5 and is added onto your accommodation bill, but it varies from city to city.
  • Bhutan : Visitors to Bhutan are required to pay a daily Sustainable Development Fee of $100 per person.
  • Bulgaria : Tourist tax in Bulgaria varies on destination and hotel standard, but it is usually below $2.
  • Caribbean islands: Most of the Caribbean islands charge tourist tax, and the price ranges depending on the island–in St Lucia, for example, it is around 8%, whereas in the Dominican Republic it is 18%.
  • Croatia : The cost of tourist tax in Croatia depends on the season you are traveling in and where you are staying.
  • Czech Republic: In Prague , tourist tax typically costs around CZK 50 per night (around $2).
  • France : Tourist tax here is based on a municipal rate, but the standard cost is typically under $6 a night. As of this January, the nightly visitor fee in Paris has increased to between $3 and $17, dependent on hotel type.
  • Germany : It varies from city to city–in Berlin , the standard tourist tax is 5% of the accommodation price.
  • Greece : The price you pay in Greece depends on the standard and size of your accommodation. It shouldn’t be more than $5 per night.
  • Hungary : Travelers should expect to pay around 4% of the cost of accommodation per night.
  • Iceland: The newly reintroduced fee applies to travelers staying at campsites (about $2), hotels (about $4), and cruises (about $7).
  • Italy: Venice will begin charging tourists a €5 nightly fee (about $5.50) in 2024.
  • Indonesia: Starting on February 14, travelers will have to pay 150,000 rupiah (around $10) upon entering Bali .
  • Italy : Depending on the city, tourist tax can be somewhere between $1 and $8 per night.
  • Japan : If you’re traveling to Japan, expect to pay 1,000 yen (about $6.65) in tourist tax.
  • Malaysia : In 2023, the cost of tourist tax across Malaysia was approximately $2 per night.
  • New Zealand: Travelers visiting New Zealand have to pay an International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) which costs $35 NZD (about $22).
  • Portugal : The country charges tourist tax in 13 cities, including Lisbon and Porto . The cost is about $2 per night.
  • Thailand : The tourist tax for travelers visiting Thailand is 300 baht (about $8) for visitors arriving by air and 150 baht (about $4) for those arriving by land or water.
  • The Netherlands : Amsterdam is one of Europe’s most expensive places for tourist tax–currently the rate states at 7% of accommodation price plus a flat rate of €3 (about $3.24) per person per night.
  • Switzerland : The price varies depending on the destination, and it ranges from about CHF 2 (about $2.30) to CHF 7 (about $8) per person per night.
  • Slovenia : Again, the rate changes from destination to destination (it is higher in cities than in more rural areas), but generally the cost is around €3 (about $3.24).
  • Spain : Several cities in Spain have recently decided to raise the price of tourist tax, and other cities are in discussions about following suit. In Barcelona, the fee is €4 (about $4.30), whereas in the Balearic Islands the fee is between €1 (about $1.10).
  • USA: When traveling to the US, visitors need to apply for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization), which is a type of visa allowing travellers to stay in the country for up to 90 stays. It is valid for two years. The cost of an ESTA is $21. A version of this article was originally published on Condé Nast Traveller UK .

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USA Today on Tourism Taxes

USA Today has a great piece by Dennis Cauchon reviewing some of the increases in state tourism taxes this year:

Taxes on travel are soaring as states and cities target the wallets of tourists and business travelers for new revenue.

Hotel taxes, car rental fees and other charges were jacked up in many states in an effort to balance budgets by last week, when the fiscal year started in 46 states.

Popular tourist destinations were hit especially hard. Among places where taxes rose:

Hawaii . The hotel room tax A tax is a mandatory payment or charge collected by local, state, and national governments from individuals or businesses to cover the costs of general government services, goods, and activities. increased from 7.25% to 8.25% on Wednesday and will rise to 9.25% in July 2010. Nevada . The room tax will increase up to 3 percentage points, to a maximum of 12%. In Las Vegas, the hotel tax jumps from 9% to 12%. Reno’s tax was already 12% and is not scheduled to change. New Hampshire . The tax on rooms and restaurant meals rose from 8% to 9% and was extended to include recreational vehicles at campgrounds. Massachusetts . Cities were given authority to raise the hotel tax from 4% to 6%, in addition to the state tax of 5.7%. Taxes on eating out will rise from 5% to 6.25% statewide, plus another 0.75% if cities choose. New York City. The city, which raised its hotel tax March 1 to 14.25%, not counting other fees, will start charging more for Internet reservations.

Tourism-related business (rental car companies, hotels, etc.) has been fighting against a national trend to foist new taxes on non-residents who have no political power within the state. From a policy perspective, this gouging of non-residents is the wrong approach to taxation. States should focus on enacting simple broad-based taxes without favoring one type of purchase or purchaser over another. Indeed, if every state taxes hotel rooms in a competitive fashion, then a race to higher rates is going on, with each state taxing other states’ residents.

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Overcrowded Venice

These are all the destinations you’ll need to pay extra to visit this year

More and more popular travel destinations are introducing tourist taxes to tackle problems caused by overtourism – here’s what you’ll have to pay

Liv Kelly

This year, international travel is forecast to bounce back to the highest levels since 2019 – and while that’s great news for the tourism industry in general, many cities, attractions and entire regions are suffering under the weight of overtourism .

The potential for damage to historic sites, unhinged tourist behaviour  and the simple issue of overcrowding are all common consequences of overtourism. That’s why a growing list of popular travel destinations have introduced a tourist tax, with the hopes of controlling visitor numbers and improving local infrastructure to better cater to higher visitor capacity. 

Many countries and cities introduced a tourist tax in 2023, and many more are due to launch theirs in 2024. Tourist taxes aren’t a new thing – you’ve probably paid one before, tied in with the cost of a plane ticket or the taxes you pay at a hotel. 

However, more destinations than ever before are creating this fee for tourists, and many places have increased the cost of existing ones. Here’s a full list of all the destinations charging a tourist tax in 2024, including all the recently introduced and upcoming tourist taxes you need to know about. 

Austria charges visitors a nightly accommodation tax which differs depending on province. In Vienna or Salzburg , you could pay 3.02 percent per person on top of the hotel bill. 

Belgium , like Austria, has a nightly fee. Some hotels include it in the rate of the room and add it separately to your bill, so read it carefully.

The rate in Brussels is charged per room, and varies depending on the size and rating of your hotel, but is usually around €7.50. Antwerp also charges per room. 

Bhutan has always been known for its steep tourist taxes and charges. In 2022, the Himalayan kingdom  tripled the amount it charged visitors in tax  to a minimum of  $200 per day , but that amount has since been lowered. In 2024, the daily fee for the majority of visitors is  $ 100,  and that is due to continue until August 31, 2027. 

Bulgaria applies a fee to overnight stays, but it reaches a maximum of only €1.50. 

Caribbean Islands

The following Caribbean Islands charge a tourist tax, ranging from between €13 to €45: Antigua and Barbuda, Aruba, the Bahamas, Barbados, Bermuda, Bonaire, the British Virgin Islands, the Cayman Islands, Dominica, the Dominican Republic , Grenada, Haiti, Jamaica, Montserrat, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Maarten, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, and the US Virgin Islands. 

The tax tends to be tied into the cost of a hotel or a departure fee. 

Croatia only charges its visitors a fee of 10 kuna (€1.33) per night during peak season. 

Czechia (also known as Czech Republic)

Czechia only applies a fee to those travelling to Prague . It doesn’t apply to those under the age of 18, and is less than €1 per person, per night. 

France ’s ‘taxe de séjour’ varies depending on city, and tends to be added to your hotel bill. It varies from €0.20 to €4 per person, per night. 

Earlier this month, Paris announced it would be increasing its fee by up to 200 percent for those staying in hotels, Airbnbs, and campsites, but that it plans to put the funds towards improving the city’s services and infrastructure. 

READ MORE: The cost of visiting Paris will soar this summer – here’s why

Germany charges visitors a ‘culture tax’ (kulturförderabgabe) and a ‘bed tax’ (bettensteuer) in certain cities, including Frankfurt , Hamburg and Berlin , which tends to be around five percent of your hotel bill. 

Greece ’s tourist tax is based on numbers. Specifically, how many stars a hotel has, and the number of rooms you’re renting. The fee was introduced by the Greek Ministry of tourism to help pay off the country’s debt, and can be anything from €4 per room.

Hungary charges visitors four percent of the price of their room, but only in Budapest . 

Iceland is introducing a tourist tax to protect its ‘unspoilt nature’ this year, which will cost between  €4 to €7 per night. It comes after annual tourist numbers reached an estimated 2.3 million per year. 

In Indonesia , the only destination which charges a tourist tax is Bali , and the fee is set to increase this February  to $10 (£7.70, €8.90, IDR 150,000) – but is a one-time entry fee, not a nightly tax. It apparently goes towards protecting the island’s ‘environment and culture.’

Much like in France, Italy ’s tourist tax varies depending on your location. Rome ’s fee is usually between €3 to €7 per night, but some smaller Italian towns charge more. 

Venice finally announced in September that its tourist tax, a €5 (£4.30, $5.40) fee which will be applicable on various days during high season, will launch in 2024. It only applies to day-trippers rather than those staying overnight, though.

Japan has a departure tax of around 1,000 yen (€8). 

Malaysia has a flat-rate tax which it applies to each night you stay, of around €4 a night. 

New Zealand

New Zealand ’s tax comes in the from of an International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy of around €21 which much be paid upon arrival, but that does not apply to people from Australia. 

Netherlands

The Netherlands has both a land and water tax. Amsterdam is set to increase its fee  by 12.5 percent in 2024, making it the highest tourist tax in the European Union. 

Portugal has a low tourist tax of €2, which applies to all those over the age of 13. It’s only applicable on the first seven nights of your visit and applies in 13 Portuguese municipalities, including Faro, Lisbon and Porto.   

Olhão became the latest area to start charging the fee between April and October. Outside of this period, it gets reduced to €1 and is capped at five nights all year round. The money goes towards minimising the impact of tourism in the Algarve town. 

Slovenia also bases its tax on location and hotel rating. In larger cities and resorts, such as Ljubljana and Bled, the fee is higher, but still only around €3 per night. 

Spain 

Spain applies its Sustainable Tourism Tax to holiday accommodation in the Balearic Islands to each visitor over the age of sixteen. Tourists can be charged up to €4 per night during high season. 

Barcelona ’s city authorities announced they plan to increase the city’s tourist tax over the next two years – the fee is set to rise to €3.25 on April 1, 2024. The council said the money would go towards improving infrastructure and services. This is in addition to regional Catalan tax. 

Switzerland

Switzerland ’s tax varies depending on location, but the per person, per night cost is around €2.20. It tends to be specified as a separate amount on your accommodation bill. 

Thailand 

Thailand introduced a tourist tax to the price of flights in April 2022, in a similar effort to the Balinese aim of moving away from its rep as a ‘cheap’ holiday destination. The fee for all international visitors is 300 baht (£6.60, $9). 

The US has an ‘occupancy tax’ which applies across most of the country to travellers renting accommodation such as hotels, motels and inns. Houston is estimated to be the highest, where they charge you an extra 17 percent of your hotel bill. 

Hawaii  could be imposing a ‘green fee’ – initially set at $50 but since lowered to $25 – which would apply to every tourist over the age of 15. It still needs to be passed by lawmakers, but if approved, it wouldn’t be instated until 2025.

The European Union

Finally, the European Union is planning on introducing a tourist visa , due to start in 2024. The €7 application will have to be filled out by all non-Schengen visitors between the ages of 18 and 70, including Brits and Americans. 

READ MORE: Why sustainable tourism isn’t enough anymore

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The pros and cons of a tourist tax

Visitor levies can boost tourism but a lack of transparency troubles critics

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Aerial view of Cardiff Bay

1. Pro: pays for costs of tourism

2. con: consumer spending squeeze, 3. pro: avoids overtourism, 4. con: discourages visitors, 5. pro: supports investment, 6. con: lack of transparency.

Visitors to Wales could soon be paying more for an overnight stay amid plans to introduce a tourism tax in the country.

If the plans are confirmed Wales would follow in the footsteps of Manchester , which has introduced a tourist tax for people making overnight stays in the city and comes into operation tomorrow, said the BBC .

Many destinations around the world have tourism taxes, noted VisaGuide , including Barcelona, Venice, Thailand and Slovenia. It has proven a controversial topic though, with disagreement over whether it boosts the tourism industry or threatens its very survival.

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Supporters say a tourism tax can lead to the increasingly elusive goal of a well-managed, sustainable, and lucrative tourism industry, with the costs of tourism being picked up in a well-run way.

Recommending that the Welsh government should introduce a tourist tax, the Bevan Foundation argued that such a move would “help to reflect the true costs of tourism” such as “clearing up litter, providing car parking, keeping beaches clean” and “building public footpaths”.

Some feel that adding yet more pounds to the cost of a holiday is dangerous during a cost-of-living crisis. The tourism sector in Edinburgh is, for the most part, “vocally opposed to the introduction of a tourist tax, particularly in the current economic climate”, claimed Holyrood magazine.

Marc Crothall of the Scottish Tourism Alliance told the outlet that 60% of visitors are domestic, who “may at present be reaching a tipping point due to a consumer spending squeeze”.

By increasing the cost to visit certain areas, a tourist tax can help reduce overcrowding and make the experience more enjoyable. This can help avoid “overtourism” – where locals or visitors feel that there are too many tourists, leading to deterioration in quality of life.

For instance, Bhutan has “only ever been reluctantly open to tourists”, said The Times , but now the mountain kingdom is “cranking its tourism tax to an eye-watering level” by charging up to $200 (£161) a day in tax.

The flipside is that by increasing the cost of visiting a particular location, tourism taxes could discourage some tourists from choosing destinations that actively want more visitors.

Some “deem this sort of levy unnecessary or even detrimental to the sector – driving away visitors or limiting their spending during their visit”, said accountants Knights Lowe . However, in a poll, hoteliers in Manchester voted 80% in favour of the tourist tax, said EuroNews , suggesting that fears it could damage tourism are not widespread.

A tourist tax can generate additional cash for the local government and tourism industry, which can be used to fund infrastructure and services that benefit tourists and residents alike.

“From signage to facilities to the myriad of public realm improvements that make places attractive”, tourism infrastructure comes “at public cost”, said the Bevan Foundation, and “while the public do benefit, so too does the tourism industry”, so both parties should chip in.

Some suspect that tourism taxes will simply disappear into wider local authority budgets. Perhaps the “largest challenges” of a tourism tax is “ensuring transparency around how it’s used”, said Rosie Spinks on Skift .

If the money “just goes into a general pot because local finances are strained”, said Tim Fairhurst, secretary general of the non-profit European Tourism Association, and if it’s just seen as “a classic ‘tourists don’t vote, you can get easy money off them’”, then that is “not a smart way to go”.

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Tourist tax: These are the destinations you’ll have to pay to enter

By Olivia Morelli

Sunset view of the Grand Canal

The concept of tourist tax isn’t a new one. City tax has long been the norm for many countries in Europe such as Greece , Spain and Germany , and hotel tax is standard across many destinations, including US states. The impact of Covid on the travel industry was severe – hotels, restaurants and hospitality venues closed, people that relied on tourism for their livelihoods suddenly faced huge losses, and money that the government relied on for development and maintenance was depleted. As a result, while travel continues to normalise post-pandemic, many countries have decided to implement a tourist tax to boost economies and reinvigorate locals. Below, we take a look at what exactly tourist tax is, and which countries are introducing the measure for 2024.

A top view on the most famous temple of Bhutan

What is tourist tax?

Originally, tourist tax was introduced by certain governments with the aim of tempering over-tourism and generating income from large numbers of travellers entering the destination. Bhutan, for example, has asked tourists to pay a significant sum of money to enter since it opened to travellers in 1974. The country uses the tax (called the Daily Sustainable Development Fee) in an attempt to preserve the country’s natural, undisturbed beauty and to protect traditional Buddhist culture. Similarly, Barcelona uses the city’s tourist tax to fund construction and development projects locally – typically it is around €5 per day per person. Most tourist taxes are added onto the cost of your accommodation.

Tourist tax These are the destinations youll have to pay to enter

Which destinations will begin imposing tourist taxes in 2024?

  • In Italy , Venice are charging day tourists a fee as of spring 2024
  • The Indonesian government has announced that a tourist tax will be imposed on travellers visiting Bali from 14 February 2024
  • In 2024, the UK is imposing a new system called an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), whereby visitors from the US, Europe, Australia and Canada will be required to apply for permission and pay to enter the country .
  • Next year, the EU will begin implementing a new tourist visa, whereby non-EU citizens travelling from outside the Schengen zone will need to fill out a €7 application to enter the country.

woman carrying basket of flowers

Which destinations currently impose tourist tax?

The below destinations impose tourist taxes on travellers entering the country, but the amount of tax charged changes frequently. We have included some guidance on projected costs, but make sure you check with your accommodation or the tourism board for each destination before travelling to be sure how much you need to pay.

  • Austria : the cost of tourist tax is typically added onto your accommodation bill, and is around 3.2 per cent in Vienna .
  • Belgium : in Brussels tourist tax is mainly below £3.50, and is added onto your accommodation bill, but it varies from city to city.
  • Bhutan : since September 2023, the daily Sustainable Development Fee in Bhutan has dropped to £157 for adults.
  • Bulgaria : tourist tax in Bulgaria varies on destination and hotel standard, but it is usually below £1.30.
  • Caribbean Islands: most of the Caribbean islands charge tourist tax, and the price ranges depending on the island – in St Lucia , for example, it is around 8 per cent, whereas in the Dominican Republic it is 18 per cent.
  • Croatia : the cost of tourist tax in Croatia depends on the season you are travelling in and where you are staying, but it ranges from 20p to 70p per day.
  • Czech Republic: in Prague, tourist tax typically costs around CZK 50 per night (around £1.71).
  • France : here tourist tax is based on a municipal rate, but standard cost is between 20p and £4.30 per night.
  • Germany : it varies from city to city – in Berlin, the standard tourist tax is five per cent of the accommodation price.
  • Greece : the price you pay in Greece depends on the standard and size of your accommodation. It shouldn’t be more than £3.50 per night.
  • Hungary : travellers should expect to pay four per cent of the cost of accommodation per night.
  • Indonesia: from Wednesday 14 February 2024, travellers will have to pay 150,000 rupiah (£7.60) upon entering Bali.
  • Italy : depending on the city, tourist tax can be somewhere between 80p and £6.10 per night.
  • Japan : if you’re travelling to Japan , expect to pay 1,000 yen (about £5.50) in tourist tax.
  • Malaysia : in 2023, the cost of tourist tax across Malaysia is £1.68 per night.
  • New Zealand: travellers visiting New Zealand have to pay an International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) which costs $35 NZD (£16.80)
  • Portugal : this country charges tourist tax in 13 cities, including Lisbon and Porto . The cost is £1.75 per night.
  • The Netherlands : Amsterdam is one of Europe’s most expensive places for tourist tax – currently the rate states at seven per cent of accommodation price plus a flat rate of €3 (£2.61)per person per night
  • Switzerland : the price of tourist tax here varies depending on the destination, and it ranges from about CHF 2 (£1.81) to CHF 7 (£6.34) per person per night.
  • Slovenia : again, the rate changes from destination to destination (it is higher in cities than in more rural areas), but generally the cost is around €3 (£2.61)
  • Spain : several cities in Spain have recently decided to raise the price of tourist tax, and other cities are in discussions about following suit. In Barcelona , the fee is €4 (£3.48), whereas in the Balearic Islands the fee is between €1 (87p).
  • USA: when travelling to the USA from the UK, visitors need to apply for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorisation), which is a type of visa allowing travellers to stay in the country for up to 90 stays. It is valid for two years. The cost of an ESTA is $21 (about £17)

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us tourist tax

Vacationing at these destinations? You will pay tourist taxes, fees

Travelers may encounter a tourist tax or fee depending on their destination.

That additional travel cost could come up if a person visits one of the slew of places around the world that have such charges. Factors that spurred the taxes can vary, ranging from climate change to overtourism, according to reports.

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Five locales with tourist taxes or fees include:

The roughly $5.35 daily tourist access fee for Venice, home to the Rialto Bridge, Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica, launched as a pilot on Thursday after it received the go-ahead from city officials in mid-September. It targets day-trippers coming into the city between 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. and is required on specific dates in April, May, June and July during the test period.

International tourists can face an "International Tourist Tax" while exiting Japan, per the Japanese National Tax Agency . It amounts to about $6.30 per departure and must be paid by those taking planes or boats to do so.

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While the city’s nightly tax for travelers staying at tourist accommodations has existed for quite some time, it went up at the beginning of the month, becoming about $3.47. It is capped at seven nights. Catalonia, the region where Barcelona is located, also has a graduated tourist tax that’s size is determined by one’s accommodation, according to The Points Guy.

Bhutan, nestled in the Himalayas in Asia, asks most tourists to hand over nightly Sustainable Development Fees of $100 for adults and $50 for ages 6-12. It charges a differently-priced fee from those coming from India. The money goes toward "various projects that create long-term, sustainable opportunities for the Bhutanese people," the country’s department of tourism website said. 

New Zealand’s tourist tax, called the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy, costs $35. Tourists encounter it during the visa application process. The country requires it for "most people entering New Zealand on a temporary basis" such as vacation and certain student and short-term work visas, according to the government. 

Travel and tourism provides major benefits to local economies and the global economy alike.

Countries around the world will see travel and tourism produce $11.1 trillion in 2024, according to a report recently released by the World Travel & Tourism Council.

TRAVEL AND TOURISM TO BREAK RECORDS, BRING OVER $11 TRILLION IN 2024: REPORT

Part of that will include spending by international travelers. They will reportedly contribute $1.89 trillion, according to the WTTC.

Original article source: Vacationing at these destinations? You will pay tourist taxes, fees

Mount Fuji and the Shinjuku skyline seen from an observation deck in Tokyo, Japan, on Tuesday, Dec. 26, 2023. Japan's industrial output in November is scheduled to be released by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry on Dec. 28. Photographer: Akio Kon/Bloomberg via Getty Images Getty Images

Traveling Abroad? Tourist Taxes Have Increased in These Cities

If you plan on traveling abroad, you may be charged higher tourist taxes. Here’s where —and when — your vacation might cost more.

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Grand canal Venice Italy traveling abroad

When traveling abroad, tourist taxes are probably the last expense on your mind. After all, plane tickets, hotel stays, and food and entertainment costs can easily add up to several thousand dollars. But tourist taxes can make your vacation more expensive, and they’re going up in some places.

Tourist taxes make traveling abroad more expensive 

Tourist taxes are exactly what they sound like — taxes aimed at tourists to generate revenue for local economies. These taxes help offset costs and negative impacts of tourism and over-tourism, like littering. But, you might not have realized you’re paying tourist taxes, though, because they are usually levied indirectly through a hotel accommodation or other provider. 

For example, in the U.S., the room occupancy tax on a hotel stay in Connecticut is 15%, despite the state imposing a regular sales tax rate of 6.35%. The difference in the tax rate is a kind of tourist tax. (It’s not uncommon for rental cars to come with additional taxes that operate as tourist taxes, either.) 

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But if you’re traveling abroad this year, here are some destinations where international tourist taxes are increasing.

Frequent Flyer Tax Could Raise Billions for Climate

Europe tourist visa

You may be in luck if you plan to visit Europe this year. That’s because your days of visiting Europe with only a passport will end in 2024. While not technically a travel visa, the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETAS) will be required for visiting 30 European countries. The good news is that applications will be available online, but applying will come with a €7 ($7.64) fee. 

  • Travelers under the age of 18 don't need to pay the application fee.
  • Adults over the age of 70 are also exempt from paying the fee.

According to the European Unio n , the implementation of the ETAS will impact an estimated 1.4 billion travelers. The law was previously set to become effective this year, but delays in the requirement’s implementation has bought vacationers a little more time.

What You Need to Travel to Europe in 2024

Barcelona is a top tourist destination in Spain, with more than 12 million visitors per year, according to Barcelona Metropolis . Tourist taxes are nothing new in the city since Barcelona has been imposing taxes on vacationers since 2012. But the fee increased in spring of 2023 and is set to increase again next year. 

  • This past April, the per-night visitor fee increased to €2.75 (or $3.00), which is €1 ($1.09) more per night than vacationers were used to paying.
  • In April 2024, the nightly fee in Barcelona will jump to €3.25 ($3.55).

This increase may not seem like much, but those who choose five-star hotels will pay a higher tourist tax of €6.75 (or $7.36) per night. That comes out to €189 (or just over $206) per week for a family of four (based on a per-person fee), in tourist taxes alone.

Living Abroad for a While? Shakira Case Shows Taxes Matter — Wherever

Valencia is another popular vacation spot in Spain, and travelers must pay to stay in this city, too. Even if you choose to stay at a campsite rather than a hotel, you can expect to pay a tourist tax. 

Valencia’s tourist taxes range from 50 cents to €2 (or up to $2.18) per night, but revenue generated from the taxes will go toward a good cause, creating more affordable housing for residents. 

Travel Medical Insurance: What You Need to Know

Approximately 19 million people visit Venice, Italy every year, according to the travel magazine, Vacations & Travel . That’s probably not a surprise given the city’s world-famous architecture and art. But if you’re planning a day trip to Venice in 2024, be prepared to pay a fee between €3 to €10 (or $3.27 to $10.91) per person when booking. 

One of the reasons for the new ‘day-tripper’ tax is to encourage visitors to stay for longer periods, according to Simone Venturini , the Deputy Mayor of Venice for Tourism, Social Welfare, Healthcare, Economic Development, Labour and Housing Policy

Best Travel Rewards Credit Cards for 2023

Olhão

Olhão, Portugal, might be a lesser-known vacation destination, but the Algarve town is a popular spot for some tourists who love to fish. And the impacts of tourism have not all been positive. 

To minimize some negative effects of tourism, such as pollution, in the area, the fishing town will implement a new tourist tax of €2 ($2.18) per night. But some exceptions may help you save some money.

  • The tax will be reduced by half, to €1 ($1.09), between November and March.
  • The tourist tax doesn’t apply to children under age 16.
  • The fee in Olhão only applies to the first five nights.

Honorable Mention: Thailand

Thailand has repeatedly delayed a tourist tax, but the new fee may soon go into effect. If implemented, those flying into Thailand would pay a fee of roughly $8 (300 baht), and those arriving by land or water would be charged approximately $4 (150 baht).

The 10 Cheapest Countries to Visit

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Katelyn has more than 6 years’ experience working in tax and finance. While she specializes in tax content, Katelyn has also written for digital publications on topics including insurance, retirement and financial planning and has had financial advice commissioned by national print publications. She believes that knowledge is the key to success and enjoys helping others reach their goals by providing content that educates and informs.

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Tax exemptions

Tourism tax refunds.

You may be entitled to a refund of some taxes included in the price of your ticket if you meet the applicable criteria for exemptions and your itinerary involves:

  • Travel between the U.S. and Mexico (including travel between Canada and Mexico via the U.S.)
  • International travel departing Belize, Colombia or Trinidad and Tobago
  • International travel arriving into Colombia

All refund claims must be submitted within 12 months of ticket issuance.

Belize Airport Development Tax (BU) exemptions

  • Airline crew on duty
  • Belizean citizens with a valid passport, Belizean resident card or a naturalization certificate
  • Ministers of government, members of the national assembly, or members of the diplomatic and consular corp
  • Military personnel
  • Mayors of municipalities
  • Official of international organizations
  • Caribbean community secretariat personnel traveling on official business
  • Minister and officials of other government visiting Belize at the invitation of the Belize government
  • Public officers traveling on official business
  • Approved scholarship holders leaving Belize to study abroad and sports and cultural groups representing Belize who been accredited by the government.

Belize Airport Departure Tax (FV) exemptions

Belize conservation tax (fu) exemptions.

  • Infant under the age of two
  • Children under the age of 12

Belize International Security Fee (FW) exemptions

Colombia tourism tax (js) exemptions.

  • Passengers arriving to Colombia on international flights and connecting with international flights within 24 hours or less
  • Passengers arriving on international flights and connecting with domestic flights or stopping in Colombia for more than 24 hours are NOT exempted.

Colombia Resident Exit Tax (DG) exemptions

  • Infants under the age of two
  • Children under the age of five
  • Government officials
  • Non-Colombian residents whose stay does not exceed 60 days in Colombia
  • Sports delegations accredited by the national government
  • Colombians residents abroad whose stay does not exceed 180 days in Colombia
  • Transiting Colombia within 24 hours unless on domestic to international sector transit
  • Students with government grants
  • Airline staff traveling on duty

Mexico Tourism Tax (UK) exemptions

  • Mexican citizen (Passport)
  • Resident of Mexico (permanent or temporary) holding a Mexico Visa
  • Transit/transfer passenger remaining less than 24 hours in Mexico; passengers stopping over in Mexico aren’t entitled to a refund

Mexico Departure Tax (TUA) (XD) exemptions

  • Diplomat (does not include staff or U.S. Embassy in Mexico)

If your travel is not complete and you meet the exception criteria, please contact us for assistance.

  • Reservations and ticket changes

If you've completed all travel and think you’re entitled to a refund, please contact Refunds to submit a claim.

Receipts and refunds

Trinidad and Tobago Passenger Service Charge Tax exemptions

  • Passengers who are 60 years or above and is a citizen or a resident of Trinidad and Tobago
  • Members of the Trinidad Tobago defense force of the armed forces of any country traveling on official duty
  • Members of the crew of any aircraft or ship are exempt
  • Transiting Trinidad Tobago within 24 hours unless on domestic to international sector transit
  • Involuntary rerouting due to technical difficulties, weather conditions or other valid reasons
  • Passengers arriving on international flights and connecting with domestic flights or stopping in Trinidad and Tobago for more than 24 hours are not exempted

us tourist tax

Documenting Tourism Tax for Travel from the U.S. to Mexico   

Delta and Aeromexico will continue to collect the Tourism Tax (UK Tax) for tickets on DL006 and AM139 ticket stock issued on/after July 1, 2021, for travel that originates from the United States to Mexico. As a reminder, this tax is part of the fare auto-price.

This Tourism Tax may be waived for citizens of Mexico. To waive the UK tax, Travel Agents will need to add the traveler’s Mexican-issued Passport Number in an OSI in the traveler’s PNR. A few examples are provided below:

Amadeus: OS AM MEXICAN PAX ID NUMBER XXX/P2 

Sabre: OSI AM MEXICAN MEX ID NUMBER -1.2 

Please note: OSI formats may differ per GDS. Please contact your GDS Help Desk if you have a question regarding OSI formats.

Travel Agencies may be held responsible and subject to a debit memo for the Tourism Tax amount and ADM charges in the event the tax is not included on the ticket or the OSI information is not included on the PNR, if waiving the tax for Mexican citizens.

If you have any questions or require more information, please contact Global Sales Support or Delta Reservations for assistance. 

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  • Tourist Development Tax

Onward January 9, 2019 Services Grid

In an effort to go green and save the taxpayers money, WE WILL NO LONGER BE PRINTING AND MAILING THE TOURIST DEVELOPMENT TAX RETURN FORMS. The tax return forms may be obtained by clicking the link below.

We encourage property owners to save money by filing online through tourist express. tourist express allows a 2.5% discount of the first $1,200.00 of tax due, or a maximum of $30.00 if the return is paid by the 20th day of the month following the reporting period..

**CLICK HERE FOR THE TOURIST DEVELOPMENT TAX RETURN FORM**

**CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR TOURIST EXPRESS**

ONLINE RENTAL PLATFORMS

The tax collector does not have an agreement or contract with online platforms, such as airbnb, vrbo, etc., these online platforms do not remit the 5% tourist development tax to our office., it is the homeowner's responsibility to ensure the tax is remitted to the tax collector., all rental properties also require a local business tax, regardless of how long the property is being rented, contact information:, tourist development tax collections.

[email protected] ; (305) 295-5058 [email protected] ; (305) 295-5068 [email protected] ; (305) 295-5011

AUDIT & ENFORCEMENT

[email protected] ; (305) 295-5062

FRAUDULENT RENTAL HOTLINE

[email protected] ; 1-855-422-4540

Please note: Florida has a broad public records law. Any information you send via email, including your contact information, may be subject to public disclosure.

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What is a Tourist Development Tax?

Tourist Development Tax is a 5% tax on the total rental amount collected from every person or other party who rents, leases, or lets for consideration living quarters or accommodation in any hotel, apartment hotel, motel, resort motel, apartment, apartment motel, rooming house, mobile home park, recreational vehicle park, or condominiums for a period of 6 months or less. This tax is collected by the Monroe County Tax Collector pursuant to Monroe County Code, Chapter 23, “Taxation,” Article VI, as authorized by Florida Statute 125.0104. The local Tourist Development Tax is in addition to the 7.5% State of Florida Sales and Use Tax remitted to the Florida Department of Revenue.

Who Must Collect the Tax?

Any person (business) who rents or leases any transient accommodations for a period of 6 months or less.

How Much is the Tax and What Charges are Taxable?

The Tourist Development Tax is 5% of the gross monthly revenue. Any separately stated mandatory charges to the guests are considered part of the total consideration to rent the transient accommodation, and therefore, are taxable.

Credit card fees  MAY NOT be deducted from the gross rentals (Section 501.0117(1), Florida Statutes). A seller or lessor may not impose a surcharge on the buyer or lessee for using a credit card in lieu of payment by cash, check, or similar means, if the seller or lessor accepts payment by credit card. A surcharge is any additional amount imposed at the time of a sale or lease transaction by the seller or lessor that increases the charge to the buyer or lessee for the privilege of using a credit card to make payment.

Taxable charges include but are not limited to:

  • Cleaning fees
  • Traveler service fees
  • Processing fees
  • Resort fees
  • In-room safe fees
  • Rollaway beds
  • Refrigerators

Non-taxable charges include:

  • Damage deposits
  • Optional travel insurance

Who is Exempt from Tourist Development Tax?

Any person who has entered into a bona fide written lease for longer than six (6) months in duration for continuous residence.

Any person who has continuously resided for 6 months and has paid the tax imposed for this time shall become exempt on the seventh month and every month thereafter provided he or she continues to reside at the same location.

Anyone who is exempt from paying state sales tax. These include federal government employees and other government agencies (state, county, city, etc.), full-time students, active duty military personnel, churches, and nonprofit organizations that have a sales tax exemption number from the Florida Department of Revenue.

When is the Tax Due?

The tourist development tax is due to the Tax Collector's Office monthly. It is due on the 1st day of the month following the reporting period and becomes delinquent if not paid or postmarked by the 20th day of the month following the reporting period. All owners/operators must submit a return even if no taxes were collected for the month.

What Happens When the Tax Becomes Delinquent?

If the return and payment are not filed with the Tax Collector by the 20th day of the month following the reporting period, the tax is considered delinquent. This applies to individuals filing online through Tourist Express as well.  The penalty is 10% of the tax due for each month or a fraction of a month that the return is delinquent. The penalty is a minimum of $50 and up to a maximum of 50% of the tax due. The interest rate is variable. You will need to contact the Tourist Development Tax Department at (305) 295-5058 for the current rate.

Terminating the Property Management of a Rental Property

Notify the Tourist Development Tax Department by emailing [email protected] or [email protected] and include the date you terminated, the location of the property, the owner's name and their current mailing address. The tourist tax account will be updated.

Save Money by Filing Online Through Tourist Express

For your convenience, we allow online payments for Tourist Development Tax through  Tourist Express . Property owners that have signed up for Tourist Express  are entitled to deduct 2.5% of the first $1,200.00 of tax due, or a maximum of $30.00 if the return is paid by the 20 th  day of the month following the reporting period. In order to be eligible for Tourist Express , the property owner must already have an active Tourist Development Tax account.

Click here to sign up for  Tourist Express

Application for Monroe County Tourist Development Tax

  • Application for Tourist Tax Account
  • Blank Tax Return
  • Request to Close Account

Applications for Rental Companies and Property Managers

  • Application for Rental Companies and Property Managers
  • Owner/Agent Agreement
  • Consolidated Tax Returns

Any correspondence may be mailed to:

Sam C. Steele, CFC Monroe County Tax Collector Attn: Tourist Development Dept. PO Box 1129 Key West, FL. 33041-1129

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Visitor Visa

Visa Waiver Program

Travel Without a Visa

Citizens of Canada and Bermuda

Generally, a citizen of a foreign country who wishes to enter the United States must first obtain a visa, either a nonimmigrant visa for a temporary stay, or an immigrant visa for permanent residence. Visitor visas are nonimmigrant visas for persons who want to enter the United States temporarily for business (visa category B-1), for tourism (visa category B-2), or for a combination of both purposes (B-1/B-2).

Here are some examples of activities permitted with a visitor visa:

Business (B-1)

  • Consult with business associates
  • Attend a scientific, educational, professional, or business convention or conference
  • Settle an estate
  • Negotiate a contract

Tourism (B-2)

  • Vacation (holiday)
  • Visit with friends or relatives
  • Medical treatment
  • Participation in social events hosted by fraternal, social, or service organizations
  • Participation by amateurs in musical, sports, or similar events or contests, if not being paid for participating
  • Enrollment in a short recreational course of study, not for credit toward a degree (for example, a two-day cooking class while on vacation)

Travel Purposes Not Permitted On Visitor Visas

These are some examples of activities that require different categories of visas and cannot be done while on a visitor visa:

  • Paid performances, or any professional performance before a paying audience
  • Arrival as a crewmember on a ship or aircraft
  • Work as foreign press, in radio, film, print journalism, or other information media
  • Permanent residence in the United States

Visitor visas will also not be issued for birth tourism (travel for the primary purpose of giving birth in the United States to obtain U.S. citizenship for their child).

How to Apply

There are several steps to apply for a visa. The order of these steps and how you complete them may vary by U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Please consult the instructions on the  U.S. Embassy or Consulate website .

Complete the Online Visa Application

  • Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application, Form DS-160 – Learn more about completing the DS-160 . You must: 1) complete the online visa application and 2) print the application form confirmation page to bring to your interview.
  • Photo – You will upload your photo while completing the online Form DS-160. Your photo must be in the format explained in the Photograph Requirements .

Schedule an Interview

Interviews are generally required for visa applicants with certain limited exceptions below. Consular officers may require an interview of any visa applicant.

You should schedule an appointment for your visa interview at the  U.S. Embassy or Consulate  in the country where you live. You may schedule your interview at another U.S. Embassy or Consulate, but be aware that it may be more difficult to qualify for a visa outside of the country where you live. 

Wait times for interview appointments vary by location, season, and visa category, so you should apply for your visa early. Review the interview wait time for the location where you will apply: 

Appointment Wait Time

Check the estimated wait time for a nonimmigrant visa interview appointment at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

Note: Please check the individual Embassy or Consulate website to determine if your case is eligible for a waiver of the in-person interview.

Applicants scheduling visa appointments in a location different from their place of residence should check post websites for nonresident wait times.

Select a U.S. Embassy or Consulate:

Prepare for your interview.

  • Fees - Pay the non-refundable visa application fee , if you are required to pay it before your interview. If your visa is approved, you may also need to pay a visa issuance fee, if applicable to your nationality. Fee information is provided below:

Select your nationality to see Issuance Fee

  • Review the instructions available on the website of the  U.S. Embassy or Consulate  where you will apply to learn more about fee payment.

Gather Required Documentation

Gather and prepare the following required documents before your visa interview:

  • Passport valid for travel to the United States – Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your period of stay in the United States (unless exempt by country-specific agreements ). Each individual who needs a visa must submit a separate application, including any family members listed in your passport.
  • Nonimmigrant Visa Application, Form DS-160 confirmation page.
  • Application fee payment receipt, if you are required to pay before your interview.
  • Photo – You will upload your photo while completing the online Form DS-160. If the photo upload fails, you must bring one printed photo in the format explained in the Photograph Requirements .

Additional Documentation May Be Required

Review the instructions for how to apply for a visa on the website of the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you will apply. Additional documents may be requested to establish if you are qualified. For example, additional requested documents may include evidence of:

  • The purpose of your trip,
  • Your intent to depart the United States after your trip, and/or
  • Your ability to pay all costs of the trip.   

Evidence of your employment and/or your family ties may be sufficient to show the purpose of your trip and your intent to return to your home country. If you cannot cover all the costs for your trip, you may show evidence that another person will cover some or all costs for your trip.

Note:  Visa applicants must qualify on the basis of the applicant's residence and ties abroad, rather than assurances from U.S. family and friends. A letter of invitation or Affidavit of Support is not needed to apply for a visitor visa. If you choose to bring a letter of invitation or Affidavit of Support to your interview, please remember it is not one of the factors used in determining whether to issue or deny the visa.

Attend Your Visa Interview

A consular officer will interview you to determine whether you are qualified to receive a visitor visa. You must establish that you meet the requirements under U.S. law to receive a visa.   Ink-free, digital fingerprint scans are taken as part of the application process. They are usually taken during your interview, but this varies based on location.

After your visa interview, the consular officer may determine that your application requires further  administrative processing .  The consular officer will inform you if this required.

After the visa is approved, you may need to pay a visa issuance fee (if applicable to your nationality), and make arrangements for the return of the passport and visa to you.  Review the  visa processing times  to learn more.

Entering the United States

A visa allows a foreign citizen to travel to a U.S. port-of-entry (generally an airport) and request permission to enter the United States. A visa does not guarantee entry into the United States. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials at the port-of-entry have authority to permit or deny admission to the United States. If you are allowed to enter the United States, the CBP official will provide an admission stamp or a paper Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record. Learn more about admissions and entry requirements, restrictions about bringing food, agricultural products, and other restricted/prohibited goods, and more by reviewing the CBP website .

Extending Your Stay

See  Extend Your Stay  on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website to learn about requesting to extend your stay beyond the date indicated on your admission stamp or paper Form I-94. 

Failure to depart the United States on time will result in being  out of status . Under U.S. law, visas of individuals who are out of status are automatically voided ( Section 222(g) of the Immigration and Nationality Act ).  Any multiple entry visa that was voided due to being out of status will not be valid for future entries into the United States. 

Failure to depart the United States on time may also result in you being ineligible for visas in the future. Review  Visa Denials  and  Ineligibilities and Waivers: Laws  to learn more.

Change of Status

If your plans change while in the United States (for example, you marry a U.S. citizen or receive an offer of employment), you may be able to request a change in your nonimmigrant status to another category through U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). See  Change My Nonimmigrant Status  on the USCIS website to learn more.

While you are in the United States, receiving a change of status from USCIS does not require you to apply for a new visa.  However, once you depart the United States you must apply for a new visa at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate in the appropriate category for your travel.

Additional Information

  • An individual on a visitor visa (B1/B2) is not permitted to accept employment or work in the United States.
  • There is no guarantee you will be issued a visa. Do not make final travel plans or buy tickets until you have a visa.
  • A valid U.S. visa in an expired passport is still valid. Unless canceled or revoked, a visa is valid until its expiration date. If you have a valid visa in your expired passport, do not remove it from your expired passport. You may use your valid visa in your expired passport along with a new valid passport for travel and admission to the United States. 

Travel for Medical Treatment

If you are seeking medical treatment in the United States, the consular officer may ask for further documents at your visa interview, which may include:

  • Medical diagnosis from a local physician, explaining the nature of the ailment and the reason you need treatment in the United States.
  • Letter from a physician or medical facility in the United States, stating they are willing to treat your specific ailment and detailing the projected length and cost of treatment (including doctors’ fees, hospitalization fees, and all medical-related expenses).
  • Proof that your transportation, medical, and living expenses in the United States will be paid. This may be in the form of bank or other statements of income/savings or certified copies of income tax returns (either yours or the person or organization paying for your treatment).

Visitor Visas for Personal or Domestic Employees (B-1)

You may apply for a B-1 visitor visa to work in the United States as a personal or domestic employee for your employer in limited situations. You may work in the United States on a visitor visa if your employer is:

  • A U.S. citizen who has a permanent home or is stationed in a foreign country, but is visiting or is assigned to the United States temporarily; or
  • A foreign citizen who is in the United States on one of the following nonimmigrant visa categories:  B, E, F, H, I, J, L, M, O, P, or Q.

Learn more about your rights in the United States and protection available to you by reading the Legal Rights and Protections pamphlet.

Visa Renewal

Whether you are applying for the first time or renewing your visa, you will use the same application process (please review How to Apply , above). Some applicants seeking to renew their visas in certain visa classes may be eligible for the Interview Waiver (IW) which allows qualified individuals to apply for visa renewals without being interviewed in person by a U.S. consular officer. Review the instructions on the website of the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you will apply to determine if the IW is available and if you qualify.

Do I need a visa if I have an ABTC?

Yes, you will still need a visa to travel to the United States, unless you qualify for the  Visa Waiver Program . Having an Asian-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Business Travelers Card (ABTC) does not change visa requirements, your visa status, or the visa process for travel to the United States.

How can I use my ABTC when I apply for my visa?

If you have an Asian-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Business Travelers Card (ABTC),  you might be able to schedule an expedited visa interview appointment. Review the instructions for scheduling expedited appointments on the website of the  embassy or consulate  where you will apply. 

Visa Annotations for Certain Maritime Industry Workers

Certain foreign maritime workers are eligible to apply for a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) once in the U.S. If you, as a maritime industry worker, will perform services in secure port areas, your visa must be annotated “TWIC Letter Received.” Workers whose visas are not annotated will not be permitted by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to apply for a TWIC.

In order for your visa to be annotated, you must obtain a letter from your employer explaining the need for a TWIC and that you are a potential TWIC applicant. See a template example of this letter. You must present this letter when you apply for the B-1 visa. You must meet all other eligibility requirements for a B-1 visa. 

Complete information about the TWIC program is available on TSA’s website at  https://www.tsa.gov/for-industry/twic .

Visa Denial and Ineligibility

Review  Visa Denials  for detailed information about visa ineligibilities, denials and waivers.

I was refused a visa, under Section 214(b). May I reapply?

Yes, if you feel circumstances have changed regarding your application. Review  Visa Denials  to learn more.

Misrepresentation or Fraud

Attempting to obtain a visa by the willful misrepresentation of a material fact, or fraud, may result in the permanent refusal of a visa or denial of entry into the United States.

Review  Ineligibilities and Waivers: Laws .

Citizens of Canada and Bermuda do not require visas to enter the United States, for visit, tourism and temporary business travel purposes. For more information see  U.S. Embassy Ottawa website ,  U.S. Consulate Hamilton website  and  CBP website .

Additional resources for Canadian visitors to the United States can be found on the U.S. Embassy and Consulate websites in Canada.

Citizens of China

In accordance with the agreement signed between the United States and China to extend visa validity, beginning on November 29, 2016, Chinese citizens with 10-year B1, B2 or B1/B2 visas in Peoples’ Republic of China passports will be required to update their biographical and other information from their visa application via a website every two years, or upon getting a new passport or B1, B2, or B1/B2 visa, whichever occurs first.  This mechanism is called EVUS - Electronic Visa Update System.

The EVUS website is now open to the public for enrollments at www.EVUS.gov .  CBP will not collect a fee for EVUS enrollment at this time. CBP anticipates the eventual implementation of an EVUS enrollment fee, but does not have a time frame. Until the implementation of a fee, travelers can enroll in EVUS without charge.  The Department of Homeland Security, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will keep visa holders informed of new information throughout the year. For further information, please visit  www.cbp.gov/EVUS .‎

根据美中双方签署的延长签证有效期的协议,自2016年11月29日起,凡持有10 年 期B1,B2 或 B1/B2签证的中华人民共和国护照持有人需要每两年或在获取新护照或最长有效期的B1、B2或B1/B2签证时时(以先到者为准),通过网站更新他们签证申请上的个人资料及其它信息。这个机制我们称之为EVUS –签证更新电子系统。

EVUS的登记网站 www.EVUS.gov 现已开放接受登记。美国海关和边境保护局(CBP)目前不会收取登记费用。美国海关和边境保护局预期EVUS登记收费最终会实施,但目前尚未落实执行时间。在收费实施前,旅客可以免费完成EVUS登记。美国国土安全部海关和边境保护局将在今年及时向签证持有人公布最新的信息。获取更多的信息,请访问 www.cbp.gov/EVUS 。

Citizens of Mexico

Citizens and permanent residents of Mexico generally must have a nonimmigrant visa or Border Crossing Card (also known as a "Laser Visa"). For ease of travel, the B-1/B-2 and the Border Crossing Card have been combined into one document (DSP-150). Select  Border Crossing Card  to learn more about this card.

Please visit  U.S. Embassy or Consulate  websites for more information regarding applying for a visa at the U.S. Embassy or Consulates in Mexico.

Further Questions

  • Case-Specific Questions - Contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate handling your visa application for status information. Select  U.S. Embassy or Consulate  for contact information.
  • General Questions - review  Contact Us .

Visa Waiver Program  (VWP)

Tourist or business travelers who are citizens of participating countries may be eligible to visit the United States without a visa. Visits must be 90 days or less, and travelers must meet all requirements.

Citizens of Canada and Bermuda generally do not need visas for tourism and visits.

More Information

A-Z Index Legal Rights & Protections Lost/Stolen Travel Documents Denials Fraud Warning Visa Expiration Date Automatic Revalidation Nonimmigrants in the United States–Applying for Visas in Canada or Mexico Visa Applicants - State Sponsors of Terrorism Border Security/Safety Find a U.S. Embassy or Consulate Customer Service Statement

External Link

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Pay your VISITAX when visiting Quintana Roo Mexico (Cancun, Playa del Carmen , Cozumel , Tulum)

As of April 1, 2021, all international visitors to the state of Quintana Roo in Mexico should pay a tourism tax . The permit is issued by the Mexican State Authorities and is valid for the whole period of stay in Quintana Roo.

3 Easy Steps To Obtain the Tourism Tax Receipt

1. complete the form online.

Complete the Form Online

The tourism tax can be honored with your credit card or PayPal account.

Mode of Payments

3.  Receive your receipt of payment

Receive your receipt of payment

The payment confirmation with a Barcode will be sent to the provided email address in 1 hour

Who should pay the new tourism tax?

  • Visitors of any foreign country to the state of Quintana Roo.
  • Visitors traveling to Quintana Roo for tourism purposes only.

The new tourism tax is due from every foreign visitor traveling to one of  Quintana Roo’s  tourist destinations including the island of Cozumel, Cancun, or Tulum.

The new tax is due even if traveling on business, health, education, or other than tourism purposes.

VISITAX

Purpose of trip:

Tourism, business, and transit

Single entry. A payment is due for each visitor’s stay

Maximum of 180 days per visit

Delivery time:

Within 1 hour from successful payment

$62.00 USD per VisiTax – each traveler needs his document

Application form:

Online only: submit your request now.

Download Visitax PDF Information Sheet.

Who needs to pay Visitax

Who needs to pay Visitax

What is Visitax

What is Visitax

Frequently asked questions

Visitax is a tourism tax collected by the state of Quintana Roo, Mexico, and applicable to each foreign visitor. The new tax is mandatory as of April 2021 and applies to only those who intend to visit the State on tourism. This fee will be collected by the State of Quintana Roo’s Tax Administration to fund the reactivation of the tourist sector in the Mexican Caribbean.

Do children need to pay for Visitax?

Visitax is mandatory for all tourists despite their age.

How long does it take to pay and get the payment confirmation for the Visitax?

The process of applying and paying the tourism tax takes no more than 5 minutes. All you will need is a valid passport and E-mail address, and a credit card or Paypal account. You will receive the payment confirmation within the next several minutes to the provided e-mail.

Do I need a print copy of the Visitax?

Although the payment confirmation will be sent to the e-mail provided when applying, it’s always a good idea to keep a printed copy among the travel documents too. You may have to show proof of payment for each traveler in your group before boarding your flight back, and before going through security. Remember, the new payment is mandatory for all foreign tourists, so consider everyone eligible in your family. In case you have not been able to pay or print Quintana Roo’s state tourism tax, assistance will be given in place, at that moment.

Can I pay the Mexico Visitax upon arrival in Cancun?

Tourists can pay the new Visitax prior traveling, upon arrival, or even before flying back home. The first two can be done online. The third option is possible at the Cancun airport only. It is however recommended to pay your Visitax online, so you can avoid queuing at the airport. This way, you will also minimize the risk of missing your flight. You can pay online with a credit card or PayPal, or in cash at the Cancun or Cozumel airport.

Do you need to be vaccinated against Covid 19 to visit Mexico?

No. Mexican authorities do not request proof for vaccination from the travelers. However, keep in mind that depending on the state you are about to visit, local restrictions may be implemented. For example, the state of Quintana Roo has established limitation of movements, shorter business hours, and quota for using public transportation.

Do you need a PCR test to visit Mexico?

No. No PCR test nor any other Covid-19 related test is needed to enter Mexico. Please, note that Mexico has set a national stoplight system: red, orange, yellow, and green with red – the regions with maximum restrictions and green with none. As of June 9, the states of Oaxaca and Mexico City are listed in green, while Quintana Roo and Baja California are in the orange zone.

Do you have to quarantine when visiting Mexico?

No. There is no quarantine requirement for Mexico’s visitors. However, bear in mind that with the dynamic Covid-19 situation, the regulations too can change. Although quarantine is not necessary for those entering the country, many of the travelers will have to present a negative PCR test made at least 72 hours upon returning in order to skip quarantines in their home countries. This is why many hotels, as well as airports, offer PCR / NAAT or antigen tests for current infection.

Our customer support team is available 24/7 and will assist you in completing the questionnaire; receiving the Barcode; retrieving lost payment confirmation, or any other help you might need.

All you need to pay the Quintana Roo visiting tax is a valid email address and a credit card. You will receive the payment confirmation together with a Barcode to present to the authorities. Keep a print copy of your travel documents for a faster check out at Mexico’s ports of entry.

Remember: If you are traveling to Mexico’s Quintana Roo state as a tourist you need to pay a tourism tax. The single-charged tax is valid for the whole period of stay. You will receive the payment approval along with a Barcode to be presented at the ports of entry authorities.  To see Spanish version of this page visit this link

Easy and fast, the online questionnaire will take less than 5 minutes to complete. All you need is a valid passport, a credit card, and an email address. If you need assistance or have any questions, our customer support team will be happy to help!

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us tourist tax

Tenerife will introduce new tourist tax in blow for Brits after furious locals protest over ‘downmarket’ visitors

  • Sayan Bose , Foreign News Reporter
  • Published : 17:13 ET, Apr 26 2024
  • Updated : 20:24 ET, Apr 26 2024
  • Published : Invalid Date,

BRITS will now be hit with a new tourist tax in Tenerife after locals demanded a freeze on holidaymakers in mass anti-tourism protests.

The Canary Island is now set to adopt measures to regulate the number of visitors by charging tourists a daily cos.

Thousands of people protested against tourism policies on the island of Tenerife

This latest proposal - known as eco tax - is part of the island's new tourism strategy being drafted by the government of Canary Islands.

The island's council today confirmed the new tax system will come in effect from January 1, 2025, as residents of Tenerife demand a cut on holidaymakers.

The tax will be applied to all the famous nature sites that are protected, including the volcano Mount Teide, hamlets like Masca and several rural parks.

Officials say the new charge will help to protect and control the island's natural spaces.

And income generated will be spent to maintain and improve these spaces. 

While the amount of money charged has not been confirmed yet, it is understood that locals visiting such tourist attracts will also have to pay the tax.

An angry anti-tourist movement has been gaining momentum throughout the popular holiday hotspot islands in recent months.

Politicians are under immense pressure after  tens of thousands of angry residents took to the streets to rage against the tourism industry  in the country.

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Locals have been fuming that they are "fed-up" with "low quality" Brit tourists who only come for the  cheap beer, burgers and sunbathing .

President of the Canary Islands, Fernando Clavijo,  previously warned that a daily cost for visitors could be on the table .

While not included in current plans, Clavijo said the government is willing to look at suggestions of a three euro per night charge.

And just days ago, Rosa Dávila, the first female president of Tenerife, proposed a new tourism model that would charge visitors a fee to access natural spaces.

She also proposed measures to "modulate" the number of tourists arriving in Tenerife - and "study the impact of demographic growth.

She said after the mass protests: "We must analyze the exceptionalities that can be applied in a territory as fragile and limited as ours. What is clear is that Tenerife cannot be a theme park.

"Those who visit us have to value and respect our natural and cultural wealth, our resources, and they have to be clear about the rules for their preservation.

"In addition, there have to be limits to prevent tourism from overflowing."

MASS PROTESTS

Residents of the Canary Islands seem to be at war with UK holidaymakers as they blast visitors with anti-tourism graffiti and emerging local campaigns.

On Saturday,  thousands of people took to the streets today in Tenerife to demand restrictions on holidaymakers  after telling Brits to "go home".

The anti-tourist hordes filled a square in the capital brandishing banners including some that read “You enjoy we suffer” in English.

More than 15,000 people waved Canary Islands’ flags and blew horns to make a deafening noise in the capital Santa Cruz.

Protests also took place at the same time in other popular Canary Islands including Lanzarote and Gran Canaria.

Banners at the mass protest today read: “Where is the money from tourism?” and "‘Tourist moratorium now.”

The marches were organised under the slogan "The Canary Islands have a limit.”

Anti-tourist protestors want the authorities to paralyse two projects including one which involves the construction of a five-star hotel by one of Tenerife’s last virgin beaches.

They are also looking for more protection from mass tourism - to help with the local environment, traffic and housing issues.

Other demands include the protection of natural spaces, a tourist tax and better working conditions for hotel cleaners, who joined today’s protest in Santa Cruz as they insisted to the local press: “We are not slaves.”

Organisers claim the march hit up to 50,000 participators.

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Six more capmaigners are still on hunger strike - and public sit-ins are still being organised to support them, the DailyMail reports.

Why are locals in Tenerife turning up against Brits?

RESIDENTS of the largest Canary Island seem to be at war with UK holidaymakers as they blast visitors with anti-tourism graffiti and emerging local campaigns.

Now, they are demanding a tourist tax, fewer flights to the island and a clampdown on foreigners buying houses.

Some protesters are claiming that their anger is directed at the government rather than tourists as they ask for change.

They claim that AirBnBs and other holiday rentals are driving up the cost of living and that they are sick of the noise, traffic and rubbish that accompany the avalanche of vacationers that visit every year.

Jaime Coello, president of the Telesforo Bravo Foundation, said: "The quality of the tourist product is being destroyed by the investors and the regional government."

Waves of  anti-tourist graffiti that has been sprayed across the island  to tell Brits they are not welcome.

Bitter messages outside tourism hotspots read "your paradise, our misery" and "tourists go home".

"Locals are forced to move out and YOU are responsible for that," said a furious printed sign.

Another read: "Tourists go home!"

The brewing chaos coupled with hatred for visitors is now scaring Brit tourists to go on a vacation in Tenerife.

And Jorge Marichal, a hotel chain boss in Tenerife, revealed that  Brits were ringing up out of fear they would not be safe on their holidays to the island .

He said: "One of the problems I am facing is that clients are beginning to call and ask what’s happening here and whether it’s safe."

While the hotel owner said he understands the pain of local people, he added that being "anti-tourist" is not the way to go in.

Activists who are on a hunger strike to demand the halt of construction of a new hotel and a touristic luxury homes complex in Tenerife

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Pay to enter: Venice becomes the first city to implement a tourist ticket system

Venice became the first city in the world on Thursday to introduce a payment system for visitors in an experiment aimed at dissuading tourists from arriving during peak periods.

However, it isn't the only place in Italy that has recently introduced new measures aimed at slowing tourist flows.

Here are some of the initiatives currently in force.

Venice tourist tax

The lagoon city has introduced 5 euros (about $5.35) tickets for day trippers, valid from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. The experiment came into force on April 25, a national holiday in Italy. Tickets will be needed for the following 10 days and thereafter for most weekends until mid-July.

Venice residents, students, workers, and homeowners are exempt from paying or booking a slot. Visitors aged under 14 and tourists with hotel reservations will need to register, but access for them will be free of charge.

Other cities, such as Como, have said they are considering introducing a similar measure but are waiting to see how the Venice initiative works before deciding.

In addition, Venice has said that from June, it will limit the size of tourist groups to 25 people and ban the use of loudspeakers by tour guides.

Florence tourist measure

Florence announced in October that it was banning new short-term residential lets on platforms such as Airbnb in its historic center. It also offered three years of tax breaks to landlords of short-term holiday lets who start offering ordinary leases for residents.

The city's famous museum, the Uffizi, offers discounts to people who arrive before 8.55 a.m. and lower prices off-season. To spread out crowds, it also closes at 10 p.m. once a week.

Cinque Terrer overtourism

The five villages that make up the Cinque Terre on the Italian Riviera regularly get swamped with visitors.

To try to reduce the overcrowding at peak periods, the authority which oversees the area said this week it would charge visitors 15 euros (about $16) to walk the most celebrated coastal path. In addition, the path can only be walked in one direction.

Capri tourism measure

The picturesque small island that lies across the bay from the southern city of Naples has doubled its entry fee, which is automatically added to ferry tickets, to 5 euros. The fee will be charged from April 1 to October 1.

Capri, Ischia, Procida, Lampedusa and Linosa changes

These islands have introduced limits, or outright bans, on cars for non-residents during the main tourist season.

Philippine Consulate General

Coat of Arms of the Republic of the Philippines

The Republic of the Philippines

PHILIPPINE CONSULATE GENERAL

New york, usa.

us tourist tax

travel tax exemption

The travel tax is a levy imposed by the philippine government on individuals who are leaving the country irrespective of the place where the air ticket is issued and the form or place of payment, as provided for by presidential decree (pd) 1183, as amended..

The following individuals are REQUIRED by the Philippine government to pay the Travel Tax every time they leave the country irrespective of the place where the air ticket is issued and the form or place of payment, as provided for by Presidential Decree (PD) 1183, as amended:

  • Filipino citizens
  • Sec. 13 Quota or Preference Immigrant Visa
  • Sec. 13 A Visa issued to an Alien Spouse of Philippine Citizen
  • Sec. 13 B Child born outside the Philippines by a 13A Mother
  • Sec. 13 C Child born in the Philippines by a 13A Mother
  • Sec. 13 D Loss of Citizenship by a Filipino Woman by her Marriage to an Alien
  • Sec. 13 E Returning Resident
  • Sec. 13 G Former Natural-born Citizen of the Philippines who was Naturalized by a Foreign Country
  • TRV Temporary Residence Visa
  • RA 7919 Alien Social Integration Act of 1995
  • RC /RFC Recognition as Filipino Citizen
  • RA 7837 Permanent Resident

The following Filipino citizens are EXEMPTED from the payment of travel tax pursuant to  Sec. 2 of PD 1183, as amended:

  • Overseas Filipino workers
  • Filipino permanent residents abroad whose stay in the Philippines is less than one year
  • Infants (2 years and below)
  • Other individuals qualified to avail of exemption. Please see complete list below, including the requirements to avail of the exemption.

Note: In all cases, the passenger will be required to bring and present his/her original passport.

The Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) is now accepting online application for Travel Tax Exemption Certificate (TEC).  Click here to apply. 

For more information, please visit TIEZA’s website here. 

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Gondolas by the Sospiri Bridge, near St Mark’s Square, Venice, on 2 August 2023.

That sinking feeling: why long-suffering Venice is quite right to make tourists pay

Simon Jenkins

The overcrowded city is leading the way with a tax on day trippers. Surely other great European destinations should follow suit

V enice has had enough. It is sinking beneath the twin assaults of tourism and the sea and believes the answer lies in fending off visitors by charging them to enter . It is not alone. Tourism is under attack. Seville is charging for entry to the central Plaza de España. In Paris, the Mona Lisa is so besieged by flashing phones she is about to be banished to a basement . Barcelona graffiti shout , “Tourists go home, refugees welcome.” Amsterdam wants no more coach parties, nor does Rome .

The Venice payment will be complicated . It will apply at specific entry points only to day trippers to the city centre, not hotel guests. It will be a mere five euros and confined to peak times of day over the summer. This will hardly cover the cost of running it. It is a political gesture that is unlikely to stem the tourist flow round the Rialto and St Mark’s Square, let alone leave more room for Venetians to enjoy their city undisturbed by mobs.

As any visitor to Venice knows, large areas of it are empty of Venetians – the main island has lost more than 120,000 residents since the early 1950s. Streets and canals are boarded up. If the Grand Canal is lit up at night it is largely thanks to Airbnb. The tourist district is small and jammed with 40,000 visitors a day . Those who have taken the trouble to reach Venice will not be deterred by five euros.

Venice survived intact largely because its economy collapsed and the city realised its future prosperity depended on its antiquity. As it began to sink in the 1960s, writers such as Jan Morris and James Cameron reflected on their sad delight at being the last generation to see Venice before it disappeared. Now the lagoon has been dammed , but the sea is rising and the iron rods beneath the foundations are rusting and rotting. At vast expense they must be repaired, and it is only tourists who will pay the bills.

In Britain, tourism is the growth industry that gets very little attention and still less praise. Millions of visitors, overseas and domestic, come to London each year, a number that is steadily rising. But its assets have to be defended constantly from planners and developers set on demolition. In addition, there is little tourist destinations can do to expand their “offer”. Their appeal is a mostly a wasting asset. However, at least London has more space for all those tourists than poor Venice, which has just a mile or so of central streets to satisfy 30 million visitors a year .

A steward checks tickets as people enter Venice on 25 April 2024, after the launch of a five-euro entrance ticket scheme.

What is for sure is that Europe’s tourism will last as long as it can guard its heritage. Europe is still a treasure trove of humanity’s past, embalmed in historic buildings, cultural quarters and old cities. Its appeal to the outside world has barely begun.

Americans have been the leading tourists in Europe for over half a century, with at least 43% of them having passports. Such documents are held by only 10% of Chinese people and only 7% of Indians . If the numbers of visitors from even just these two countries increase, as they were doing before the Covid-19 pandemic, many of the tourist sites in Europe would have to find new ways to accommodate them.

The task now is not so much to promote the wonders of Europe’s heritage as to conserve and work out how to manage it. Venice is the first such challenge. Some 49,000 remaining Venetian residents cannot possibly pay for the salvation of their city. Thirty million visitors to Venice can. The entry charge is merely a first step.

How soon other cities imitate Venice remains to be seen. In 2018, the Italian town of Bagnoregio, in the Lazio region, parts of which are crumbling downhill, imposed a charge on visitors to raise money for its rescue. It worked. One of the only British towns with the confidence to charge for entry is charming Portmeirion in north Wales. Despite being built by a modern architect in the 20th century, it has become Wales’s most popular attraction .

If I were Venice , I would be shameless. Visiting ancient places is a glorious indulgence. Those who enjoy it should pay accordingly. Good for Venice for showing the way.

Simon Jenkins is a Guardian columnist

Do you have an opinion on the issues raised in this article? If you would like to submit a response of up to 300 words by email to be considered for publication in our letters section, please click here .

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Mexico’s Visitor Tax: A Comprehensive Guide for Travelers

Mexico's Visitor Tax

Welcome to Visitax Gob Mx, your number one source for information about Mexico’s visitor tax . As a tourist visiting Mexico, you may be required to pay an additional tax that goes towards the development of local infrastructure and services. Our team is dedicated to providing you with all the necessary information and guidance to make sure you comply with this regulation. Stay tuned for more updates and insights on Mexico’s visitor tax!

Are you planning to visit Mexico soon? If so, it is important to know about the Mexico Visitor Tax or Visitax tourist tax . This tax is levied on all tourists entering Mexico and covers various services provided to visitors during their stay in the country such as tourist infrastructure, public services, and cultural promotion. In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about the Mexico Visitor Tax.

What is the Mexico Visitor Tax?

Mexico Visitor Tax, also known as Visitax Tourist Tax Cancun , is a tax levied by the Mexican government on all tourists who enter the country by air or sea. This tax is included in the ticket price of your airline or cruise and is paid by your travel operator. The tax is calculated based on the length of your stay in Mexico and the destination you are visiting.

How much is the Mexico Visitor Tax?

The Visitax Gob Mx tax rate varies depending on the destination and length of stay. For example, if you are staying in Cancun for less than 24 hours, then you do not have to pay the tax. However, for stays longer than 24 hours, the tax is $32.00 USD per person. This tax must be paid at the airport upon arrival in Mexico or through your travel operator.

How is the Mexico Visitor Tax used?

The funds raised from the Mexico Visitor Tax are used to improve the tourist infrastructure, public services, and cultural promotion in Mexico. These funds are also used to maintain the natural beauty of Mexico’s many beaches, parks, and other tourist attractions.

Why is the Mexico Visitor Tax important?

The Mexico Visitor Tax helps to ensure that tourists have a safe and enjoyable stay in Mexico. The funds raised from this tax are used to provide better infrastructure, public services, and cultural promotion, which make for a more hospitable and welcoming environment for tourists.

In conclusion, if you are planning your next vacation to Mexico, it is important to know about the Mexico Visitor Tax. This tax is a small contribution that goes a long way in maintaining and improving the tourist infrastructure, public services, and cultural promotion in Mexico. So, the next time you visit Mexico, make sure you budget for this important tax.

Understanding Mexico Visitor Tax: A Guide to Visitax Tourist Tax Cancun

Understanding Mexico Visitor Tax: A Guide to Visitax Tourist Tax Cancun is an informative article that provides detailed information about the Visitax tourist tax in Cancun. The article explains the purpose of the tax, how it works, and who is required to pay it. It also outlines the different ways visitors can pay the tax and what they need to do if they want to claim a refund. The article is an essential read for anyone traveling to Cancun who wants to avoid any confusion or issues related to the Visitax tourist tax. Overall, this guide is a valuable resource for all visitors to Cancun who want to ensure that they are fully prepared for their trip and have a stress-free experience.

Preguntas frecuentes

What is the visitax tourist tax cancun and how does it affect travelers to mexico.

Visitax Tourist Tax Cancun is a new tax implemented by the Mexican government for travelers visiting Cancun and other tourist destinations in the Quintana Roo region. The tax was introduced on April 1, 2021, and applies to both foreign and domestic visitors aged 15 and over.

The tax amount is (approximately $39 USD) per person and can be paid online or at kiosks located at airports, hotels, bus stations, and other tourist spots. Travelers can also pay the tax in advance through the Visitax website.

This tax does not affect travelers who are staying at an all-inclusive resort or those who are only transiting through Cancun’s airport without leaving the transit area.

It’s important for travelers to be aware of this tax and factor it into their travel budget when planning a trip to Cancun or other parts of Quintana Roo. Failure to pay the tax could result in a fine or delay at the airport.

Can the Visitax Tourist Tax Cancun be paid online or must it be paid in person upon arrival?

The Visitax Tourist Tax Cancun can be paid online or in person upon arrival. However, it is recommended to pay the tax online before traveling to Cancun in order to save time and avoid long lines at the airport. The tax can be paid on the Visitax website using a credit card, and a digital receipt will be provided that can be presented at the airport. It’s important to note that the tax is mandatory for all visitors over the age of 18 entering the state of Quintana Roo, which includes popular destinations such as Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum.

Are there any exemptions or discounts available for certain groups, such as children or senior citizens, when it comes to the Visitax Tourist Tax Cancun?

As of now, there are no exemptions or discounts available for any specific groups when it comes to the Visitax Tourist Tax Cancun. Every person who arrives in Cancun will have to pay the tax regardless of age or other factors. The current rate is $10 USD or its equivalent in pesos per person and must be paid before departure from Cancun.

Will the Visitax Tourist Tax Cancun be applied to all forms of travel to Mexico, including air and sea travel?

Yes , the Visitax Tourist Tax Cancun will be applied to all forms of travel to Mexico, including air and sea travel. It is a tax that applies to all foreign tourists visiting the state of Quintana Roo, which includes Cancun, Cozumel, and other popular destinations in the area. The tax will be collected upon arrival, either by airlines or at immigration checkpoints.

How will the revenue collected from the Visitax Tourist Tax Cancun be used to benefit tourism in Cancun and Mexico as a whole?

The revenue collected from the Visitax Tourist Tax Cancun will be used to benefit tourism in Cancun and Mexico as a whole in several ways. Firstly, it will be used to fund projects aimed at improving the infrastructure and services in tourist areas, such as the construction of new transportation systems and the enhancement of public spaces. Secondly, the revenue will go towards the preservation and promotion of cultural heritage sites, including museums and historical landmarks. Additionally, the funds will be used to support the development of sustainable tourism, which aims to minimize the negative impact of tourism on the environment and local communities. Finally, the revenue collected from Visitax will also contribute to Mexico’s general budget, which can be allocated to a wide range of public services, including education and healthcare, benefiting both tourists and locals alike.

What are the penalties for not paying the Visitax Tourist Tax Cancun, and how can travelers avoid these penalties?

The penalties for not paying the Visitax Tourist Tax Cancun can range from fines to being denied boarding on flights leaving Cancun. Travelers who do not pay the tax could face a fine of up to 3,000 Mexican pesos (about $150 USD) per person, plus interest charges. In addition, airlines may refuse to allow passengers who have not paid the tax to board their flights.

To avoid these penalties, travelers should be sure to pay the Visitax Tourist Tax Cancun before they arrive in Cancun. The easiest way to pay is online through the Visitax website. The tax is currently (about $39 USD) per person and can be paid using a credit or debit card. Once paid, travelers will receive a receipt that they can present at the airport as proof of payment. It’s important to note that the tax only needs to be paid once per visit, regardless of how long you stay in Cancun.

Are there any plans to increase the Visitax Tourist Tax Cancun in the future, and if so, what factors will be considered in determining the new rate?

As of now, there are no published plans to increase the Visitax Tourist Tax Cancun in the near future. However, the government of Quintana Roo, where Cancun is located, has stated that any future increases in the tax rate will be based on factors such as inflation and the need for additional revenue to fund tourism-related infrastructure and services. It’s important to note that the Visitax tourist tax is subject to change at any time by the government, so travelers should always be aware of the current rate when planning their trip to Cancun or other destinations in the area.

In conclusion, the implementation of the Visitax Tourist Tax in Cancun, Mexico has become an important topic for travelers and tourism authorities. As a creator of content , it is essential to inform tourists about this new tax and its impact on their travel budget. Although this tax is a way to generate revenue for local infrastructure and tourism promotion, visitors must be aware of the additional cost and plan their vacations accordingly. Overall, the Visitax Tourist Tax in Cancun serves as a reminder that responsible tourism includes respecting and contributing to the local economy.

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Tourist Tax Cancun   ® | Tourist Tax Mexico ®

Visitax Cancun y Visitax Mexico ® es un sitio web privado desarrollado por Academia Digital ® y no está vinculado o puede estar asociado con ninguna agencia gubernamental ( visitax gob mx ). Visitaxgob.mx ayuda a los viajeros a pagar el impuesto estatal al turismo de Quintana Roo . – Todos Los Derechos Reservados ©2023

us tourist tax

IMAGES

  1. How to get Tax Refund in USA as Tourist for Shopping? [2021]

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  2. Understanding Tourist Tax: Pros and Cons of a Revenue-generating

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  3. How to get Tax Refund in USA as Tourist, Resident for Shopping ? FAQs

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  4. County’s Tourist Development Tax revenue marks another record in the

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  5. Although Tourist Development Tax revenue continues to rise, March

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  6. Top 10 cities with the highest travel taxes

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COMMENTS

  1. How to get Tax Refund in USA as Tourist for Shopping? [2023]

    In Texas, you need to have a minimum of $12 tax per receipt or combined receipts from the same brand stores. Technically, in Texas with an 8.25% sales tax, you need to purchase for at least $150 USD in a single store or brand outlet to be eligible for the refund.

  2. COMPLETE guide to visitor tax refunds in the USA [2024]

    The US Government, as clarified by US Customs and Border Protection (CBP), does not refund sales tax to foreign visitors. Sales tax in the US is a state matter and not federal. Therefore, refunds, if applicable, depend on the specific state where the purchase was made. This understanding is crucial for international visitors who might be ...

  3. Taxes

    State sales tax ranges from nearly 3 to 7.5 percent nationally. However, counties and cities can levy additional sales taxes. So if you are making a large purchase, it pays to ask about the sales tax in advance. (It will also be printed on your sales receipt.) When you are securing a service you might also be charged a tax.

  4. Tourist tax

    A tourist tax is any revenue-generating measure targeted at tourists. It is a means of combating overtourism [1] and a form of tax exporting (partial shifting of tax burden to non-citizens or non-residents). The tourist industry typically campaigns against the taxes. [2]

  5. These Cities

    The study, which looked at the average tourist tax charged per night in the most visited cities around the world, found the three most expensive cities for tourist taxes were in the United States.

  6. Can U.S. tourists get a sales tax refund when leaving the country

    Louisiana tax free shopping program - Individuals traveling in the U.S. for less than 90 days and who hold a foreign passport, US Visitor's Visa and an international transportation ticket to leave the country can apply for a refund on sales tax paid at a few qualifying retailers. Learn more at the Louisiana Tax Free Shopping Program website.

  7. U.S. Tax Issues For Visitors And Work Permit Holders

    1) you establish a substantial presence in the U.S. and ALSO UNLESS. 2) you have paid no tax anywhere else in the world. See below for more details. Do not confuse 31 days = no tax with: 183 days ...

  8. These 24 Destinations Charge a Tourist Tax—See the Full List

    Malaysia: In 2023, the cost of tourist tax across Malaysia was approximately $2 per night. New Zealand: Travelers visiting New Zealand have to pay an International Visitor Conservation and Tourism ...

  9. USA Today on Tourism Taxes

    The tax on rooms and restaurant meals rose from 8% to 9% and was extended to include recreational vehicles at campgrounds. Massachusetts. Cities were given authority to raise the hotel tax from 4% to 6%, in addition to the state tax of 5.7%. Taxes on eating out will rise from 5% to 6.25% statewide, plus another 0.75% if cities choose.

  10. How increasing tourist taxes are going to impact travelers

    Paris: - About €4 ($4.35) per person, per night. Dominican Republic: 23% of the hotel rate goes to taxes. Antigua and Barbuda: $100 for entry/exit fee. Honolulu: Up to 18% of the nightly lodging ...

  11. Tourist Taxes: Full List of Destinations Charging a Tourist Tax in 2024

    Tourist taxes aren't a new thing - you've probably paid one before, tied in with the cost of a plane ticket or the taxes you pay at a hotel. ... US. The US has an 'occupancy tax' which ...

  12. The pros and cons of a tourist tax

    3. Pro: avoids overtourism. By increasing the cost to visit certain areas, a tourist tax can help reduce overcrowding and make the experience more enjoyable. This can help avoid "overtourism ...

  13. Tourist tax: These are the destinations you'll have to pay to enter

    The concept of tourist tax isn't a new one. City tax has long been the norm for many countries in Europe such as Greece, Spain and Germany, and hotel tax is standard across many destinations, including US states.The impact of Covid on the travel industry was severe - hotels, restaurants and hospitality venues closed, people that relied on tourism for their livelihoods suddenly faced huge ...

  14. Vacationing at these destinations? You will pay tourist taxes, fees

    International tourists can face an "International Tourist Tax" while exiting Japan, per the Japanese National Tax Agency. It amounts to about $6.30 per departure and must be paid by those taking ...

  15. Traveling Abroad? Where Tourist Taxes Are Increasing

    But the fee increased in spring of 2023 and is set to increase again next year. This past April, the per-night visitor fee increased to €2.75 (or $3.00), which is €1 ($1.09) more per night ...

  16. Tax exemptions − Travel information − American Airlines

    Mexico Tourism Tax (UK) exemptions. Mexican citizen (Passport) Resident of Mexico (permanent or temporary) holding a Mexico Visa. Infant under the age of two. Diplomat. Transit/transfer passenger remaining less than 24 hours in Mexico; passengers stopping over in Mexico aren't entitled to a refund.

  17. Documenting Tourism Tax for Travel from the U.S. to Mexico

    Delta and Aeromexico will continue to collect the Tourism Tax (UK Tax) for tickets on DL006 and AM139 ticket stock issued on/after July 1, 2021, for travel that originates from the United States to Mexico. As a reminder, this tax is part of the fare auto-price. This Tourism Tax may be waived for citizens of Mexico.

  18. Tourist Development Tax

    For your convenience, we allow online payments for Tourist Development Tax through Tourist Express. Property owners that have signed up for Tourist Express are entitled to deduct 2.5% of the first $1,200.00 of tax due, or a maximum of $30.00 if the return is paid by the 20 th day of the month following the reporting period.

  19. Travelers Alert: The 10 U.S. Cities That Tax Tourists The Most

    On that $250.66 daily base, Chicago piles on $40.31 a day in taxes, including the nation's highest car rental tax, at $13.95. Do the math and that works out to a 16.1% tax on tourists. In the ...

  20. Visitor Visa

    Generally, a citizen of a foreign country who wishes to enter the United States must first obtain a visa, either a nonimmigrant visa for a temporary stay, or an immigrant visa for permanent residence. Visitor visas are nonimmigrant visas for persons who want to enter the United States temporarily for business (visa category B-1), for tourism (visa category B-2), or for a combination of both ...

  21. Visitax

    Who should pay the new tourism tax? Visitax is a tourism tax collected by the state of Quintana Roo, Mexico, and applicable to each foreign visitor. ... Visitax.us assists travelers in paying the Quintana Roo's state tourism tax. Our fee is $62 USD and includes the government tax of $18 USD. tel: (954)769-0584.

  22. Tenerife will introduce new tourist tax in blow for Brits ...

    This latest proposal - known as eco tax - is part of the island's new tourism strategy being drafted by the government of Canary Islands. The island's council today confirmed the new tax system will come in effect from January 1, 2025, as residents of Tenerife demand a cut on holidaymakers.

  23. Venice tourist tax: Italian city implements a tourist ticket system

    Venice tourist tax The lagoon city has introduced 5 euros (about $5.35) tickets for day trippers, valid from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. The experiment came into force on April 25, a national holiday in ...

  24. Travel Tax Exemption

    The following Filipino citizens are EXEMPTED from the payment of travel tax pursuant to Sec. 2 of PD 1183, as amended: Overseas Filipino workers. Filipino permanent residents abroad whose stay in the Philippines is less than one year. Infants (2 years and below) Other individuals qualified to avail of exemption.

  25. All the countries where you have to pay a 'tourist tax' in 2024

    But tourism also means problems and Bali is hoping to solve some of these with a new tax that must be paid to enter the country. Since 14 February 2024, international and domestic arrivals have to ...

  26. Venice is leading the way with a tourist tax. Other great European

    As any visitor to Venice knows, large areas of it are empty of Venetians - the main island has lost more than 120,000 residents since the early 1950s. Streets and canals are boarded up. Streets ...

  27. Mexico's Visitor Tax: A Comprehensive Guide for Travelers

    Visitax Tourist Tax Cancun is a new tax implemented by the Mexican government for travelers visiting Cancun and other tourist destinations in the Quintana Roo region. The tax was introduced on April 1, 2021, and applies to both foreign and domestic visitors aged 15 and over. The tax amount is (approximately $39 USD) per person and can be paid online or at kiosks located at airports, hotels ...