Tourism: why pay a tourist tax?

The tourist tax was introduced so that holidaymakers could contribute to the development and promotion of the area or tourist sites visited. It is issued by the accommodation provider, the hotelier or the owner/manager of the site and appears on the invoice given to the holidaymaker. It can also be consulted at the town hall or tourist office concerned. What is the purpose of a tourist tax and who should pay it? The following article will shed some light on this subject.

To finance expenses related to the protection of tourist sites or natural areas

Staying in palaces, tourist hotels, tourist residences, bed and breakfasts, etc. requires the payment of a tourist tax. Visitax Mexico offers you quick and easy steps to pay your tourist tax. Stays in holiday villages, open-air accommodation and youth hostels also require payment of the tax. 

The amount of the tax varies according to the location, the number of nights and the category of accommodation. It is a tax intended to finance expenses related to the use and protection of natural areas for holidaymakers. It is paid by the holidaymaker in addition to the price of the accommodation and an invoice is issued clearly stating the amounts paid. However, the tourist tax can be paid directly by the person responsible for the accommodation to the commune if it is a fixed price set by the commune.

Minors are exempt from the tourist tax

As explained above, stays in palaces, tourist hotels, tourist residences and guest houses require payment of the tax. Since these holiday resorts cater for minors as well as adults, the question arises whether minors should pay the tax.

The tourist tax only applies to adults over 18 years of age. Similarly, persons in emergency accommodation or temporary rehousing are not subject to this tax. In addition, persons occupying premises where the amount determined by the municipal council is higher than their rent are also exempt from this tax. Seasonal workers employed in the municipality concerned are also exempt.