Travelers eyeing Mexico’s sun-soaked shores via cruise ships may face increased costs starting next year. The Mexican government has approved a new US$42 immigration fee per passenger, impacting cruise ship visitors whether they disembark or remain onboard.
Under this new regulation, Mexico’s Immigration Institute will issue a “collective visa” for all passengers on a cruise’s manifest. This fee is scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2024, potentially reshaping the dynamics of cruise tourism to the country.
Tourism industry leaders are voicing strong concerns about the added cost. The Mexican Association of Naval Agents (AMANAC) warned that combining the $42 immigration fee with an existing $5 per passenger local tax could make Mexican cruise destinations some of the most expensive globally.
Tourism Concerns and Industry Impact
AMANAC predicts that Mexico could lose as many as 10 million cruise passengers and over 3,300 ship calls by 2025 if the fee proceeds as planned. This, they argue, would hinder Mexico’s competitiveness compared to other Caribbean destinations that offer more affordable alternatives.
The fee, which allocates two-thirds of its revenue to the Mexican army, has sparked debate. Critics argue it could drive cruise operators to bypass Mexican ports, especially as many 2025 itineraries are already booked. Michele Paige, CEO of the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association, emphasized the industry’s concerns, noting that many companies are wary of unexpected fees.
However, some local leaders remain cautiously optimistic. Sergio Gonzales Rubiera, president of The Travel Agents Association in Cozumel, believes most cruise lines will incorporate the fee into future pricing, though he lamented that much of the revenue will go to the federal government rather than supporting local communities.
Government Stance
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has defended the fee as an inflation-linked adjustment rather than a new tax. She assured us that discussions are ongoing to ease the transition and address industry concerns, though stakeholders are awaiting further details.
Broader Context
The fee comes as the Mexican government expands the military’s involvement in infrastructure projects like the Tren Maya, a major railway connecting southeastern Mexico’s tourist hotspots. While the fee aims to support such projects, its potential impact on tourism, especially cruise travel, remains a hot topic.
Source: Swifteradio.com
