Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico – A new Nonresident Duty (DNR) fee for cruise passengers arriving at Mexican ports, including Puerto Vallarta, officially took effect on July 1. The tax begins at just $5 USD per person and will be gradually increased to $21 by 2028, as part of a broader strategy to strengthen Mexico’s economy and tourism sector.
Initially proposed at $42 per person, the fee was reduced after discussions between the Ministry of Tourism, the Ministry of Finance and Public Credit (SHCP), the National Migration Institute (INM), and cruise industry representatives. The staggered implementation, published in the Official Gazette of the Federation on June 30, is designed to ease the transition for passengers and cruise lines alike.
Josefina Rodríguez Zamora, head of the Ministry of Tourism, highlighted the collaborative efforts that led to this agreement. Working groups involving the Ministry of Finance and Public Credit (SHCP), the National Migration Institute (INM), and representatives from shipping companies ensured a smooth implementation. These discussions focused on bolstering domestic tourism, stimulating the Mexican economy, strengthening production chains, and increasing the number of Mexican nationals working on international cruise ships.
Michele M. Paige, CEO of the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association, representing the cruise industry, has committed to working with member cruise lines to facilitate the collection of the Nonresident Tax (DNR) for the Mexican government.
The graduated tax schedule is as follows:
$5: From July 1, 2025, to July 31, 2026
$10: From August 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027
$15: From July 1, 2027, to July 31, 2028
$21: From August 1, 2028, to September 30, 2030
Beyond the financial aspect, these agreements aim to foster broader benefits. Plans include increasing the use of Mexican products onboard cruise ships and expanding the promotion of Mexico as a premier travel destination through cruise line communication channels. Additionally, there will be a focus on showcasing Mexican folk art during voyages and in port areas, as well as promoting products made under the “Made in Mexico” program.
Efforts will also be made to boost employment opportunities for Mexicans in the maritime sector. This involves participating in recruitment fairs and forming partnerships with educational institutions to train and hire a greater number of skilled Mexican sailors and marines. Furthermore, the collaboration will support the collection of statistical information and studies related to cruise tourism activity in Mexican ports.
Rodríguez Zamora emphasized that the tourism sector is a cornerstone of the country’s economic growth. She affirmed the ongoing commitment to implementing strategies that further develop tourism and enhance its positive economic impact, particularly through the revenue generated by foreign visitors arriving by cruise ship.
We need your support to keep Banderas News thriving. As more and more news outlets resort to paywalls, we remain steadfast in our mission to provide free, quality journalism to Puerto Vallarta residents and visitors. Your contribution helps us maintain this commitment and continue serving our community.
