Belize Drops Exit Fees for Mexican Tourists Near Maya Train

Belize City, Belize — The Belizean government has officially removed exit taxes for Mexican tourists arriving from the southeastern region of Mexico, a strategic move aimed at boosting visitor numbers and strengthening ties with the neighboring country. The decision, announced by the Cabinet of Prime Minister John Briceño, is part of a broader effort to align with Mexico’s Maya Train project and leverage the tourism surge it has generated in southern Quintana Roo.

Tax Exemption Takes Effect

The measure, which came into force on July 3, directly benefits travelers originating from the Mexican states of Quintana Roo, Campeche, Yucatán, Tabasco, and Chiapas. Visitors who enter Belize and stay for up to seven days will no longer be required to pay the exit tax, a fee previously considered a major obstacle for cross-border tourism.

For non-citizens and non-residents of Belize, the exit tax amounted to $35.50 USD, plus a $0.75 USD security control fee, bringing the total cost to $36.25 USD per person.

Digital Border Crossing Card Introduced

In addition to the tax exemption, Belize will implement a Digital Visitor Border Crossing Card, allowing tourists to enter with private vehicles without paying import duties, fees, or levies. This initiative seeks to facilitate land-based tourism from Mexico, particularly from Chetumal, where the Maya Train station is located just 10 kilometers from the Belizean border.

“These visitors will be able to travel in their private vehicles without being charged import duties, fees, or levies,” stated the government’s announcement.

Belize Explores Rail Extension to Connect with Maya Train

While no formal agreement exists between Mexico and Belize to extend the Maya Train into Belizean territory, authorities have expressed strong interest in developing a seven-kilometer rail segment crossing the Río Hondo. There have even been discussions about extending the line further to the Guatemalan border to enhance regional connectivity and economic benefits.

Prime Minister John Briceño emphasized the project’s potential following a meeting with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum on May 14, stating, “This project will not only strengthen commercial and cultural ties between the three countries but will also position Belize as a key hub for connectivity in Central America.”

The Belizean government’s measures reflect a concerted effort to capitalize on the tourism boom driven by the Maya Train, positioning the country as a strategic partner in regional travel and economic development.