Mexican Caribbean hoteliers oppose proposed Non-Resident Fee hike

A proposed federal reform to the Federal Rights Law for 2027 suggests a 35.8 percent increase in the Non-Resident Fee (DNR) for foreign visitors to Mexico. The adjustment would raise the fee from approximately 983 to 1,334 pesos per visitor.

The Mexican Caribbean Hotel Council and local hotel associations have warned that the hike could damage the competitiveness of destinations like Cancún and the Riviera Maya against other Caribbean markets. Industry leaders argue that increasing costs without corresponding investments in international tourism promotion could deter travelers and impact related sectors such as transport, dining, and commerce.

The federal proposal justifies the increase by citing the need to cover operational costs for biometric enrollment, video surveillance, and IT security. Under the plan, 26 percent of the additional revenue would be allocated to the National Institute of Migration for technological infrastructure, while the participation of the Secretariat of National Defense and the Federal Treasury would decrease.

The government of Quintana Roo has stated it will monitor the proposal and support the hotel sector in its discussions with federal authorities to ensure industry concerns are heard before the legislature makes a final decision.