Wales confirms plans to introduce nightly tourist tax from 2027
A new law has been passed that may require tourists to pay a nightly tax to holiday in Wales from 2027 onwards.
The law has been named the Visitor Accommodation (Register and Levy) Etc. (Wales) Bill and was passed by the Senedd in Cardiff last week. As a result of the vote, councils have been given the authority to introduce a levy of £1.30 per person for overnight stays.
When the bill was initially proposed last November, it was expected to be £1.25 each day as a blanket price, but that has now risen to £1.30. However, the flat base rate doesn’t apply to those camping or staying in hostels, which is only 75p per night. Additionally, those aged under 18 are not applicable for the new tax.
Finance secretary Mark Drakeford said upon the law’s passing: “Visitor levies are used successfully all over the world. They ensure the pressures and opportunities tourism bring are balanced fairly between visitors and residents. We want the same for Wales.”
Drakeford continued: “The levy is a small contribution that will make a big difference to our communities, helping to maintain and enhance the very attractions and services that make Wales such a wonderful place to visit and live.”
The former First Minister of Wales then said this measure would help Wales catch up with other European countries that have already introduced tourist taxes, adding, “By voting to back this measure, Wales is joining many other worldwide destinations which already benefit from similar levies.”
The new law follows a similar ruling made by Edinburgh in January. The Scottish capital confirmed that a planned five per cent tourist tax will come into effect later this year.
Moreover, Manchester has a similar scheme, Edinburgh’s is the first in Britain to cover every accommodation type. It was also revised after a consultation period involving feedback from local businesses, residents, tourists and cultural organisations.
