Wales to Introduce New Visitor Tax Starting 2027
By Ruth Mosalski, Political Editor
The Welsh Government has recently unveiled plans to implement a visitor levy, also known as a tourism tax, for every individual staying overnight in Wales, starting from 2027. The new tax will apply to all visitors staying overnight, with varying rates based on accommodation types. Those staying in hostels and campsite pitches will be charged 75p per person per night, while individuals staying in other accommodation types will incur a charge of £1.25 per person per night.
Each of Wales’ 22 councils will have the authority to decide whether or not to introduce the visitor levy. The earliest implementation date is set for 2027, following community consultations by the local authorities. Furthermore, councils will have the flexibility to adjust the levy amount at a later stage, subject to ministerial approval and additional consultations.
In addition to the tax, the new legislation will mandate the establishment of a register of visitor accommodation in Wales, effective from 2026. This register will encompass a wide range of visitor accommodations, including properties listed on platforms like Airbnb or other short-term rental services. The register aims to facilitate the collection and administration of the visitor levy, providing insights into the sector to inform future policy decisions at both local and national levels.
The move to introduce the visitor levy has sparked mixed reactions, with some industry experts expressing concerns that it may deter tourists from choosing Wales as a destination. However, Mark Drakeford, Wales’ finance minister, defended the decision stating, “This bill is rooted in the principle of fairness… We want to ensure its long-term sustainability… Money raised through a levy would be retained by local authorities and re-invested back into their local areas to support local, sustainable tourism.”
Andrew Morgan, leader of the Welsh Local Government Association, highlighted the potential benefits of the tax, citing that it could generate revenue to enhance the visitor experience and benefit local communities. He emphasized that each council would tailor the levy implementation based on their area’s needs and engage residents in the decision-making process.
Eager to support Wales’ tourism and local economies, the Welsh Government aims to strike a balance between fostering sustainable tourism growth and ensuring visitor contributions towards local facilities and services. The introduction of the visitor levy seeks to align with global practices of levies benefiting local communities and businesses, with the revenue reinvested for the common good.
As discussions progress and the draft legislation takes shape in the following weeks, stakeholders look to the Welsh Government and local councils for collaborative efforts in shaping a tourism landscape that is both economically viable and socially responsible. Stay tuned for more updates on this evolving story as Wales prepares to implement the new visitor tax from 2027 onwards.