Fears new tourist levy in Scotland could have hugely ‘negative consequences’

One UK tourism hotspot is hoping to introduce a new controversial levy for visitors – but one group has now highlighted the “significant negative consequences” that could follow.

Scotland has long been a popular destination for staycationers and visitors from around the globe alike, drawn by its beautiful landscape and historic attractions.

With growing local discontent at the hoards of visitors descending on regions including the famous Scottish Highlands, however, local authorities have come under pressure to roll out tourism tax schemes – but not everyone’s convinced they’re the right way to tackle rising numbers.

The Highland Council became the third local authority in the country to float the idea of a visitor levy this year – proposing extra costs for overnight stays in the area, which is home to Loch Ness, Ben Nevis and the Isle of Skye.

The Scottish Government passed legislation allowing councils to charge an extra tax on holidaymakers staying in overnight accommodation in the spring, with Glasgow and Edinburgh also set to consult on the charges, which could be enforced from 2026.

Now the suggestion has attracted criticism from voices in the Highlands’ hospitality and business sector, with some concerned that Scotland’s existing tourist market would buckle under the strain of new financial pressure on visitors.

The Inverness, Lochaber and Caithness chambers of commerce and the Cairngorms Business Partnership have called on the council to backpedal on the introduction of a 5% tariff on overnight stays in the Highlands in a joint statement pointing to the “significant negative consequences” of the move.

The area is already facing “numerous challenges”, they argued, including a “fragile economic climate” and “competitive disadvantage” thanks to its remote location.

Acknowleding that the Highland tourism economy is “vital to the region’s economy and provides significant employment opportunities”, they criticised the specific percentage-based charging model proposed by the council, suggesting that a “simpler, fixed-fee model” would be more effective. 

“We understand that change is needed for the tourism industry and are very happy to explore all options with relevant stakeholders,” the statement added.

“We believe that a well-considered and carefully implemented approach to tourism development is crucial for the long-term success of the Highlands.”

Figures from Highland Council show an annual tourist footfall of over six million, spanning day-trippers, hotel stayers and cruise passengers.

Countries around the world have introduced new tourism taxes for 2025 following protests against overtourism in regions including the Balearic and Canary Islands.

Brits travelling to Greece, Portugal, Thailand, Paris and Grand Canaria will have to shell out some extra pounds to enjoy a trip abroad next year, while a proposed Welsh tourist levy could also come into effect in 2027 at the earliest.

Schemes are already in place in Venice, which introduced a £4.13 tax for visits during the peak season this year, Barcelona and Amsterdam, which recently increased its fee on overnight stays from 7% to 12.5%.