Wales set to become latest UK area to slap controversial tax on tourists

Wales has become the latest area in the UK to push forward plans to implement a controversial tourist tax in a move that could “risk jobs”.

Tourist taxes – small fees usually levied indirectly through accommodation providers or holiday companies and is typically aimed at overnight visitors and it seems that Wales is going to follow suit.

Proposals for a law that could see visitors having to pay a tax for staying overnight is making its way through the Welsh Parliament this month.

Under the plans councils will be given the power to introduce a small “visitor levy” to raise money.

A statement released by the Welsh Government says a bill called the “Visitor Accommodation (Register and Levy) Etc. (Wales) Bill” will go forward in the Senedd on November 25.

The money, the statement says, “will raise additional funds for local authorities to support the long-term sustainability of our tourism industry”. It will be up to each council to decide whether or not to introduce it.

The plans also include a national register of all people who provide accommodation to holidaymakers in the country.

The proposals have been in the woodworks since 2022 and it is now likely to come to fruition as early as 2027.

However, the move has proved controversial with tourism bosses fearing it will put visitors off.

One reader told WalesOnline: “The latest part of the plot to ruin the tourist industry. Well! What a surprise. A few hundred people sign a petition that affects hundreds of thousands. Here’s my take on the subject. During my life time, I’ve had all sorts if neighbours.

“Most good people kind, welcoming helpful. But, there have been some that were complete and utter nightmares. The type of individuals who do everything to make life as miserable as possible for others. No, not holiday let’s or air bnb’s. Permanent neighbours.”

Whilst the Welsh Conservatives said a tourism tax “will risk jobs”.

Andrew RT Davies, leader of the Welsh Conservatives in the Senedd, said: “We’ve been absolutely clear from the start that this policy is the wrong one for Wales.

“A tourism tax will risk jobs at a time when businesses are being clobbered by Labour, it will impose red tape.”

This news comes just days after the Scottish Highlands announced that it could introduce a 5% tourist tax, a move that could raise over £10 million a year.

Councillors will be asked to approve a 12-week consultation on the plan at a meeting this week. If approved, the charge could come into force in autumn 2026.

If given the green light, the Highlands would follow Edinburgh to become the second part of the country to introduce the tax.

Edinburgh’s city council’s plan for the ‘Transient Visitor Levy,’ is expected to be introduced in 2026.