The visitor levy: a small contribution for a lasting legacy

What is the visitor levy?

The visitor levy is a small additional charge you may pay when staying in visitor accommodation in Wales.

The money raised from the levy will be used to improve local tourism.

This visitor levy will help to:

• maintain local facilities and infrastructure
• protect Wales's stunning landscapes
• ensure communities can continue welcoming visitors whilst preserving what makes each area special

Local councils can choose if they want to introduce the visitor levy in their area.

They will make the decision after consulting with residents and businesses.

This means the levy will only be charged in areas where communities have decided it is right for them.

The earliest a council could bring in a visitor levy is April 2027.

Benefits of the visitor levy

Money raised by the visitor levy will be invested directly into the local area where you stay to support local tourism.

The money will be spent on providing:

• better-maintained beaches, parks and town centres
• improved cultural attractions
• sustainable tourism that benefits both visitors and local communities
• supporting the Welsh language in our communities

How much is the visitor levy?

The visitor levy is charged per person per night. 

The levy will be collected by the provider of your accommodation. 

If you stay in an area where the visitor levy has been introduced, you may see it added to your bill.

Exceptions

You will not pay the visitor levy if you are:

• under 18 years of age and staying on a campsite pitch or in shared rooms (such as a hostel or a dormitories)
• staying for more than 31 nights in a single booking
• in emergency or temporary housing arranged by the local council

Wales joins successful destinations worldwide

Many places across the world already charge a visitor levy. These destinations include France, Greece, Portugal and New Zealand.

Research has shown that visitor contributions can transform tourism for the better.