Travel has experienced a remarkable rebound since the global pandemic, revitalizing tourist destinations that were previously hampered by restrictions and closures. However, some popular destinations find themselves once again grappling with the challenges of overtourism. As a result, several countries have implemented or are planning to introduce a "tourist tax" in 2023 to alleviate the strain caused by excessive visitor numbers.

Introduction to Tourist Taxes

Tourist taxes are not a new concept in the travel industry. Many countries already have existing tourist taxes in place, which are often integrated into airline tickets or included in the taxes paid at hotels. These taxes are typically utilized for various purposes, including maintaining tourism infrastructure, preserving natural resources, and addressing the effects of overtourism.

In this article, we will provide an overview of the countries that currently require tourist entry fees, as well as those planning to introduce them in 2023.

Barcelona's Increased Tourist Tax

Barcelona, one of Spain's most popular destinations, has announced an increase in its tourist tax over the next two years. Since 2012, visitors to the Catalan capital have been required to pay both a regional tourist tax and an additional city-wide surcharge. As of April 1, 2023, the municipal fee has been raised to €2.75, and it will further increase to €3.25 on April 1, 2024. This tax is applicable to visitors staying in official tourist accommodations, and the revenue generated will be utilized to enhance the city's infrastructure, including road improvements, bus services, and escalators.

Valencia's Imminent Tourist Tax

Valencia, another Spanish destination, has announced plans to introduce a tourist tax for travelers staying in various types of accommodations throughout the region. This tax will apply to hotels, hostels, apartments, and campsites and is expected to come into effect by the end of 2023 or early 2024. The amount charged will range from 50 cents to €2 per night, depending on the chosen accommodation, for a maximum of seven nights. The revenue generated will contribute to the sustainable development of the region's tourism sector and provide more affordable housing options for local residents in popular tourist areas.

Olhão's Tourist Tax in Portugal

Olhão, a picturesque fishing town in Portugal popular with tourists, will soon implement a tourist tax. which will be reduced to €1 between November and March. The tax will not be applicable to children under the age of 16 and will be capped at a maximum of €10 per trip. The revenue generated from this tax will be utilized to mitigate the impact of tourism in the town, including initiatives to improve cleanliness and security.

Thailand's Potential Tourist Fee

Thailand is currently considering the implementation of a tourist fee, initially set at 300 Baht (approximately €8). The fee was expected to be introduced by the end of 2022 but has faced delays due to uncertainties regarding its implementation. With elections looming in Thailand, the fate of the tourist fee remains uncertain. The Tourism Authority of Thailand has expressed that part of the fee will be allocated to ensuring the welfare of tourists, particularly in situations where health insurance coverage may be insufficient. Additionally, the fee will contribute to further development and maintenance of tourist attractions, such as the iconic Grand Palace in Bangkok.

Venice's Anticipated Tourist Fee

Venice, known for its iconic canals and historical sites, has been contemplating the implementation of a tourist fee. While the fee was initially planned for January or summer 2023, it has been postponed multiple times, and its introduction in 2023 seems unlikely. Proposed measures to control tourist numbers, including an online booking system, have been discussed. However, additional efforts are necessary to manage visitor inflow, and the introduction of an entry fee has been considered. The proposed fee would range from €3 to €10, depending on the season.

EU's Tourist Visa Implementation

Starting in 2024, non-EU citizens, including individuals from countries such as the United States, Australia, and the United Kingdom, will be required to pay a €7 application fee for a tourist visa to enter the European Union (EU). However, individuals under the age of 18 or over the age of 70 will be exempted from this fee. The implementation of this scheme, originally scheduled for November 2023, has faced delays due to the EU's new Entry/Exit System (EES).

Countries Already Requiring Tourist Fees

Many countries have already implemented tourist fees for a variety of reasons. Some aim to manage tourism inflow and prevent overtourism, while others use the revenue generated to maintain tourism facilities and protect natural resources. Here are some examples:

Austria

In Austria, visitors are required to pay an overnight accommodation tax, the Tourismusgesetz and Beherbergungs Beiträge. The tax varies depending on the province, with additional charges of approximately 3.02% per person per night in cities like Vienna or Salzburg.

Belgium

Belgium also imposes a tourist tax, primarily applied to accommodation. The fee is sometimes included in the room rate, but it may also be charged separately. Rates vary across cities, such as Antwerp, Bruges, and Brussels, with fees generally around €7.50.

Bhutan

Bhutan stands out with a significantly higher tourist tax compared to other countries. Foreign visitors are subject to a minimum daily fee of $250 (around €228) per person during the high season, which includes accommodation, transportation, a guide, meals, and entry fees. This fee contributes to the preservation of Bhutan's unique cultural and natural heritage.

Croatia

Croatia increased its tourist tax in 2019. During the peak season in the summer, visitors are required to pay approximately 10 kuna (€1.33) per person per night. This fee helps support tourism-related initiatives and facilities.

France

In France, a "taxe de séjour" is added to hotel bills, varying by city. The rates range from €0.20 to around €4 per person per night, with the revenue being allocated to the maintenance of tourism infrastructure.

Greece

Greece's tourist tax is based on the number of hotel stars or rooms rented, ranging up to approximately €4 per room. This tax was introduced by the Greek Ministry of Tourism to alleviate the country's debt.

Italy

Tourist taxes in Italy vary across different cities. Rome, for instance, charges between €3 and €7 per night, depending on the type of room, while smaller cities may impose higher fees. Venice is also considering the introduction of a tourist tax during the summer of 2022.

Japan

Japan imposes a departure tax of 1,000 yen (around €8) on visitors leaving the country. The revenue generated from this tax significantly contributes to the country's economy.

Portugal

Portugal has a relatively low tourist tax, typically charged per night per person for guests aged 13 and above. The tax varies across municipalities, with amounts around €2. It is applicable for the first seven days of the stay and is implemented in cities like Porto, Lisbon, and Faro.

Switzerland

Switzerland's tourist tax varies based on location and is typically around €2.20 per person per night. The tax is specified separately from the accommodation cost and applies to stays of up to 40 days.

United States

In the United States, many states and cities impose a hotel tax or lodging tax, also known as an occupancy tax. These taxes are applied to accommodations such as hotels, motels, and inns. The rates vary across locations, with Houston reportedly having the highest tax rate of 17% on hotel bills.

It is important to note that the information provided in this article is accurate as of the knowledge cutoff date in September 2021. Tourism policies and fees are subject to change, so it is advisable to check with relevant authorities or consult up-to-date sources for the most current information before traveling to any destination.