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More Destinations to Introduce Tourism Taxes in 2025

Tourism taxes are becoming an increasingly common tool for destinations seeking to manage overtourism while generating additional revenue for local governments. Though the purpose remains similar, each country applies the tax differently, whether to support sustainable development in Bhutan or fund local infrastructure in Spain.

Across Europe, tourism taxes have long been established, varying by location and accommodation type. Austria charges around 3.2% of lodging costs, Belgium about 4 euros, and the Czech Republic between 1 and 15 euros per night. In Germany, the rate can reach up to 7.5% of room prices, while the Netherlands imposes between 7% and 12.5%.

Several Asian destinations have also adopted similar measures. Japan charges approximately 1,000 yen, Malaysia collects around 1.50 USD per night from visitors staying anywhere in the country, and Bhutan has maintained its tourism levy since it opened to visitors in 1974.

In 2024, new taxes were announced in several world-famous destinations as authorities sought to address the impact of high visitor numbers. Bali introduced a 9.05 USD tourism fee in February 2024 to mitigate environmental and cultural strain from mass tourism. Later in October, New Zealand tripled its tourism tax, requiring visitors to pay up to 100 New Zealand dollars upon entry. Venice, Italy, also began charging day visitors in early 2024, along with nightly accommodation taxes ranging from 1 to 5 euros depending on season and lodging category.

The trend shows no sign of slowing. Starting in April 2025, the United Kingdom will introduce an electronic travel authorization system requiring travelers from the United States, Europe, Australia, and Canada to pay a fee before entry. Meanwhile, Thailand, long known for its affordable and welcoming tourism, has proposed a new 9 USD arrival tax for air travelers, expected to take effect by the end of 2025.

As destinations worldwide strive to balance economic benefits with sustainability and cultural preservation, tourism taxes are becoming a defining feature of global travel in the years ahead.