More Tourist Taxes Are Set to Be Implemented in 2025

The travel industry is set to undergo significant changes in 2025, and most tourists won't like it. A lot of destinations worldwide are now imposing new tourist taxes to fund infrastructure, tourism management, and local services. As travellers plan their trips for the new year ahead, it's important to be aware of these additional costs that may shake up your current travel budget.

Also read: The Top 10 Most Lovable Cities for 2025

Tourist taxes: A global trend

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The trend of implementing tourist taxes is spreading across the globe, from popular tourist hotspots to hidden gems. Governments and local authorities are increasingly recognising the economic potential of tourism while also acknowledging the need to mitigate its negative impacts.

Several popular tourist destination have already announced plans to introduce or increase tourist taxes in 2025. Watch out for these destinations, especially if you have an upcoming trip:

1. The Maldives

First, the Maldives will raise its Tourism Goods and Services Tax (TGST) and green tax, adding to the financial burden on visitors. Additionally, airport fees have also been announced to increase.

2. Mexico

Cruise passengers visiting ports in Mexico should expect a new $42 immigration levy for foreigners starting June 2025. This additional fee is expected to generate revenue for the country's tourism and infrastructure services.

3. Spain

Spain is further tightening its regulations on tourist accommodation. Businesses will be required to collect more detailed information from guests, including passport details, home addresses, number of travellers, and method of payment for tourists who are 14 years old and above. This move aims to enhance security and improve data management.

In case you didn't know: the current tourist tax in Barcelona is actually the city's third biggest source of revenue, with around €100 million (~$108 million) last year just from cruise passengers paying a €6.25 ($6.8) entry fee.

4. United Kingdom

Meanwhile, the UK will require most non-European travellers to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) starting from 8 Jan 2025.

In addition, Scotland is also considering imposing a levy on overnight stays for hotels, Airbnbs, and other accommodation properties.

5. Venice

Venice has been experimenting with a day-visitor tax to curb overcrowding—and we all know how crowded it can get here. With that, charging a fee of €5 (~$5.26) per day for tourists without a hotel room has already helped to regulate tourist numbers and generate additional revenue for the city.

6. Rome

Meanwhile, Rome is taking steps to regulate tourism by restricting the use of key boxes for short-term rental properties. This move is intended to improve security measures, manage visitors flows, and prepare for what is about to come next year for Vatican's Holy Jubilee celebration.

7. Amsterdam

Lastly, Amsterdam has increased its tourist tax to 12.5%, making it the highest in Europe. The additional revenue is said to fund public services like festivals, and improve some of the city's parks and infrastructures.

The impact of tourist taxes

While tourist tax can be helpful in funding essential services and infrastructure, they may also deter some travellers, particularly budget-conscious visitors. With that, it's highly important that destinations still balance the need for revenue with the potential negative impact on their tourism numbers.

Also read: Tired of Tourist Traps? Here Are 2025’s Must-Visit Hidden Destinations

As you plan your trips for 2025, remember to be mindful of these new tourist taxes and factor them into your overall travel budget. By understanding the implications and gravity of these fees, you can make informed decisions and enjoy your vacations without unexpectedly burning a hole through your wallet.

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