Norway raises tourism levy: overnight stay now more expensive!

Norway raises tourism levy: overnight stay now more expensive!

Parliament has passed a law that enables municipalities in highly frequented areas to levy up to three percent per night in hotels and private accommodation, including Airbnb. According to the provisions, the proceeds from this tax may only be used to finance public institutions that are related to tourism. However, the municipalities have to prove that their infrastructure has so far been insufficient to justify the introduction of a tourist tax. These plans must also be approved by the government.

problems due to excessive tourism

The increase in tourism has led to serious problems with the sanitary infrastructure in popular tourist locations. In the media, residents report various problems associated with the mass rush of tourists, including inappropriate behavior such as doing the emergency in gardens. The concerns about the quality of life of the residents are growing, while at the same time the regions' attractiveness should be preserved for tourists.

In addition to the new tax, a tax on cruise ships is also considered that start Norwegian ports. This could be an additional source of income for the municipalities that also fight with the challenges of tourism. However, the hotel sector expresses concerns about the effects of the planned tax and fears that this could have negative consequences for tourism in Norway.

The decision to introduce a tourism levy reflects the endeavor of the Norwegian government to master the balancing act between a growing tourism sector and the preservation of a functioning and pleasant living environment for the local population. Norway thus takes an unusual but necessary step in the administration of his tourist resources.

Further information on this topic can be found at stern.de and Kleinezeitung.at .