10 Countries Tourists Have to Pay Taxes When Visiting
You’ve booked your flights, packed your bags, and sorted your itinerary. But did you know your holiday budget may also need a “government tip jar”? Yes, some countries charge their visitors just a little more – it’s called tourist tax – to help maintain their lovely destinations the right way. Let’s look at tourist tax countries and what you might face when you go there.
Why do tourist taxes exist?
Tourist taxes aren’t arbitrary. They:
- Support infrastructure like roads, transport, and airports
- Support the protection of cultural sites and the environment
- Support the management of tourist numbers during busy seasons
These fees may be added fees onto your hotel bill, collected upon your departure at airports, or paid upon arrival.
1. Italy
- Tassa di soggiorno varies by city and hotel rating.
- In Rome: €1–€5 per night.
- Venice: €5 day visitor entry fee at peak times to safeguard its canals and history.
2. Japan
- Known as the “Sayonara Tax.”
- A flat 1,000 yen (~₹600) when leaving Japan.
- Backs up airport functions and tourist attractions.
3. France
- Taxe de séjour applies in many cities.
- From €0.65 for budget stays to more than €15 for deluxe hotels.
- Contributes to keeping museums, parks, and public transit alive.
4. Bhutan
- Sustainable Development Fee (SDF): USD 100 per person, per day.
- Ensures “high-value, low-impact” tourism.
- Preserves nature, culture, and heritage.
5. Malaysia
- Tourist tax: RM 10 per room, per night.
- Applies to all registered accommodations.
- Finances tourism development and visitor amenities.
6. Indonesia (Bali)
- From Feb 2024: 150,000 rupiah (~$10) one-time tax upon arrival.
- Works towards cultural preservation and environmental care.
7. Thailand
- Planned arrival tax: 300 Thai Baht (~$9) by air.
- Will fund sustainable tourism and tourist accident insurance.
8. New Zealand
- International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL): NZD 35–100.
- Collected during the Australia tourist visa or eTA application process for certain travelers.
- Funds conservation and tourism projects.
9. Austria
- Ortstaxe varies by region.
- In Vienna: 3.2% of the room price.
- Other places: €0.15–€3 per person, per night.
10. Spain (Balearic Islands)
- €0.60–€3.50 per night, depending on season and stay type.
- Sponsoring eco-projects and local tourism management.
Final Thoughts
Tourist taxes might sting like a little extra pinch, but they help keep your destinations worth it. And whether you’re enjoying Vienna’s ancient streets or Bali’s paradise beaches, that little charge keeps the same experiences you’ve come to appreciate.
So if you’re planning a trip, particularly to countries with entry fees, it’s wise to account for these fees in your travel budget. For those visiting the UK, you’ll also need to check the UK visitor visa process.
At VisaExperts, we guide travelers with visa applications, country-specific requirements, and official documentation—making the process smooth and worry-free.
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