Catalonia's parliament has approved a bill that will double the tourist tax rates in Barcelona starting April 1, 2026, with significant increases planned for other areas as well.
On February 25, 2024, the Catalan parliament passed a law increasing the tourist tax, which will take effect on April 1, 2026. In Barcelona, the new rates will generally double the current tax, while areas outside the capital will see an initial increase of 50% that will eventually reach a 100% increase by 2027. This move aims to significantly boost revenue from tourism-related taxes, which are projected to rise from 100 million euros to 200 million euros annually.
The new tax policy stipulates that 25% of the increased revenue will be allocated to housing policies, while the remaining 75% will fund the Tourism Support Fund. This funding is intended for initiatives to enhance tourism resources, promote accessibility for individuals with disabilities, and address issues related to the seasonality of tourism in the region. These measures reflect a growing trend in urban areas where tourism is a major economic driver, targeting sustainable development in the tourism sector.
Additionally, the law provides the city council of Barcelona with the authority to raise local subsidies to support tourism. As European authorities, including the European Commission, review Spain's tourism regulations, this tax adjustment becomes a significant aspect of the ongoing discussions about sustainable tourism practices and economic recovery in the post-pandemic landscape.
