Norway imposes tourist tax due to overtourism

In response to the surge in tourism over the past year, the Norwegian Parliament has just passed a new law allowing localities to impose a 3% tax on nights spent in areas heavily affected by tourism.

The surge in tourists has overloaded infrastructure in many areas of Norway - Photo: Reuters

The move, which the Norwegian government has called "a historic deal", is in line with what other countries in Europe are doing.

According to information on the Euronews online news site on June 6, the content of the law passed on June 5 shows that the tax will be added to the cost of accommodation. Local authorities in Norway have the right to decide on the application as well as seasonal adjustments.

All revenues will be used for tourism infrastructure improvement projects, provided that the locality demonstrates that existing facilities are overloaded or dilapidated and the national government approves the plan for use.

Some localities are also considering expanding the tax to cruise ships, especially in areas with heavy tourist pressure.

Euronews reports that in 2024 Norway will record more than 38.6 million stays, of which more than 12 million will be international visitors - an increase of 4.2% compared to 2023.

Destinations like the Lofoten Islands and the city of Tromso are facing infrastructure overload, from public toilets to parking lots.

Some local residents said that some tourists even used their own backyards as toilets, causing tension with the local community. In addition, the sharp increase in traffic has also led to congestion, significantly affecting the daily lives of local residents.

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Source: https://tuoitre.vn/na-uy-ap-thue-du-lich-vi-qua-tai-du-khach-20250608000231832.htm