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If you are a vacation rental property manager in Catalonia, Spain, you may have heard about the ecotax or the catalan tourist tax, also known as the “Ecotasa”. This tax was introduced in 2012 as a way to raise funds for the conservation of the region’s natural and cultural heritage. We will provide all the information you need to know about the tourist tax in Catalonia and how it affects your vacation rental management business.

Contents:

  • What is the Catalan Tourist Tax?
  • Who pays the tax?
  • How much is the tax?
  • When is the tax paid?
  • How is the tax collected?
  • Where does the money generated from the tourist tax go?


What is the Catalan tourist tax

The Catalan tourist tax, also known as the ecotax, is a tax that is applied to visitors who stay in tourist accommodations in Catalonia. The tax is applied uniquely over the first seven nights of a guest’s stay. Should a guest stay in multiple accommodations during their visit in Catalonia, they will be subjected to the tax for the first 7 nights in each accommodation. The tax is part of a broader initiative to promote sustainable tourism practices and preserve the region’s natural and cultural heritage.

Who pays the tax

The tourist tax is paid by visitors who stay in tourist accommodations in Catalonia. This includes hotels, hostels, campsites, and vacation rentals.

How much is the Catalan tourist tax

The amount of the tax varies depending on the type of accommodation and the length of the stay. For example, in 2021, the tax for vacation rentals ranges from 0.90 euros to 2.25 euros per person per night, per person, depending on the type of property and its location. The tax is capped at seven nights, so visitors who stay longer than seven nights will not have to pay any additional tax.

Avantio Catalan tourist tax everything you need to know How Much is the tourist tax

When is the tax paid? 

The tourist tax is usually paid at the time of check-in. Property managers are responsible for collecting and paying the tax to the local authorities. Visitors receive a receipt for the tax, which they can use as proof of payment.

How is the tourist tax collected? 

The vacation rental manager collects the tourist tax. Property managers must register with the local authorities and obtain a tax identification number. They must also keep detailed records of the tax they collect and pay.

Where does the money generated from the catalan tourist tax go? 

The Catalan tourist tax is an essential funding source for the preservation and enhancement of Catalonia’s unique natural and cultural resources. As a vacation rental manager in Catalonia, it is important to understand the tourist tax and how it affects your business. By providing your guests with transparent information about the tax and collecting it efficiently, you can ensure that you contribute to sustainable tourism practices and the preservation of the region’s heritage.


Sustainable tourism practices

Understanding the tourist tax in Catalonia is essential for vacation rental property managers. By following the guidelines and requirements set forth by the local authorities, you can ensure that you are providing your guests with a sustainable and memorable vacation experience while also supporting the conservation of the region’s unique natural and cultural heritage. 

For the latest updates and pricing, please visit the Catalonia official government website.