National Registration Scheme for Visitor Accommodation to start in the Autumn
Accommodation providers in Wales will be required to register under new law
The Welsh Government is introducing a mandatory national registration scheme for anyone who provides paid visitor accommodation in Wales. This forms part of the Visitor Accommodation (Register and Levy) Etc. (Wales) Act 2025, which underpins both the new register and future visitor levy powers.
Welsh Government states that the register will provide a clear picture of the accommodation provided within the sector across Wales, support local authorities who are considering the Visitor Levy and help to ensure compliance and improve data for tourism policy.
The registration is the first step, with the intention of developing into a full licensing scheme but with no confirmed date as of yet. The license scheme will focus on safety and quality standards.
Who has to register?
By law anyone who takes accommodation bookings for overnight stays in Wales and any stays that are 31 nights or less. The registration is mandatory nationwide, regardless of whether a council introduces the levy. Failure to register will result in financial penalties.
When will I have to register?
The registration will open in the autumn of 2026. The registration will be free of charge to register and shouldn’t take any longer than 15 minutes to complete.
The register will cover all types of visitor accommodation and includes stays that is only on occasional use or one night a year hosts.
What information will I need to provide?
When the application window opens, providers must give:
- Personal and business contact details;
- Trading name, if applicable;
- Accommodation address;
- Type of accommodation;
- maximum number of quests;
- Usual operating season;
The CLA Cymru team will continue to update members with any changes or confirmed dates going forward. If you would like to speak to an advisor please contact Emily Church, who leads on Welsh Tourism Policy, on 01547 317085.
