Airbnb Issues Important Update to Hosts on Edinburgh Visitor Levy

Airbnb has shared an important update with short-term let operators in the City of Edinburgh regarding the introduction of the Visitor Levy. The platform has clarified how the tax must be collected and displayed, correcting earlier guidance and outlining next steps for hosts.

“We’ve previously contacted you about the tourist tax (“visitor levy”) which is being implemented by the City of Edinburgh Council. This applies to all stays booked on or after 1 October 2025, which take place on or after 24 July 2026.

Please disregard our previous communication which suggested that you can collect tax from the guest separately after check-in. This is incorrect. The total price shown to the guest at the time of booking must already include the levy.”

What this means for you as a host

• Hosts are responsible for collecting and remitting this levy on their stays. The price displayed on Airbnb and charged to guests must always be inclusive of the visitor levy.

How to collect the tax

• For bookings made between 1 October 2025 and 23 July 2026 for stays taking place on or after 24 July 2026, you will need to include the tax in the nightly price by updating your calendar.
• From 24 July 2026 onwards, Airbnb will have a tool available in your settings that will allow you to collect the tax due on any bookings after that date. We will share guidance on this tool closer to the date.

If you have additional questions about the visitor levy or hosting in Edinburgh, please contact the city council directly. More information can be found on the City of Edinburgh Council’s website.

Please see the Visitor Levy FAQs here.