Post by Gareth, Registration Lead, Welsh Revenue Authority
Building a new service is about far more than what you see on screen.
From autumn 2026, visitor accommodation providers in Wales will need to register with the Welsh Revenue Authority (WRA). Since the WRA launched in 2018, our approach has always been to support people to get things right first time and we’re applying the same approach to registration. We are working hard to make sure that when registration opens, you have everything you need to complete the process simply, correctly and confidently.
Darllenwch y dudalen hon yn Gymraeg
More than a digital service
Alongside building the online registration service, teams across the WRA have been working on the things that sit behind it. This includes updating our customer relationship management (CRM) system, which is our internal system of managing and keeping track of phone calls, cases and queries.
We’ve also been writing guidance for accommodation providers, preparing training for our staff, and putting the right support processes in place.
We want the service to feel straightforward from day one. That means making sure our helpdesk teams know what to expect, our internal systems can handle queries quickly, and our guidance is clear and easy to follow.
Listening to a diverse sector
One of the most important things we have learned through our preparations is just how diverse the visitor accommodation sector is. Different types of accommodation operate in very different ways and will need tailored support and guidance.
Established providers will already be familiar with interacting with multiple government services as part of running their business, but more occasional hosts may be less familiar. Language matters too. Occasional providers letting out a spare room may use different terms compared to established hosts providing accommodation year-round.
We have been speaking with industry representatives throughout this process to understand what support they will need. Those conversations have directly shaped how we are designing our guidance and support materials. Based on what we’ve heard, we have made several changes, including using clearer and more specific language, adding detailed examples and offering more accommodation type options so providers can categorise themselves correctly.
Support for everyone
We’ve published guidance on our website to help accommodation providers get ready to register and we’ll publish more detailed guidance before registration opens in the autumn.
Although the service will be online, we know that not everyone will want, or be able, to use a digital service. Telephone support will be available for those who prefer it, and a paper route will remain in place for the small number of providers who need it.
Our helpdesk already provides support to customers for Wales’ two devolved taxes and accommodation providers can contact us with questions if they cannot find the answer on our website. The helpdesk will play an important role when registration opens and we’re updating our systems so that our teams can support you effectively from day one.
What happens next?
Over the coming months we will:
- finalise and publish guidance for accommodation providers
- run webinars for accommodation providers
- continue to build and test the service with users
- deliver training for our internal teams
- test our support processes
- continue our engagement with the sector
When registration opens later this year, you will see a simple process. Behind it will be months of careful preparation to make sure the service is clear, supportive, and works for everyone.
Have your say
We would love to hear your thoughts. If you would like to share feedback or take part in research, contact us at wracommunications@wra.gov.wales.
Sign up to receive updates and get notified when registration opens.
Please note: Everything we share is work in progress and may change as we continue developing the service.