Vancouver will be the first city to use a “new tool” to cover the costs of hosting FIFA 2026 World Cup matches, according to the province.
In the fall of 2022, the province reported that the city had requested a temporary increase in the municipal and regional District Tax (MRDT) on “short-term housing” to help cover the costs of hosting a large-scale international tournament.
The temporary tax could generate about $230 million in revenue over seven years, the province said.
Starting February 1, 2023, Vancouver overnight visitors will be charged an additional fee of $2.50 for every $100 paid for short-term accommodation.
British Columbia Finance Minister Catherine Conroy said the province was pleased to support Vancouver in hosting the event.
The British Columbia government has stated that the temporary tax is a tool that communities across British Columbia can qualify for, provided they meet the province’s criteria for major international events.
Last summer, FIFA announced that the 2026 FIFA World Cup would be hosted by 48 teams in North American cities, including Vancouver and Toronto.
