India is emerging as a global favourite destination due to its rich heritage, culture and natural splendour. The numbers tell us that in the year 2023, the sector contributed over Rs 19 trillion to the GDP, a 10% increase from 2019. Moreover, with the Indian government’s vision to target 100 million inbound tourists by 2047, the sector is bound to create more jobs. The sector is going to need more travel agents who can help people plan their travel, including hotel stay and transportation. If you have been aspiring to be a travel agent, this page informs you about the key steps for travel agent registration.
5 steps to start and register a travel agency in India
1. Decide the kind of travel agency you want to be
Before you start the process of registration, you need to decide the framework of your travel agency. What kind of travel business are you planning to build? Will you be the sole owner or proprietor of the agency or will you run it with other partners. Depending on these factors, you can register the travel agency as a proprietorship, a private limited company or a LLP or Limited Liability Partnership. The rules for registration differ for each type of the organisation. So, as a first step, select the structure and decide the name of your travel agency.
2. Create a business plan
For successful business, it is important to have a well-thought out and framed business plan. Put your ideas on the paper and define your business vision and goals. Create a strong revenue model for your business that can ensure your long-term success.
3. Join as registered agent
You can join as a travel agent with an egovernance platform and earn comissions on booking of air, rail and flight tickets. They have tie ups with multiple service providers and offer you attractive deals, marketing support and an app to manage your business. If you become a travel agent with this route, the registration process is easier and has fewer steps. You don’t need an independent registration.
4. Register with IATA
For a travel agency to gain credibility not only in India but globally, it is important to do your travel agent registration with the International Air Transport Association. This will help you build trust and credibility with the customers. It is also your first step to build strong relationships with industry partners, such as airlines and hotels. Once you are registered with IATA and have completed all the required norms, you will get a unique code and will be allowed to use their ‘IATA Accredited Agent’ logo. This is optional.
5. Register with the Government of India
Another major step after IATA registration is to become a Government of India-approved travel agency. Though it is not a requirement, travel agent registration with the government will bring to your agency a legitimate status. It also sends out a message to the public that your travel agency works with ethics and professionalism.
6. Get a GST registration number
Your travel agency registration will not be complete until you procure a Goods and Sales tax or GST number. Collecting GST is a mandatory requirement for a travel agency. You may have to wait a little after applying to get your Goods and Services Tax Identification Number or GSTIN.
7. Start your business
Once all the formalities are done, it is now time to announce to the world about your services. Make all the efforts to market yourself both online and offline. For instance, you can launch your website, make your account on social media channels, publish pamphlets for local publicity etc.
