Want To Know The Journey Of Registering Your Travel Business?

How-to • Operations • August 16, 2018 • Vacation Labs

India has seen a sharp spike of startups over the last decade. Thanks to the ease of doing business through technology. According to a recent report , India is set to host 10,500 startups by 2020 making it one of the largest ecosystems for startups. Well, good luck to those who thought that the startup ecosystem is just a bubble waiting to burst.  In fact, the travel and tourism industry will be adding $11,512.9 billion* to global GDP by 2027. So, everyone in the travel startup space is looking to share a part of the pie.

(*As per a 2017 report by the World Travel And Tourism Council)

Here are some stats that’ll open your eyes:.

95% of consumers search online before making a travel purchase. Now that’s an insight

Social media affects purchase decisions of 48% consumers

41% consumers make a purchase after receiving a promotional offer/discount

25% consumers make a purchase after receiving it over SMS

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE:    Get Your Travel Website In One Day- No Developer Needed

Are You Missing The Point?

Though, there’s something, which is mission critical even before you get that website up. That’s actually registering your business and making it legal and operational. After all, you don’t want to make headlines in the tourism industry for all the wrong reasons.

So How Do You Start Your Travel Business ?

There are plenty of ways to start a travel company . The question is whether you want to go the traditional way or do it the smart way (more on that later). First, let’s look at the traditional way of registering a travel company. The first thing you’d do is contact your CA and set up an appointment. Then he would ask you for a bunch of documents time and again to submit and then give you an approximate date of registering your company. Then the wait starts for you. In this process, two things do not go in your favour. That’s convenience and accountability.

Remember, we mentioned a smart way for travel company registration . There are plenty of startups out there including those that would be a one-stop shop solution for all your legal and financial needs to start your travel business in India.

There are companies like:

VakilSearch

Startupwala

These companies ensure that you can start your travel company without running around to multiple places for documents. After all, you have a busy life and are on the go. Through these companies, you are saving time and money. And we all know time is money. So now that we’ve made a case for going online, here’s another important question:

That totally depends on how you want to start your travel company. A majority of travel entrepreneurs start solo, while others usually team up with family or friends to begin with. Very rarely people start with a full-fledged travel company. 

Does A Sole Proprietorship Make Sense For You?

Yes, it does. In fact, it is the easiest way to start your travel company . That’s because you’d be managing the whole show as the principal decision maker and owner of your travel company. The best part is that you could have a proprietorship company up and running in a fortnight. No wonder, it is the most popular way to start a business, particularly for new entrepreneurs and establishments.

Here are some of the pros of going solo or rather with Sole Proprietorships:

Get a head start

15 days is all you need to start a travel company . That includes your GST registration. It’s fairly a straightforward process. All you need is a:

  • Identity proof  
  • Address proof
  • Shops & Establishments Act Registration
  • Current Bank Account

And you’re almost done.  

Less compliance. More ease.

The compliance required for running your travel business or tour operator business is uncomplicated. All you’ve got to do is file the taxes of your service or profession.

Easy on the pocket

Not only do you require less paperwork and compliances for Sole Proprietorship firms, but you have to pay less to get started. One can start with as low as Rs. 1,499 . Now, that’s even less than a meal at a restaurant in most urban cities in India.

Tax is on your side

Since you are the sole owner of a travel company, you do not need to show a distinction between your income and the company’s income. Therefore, you’d be taxed according to the rates applied to personal income tax rates, and not corporate tax. That means, no hiring expensive auditors. You can breathe easy. 

How Do You Go About Registering The Company?

You must be thinking that you can do it yourself. But first, this is all that you have to go through:

  • Choose possible names for your company. Here’s what you need to know about naming your company
  • Apply online on with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs for the DIN (Director Identification Number)
  • Register online for a DSC (Digital Signature Certificate)
  • Gather your application materials
  • Complete e-Form 1A
  • File Form 1A online to apply for company name
  • Draft the Memorandum of Association (MoA) and Articles of Association (AoA)
  • Print the MoA and AoA.
  • Have the MoA and AoA notarized
  • Pay the registration and filing fees online
  • Find the corresponding RoC office to file your application
  • Gather your completed application documents
  • File your application one with the RoC
  • Collect the Certificate of Incorporation
  • Ready to do business

It ends up something like this:

Registering a Company - Ministry of Corporate Affairs

Not your idea of forming a company, right?

There’s a better way to do it by using online platforms such as Vakil Search, Venture Easy and IndiaFilings.

Let’s look at Vakil Search

A floating box with a call-to-action window  

Registering Your Business on Vakil Search - Call to Action Window

They even have a chat window powered with a Bot called TARS to assist you 

Registering Your Business on Vakil Search - Chat Window

The chat window is extremely user-friendly by clearly defining the special offers and options in the chat window 

Registering Your Business on Vakil Search - Ask a Question

Apart from the initial form and chat window on the right side, there is also the option for the user to ask a question with their name and phone number.Vakil Search arranges for a call back to the user to answer their queries.

Once you choose an option, a representative from Vakil Search will send you a dashboard for all the following details.

Registering Your Business on Vakil Search - Dashboard

Make sure you fill in all your details and make the payment. Next, wait for a few days and voila, you are all set to roll. Therefore, sites like these become a one-stop shop solution for starting your travel company.  

Thinking About The Paid-up Capital?

There is none in the case of the Sole Proprietorship as is the case with the One Person Company or Private Limited Company which is usually Rs. 1 lakh.

Are There Any Downsides?

Though a Sole Proprietorship is fairly easy to set up, it’s not all rosy when your business suffers losses. That’s because Sole Proprietorship comes with the unlimited liability clause, which means in case the business goes into a loss, the business, as well as the personal assets of the proprietor, can be used to pay debts or recover losses. That can seriously dent a proprietor’s financial goals. That’s also one of the major reasons why it becomes difficult to raise funds or lend funds to assist sole proprietors.

What Is A One Man Company?

2013 saw a new form of business introduced according to the Companies Act. It was brought in to help sole proprietors and new entrepreneurs who would like to start a business with limited liability and yet have the business as a separate legal entity. Want to know the other features and differences between OPC and Sole Proprietorship, this will help .

What If Two People Or More Wish To Start A Travel Business Together?

travel company registration formalities

That’s always a question running in an entrepreneur’s mind especially if he or she wants to start the travel business with a friend or family member. For this modus operandi, we’d suggest you register your tour operator or travel business with a Limited Liability Partnership (LLP).

What Is An LLP?

It is a legal corporate entity in which a firm enjoys the partnership with limited liability yet the business has all the features of a company. It means, the best of both worlds when it comes to a partnership and a limited company. That’s because a partner does not take responsibility for the decisions and the wrongdoings of other partners. Plus, they enjoy limited liability when it comes to their business.

What About Expansion?

Yes, we can understand a lot of entrepreneurs have registered a travel company but are looking to take the next step of expansion. After all, everyone would like to make it big when it comes to their business. For these entrepreneurs, it is time for them to register their company as a Private Limited Company.

What Is A Private Limited Company?

A private limited company is a legal corporate entity with a limited liability incorporated under the Companies Act, 2013. It should have a minimum of two directors and a maximum of 15 directors. A director can also be a shareholder. It also allows foreign nationals, foreign entities or NRIs to be the Directors as well as shareholders.

What Are The Advantages Of A Private Limited Company?

Having your own travel business private limited means you’ll get the boost and funds available to scale-up your business. That’s because, there will be shareholders as well as investors who’d take interest in your company provided on your profitability and returns. This means some serious investment and opportunities to see your travel business take-off.

OK, Now That You Have Registered, What Next?

Yes, that’s a very valid question for starting a travel company in the new GST era. The Goods or Services Tax is applicable to you if you have an annual turnover of more than 20 lakhs. Since we are also talking about taking your business online, you will also require a GST number for selling travel services or products online. Again, it’s a hassle-free and paper-free process as the Government of India has made it easy to apply for GST. There is even a GST portal .

travel company registration formalities

GST registration can be done via the GST portal.  All you’ll need is:

  • PAN card, Photo and Aadhar Card of the proprietor
  • Address proof of business (Electricity bill/ rent agreement)
  • A copy of your bank statement, which clearly shows your bank account number and IFSC code

Normally, the GST number is received within 3-4 days of submitting the application.

While it is not mandatory to be approved by the Government of India to be a travel agent, it has its advantages. It means you are maintaining certain checklists and quality standards. Plus, you become a credible travel business or tour operator, which is important in the eyes of the international tourist. To become an approved travel agent or tour operator, you’ll need to apply to the Ministry of Tourism with certain information like capital invested, a certain number of staff employed, maintenance of minimum office space and other stipulations.

Are There Any Guidelines From The Government For Entrepreneurs Who’d Like To Register Their Travel Business? Yes, the government has put together certain guidelines for inbound tour operators. You can view them here .

Is There Any Tour Operator Body In India That Is Helpful For A New Tour Operator Business?

Tour Operator Body - Logo

Yes, there is. There is an Association of Domestic Tour Operators of India or ADTOI as it is called. While starting a tour operator business , it makes perfect sense to be a part of this organization. There is also the Indian Association of Tour Operators or IATO , which is also an apex body of inbound tour operators. Here are some of the advantages of becoming a member of IATO.  And you have ATOAI , that stands for Adventure Tours Operators Association Of India. If you cater to airline ticketing getting registered with IATA (International Air Transport Association) is a must.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE:   What is a Tour Operator Software? Tour Operator Fundamentals

We have shared a step-by-step process with specific guidelines to help you get your travel start-up the initial formalities and recognition to perform business. However, one thing is clear, for any travel business to even survive, they have to get online.

How Can We Say This?

Vacation Labs - Homepage

Vacation Labs has helped more than 200 tour operators and travel companies go online from scratch. That too, in a short span of time. We are a testimony to their start-up experience and success. So, once you get your company registered, don’t look further. Contact us to get your travel website up and running in no time with powerful travel commerce capabilities. One thing is clear, for any travel business to even survive, they have to get online. Here are some of the fundamentals of setting up your tour operator business online. If you’d like to get started or want to know anything else, we are waiting.

Vacation Labs has helped more than 200+ tour operators and travel companies go online from scratch.

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How to Start a Travel Agency

Most travel agencies earn revenue through commissions. Consumers often choose agencies because they help cut down on time needed to research various locations and book accommodations. A popular trend in the industry is online agencies, which operate mostly or exclusively online.

Learn how to start your own Travel Agency and whether it is the right fit for you.

Ready to form your LLC? Check out the Top LLC Formation Services .

Travel Agency Image

Start a travel agency by following these 10 steps:

  • Plan your Travel Agency
  • Form your Travel Agency into a Legal Entity
  • Register your Travel Agency for Taxes
  • Open a Business Bank Account & Credit Card
  • Set up Accounting for your Travel Agency
  • Get the Necessary Permits & Licenses for your Travel Agency
  • Get Travel Agency Insurance
  • Define your Travel Agency Brand
  • Create your Travel Agency Website
  • Set up your Business Phone System

We have put together this simple guide to starting your travel agency. These steps will ensure that your new business is well planned out, registered properly and legally compliant.

Exploring your options? Check out other small business ideas .

STEP 1: Plan your business

A clear plan is essential for success as an entrepreneur. It will help you map out the specifics of your business and discover some unknowns. A few important topics to consider are:

What will you name your business?

  • What are the startup and ongoing costs?
  • Who is your target market?

How much can you charge customers?

Luckily we have done a lot of this research for you.

Choosing the right name is important and challenging. If you don’t already have a name in mind, visit our How to Name a Business guide or get help brainstorming a name with our Travel Agency Name Generator

If you operate a sole proprietorship , you might want to operate under a business name other than your own name. Visit our DBA guide to learn more.

When registering a business name , we recommend researching your business name by checking:

  • Your state's business records
  • Federal and state trademark records
  • Social media platforms
  • Web domain availability .

It's very important to secure your domain name before someone else does.

Want some help naming your travel agency?

Business name generator, what are the costs involved in opening a travel agency.

While some sources suggest you can pay a host agency $400 to $1,200 to get started from home, there are host agencies that don’t charge you anything to use them as your host. A host agency basically takes care of all the regulatory and back office requirements and splits the commission with you as the business owner.

To start your own independent agency may cost you between $1,000 and $10,000, depending on the markets you serve and your existing book of clients.

What are the ongoing expenses for a travel agency?

Fortunately, expenses for this type of business are low and are limited to printed brochures and typical office paperwork. If you are working through a host agency, some or all of your advertising may be paid for.

Who is the target market?

Most clients and customers are people who want to travel to another country. While domestic agencies do exist, the market is really in international travel these days. The types of clients an agency might serve depend entirely on the current market place. Client needs range from simple vacations to corporate retreats to medical tourism.

How does a travel agency make money?

Commissions are the way in which travelling agencies have traditionally made the majority of their income. Airlines and hotels would pay agencies a certain fee for utilizing their companies when booking for a client. However, with the recent proliferation of booking technology, including Google Travel, travelling apps, and company websites, these businesses are more accessible to consumers and no longer rely on travelling agencies to promote their services. For this reason, airlines and hotels have largely stopped paying travel agencies commissions. As a result, travel agencies have been forced to adapt, focusing less on simple bookings and more on navigating complex itineraries and the legalities of travelling in specific regions or countries. They have shifted to charging flat rates for bookings and hourly rates for consulting services related to planning travels and navigating legalities.

Travel agents working independently typically charge $30 for booking a flight, $50 for sleeping accommodations in a single destination, and $100/hour for research and planning advice. If a travel agent manages to procure commissions from an airline or hotel, these will typically be around 10%.

How much profit can a travel agency make?

First-year income for a home-based agency is between $30,000 and $50,000. As the business expands, revenues can rise to over $100,000, but this usually requires hiring other agents and staff support.

How can you make your business more profitable?

Travel agencies that specialize tend to make more money. For example, according to the US Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS), travel agencies can bring in between $30,000 and $50,000 per year. General agencies or agencies that offer only leisure travel services make the least, while corporate and medical tourism specialties tend to make the most.

There are several types of specialties in the travel industry:

  • Leisure Agent
  • Corporate Agent
  • International Agent
  • Medical Tourism Agent

A leisure agent books primarily leisure and vacation travel. For example, this might include family vacations or sabbaticals.

Corporate agents primarily book travel for corporations. Usually, corporate clients are looking for business trips or retreats. Often, the corporate client needs special attention, including complex booking schedules that include both accommodations, local travel, and entertainment

Medical tourism is a highly specific niche segment of the industry. These agents research countries for medical patients who want treatments that are either not available or are too expensive in their home country. For example, a patient may be looking for an experimental cancer treatment which is only available in a particular country.

International agents book international travel plans. These could be for corporate clients but are typically for individuals. These individuals may be looking for universities abroad, a new country to buy property in, or even a new country to move to.

Want a more guided approach? Access TRUiC's free Small Business Startup Guide - a step-by-step course for turning your business idea into reality. Get started today!

STEP 2: Form a legal entity

The most common business structure types are the sole proprietorship , partnership , limited liability company (LLC) , and corporation .

Establishing a legal business entity such as an LLC or corporation protects you from being held personally liable if your travel agency is sued.

Form Your LLC

Read our Guide to Form Your Own LLC

Have a Professional Service Form your LLC for You

Two such reliable services:

You can form an LLC yourself and pay only the minimal state LLC costs or hire one of the Best LLC Services for a small, additional fee.

Recommended: You will need to elect a registered agent for your LLC. LLC formation packages usually include a free year of registered agent services . You can choose to hire a registered agent or act as your own.

STEP 3: Register for taxes

You will need to register for a variety of state and federal taxes before you can open for business.

In order to register for taxes you will need to apply for an EIN. It's really easy and free!

You can acquire your EIN through the IRS website . If you would like to learn more about EINs, read our article, What is an EIN?

There are specific state taxes that might apply to your business. Learn more about state sales tax and franchise taxes in our state sales tax guides.

STEP 4: Open a business bank account & credit card

Using dedicated business banking and credit accounts is essential for personal asset protection.

When your personal and business accounts are mixed, your personal assets (your home, car, and other valuables) are at risk in the event your business is sued. In business law, this is referred to as piercing your corporate veil .

Open a business bank account

Besides being a requirement when applying for business loans, opening a business bank account:

  • Separates your personal assets from your company's assets, which is necessary for personal asset protection.
  • Makes accounting and tax filing easier.

Recommended: Read our Best Banks for Small Business review to find the best national bank or credit union.

Get a business credit card

Getting a business credit card helps you:

  • Separate personal and business expenses by putting your business' expenses all in one place.
  • Build your company's credit history , which can be useful to raise money later on.

Recommended: Apply for an easy approval business credit card from BILL and build your business credit quickly.

STEP 5: Set up business accounting

Recording your various expenses and sources of income is critical to understanding the financial performance of your business. Keeping accurate and detailed accounts also greatly simplifies your annual tax filing.

Make LLC accounting easy with our LLC Expenses Cheat Sheet.

STEP 6: Obtain necessary permits and licenses

Failure to acquire necessary permits and licenses can result in hefty fines, or even cause your business to be shut down.

State & Local Business Licensing Requirements

Fourteen states require a Travel Sellers Registration License to sell travel. A license can be obtained through an application, which typically involves a fee and supporting documents such as membership in a professional association. Here is a list of states requiring Travel Sellers Registration Licenses.

Most businesses are required to collect sales tax on the goods or services they provide. To learn more about how sales tax will affect your business, read our article, Sales Tax for Small Businesses .

Certificate of Occupancy

A travel agency is usually run out of a physical location. Businesses operating out of a physical location typically require a Certificate of Occupancy (CO). A CO confirms that all building codes, zoning laws and government regulations have been met.

  • It is generally the landlord’s responsibility to obtain a CO.
  • Before leasing, confirm that your landlord has or can obtain a valid CO that is applicable to an travel agency business.
  • After a major renovation, a new CO often needs to be issued. If your place of business will be renovated before opening, it is recommended to include language in your lease agreement stating that lease payments will not commence until a valid CO is issued.
  • You will be responsible for obtaining a valid CO from a local government authority.
  • Review all building codes and zoning requirements for you business’ location to ensure your travel agency business will be in compliance and able to obtain a CO.

STEP 7: Get business insurance

Just as with licenses and permits, your business needs insurance in order to operate safely and lawfully. Business Insurance protects your company’s financial wellbeing in the event of a covered loss.

There are several types of insurance policies created for different types of businesses with different risks. If you’re unsure of the types of risks that your business may face, begin with General Liability Insurance . This is the most common coverage that small businesses need, so it’s a great place to start for your business.

Another notable insurance policy that many businesses need is Workers’ Compensation Insurance . If your business will have employees, it’s a good chance that your state will require you to carry Workers' Compensation Coverage.

FInd out what types of insurance your Travel Agency needs and how much it will cost you by reading our guide Business Insurance for Travel Agency.

STEP 8: Define your brand

Your brand is what your company stands for, as well as how your business is perceived by the public. A strong brand will help your business stand out from competitors.

If you aren't feeling confident about designing your small business logo, then check out our Design Guides for Beginners , we'll give you helpful tips and advice for creating the best unique logo for your business.

Recommended : Get a logo using Truic's free logo Generator no email or sign up required, or use a Premium Logo Maker .

If you already have a logo, you can also add it to a QR code with our Free QR Code Generator . Choose from 13 QR code types to create a code for your business cards and publications, or to help spread awareness for your new website.

How to promote & market a travel agency

Most new agency owners come from an established agency and have a book of clients. If you don’t start with an established agency, you must advertise your services. The best source for clients are referrals.

How to keep customers coming back

Agencies that are the most successful are specialty shops. For example, a travel agency might specialize in medical travel or corporate travel. A general agency will find it difficult to compete in today’s market.

STEP 9: Create your business website

After defining your brand and creating your logo the next step is to create a website for your business .

While creating a website is an essential step, some may fear that it’s out of their reach because they don’t have any website-building experience. While this may have been a reasonable fear back in 2015, web technology has seen huge advancements in the past few years that makes the lives of small business owners much simpler.

Here are the main reasons why you shouldn’t delay building your website:

  • All legitimate businesses have websites - full stop. The size or industry of your business does not matter when it comes to getting your business online.
  • Social media accounts like Facebook pages or LinkedIn business profiles are not a replacement for a business website that you own.
  • Website builder tools like the GoDaddy Website Builder have made creating a basic website extremely simple. You don’t need to hire a web developer or designer to create a website that you can be proud of.

Recommended : Get started today using our recommended website builder or check out our review of the Best Website Builders .

Other popular website builders are: WordPress , WIX , Weebly , Squarespace , and Shopify .

STEP 10: Set up your business phone system

Getting a phone set up for your business is one of the best ways to help keep your personal life and business life separate and private. That’s not the only benefit; it also helps you make your business more automated, gives your business legitimacy, and makes it easier for potential customers to find and contact you.

There are many services available to entrepreneurs who want to set up a business phone system. We’ve reviewed the top companies and rated them based on price, features, and ease of use. Check out our review of the Best Business Phone Systems 2023 to find the best phone service for your small business.

Recommended Business Phone Service: Phone.com

Phone.com is our top choice for small business phone numbers because of all the features it offers for small businesses and it's fair pricing.

Is this Business Right For You?

This business is perfect for individuals who are passionate about travel, love learning about and visiting new places, and are very detail oriented. Travel agency owners have very flexible hours but usually only after they have an established book of clients.

Want to know if you are cut out to be an entrepreneur?

Take our Entrepreneurship Quiz to find out!

Entrepreneurship Quiz

What happens during a typical day at a travel agency?

Day-to-day activities of a travel agency owner include checking faxes, phone messages, and incoming emails. You may also meet with clients and book numerous client trips during the day.

What are some skills and experiences that will help you build a successful travel agency?

There is no formal education or certification required to become a travel agent, but some states require you to have a license to operate as an agency:

Aside from that, there are voluntary certification programs that may help you enhance your knowledge of the industry and of travel in general:

Certified Travel Associate (CTA)

To get the CTA, you must have 18 months experience in the industry. You must take 8 core classes and 4 electives. You can finish your course in 3-6 months, but you have up to 12 months to finish. Cost for this course and exam is $350 and $250 for the test only. To maintain this certification, you must complete 10 CE credits each year.

Certified Travel Counsellor (CTC)

You must have 5 years experience in the industry and a CTA designation. There are 10 courses to complete, including a 3,000 word “white paper” assignment (in which a complex issue is explained concisely in a report). You must finish in 12 months, but may finish in 9 months. Cost is $550 for the course and exam or $320 for the exam only. To maintain this certification, you must complete 10 CE credits each year.

Certified Travel Industry Executive (CTIE)

This designation is only for non-consumer sales roles. You must have 5 years experience. The course consists of 100 videos, each 10 to 15 minutes in length. You must also complete a 2,000 to 3,000 word “white paper.” It takes 18 months to complete the course. Cost is $550 for the course and exam or $320 for just the test. To maintain your certification, you must commit to the annual Travel Institute membership and take 10 CE credits each year.

What is the growth potential for a travel agency?

Most small travel agencies are started as home-based businesses. Larger agencies adopt a traditional office model. Agencies can be run as a single-owner business or as a multiple-employee organization.

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For fun informative videos about starting a business visit the TRUiC YouTube Channel or subscribe to view later.

Take the Next Step

Find a business mentor.

One of the greatest resources an entrepreneur can have is quality mentorship. As you start planning your business, connect with a free business resource near you to get the help you need.

Having a support network in place to turn to during tough times is a major factor of success for new business owners.

Learn from other business owners

Want to learn more about starting a business from entrepreneurs themselves? Visit Startup Savant’s startup founder series to gain entrepreneurial insights, lessons, and advice from founders themselves.

Resources to Help Women in Business

There are many resources out there specifically for women entrepreneurs. We’ve gathered necessary and useful information to help you succeed both professionally and personally:

If you’re a woman looking for some guidance in entrepreneurship, check out this great new series Women in Business created by the women of our partner Startup Savant.

How and when to build a team

A travel agency can be built with a single owner. However, time is the limiting factor. Because this business carries a low overhead, your need for employees is limited by your time in the business. When it’s time to expand, most agency owners hire another agent or support staff so they can delegate responsibilities.

If you start with a host agency and want to move away from it, then you would expand by hiring administrative personnel to handle the regulatory and back office functions.

Useful Links

Industry opportunities.

  • American Society of Travel Agents
  • Franchise opportunity

Real World Examples

  • Independent travel agency
  • Large travel agency

Further Reading

  • Courses and books on how to become a travel agent
  • Description of different types of travel agents
  • Advice on being a travel agent

Additional Sources

  • Travel Institute
  • Host Agency Reviews - How Much Do Travel Agents Make? A Travel Agent Salary
  • Host Agency Reviews - Do You Need a Travel Agent License?

Have a Question? Leave a Comment!

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  • Tips & Advice
  • Did You Know?
  • Conservation

Pure Travel

How to Start an LLC for Your Travel Agency

  • March 9, 2023

travel company registration formalities

If you’re starting a travel agency, or you already have one, you may be ready to form a limited liability company (LLC). LLCs offer many benefits including personal liability protection, pass-through taxation, and management flexibility.

If you’re currently running your travel agency as a sole proprietorship, the biggest drawback is that you do not have personal liability protection. If, for example, a client sues you due to an issue with their vacation, your personal assets are at risk. That’s why many travel agency owners choose to operate as an LLC. 

But how do you start an LLC? In this article, you’ll find a step-by-step guide to forming an LLC for your travel agency.

Sites like How to Start My LLC also offer many tips, including how to start an LLC for your travel agency in specific states.

Choose Your LLC Name

Your travel agency name is the identity of your business, so choose wisely. You want something unique and easy to remember but that also says what you do. Brainstorm some names and then ask your family and friends what they think. 

Be sure to check your state’s LLC name regulations to make sure your names comply. 

Once you have a few name options, you’ll need to make sure they’re available to use. Start by going to your state’s relevant website, usually the Secretary of State’s website, and do a search for the name. 

Then you’ll want to visit the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office website to find out if the name is trademarked nationally. 

Finally, you’ll need to find out if the domain name that you want is available. You can go to a site like GoDaddy to check. 

Most states will allow you to go ahead and reserve the name to make sure that no one else takes it before you get your LLC formed.

Select a Registered Agent

Nearly all states require that you have a registered agent for your LLC, which is a person or company authorized to accept official correspondence on behalf of your travel agency. You can be your own registered agent, but that requires you to be available during normal business hours at your registered address to accept correspondence in person.

To appoint someone else, you’ll first need to check your state’s registered agent requirements. Generally, a registered agent must be at least 18 years of age and have a physical address in the state, or be a company authorized to do business in the state. 

Many travel agency owners find it beneficial to hire a national registered agent service to act as their registered agent. They can ensure that you’re notified of important correspondence in a timely manner so that you can stay in compliance with any requirements of the state.

Choose a Management Structure

LLCs can be managed in two ways. They can be member-managed, meaning that all members, who are the owners of the LLC, will be involved in the day-to-day operations of the travel agency.

Alternatively, the LLC can be manager-managed, which means that not all members are involved in the management of the LLC and/or that an outside manager who is not a member will manage the LLC.

Some states require that you specify your management structure when you officially form your LLC with the state.

File Your LLC Document with Your State

In most states, the document you file to officially form your LLC is called the articles of organization, but in other states, it’s called a certificate of organization or a certificate of formation.

In almost all states, you can file this document online, usually on your Secretary of State’s website.

The information required on the document varies by state, but at the very least, it will require your travel agency’s LLC name and address and your registered agent’s information.

Some states also require member or manager names and addresses.

Fees for filing the document vary by state and range from $40 to $500. 

Create an Operating Agreement

A handful of states require that you have an operating agreement for your LLC, but most do not. However, it’s a very important document that defines the ownership percentages of the LLC, and how profits and losses are distributed, as well as the roles and responsibilities of the members or managers.

It also contains important provisions about how decisions are made, how member disputes are settled, and how ownership of the LLC can be transferred.

If you own your travel agency with partners, you can see how important it is to have this document in place. 

You can find operating agreement templates online or obtain one from an online service like ZenBusiness for a modest fee, but it’s often best to have an attorney’s help when drafting your operating agreement. You’ll want to ensure that all members’ interests are protected.

Choose Your Tax Status

One of the great things about an LLC is that you can choose how your LLC will be taxed. By default, if you are the sole member of the LLC, your travel agency is taxed as a sole proprietorship. This means that the business itself is not taxed. All profits or losses are passed through to you to be reported on your personal tax return. 

If your travel agency has multiple owners, the LLC is taxed as a partnership, which again, means the LLC is not taxed, and all profits and losses are passed through to the members based on their ownership percentages.

However, at some point, it may be beneficial for you to have your LLC taxed as an S-Corporation or a C-Corporation. The most common selection is an S-Corporation, which still offers pass-through taxation. The advantage of an S-Corp status is that profits from the LLC are not subject to self-employment taxes. 

If your LLC is taxed as a sole proprietorship or partnership, on the other hand, profits are subject to self-employment taxes.

S-Corp status, however, requires that managing members be paid a salary, which brings added administrative costs. Generally, this means that an S-Corp status will only be beneficial when your travel agency reaches a level of income that makes the self-employment tax savings higher than the additional administrative costs.

The decision on tax status is best made with the help of your tax advisor.

Apply for an EIN

Finally, you’ll need to obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) for your LLC. You’re required to have one if your travel agency has employees or if your LLC has more than one member. The EIN allows the IRS to identify your business for tax purposes. 

You can easily apply for an EIN for free on the IRS website . 

Starting an LLC for your travel agency has many benefits, most importantly, the personal liability protection that it offers. Forming an LLC with your state is not difficult, but be sure to follow all the steps so that you don’t run into any issues that could affect the success of your travel agency. If you need help, consult with your attorney and tax advisor so that you get your business off on the right foot. 

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Starting a Travel Business

If you're looking to launch a travel business, you've come to the right place. Starting a travel venture is an exciting prospect - but it's also a serious endeavor that involves careful planning and consideration. From gathering the right resources and developing your business plans, to marketing your services and launching your website, there are plenty of steps involved.

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The Challenge of Starting Your Travel Business

Starting a travel business is not an easy task. You must navigate the complexities of the industry, market yourself, and find a way to stand out from the competition. To get started, you need to understand what skills and resources are needed and how to know if you have them.

The Need for Proper Planning

It's critical that you have a sound business plan when starting your travel business. You need to identify potential customers and develop an effective marketing strategy in order to build your customer base. Additionally, you should think about your financial goals and objectives in order to determine the best way to manage your funds. Finally, having a roadmap will help guide you through the process of launching your business.

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The Benefits of Networking

Networking is one of the most important steps in starting a travel business. It's important to make connections with people who can provide you with advice, support and guidance. This could be other entrepreneurs or industry experts who can give you invaluable insight into the travel industry. Additionally, networking can also help you find potential customers and suppliers.

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Marketing Tips for Your Business

Marketing is essential for any successful travel business. You need to make sure that potential customers know about your services and products so that they can make an informed decision when booking their next trip. There are many ways to market your business including online advertising, social media, email campaigns and traditional print advertising.

Technology Advances for Travelers

The use of technology has revolutionized the travel industry in recent years. There are plenty of tools available now that can help travelers find the best deals on flights, hotels, car rentals and more. Additionally, there are various apps that enable travelers to access real-time information about their destination before they arrive.

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Finding the Right Resources

When it comes to starting a travel business, it's important to find reliable resources that can provide useful information and advice on topics such as legal requirements, taxes and licensing costs. Joining professional associations dedicated to the travel industry is also a great way to stay up-to-date with current trends and best practices.

Making Your Vision Come Alive With Desygner

Once you've laid down all the groundwork for your travel business, it's time to start making your vision come alive with Desygner! This amazing platform makes it easy for anyone to create stunning visuals without any design experience required! Desygner offers premade templates that can be used for flyers, logos, posters and more.

Desygner also allows users to collaborate with each other in order to create remarkable designs quickly and efficiently - enabling businesses like yours to make a big impression on your clients without spending too much time or money!

Start Your Travel Business Today

Are you ready to take the plunge and begin your own travel business? The potential for success is massive, but there are many important steps that you must take in order to achieve success. Here's how to get started:

  • Develop a business plan. Set clear goals and objectives for your travel business. Outline strategies for attracting customers, budgeting and promotion.
  • Obtain all necessary licenses and permits. Before you can start offering services, make sure you obtain any necessary local, state, or federal permits.
  • Choose a name for your business. Make sure it's something catchy and memorable.
  • Create a website for your business. It should reflect your brand identity as well as provide information about the services you offer. Desygner makes it easy to create a website from scratch with no need for coding.
  • Market your business. Utilize social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to get the word out about your business.
  • Stay organized. Start using customer relationship management tools to stay organized so that you can successfully manage relationships with customers.
  • Stay up-to-date on industry news. Follow news outlets and trade publications in order to stay up-to-date on trends in the travel industry.
  • Network with other businesses in the industry. Connecting with other travel businesses will help you build relationships and establish yourself as an industry resource.

Starting a travel business is an exciting endeavor that can be very rewarding. With these tips in mind, you'll be well on your way to getting your travel business off the ground! Ready to get started? Sign up with Desygner today!

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Marketing a Travel Business: A Comprehensive Guide

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How to Start a Travel Agency

Written by: Carolyn Young

Carolyn Young is a business writer who focuses on entrepreneurial concepts and the business formation. She has over 25 years of experience in business roles, and has authored several entrepreneurship textbooks.

Edited by: David Lepeska

David has been writing and learning about business, finance and globalization for a quarter-century, starting with a small New York consulting firm in the 1990s.

Published on December 13, 2021 Updated on February 13, 2024

How to Start a Travel Agency

Investment range

$2,150 - $10,600

Revenue potential

$78,000 - $300,000 p.a.

Time to build

0 – 3 months

Profit potential

$62,000 - $90,000 p.a.

Industry trend

Who doesn’t love to travel? But most of us do not love the endless research, planning, and booking required, which sometimes feels like it takes more time than the vacation itself. This is precisely why the $35 billion US travel agency industry has been booming of late, and why it offers a real opportunity for the travel-minded entrepreneur.

By starting your own online travel agency, you can shoulder travelers’ burden and ease their anxiety, allowing them to enjoy their holiday while you make a healthy profit. And thanks to the post-pandemic boost, now is a great time to get in on travel.

Of course, starting a travel agency will not be a vacation – it will take diligence, patience, and strong guidance. Thankfully, you’ve come to the right place, as this step-by-step provides all the information you need to develop and launch your new travel agency and give you a head-start on your entrepreneurial journey.

Step by Step Business values real-life experience above all. Through our  Entrepreneur Spotlight Series , we interview business leaders from diverse industries, providing readers with firsthand insights.

Uncover the secrets to building a thriving travel agency with our interview with Casey Halloran of Costa Rican Vacations .

Looking to register your business? A limited liability company (LLC) is the best legal structure for new businesses because it is fast and simple.

Form your business immediately using ZenBusiness LLC formation service or hire one of the Best LLC Services .

Step 1: Decide if the Business Is Right for You

Pros and cons.

Every business has its pros and cons, and a travel agency is no exception. You should weigh these carefully to decide if the business is right for you.

  • Flexibility – Work from anywhere, even while traveling!
  • Minimal Training – Get accredited for free online
  • Travel Discounts – Travel agents get top deals and reduced prices
  • Demanding Work – With clients around the world you’re on call 24/7
  • Fierce competition – Top sites like Expedia, travel networks, advisors, and more

Travel agency industry trends

The US travel agency industry expanded an impressive 75% in the decade leading up to 2020, which saw a massive pandemic-driven downturn. 

In 2021, many travel agents saw a surge in business as travelers unsure of all the constantly changing Covid-19 rules and restrictions turn to them for help, rather than booking their own trips. Global travel advisor InteleTravel experienced a 35% increase in business, not from the disaster year of 2020, but from 2019, which had set records.(( https://www.nytimes.com/2021/04/14/travel/summer-vacation-travel-agents.html ))

Consumers are also turning more and more to online travel agencies, with a study by Expedia showing a 25% increase in the use of online agencies in 2020 alone. Brick-and-mortar agencies seem to be a dying breed, with British travel icon Thomas Cook closing in 2019.(( https://advertising.expedia.com ))

Industry size and growth

  • Industry size and past growth – Market research firm IBISWorld values the industry at nearly $48 billion in 2022.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/market-size/travel-agencies-united-states/ ))  
  • Growth forecast – The industry is expected to grow further as the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicted a 5% annual growth through 2030 in the employment of travel agents.(( https://www.bls.gov/ooh/sales/travel-agents.htm )) 
  • Number of businesses – More than 73,000 travel agencies are operating in the US.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/number-of-businesses/travel-agencies-united-states/ ))
  • Number of people employed – The industry employs more than 250,000 people.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/employment/travel-agencies-united-states/ ))

travel agency industry size and growth

Trends and challenges

Trends in travel agency industry include:

  • Home-stay rentals like Airbnb(( https://stepbystepbusiness.com/business-ideas/start-an-airbnb-business/ )) outperformed hotels in 27 top markets during the pandemic
  • Book-now-pay-later options, such as those offered by Expedia and Booking.com, are gaining popularity
  • Travel agencies undergoing digital transformation in response to the growing demand for online services

Challenges in travel agency industry include:

  • Rising gas prices are impacting travel behavior
  • Compliance with global Covid-19 protocols
  • Keeping up with digital marketing opportunities

travel agency industry Trends and Challenges

What kind of people work in a travel agency?

  • Gender – 76% of travel agency managers in the US are female, while 24% are male. (( https://www.zippia.com/travel-agency-manager-jobs/demographics/#gender-statistics ))
  • Average level of education – 64% of travel agency managers hold a bachelor’s degree.(( https://www.zippia.com/travel-agency-manager-jobs/demographics/#degree-level-types ))
  • Average age – The average age of a travel agency manager is 51 years old.(( https://www.zippia.com/travel-agency-manager-jobs/demographics/#age-statistics ))

travel agency industry demographics

How much does it cost to start a travel agency?

The startup costs for a travel agency range from about $2,000 to $10,000, with an average of around $6,000. The high-end includes the rental of office space and a larger marketing budget, but you could easily run your online travel agency from home to cut costs.

How much can you earn from a travel agency?

The commission paid to a travel agency by travel vendors such as airlines and hotels is generally about 10%. Some travel agents also charge a nominal consultation fee for each booking, typically between $30 and $50. Those will be your two revenue streams.

The average cost of a one-week domestic vacation is $1,500 per person. The profit margin for a home-based travel agency is usually about 80%. With an office and staff, your margin will likely drop to about 30%.

In your first year or two, you could work from home and sell five two-person vacations each week. At a 10% commission, this would mean $78,000 in annual revenue. You’d have about $62,000 in profit, assuming an 80% margin.

As your brand gains recognition, sales could climb to 1,000 two-person vacations a year. At this stage, you would rent an office and hire staff, reducing your profit margin to 30%. With expected annual revenue of $300,000, you would make about $90,000.

travel agency business earnings forecast

What barriers to entry are there?

There are a few barriers to entry for a travel agency. Your biggest challenges will be:

  • Competition – Big and small online firms; self-booking travelers
  • Client Acquisition – Time and marketing will be required to build a reputation

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Step 2: hone your idea.

Now that you know what’s involved in starting a travel agency, it’s a good idea to hone your concept in preparation to enter a competitive market.

Market research will give you the upper hand, even if you’re already positive that you have a perfect product or service. Conducting market research is important, because it can help you understand your customers better, who your competitors are, and your business landscape.

Why? Identify an opportunity

As a travel agency, you need to find a way to differentiate yourself from the competition. Research online travel agents and booking platforms to see their offerings and prices, while keeping an eye out for something that might be missing.

Perhaps you could specialize in travel to an under-appreciated region, such as Southeast Asia, and build a network of relevant contacts and vendors. Or you could focus on finding travelers the most incredible home-stay rentals at the best prices.

travel company registration formalities

You could specialize in family vacations, corporate retreats, or honeymoons. The potential niche options in the travel industry are nearly endless.

What? Determine your products or services

Travel can involve many facets, and you can handle some or all of them, in addition to flights, lodgings, and car rentals. These might include:

  • Booking tours and excursions
  • Dining recommendations/reservation
  • Travel insurance
  • Visa and emergency services

How much should you charge for travel agency services?

Travel vendors, such as hotels, airlines, and car rental firms, pay a commission to travel agents that’s generally about 10% of the booking. For instance, if you book a $1,200 flight on Turkish Airlines for your client, Turkish Airlines will give you, the travel agent, a $120 commission.

As a result, booking flights with a travel agent sometimes costs the traveler slightly more than booking directly with the airlines or through a travel site like Expedia or Orbitz. Thus, to attract customers and boost sales travel agents rely on discounted travel packages.

For instance, a return flight from Chicago to Cancun and a 6-day stay at a four-star all-inclusive resort, plus ground transport, might cost a traveler $1,000 or more to book directly. But travel agents get significant discounts from vendors because they place volume orders, so you’d be able to offer this trip as a $599 package deal.

Even after paying your commission, the traveler still saves a chunk of money by using your services, rather than booking themselves. And keep in mind, the discounts offered by vendors are likely to increase as you become a more established agent. You may be able to negotiate commissions from tour operators and excursion companies as well.

Once you know your costs, you can use this Step By Step profit margin calculator to determine your mark-up and final price points. Remember, the prices you use at launch should be subject to change if warranted by the market.

Who? Identify your target market

Your target market will depend on the concept you’ve chosen for your agency. If you’ve decided to specialize in family vacations, you’ll be targeting parents. You might find them on sites like Facebook or LinkedIn, rather than Instagram or TikTok.

Where? Choose your business premises

In the early stages, you may want to run your business from home to keep costs low. But as your travel agency grows, you’ll likely need to hire workers and may need to rent out an office. You can find commercial space to rent in your area on Craigslist , Crexi , and Commercial Cafe .

When choosing a commercial space, you may want to follow these rules of thumb:

  • Central location accessible via public transport
  • Ventilated and spacious, with good natural light
  • Flexible lease that can be extended as your business grows
  • Ready-to-use space with no major renovations or repairs needed

travel agency business idea rating

Step 3: Brainstorm a Travel Agency Name

Your business name is your business identity, so choose one that encapsulates your objectives, services, and mission in just a few words. You probably want a name that’s short and easy to remember, since much of your business, and your initial business in particular, will come from word-of-mouth referrals.

Here are some ideas for brainstorming your business name:

  • Short, unique, and catchy names tend to stand out
  • Names that are easy to say and spell tend to do better
  • The name should be relevant to your product or service offerings
  • Ask around — family, friends, colleagues, social media — for suggestions
  • Including keywords, such as “travel” or “bookings”, boosts SEO
  • Choose a name that allows for expansion: “Wanderlust Adventures” over “Beach Bum Vacations” or “Honeymoon Haven Agency”
  • Avoid location-based names that might hinder future expansion
  • Use online tools like the Step by Step business name generator . Just type in a few keywords and hit “generate” and you’ll have dozens of suggestions at your fingertips.

Once you’ve got a list of potential names, visit the website of the US Patent and Trademark Office to make sure they are available for registration and check the availability of related domain names using our Domain Name Search tool. Using “.com” or “.org” sharply increases credibility, so it’s best to focus on these. 

Find a Domain

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Finally, make your choice among the names that pass this screening and go ahead with domain registration and social media account creation. Your business name is one of the key differentiators that set your business apart. Once you pick your company name, and start with the branding, it is hard to change the business name. Therefore, it’s important to carefully consider your choice before you start a business entity.

Step 4: Create a Travel Agency Business Plan

Every business needs a plan. This will function as a guidebook to take your startup through the launch process and maintain focus on your key goals. A business plan also enables potential partners and investors to better understand your company and its vision:

  • Executive Summary: Present an overview of your travel agency, highlighting its focus on providing personalized travel planning and booking services for various types of travelers.
  • Business Overview: Describe the services of your travel agency, including custom travel itinerary planning, booking accommodations, flights, and special experiences.
  • Product and Services: Detail the range of travel packages offered, such as luxury vacations, adventure tours, and corporate travel services.
  • Market Analysis: Assess the current travel market, identifying target customer segments like families, honeymooners, or business travelers.
  • Competitive Analysis: Compare your agency to others, focusing on your unique offerings like specialized destinations, personalized service, or exclusive deals.
  • Sales and Marketing: Outline your strategy for attracting clients, using methods like online marketing, partnerships with travel providers, or attending travel expos.
  • Management Team: Highlight the experience and expertise of your team in travel planning, customer service, and business management.
  • Operations Plan: Describe the process of service delivery, from client consultation to trip execution and post-travel follow-up.
  • Financial Plan: Provide an overview of financial aspects, including startup costs, pricing strategy, and anticipated income.
  • Appendix: Include supplementary documents such as travel industry certifications, partnership agreements, or detailed client testimonials to support your business plan.

what to include in a business plan

If you’ve never created a business plan, it can be an intimidating task. You might consider hiring a business plan specialist to create a top-notch business plan for you.

Step 5: Register Your Business

Registering your business is an absolutely crucial step — it’s the prerequisite to paying taxes, raising capital, opening a bank account, and other guideposts on the road to getting a business up and running.

Plus, registration is exciting because it makes the entire process official. Once it’s complete, you’ll have your own business!

Choose where to register your company

Your business location is important because it can affect taxes, legal requirements, and revenue. Most people will register their business in the state where they live, but if you are planning to expand, you might consider looking elsewhere, as some states could offer real advantages when it comes to travel agencies.

If you’re willing to move, you could really maximize your business! Keep in mind, it’s relatively easy to transfer your business to another state.

Choose your business structure

Business entities come in several varieties, each with its pros and cons. The legal structure you choose for your travel agency will shape your taxes, personal liability, and business registration requirements, so choose wisely.

Here are the main options:

  • Sole Proprietorship – The most common structure for small businesses makes no legal distinction between company and owner. All income goes to the owner, who’s also liable for any debts, losses, or liabilities incurred by the business. The owner pays taxes on business income on his or her personal tax return.
  • General Partnership – Similar to a sole proprietorship, but for two or more people. Again, owners keep the profits and are liable for losses. The partners pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.
  • Limited Liability Company (LLC) – Combines the characteristics of corporations with those of sole proprietorships or partnerships. Again, the owners are not personally liable for debts.
  • C Corp – Under this structure, the business is a distinct legal entity and the owner or owners are not personally liable for its debts. Owners take profits through shareholder dividends, rather than directly. The corporation pays taxes, and owners pay taxes on their dividends, which is sometimes referred to as double taxation.
  • S Corp – An S-Corporation refers to the tax classification of the business but is not a business entity. An S-Corp can be either a corporation or an LLC , which just needs to elect to be an S-Corp for tax status. In an S-Corp, income is passed through directly to shareholders, who pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.

types of business structures

We recommend that new business owners choose LLC as it offers liability protection and pass-through taxation while being simpler to form than a corporation. You can form an LLC in as little as five minutes using an online LLC formation service. They will check that your business name is available before filing, submit your articles of organization , and answer any questions you might have.

Form Your LLC

Choose Your State

We recommend ZenBusiness as the Best LLC Service for 2023

travel company registration formalities

Step 6: Register for Taxes

The final step before you’re able to pay taxes is getting an Employer Identification Number , or EIN. You can file for your EIN online or by mail or fax: visit the IRS website to learn more. Keep in mind, if you’ve chosen to be a sole proprietorship you can simply use your social security number as your EIN.

Once you have your EIN, you’ll need to choose your tax year. Financially speaking, your business will operate in a calendar year (January–December) or a fiscal year, a 12-month period that can start in any month. This will determine your tax cycle, while your business structure will determine which taxes you’ll pay.

travel company registration formalities

The IRS website also offers a tax-payers checklist , and taxes can be filed online.

It is important to consult an accountant or other professional to help you with your taxes to ensure you are completing them correctly.

Step 7: Fund your Business

Securing financing is your next step and there are plenty of ways to raise capital:

  • Bank loans : This is the most common method, but getting approved requires a rock-solid business plan and strong credit history.
  • SBA-guaranteed loans : The Small Business Administration can act as guarantor, helping gain that elusive bank approval via an SBA-guaranteed loan .
  • Government grants : A handful of financial assistance programs help fund entrepreneurs. Visit Grants.gov to learn which might work for you.
  • Venture capital : Offer potential investors an ownership stake in exchange for funds, keeping in mind that you would be sacrificing some control over your business.
  • Friends and Family : Reach out to friends and family to provide a business loan or investment in your concept. It’s a good idea to have legal advice when doing so because SEC regulations apply.
  • Crowdfunding : Websites like Kickstarter and Indiegogo offer an increasingly popular low-risk option, in which donors fund your vision. Entrepreneurial crowdfunding sites like Fundable and WeFunder enable multiple investors to fund your business.
  • Personal : Self-fund your business via your savings or the sale of property or other assets.

Bank and SBA loans are probably the best options, other than friends and family, for funding a travel agency. You might also try crowdfunding if you have an innovative concept.

types of business funding

Step 8: Apply for Travel Agency Licenses and Permits

Starting a travel agency requires obtaining a number of licenses and permits from local, state, and federal governments.

Federal regulations, licenses, and permits associated with starting your business include doing business as (DBA), health licenses and permits from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration ( OSHA ), trademarks, copyrights, patents, and other intellectual properties, as well as industry-specific licenses and permits. 

You may also need state-level and local county or city-based licenses and permits. The license requirements and how to obtain them vary, so check the websites of your state, city, and county governments or contact the appropriate person to learn more. 

You could also check this SBA guide for your state’s requirements, but we recommend using MyCorporation’s Business License Compliance Package . They will research the exact forms you need for your business and state and provide them to ensure you’re fully compliant.

This is not a step to be taken lightly, as failing to comply with legal requirements can result in hefty penalties.

If you feel overwhelmed by this step or don’t know how to begin, it might be a good idea to hire a professional to help you check all the legal boxes.

Step 9: Open a Business Bank Account

Before you start making money you’ll need a place to keep it, and that requires opening a bank account .

Keeping your business finances separate from your personal account makes it easy to file taxes and track your company’s income, so it’s worth doing even if you’re running your travel agency business as a sole proprietorship. Opening a business bank account is quite simple, and similar to opening a personal one. Most major banks offer accounts tailored for businesses — just inquire at your preferred bank to learn about their rates and features.

Banks vary in terms of offerings, so it’s a good idea to examine your options and select the best plan for you. Once you choose your bank, bring in your EIN (or Social Security Number if you decide on a sole proprietorship), articles of incorporation, and other legal documents and open your new account.

Step 10: Get Business Insurance

Business insurance is an area that often gets overlooked yet it can be vital to your success as an entrepreneur. Insurance protects you from unexpected events that can have a devastating impact on your business.

Here are some types of insurance to consider:

  • General liability: The most comprehensive type of insurance, acting as a catch-all for many business elements that require coverage. If you get just one kind of insurance, this is it. It even protects against bodily injury and property damage.
  • Business Property: Provides coverage for your equipment and supplies.
  • Equipment Breakdown Insurance: Covers the cost of replacing or repairing equipment that has broken due to mechanical issues.
  • Worker’s compensation: Provides compensation to employees injured on the job.
  • Property: Covers your physical space, whether it is a cart, storefront, or office.
  • Commercial auto: Protection for your company-owned vehicle.
  • Professional liability: Protects against claims from a client who says they suffered a loss due to an error or omission in your work.
  • Business owner’s policy (BOP): This is an insurance plan that acts as an all-in-one insurance policy, a combination of any of the above insurance types.

Step 11: Prepare to Launch

As opening day nears, prepare for launch by reviewing and improving some key elements of your business.

Essential software and tools

Being an entrepreneur often means wearing many hats, from marketing to sales to accounting, which can be overwhelming. Fortunately, many websites and digital tools are available to help simplify many business tasks.

You may want to use industry-specific software to manage bookings and scheduling, such as TravelPerk , TravelCEO , and TravelOperations .

  • Popular web-based accounting programs for smaller businesses include Quickbooks , Freshbooks , and Xero .
  • If you’re unfamiliar with basic accounting, you may want to hire a professional, especially as you begin. The consequences for filing incorrect tax documents can be harsh, so accuracy is crucial.

Develop your website

Website development is crucial because your site is your online presence and needs to convince prospective clients of your expertise and professionalism.

You can create your own website using services like WordPress, Wix, or Squarespace . This route is very affordable, but figuring out how to build a website can be time-consuming. If you lack tech-savvy, you can hire a web designer or developer to create a custom website for your business.

Your website should showcase your offerings, customer testimonials, and detailed information about destinations.

Your clients are unlikely to find your website, however, unless you follow Search Engine Optimization ( SEO ) practices. These are steps that help pages rank higher in the results of top search engines like Google.

Here are some powerful marketing strategies for your future business:

  • Leverage Social Media : Use platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest to share stunning travel imagery, customer stories, and travel tips. Engage with your audience through regular posts, stories, and responses to comments.
  • Content Marketing : Start a blog or a YouTube channel providing valuable content like travel guides, tips, destination reviews, and travel trends. This not only helps in SEO but also establishes you as an expert in the field.
  • Build Partnerships : Collaborate with local businesses in your chosen travel destinations, such as hotels, tour operators, and local attractions. This can lead to exclusive deals or packages that you can offer to your clients.
  • Email Marketing : Collect emails through your website and social media channels and send out regular newsletters with travel tips, special offers, and new package announcements.
  • Customer Reviews and Referrals : Encourage your clients to leave reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor or Google. Word-of-mouth referrals are powerful, so consider offering incentives for referrals.
  • Attend Travel Expos and Events : Participate in travel expos, seminars, and networking events to build contacts and stay updated on the latest industry trends.
  • Offer Personalized Services : Tailor your services to meet individual client needs. Personal touches can make a big difference in the travel industry.
  • Utilize Paid Advertising : Invest in targeted ads on social media and Google to reach potential clients. This can be particularly effective when you have special offers or new packages to promote.
  • Stay Informed and Flexible : The travel industry is dynamic, so it’s important to stay informed about global travel trends, destination updates, and customer preferences.
  • Sustainable and Responsible Travel : With growing awareness about environmental and cultural impacts, promoting sustainable and responsible travel practices can set your agency apart.

Focus on USPs

Unique selling propositions, or USPs, are the characteristics of a product or service that set it apart from the competition. Customers today are inundated with buying options, so you’ll have a real advantage if they are able to quickly grasp how your travel agency meets their needs or wishes. It’s wise to do all you can to ensure your USPs stand out on your website and in your marketing and promotional materials, stimulating buyer desire.

Global pizza chain Domino’s is renowned for its USP: “Hot pizza in 30 minutes or less, guaranteed.” Signature USPs for your travel agency could be:

  • Travel to Asia’s best secret destinations
  • The best local insights and insider adventures
  • Vacations for the whole family, from grandma to the baby!

unique selling proposition

You may not like to network or use personal connections for business gain. But your personal and professional networks likely offer considerable untapped business potential. Maybe that Facebook friend you met in college is now running a travel agency, or a LinkedIn contact of yours is connected to dozens of potential clients. Maybe your cousin or neighbor has been working in travel agencies for years and can offer invaluable insight and industry connections. 

The possibilities are endless, so it’s a good idea to review your personal and professional networks and reach out to those with possible links to or interest in travel. You’ll probably generate new customers or find companies with which you could establish a partnership. Online businesses might also consider affiliate marketing as a way to build relationships with potential partners and boost business.

Step 12: Build Your Team

If you’re starting out small from a home office, you may not need any employees. But as your business grows, you will likely need workers to fill various roles. Potential positions for a travel agency would include:

  • Travel Agents – sales and bookings
  • General Manager – scheduling, accounting, staff management
  • Marketing Lead – SEO strategies, social media, other marketing

At some point, you may need to hire all of these positions or simply a few, depending on the size and needs of your business. You might also hire multiple workers for a single role or a single worker for multiple roles, again depending on need.

Free-of-charge methods to recruit employees include posting ads on popular platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, or Jobs.com. You might also consider a premium recruitment option, such as advertising on Indeed , Glassdoor , or ZipRecruiter . Further, if you have the resources, you could consider hiring a recruitment agency to help you find talent.

Step 13: Run a Travel Agency – Start Making Money!

Owning a travel agency means sharing the joy of travel for a living. What could be more fun? It’s also a huge, high-growth industry that you could tap into and grow a profitable business. Startup costs are low, and all you need is a simple accreditation — there’s no real training required. You just need a good concept for your agency and a great marketing plan. Having a strong online presence in this digital age is also an absolute must.

You’ve started off on the right foot by reading this guide, and now you’re ready to begin your trip to entrepreneurial success!

  • Travel Agency Business FAQs

If you run your online travel agency from home, you could have profit margins of up to 80%. Costs to run your travel agency are very low, and you’re paid around a 10% commission on everything that you book. As a home-based, one-person show, you could make $60,000 per year to start, and much more once you’re established.

Consumers are turning to online travel agencies more and more, which you could easily run from home. If your business grows fast and you need to add staff, you may want to have an office.

Some consumers prefer the personal service of a smaller online agency that can offer more local, personal insights about travel destinations. The key is to differentiate yourself in some way. You could specialize in certain locations, a specific type of lodgings, such as cabins, or in a type of vacation such as corporate retreats.

Travel agencies engage in activities such as providing travel advice, booking travel arrangements, managing logistics, and offering specialized services tailored to clients’ needs.

Effective marketing strategies for a travel agency include building a strong online presence, targeted advertising, content marketing, collaborations and partnerships, and leveraging customer referrals and reviews.

Running a travel agency can have challenges due to intense competition, evolving industry dynamics, regulatory considerations, seasonal fluctuations, and the need for customer satisfaction and crisis management. 

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  • Decide if the Business Is Right for You
  • Hone Your Idea
  • Brainstorm a Travel Agency Name
  • Create a Travel Agency Business Plan
  • Register Your Business
  • Register for Taxes
  • Fund your Business
  • Apply for Travel Agency Licenses and Permits
  • Open a Business Bank Account
  • Get Business Insurance
  • Prepare to Launch
  • Build Your Team
  • Run a Travel Agency - Start Making Money!

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Travel Agency Registrations By State

Did you know that some states require you to register as a travel agent even if you don’t reside in that particular state? It’s true! States like Florida, California, Washington, Iowa, and Hawaii all require that you register your travel agency. If not, these states can issue a cease and desist letter, impose fines and fees, or worse. Keep reading to learn more about travel agent licensing by state.

Apply for your Travel Agency Registration today!

California defines a seller of travel as any person or entity that sells, provides, furnishes, contracts for, arranges, or advertises that it can or may arrange, wholesale or retail travel.

Does this sound like your business? If so, visit our California Seller of Travel License page to learn more about the state requirements.

Florida defines a travel agency as any resident or nonresident person, firm, corporation, or business entity that offers, directly or indirectly, prearranged travel or tourist-related services for individuals or groups, through vacation certificates in exchange for a fee, commission, or other valuable consideration. Further, the FLDACS indicates that any seller of travel that has a business location in Florida OR that offers to sell travel related services in Florida for individuals or groups is required to register with the state.

Are you selling travel in or to Florida? If so, learn more about the Florida travel agency licensing process .

Hawaii defines a travel agency as any sole proprietorship, organization, trust, group, association, partnership, corporation, society, or combination of such, which for compensation or other consideration, acts or attempts to act as an intermediary between a person seeking to purchase travel services and any person seeking to sell travel services.

Do you want to sell travel in Hawaii? Getting licensed in HI can be very difficult unless you live there. It requires a bank account at a local bank. Sounds easy right? Well, most of the banks on the islands won’t let you open a business account online. You must physically go to the bank, in person, to open the bank account. However, it makes a great excuse to go on a Hawaiian vacation doesn’t it? If you think so too you can apply online today !

Not only is it home to the Hawkeyes and Wartburg College but it’s also home to Iowa Code Chapter 9D. Iowa code requires travel agencies to register with the Iowa Secretary of State if the agency conducts the solicitation of an Iowa resident. Iowa defines a travel agency as a person who represents, directly or indirectly, that the person is offering or undertaking by any means or method, to provide travel services for a fee, commission, or other valuable considerations, direct or indirect.

Want to learn more about becoming a licensed, Iowa travel agent? If so, visit our Iowa Travel Agency Licensing page to learn more.

Washington defines a seller of travel as a person, firm, or corporation that transacts business with Washington consumers for travel arrangements or accommodations.

Have you sold or are you currently selling travel to a Washington State resident? Again, you probably need a license. Check out the exclusions, cost, and other important licensing information on our Washington Seller of Travel Licensing page.

Starting a Travel Business: How to Become a Travel Agent

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Briana Morgaine

18 min. read

Updated November 13, 2023

Free Download:  Sample Travel Agency Business Plan Templates

If you’re someone who loves travel, meticulous planning, and helping others have great experiences, consider starting a travel business and becoming a travel agent.

After a sharp drop in international and domestic travel during the COVID-19 pandemic, air travel demand has returned to pre-pandemic levels.

Pent-up demand from families who put off trips is driving tourism activity even as fewer travelers cite the pandemic as a major concern. Those tourists are forecast to drive solid long-term growth in the worldwide travel and tourism industry – and plenty of business opportunities for those who can make vacation planning less stressful.

Becoming a travel agent can be fairly inexpensive, as business ventures go, and you can often get away with limited staff and little upfront cost.

That being said, success largely depends on finding the right niche in a fiercely competitive market, given the rise in online direct-to-consumer travel booking sites. So, if you want to be successful, you’ll want to focus a lot of your effort on your market research , branding, and marketing. You’ll need to know who needs your services—your target market—and what they’ll be willing to pay. 

If this sounds right up your alley, keep reading. I’ve interviewed several founders of successful travel agencies for their advice on everything you need to get started, and I’ve also included plenty of links and resources to help you work through the process of starting your own travel business.

  • 1. Create a plan for your travel business

Make no mistake: No matter what industry you’re in, a business plan is essential. You may not need a formal business plan if you’re not seeking a loan or investment funding for your business, but don’t skip it. Write a Lean Business Plan instead. You can do it in less than an hour. Writing a business plan is scientifically proven to help you grow faster , so don’t skip this step. 

What kind of travel agent are you interested in becoming? If you’re planning to be a home-based travel agent, you’ll want to look into finding a host travel agency where you’ll essentially be an independent contractor. If this is the type of travel business you’d like to start, the business planning process should be fairly straightforward.

However, if you’re looking into starting your own travel business from the ground up, you’ll be looking at a much more lengthy planning process—but you’ll also have more flexibility to build a business that’s all your own.

A case for starting early

“In starting ADDISON Yacht Charters , we began market analysis and business planning efforts a full year before we launched the company in November 2013,” says owner Scott Bessette.

“During that period, we attended industry events such as regional yacht shows in the Virgin Islands, Antigua, Florida, and Monaco to acquire as full an understanding as possible with regards to what products and services were being delivered to the market, who was delivering those products and services, and who was purchasing those products and services,” he explains.

Starting the planning process early helped Scott hone in on his vision for his business. “In this manner, we determined what our market niche could be, and established whether or not we could compete in the existing market, and what it would take to succeed,” he says.

Scott was able to get a clear sense of where he wanted to take it, and how to tailor his business to best suit the market needs.

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What kind of travel agent business plan will you need?

The kind of travel agency business plan you’ll need will vary depending on what kind of funding you’re looking for.

Are you hoping to eventually run a large travel agency, and interested in seeking a loan, or maybe investment from angel investors? You’ll want a formal business plan for a travel agency that contains all the necessary information on your business. Are you more interested in becoming a travel agent using your own savings, without seeking outside investment or loans? A more lightweight one-page plan might be a perfect fit for your business.

Even if you do intend to pitch your business idea to lenders and investors, you can start with a Lean Plan, and flesh out the rest of the info later on. Or, you can turn to LivePlan , which will help you simplify the planning process and give you options.

Whatever your specific reason for writing a business plan for your travel business, the most important thing is that you write one, period. The travel industry is fragmented , and having a clearly defined niche and a plan will help you stand out. Writing a business plan for your travel agency will help you narrow in on what your goals are, and establish a clear, focused vision going forward.

We’ve covered nearly every aspect of writing a business plan here on Bplans, so be sure to check out the links below when you’re ready to get started. We also have several travel industry business sample plans, which will give you an idea of what your business plan should look like.

Resources to help you create a business plan for a travel agency:

  • How to Write a Business Plan
  • Travel Agency Sample Business Plan
  • 2. Conduct market research and find your niche

What kind of travel agency do you plan on starting? Moreover, what kind of travel business does the industry or your local community actually need?

“When you launch a travel business, the most important thing to do is to provide a valuable service,” says Jacquie Whitt, owner of Adios Adventure Travel .

This means doing some market research to find out what kind of travel agent or travel business the market really needs. Is there a niche you can fill? Maybe there’s an opening in the travel market to provide destination adventure honeymoons for young couples who would rather go backpacking than relax on the beach. Think about the people in your local community too—do they need something specific?

“In a saturated luxury travel market, Urbane Nomads had to distinguish itself from more seasoned players from the get-go,” says founder Hajar Ali. “The dual elements of adventure and luxury was an unexplored niche which we filled very well.”

Hajar says of Urbane Nomads: “It was conceived as the kind of travel company that would remain relevant in the age where most travel-related bookings are made online. We specialize in the sort of experiences that can’t be booked online—adventurous trips to non-mainstream destinations, lodges that can’t be booked online—or indeed, by non-travel professionals—and special experiences and access to personalities that would have been impossible without the personal connections.”

What niche are you filling? Start by researching the travel market in general. Find out who the major players are that you’ll be competing against, determine who your ideal customer is, and define what they want.

Resources to help you do market research and determine your niche:

  • Practical Market Research Resources for Entrepreneurs
  • How to Do Market Research
  • How to Create a Unique Value Proposition
  • How a Buyer (or User) Persona Can Improve Your Business
  • What Is Target Marketing?
  • 3. Develop a brand as a travel agent

Once you’ve determined what the market looks like and what specific niche you’ll be filling, it’s important to get down to the nitty-gritty of creating a strong brand image .

As the travel industry is so competitive, having a well-developed brand will help your business stand out. How do you want your customers to feel when they visit your website, view your advertising, or use your services?

Lorne Blyth, Founder and Director of Flavours Holidays , had a very specific vision for her brand. “[At Flavours Holidays], we have been specializing in cooking, Pilates, painting, photography, and language holidays in Italy since 1998,” she says. Lorne’s vision was to create a brand that “gave guests a true taste of Italy.”

“I use that as part of my branding, as we would like to perceive ourselves as being experts on all things Italy,” says Lorne. “That is why our tagline is ‘Passionate, Inspiring, Authentic.’”

Why should customers use your services, rather than just book a trip themselves? What experience can you provide that others can’t?

Do you offer unique services, such as partnerships with the locals of your travel destinations, that customers wouldn’t have access to otherwise? Is your selling point the ease of having someone else plan your trip for you, down to the last detail? Are you all about personal touches and a great customer service experience?

This is the first step to determining your travel business’s brand strategy— determining who you are. We’ve gone in-depth on how to build a memorable brand for your business, so check out the articles below for more information on branding.

Resources to help you brand your travel business:

  • The Definitive Guide to Building a Brand
  • 4 Reasons to Brand Your Business
  • Want Customer Loyalty? Build Your Brand.
  • Your Brand’s Tone of Voice: Why It Matters and How to Craft It
  • 4. Deal with the legal side

A travel business is, for the most part, a fairly simple one to set up. Unlike starting a brewery or starting a dispensary , there isn’t a lot of legal red tape when it comes to becoming a travel agent and starting a travel business. 

Determining if you’ll require licensing

In most locations, you won’t need any specific licenses or certifications, but licensing requirements will vary by state and country.

For the U.S. in general, there is no specific license needed to start a travel business; however, state laws vary . In California, Washington, Hawaii, Iowa, and Florida, you’ll need a Seller of Travel license. Canada also has licensing requirements that vary by location , and in the U.K., you’ll need an Air Travel Organiser’s License .

Choosing the structure of your travel business

Beyond specific licenses, there are general licenses that you’ll need before you start any type of business.

First off, choose your business structure . Scott Bessette, owner of ADDISON Yacht Charters, started his travel agency as an LLC , which he says suited his business needs. “Before we considered starting our agency, we determined that a Limited Liability Company was the appropriate structure for what we were trying to achieve.”

Why was an LLC the best choice? “We had no intention of going public, or having to secure formal investment,” he says. “Further, we had a very simple organization structure, so ease of governance and compliance drove our choice of corporate structure.”

However, the business structure you choose will depend largely on your plans for your business, and how you intend to fund it. If for example, you plan to seek outside investment, you may want to look into starting your business as a corporation .

Naming your business and applying for a Federal Tax ID number

You’ll also want to formally name your business (even if it’s just you, becoming a travel agent!), which involves filing a DBA , or a “doing business as.” You’ll also need to apply for a Federal Tax ID number , otherwise known as a Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN or FEIN). We’ve covered these topics in plenty of detail, so be sure to check out the links.

Scott also adds that setting up the legal end of things was fairly simple.

“Establishing the legal and licensing requirements was one of the easiest aspects of starting the business,” he explains. “All said, conception and gestation of ADDISON Yacht Charters was long-term, but she was born after only two days of hard labor.”

Resources to help you determine the legal structure and name for your business, as well as other legal considerations:

  • Do You Need a Travel Agent License?
  • The Complete Guide to Choosing Your Business Structure
  • The Complete Guide to Registering Your Business Name
  • Resources and Tools to Help You Name Your Business
  • How to Apply for a Federal Tax ID Number
  • How and Where to Obtain Business Licenses and Permits
  • Keep Your Startup Safe from Legal Trouble
  • 5. Determine your funding strategy

How do you plan to fund your new travel business?

Luckily, your starting costs should be fairly low: You won’t have expensive equipment to buy, and you probably won’t need extensive space in the beginning. If you’re hoping to become a travel agent working out of your own home, you may not even need office space at all. 

However, be sure to have a plan in place for how you will obtain funding. You’ll need funds for marketing materials at the very least; both online, such as your business website , and offline, such as flyers, posters, business cards, and more . Your initial funding budget will also likely go toward any branding or advertising, and you may eventually also decide to rent office space and hire employees, which is a fairly large expense.

Unlike many businesses, there isn’t one tried-and-true path for funding a travel business. From personal funds to venture capital funding, it’s all a possibility.

Many travel agencies are self-funded since they have low initial overhead and can be started fairly easily (though face stiff competition to stand out). “I didn’t get any funding at all, apart from $2,000 borrowed from my dad for the website,” says Brady Hedlund, founder of Life Before Work .

Looking into loans and a line of credit is also a good first move. “We developed banking and relationships with firm lines of credit and support, to ensure that as we started to deliver, funds were available to spend before the client paid the bill,” says Scott of ADDISON Yacht Charters. “ Cash flow is critical to the appearance of a business’s success.”

However, when it comes to financing your travel business, angel investment, and even venture capital funding isn’t completely out of the question. “We formed an LLC to start Project Expedition and closed a $300k seed round in January 2015 to help drive the development of our MVP (minimum viable product),” explains founder Jeremy Clement.

Don Halbert, owner of Costa Rica Vacations , also funded his travel agency through venture capital. “Funding for this venture came from a venture capital company which would later become one of our primary partners,” he explains.

Resources to help you with the funding process:

  • How to Get Your Business Funded
  • 35 Great Ways to Fund A Small Business
  • Angel Investment Guide
  • What Do Venture Capital Firms Want?
  • 10 Tips for Finding Venture Funding
  • 6. Choose a location and hire employees

Next, you’ll want to make a plan for the logistics of opening your travel business to the public. If you’re starting a travel agency and require office space, this section will likely be more relevant than if you plan to work as a travel agent out of your home. 

How many employees will you need to hire? You may not need any to start, until you decide to expand your operations.

You might also want to look into remote employees , suggests Mike Liverton, CEO and founder of Leavetown Vacations . “While many company employees live and work as home-based ‘Destination Experts,’ our main headquarters are downtown Vancouver,” he says.

Additionally, you’ll want to determine your business location . While foot traffic will likely not be a primary motivator in choosing a business location, you’ll want to pick somewhere that accommodates your space needs as well as reflects your desired brand image.

However, as with employees, you’ll find that a physical location isn’t always an absolute necessity. “We have never booked a client from our hometown,” says Scott.

“We’re a 24/7 business, that cannot be limited to when I am in the office, or more importantly, marginalized when I am not,” he explains. “The ADDISON staff has families, conflicts, and important events in their lives. We constructed and positioned our business to be virtual in nature; to be operational anywhere, anytime. I’ve conducted business from Europe, the Caribbean, from multiple states, and during my children’s sporting events.”

“We didn’t choose our business location, we chose a virtual location,” he adds. Whether or not you choose to go this route will depend on your specific niche and brand; however, it’s certainly an option to consider.

Resources to help you set up your travel business and hire employees:

  • How to Choose a Business Location
  • 13 Out of the Ordinary Ways to Find the Perfect Business Location
  • How to Hire Your First Employee
  • 13 Tips for Hiring Your First Employee
  • A Comprehensive Guide to Creating a Business Website
  • 7. Market and launch your travel business

Marketing will likely be where the majority of your initial funding budget goes, as it’s an important area to focus on when becoming a travel agent and starting a travel business. In fact, it’s a good idea to come up with a marketing plan as soon as possible.

For Don, the idea that you must spend money to make money drove the marketing strategy behind Costa Rica Vacations.

“Our ‘lesson learned’ in starting up our agency was primarily the realization that your Google Adwords budget can single-handedly determine your success when starting out in this normally competitive market,” he says.

Don’t make the mistake of thinking that all your advertising efforts should revolve around paid advertising, however. Plenty of your focus should go into social media marketing and guerrilla marketing tactics.

“I started out eight years ago running backpacking trips to Thailand, advertising using only lean, guerrilla marketing tactics,” says Brady Hedlund of Life Before Work. “I created an itinerary and website and hit the streets of western Canada to promote my new company.” Since his target demographic was 18-30-year-olds looking for an ‘adventure party tour,’ he went to university campuses and handed out flyers and posted signs advertising his travel agency.

“I didn’t get a single call for over a year,” he explains. “I honestly had no idea what I was doing at the time, but eventually, the business picked up and began to grow at an exponential rate. Flash forward eight years, and we now have a team of 35 full-time staff operating in 18 countries.”

Your marketing strategy will, as with all aspects of starting a travel business, be largely dependent on your specific niche, the demographic you are after, your budget, and your bandwidth as a business. That being said, combining both paid advertising with other guerrilla tactics (both online and offline) will likely serve you well.

Resources to help you market and launch your travel business:

  • How to Write an Effective Marketing Plan
  • 20 Marketing Tools Every Small Business Owner Should Try
  • A Beginner’s Guide to Google AdWords for Small Business
  • How to Have the Best Opening Day Ever
  • Use These 16 Sites to Create Winning Marketing Materials
  • Help! My Business Needs a Marketing Plan and I Don’t Know Where to Start
  • Words of advice: Final tips from entrepreneurs who have started successful travel businesses
  • “We searched for quite some time to find an underwriter that would provide us with general liability insurance, due to the amount of risks involved in adventure travel…This is a tricky product when it comes to insurance, but it’s obviously a very important piece of the pie.” – Brady Hedlund, Life Before Work
  • “From the beginning, I have built up relationships with various individuals in Italy to help recruit staff for the villas used during our vacations. This varies from local cooks to tour guides to drivers. The little touches along the way, from booking flights for guests to getting the transport back to the airport, all adds up as every little bit helps to create the perfect experience for my guests.” – Lorne Blyth, Flavours Holidays
  • “It’s important that your business partners share your values. I work with people in South America who are now my friends. We’re not in it for the money; we enjoy our jobs and if we can ‘eke’ out a living, all the better.” – Jacquie Whitt, Adios Adventure Travel

Business plan template and travel agency resources 

By now it should be clear that starting a travel agency requires a strategic approach and lots of planning. But don’t worry if it feels overwhelming. At Bplans, we have a full library of business planning resources to help you get started. You can browse through our free collection of over 500 real business plan examples , or download our free business plan template to help your travel business take flight. 

Clarify your ideas and understand how to start your business with LivePlan

Content Author: Briana Morgaine

Table of Contents

  • Business plan template and travel agency resources 

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How to register a business: a guide for small businesses

Gail Cole

Starting a small business is often exhilarating. It can also be a slog: No matter how original and compelling the idea, starting a business just isn’t as simple as hanging an “Open” sign on your door. You’ll first need to navigate business registration and licensing requirements at the federal, state, county, and/or local levels. 

Here are answers to common questions for business owners when it comes to business registration, fees, and licenses:

Do I need to register my small business?

Do i need to register my business with the federal government, do i need to register my business with the state, county, and city, how do i register my business, how much does it cost to register my business.

What’s the difference between registering a business and licensing a business? 

What’s the difference between business registration and tax registration?

Probably. While some states may not require all types of businesses to register at the state level, most businesses will need to register with at least one state or local entity — and often with more than one. Even home-based businesses may need to register with the secretary of state or department of revenue.

However, you may not need to register your small business if you operate as a sole proprietor under your full legal name. Whether you’re required to register depends on the exact nature of your business, including your business entity and where you’re setting up shop.

The type of company you operate can impact your business registration and tax requirements.

A sole proprietorship is typically the simplest form of business. It’s run by a single person and doesn’t require separate tax filings. However, all business liabilities, losses, and profits are directly associated with the individual’s personal assets.

A limited liability company (LLC) must operate under a business name rather than an individual’s name. LLCs enjoy some of the simplicity of sole proprietorships with added protections. 

A general partnership is a legal relationship between two or more people to do trade or business. Partnerships equally manage the business, contribute resources, and share profits and losses.

A corporation is a legal entity that operates separately from its owners. A C corporation is recognized as a separate taxpaying entity and generally takes the same deductions as a sole proprietorship when figuring its taxable income. An S corporation is a corporation that elects to pass corporate income, losses, deductions, and credits through to their shareholders for federal tax purposes.

There are benefits to registering your business even when it’s not strictly necessary. Registering your business makes it a distinct legal entity, which can provide personal liability protection. There may also be legal and tax benefits to registering your business.

And of course, you may need to register your small business; you cannot legally operate certain types of businesses without registering. If you’re not sure, the state-specific business license and permit requirements page at avalara.com is a great place to begin your research. You can also contact government entities such as the office of your secretary of state, your county assessor, and/or your city government.

If you plan to operate a company under any name other than your own name, you’ll need to register with the federal government to obtain a federal tax ID or employer identification number (EIN). This allows you to pay federal taxes and hire employees.

Registering your business with the federal government can also help you to secure tax-exempt status if you qualify for it, and provide trademark protection.

And, if you’ll be selling alcohol, firearms, tobacco, or similar highly regulated products,  you’ll need to register with the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau , or TTB.

It depends on your business and its location. Requirements vary from state to state, county to county, and city to city. 

For example,  there’s no general business license requirement in Texas , but new businesses must register with the Texas Secretary of State and may need to register with additional regulatory agencies. Most registration requirements in Texas are at the city and county level.  

By contrast,  Washington state requires nearly all businesses to get a business license . You’ll need to  register with the Washington State Department of Revenue  if you meet any of a number of conditions, including:

  • Your business requires city, county, and state endorsements
  • You’re doing business under a name that’s not your full legal name
  • You plan to hire employees within 90 days
  • You sell a product or service subject to sales tax
  • Your gross income is $12,000 or more per year
  • Your business is required to pay taxes or fees to the Washington State Department of Revenue
  • You buy or process specialty wood products
  • Your business has nexus with the state

Domestic corporations, limited companies, limited liability partnerships, and partnerships in Washington must file with the Washington Secretary of State before applying for a business license. 

Local registration requirements and processes also vary. Many  cities in Washington allow you to apply for their endorsements  (i.e., business licenses and registrations) at the same time you file for your state licenses and registrations. Other cities, including Seattle, require you to work directly with the city. Likewise, you can  apply for endorsements in unincorporated Franklin County  through the Washington State Department of Revenue but must work with other counties directly.

Not all businesses need to register at the local level, but many do. When in doubt, check with your city and/or county officials.

Because business registration processes vary by location and business type, one of the most challenging aspects is determining which business registrations and licenses are necessary. 

Registration requirements for a construction contractor will be different from registration requirements for a hair stylist. Requirements in San Francisco aren’t the same as requirements in New York City. It’s easier to navigate the process in some states, counties, and cities than in others, but it’s almost always helpful to have a guide.

Government websites often offer a wealth of information. Texas Economic Development, a branch of the Office of the Texas Governor, has a  Start a Business in Texas  webpage that can point you in the right direction. New York state provides helpful information on its  Start a Business in New York State  page.

Another option is to outsource the burden of business registration and licensing.  Avalara offers comprehensive support with license research, registration, and filing  for new and growing businesses. We offer two business license solutions: Avalara License Guidance helps you discover your license requirements and how to submit applications. With Avalara License Filing, our team of experts files the necessary applications for you.

By now you’ve probably guessed that it depends on the type of business you’re opening and where you’re opening it. Typically,  the total cost to register your small business will be no more than $300 , but fees do vary. 

It can cost much more to license a business. A tobacco license is typically pricey and an alcohol license can cost even more: The  application fee for a general priority license  that permits the sale of beer, wine, and distilled spirits in California costs more than $17,000. Such licenses often need to be renewed on an annual basis, for a fee.

What’s the difference between registering a business and licensing a business?

Registering your new business  designates its name as a legal entity that’s recognized by state and local authorities. Your business classification determines how you open a bank account and file taxes. Often registration is a one-time event, though some registrations may need to be renewed. 

If you register your business name, you must also apply for an EIN.

Licensing your business  grants you the right to operate your business within a particular jurisdiction (the state, county, and/or city). The industry and the location of your company determine the type and number of licenses you need. Some businesses need multiple licenses that must be renewed regularly. And licensing a business so it can operate is not the same thing as getting licensed for all the various activities you may conduct.

For example, a pet store in  Los Angeles  may need as many as five different business licenses and/or permits, including a Los Angeles pet shop license. A home bakery in  Fort Lauderdale  may have to get up to seven business licenses and/or permits, including a Broward County food establishment permit. A dry-cleaning/laundry business in  Chicago  may require up to eight business licenses and/or permits, including a local Chicago environmental permit.

Just as no two businesses are exactly alike, no two businesses will need exactly the same business registrations or business licenses.

As explained above, registering your business makes it a legal business entity in the eyes of the city, county, state, and/or federal government.

Registering your business for tax enables you to collect and pay the taxes you owe and file returns with the appropriate taxing authorities. For example, you need to  register for a sales tax permit  in  states where you have nexus  (aka, a sales tax obligation). 

Sales tax nexus laws  vary from state to state, which unfortunately can lead to  sales tax registration mistakes . All states with a general sales tax now have economic nexus laws that base a sales tax obligation on a remote seller’s sales activity in the state. In many states, doing just $100,000 in sales in the state or making just 200 separate transactions in the state in the current or previous calendar year can give you sales tax nexus. 

In some states, you’ll  need to register for sales tax as soon as you cross the economic nexus threshold  — by the very next transaction — and every state has a different sales tax application process. Unfortunately, it’s not always easy for small business owners to drop everything and register. Many other tasks require attention. 

Outsourcing sales tax registration can ease the burden of compliance. With  Avalara Sales Tax Registration , simply fill out our form once and we’ll prepare and file sales tax registrations in the jurisdictions you specify. We’ll prepare the necessary application forms, make payments, and follow up with jurisdictions to ensure the process went smoothly. 

Don’t let the weight of business registration and licensing requirements smother your new business before it starts.  Let Avalara help you with your business license and tax registration needs .

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Registrations That Your Travel Agency Will Require

Registrations That Your Travel Agency Will Require

The thought of travelling brings cheers up almost everyone and travel plans are made enthusiastically and eagerly awaited by families and individuals alike. The wanderlust bug has bitten people of all ages as more and more people are seeking to travel and explore new destinations. Travelling to far off destinations or during the summer breaks is a norm now, along with which more individuals are even looking for city breaks and short get-aways. This increasing popularity for travelling has subsequently increased the demand for travel agencies and businesses dealing with travel.

A travel agency is a business that does not require much preparation beforehand and has no restrictions in terms of space and equipment. In fact, it can be started from home too. All you need is a computer, the requisite degree or licences and the zeal to arrange for travel itineraries and transportation at the earliest.

Travel Agency Registrations

A tour and travel business is one of the fastest growing businesses in recent times. It requires the business to adhere to certain compliances and register itself before it can start operations. The basic process involves the following steps in travel agency registrations-

Register The Business Entity

One of the first steps for any kind of business is to register itself. There are a number of business entities to choose from such as sole proprietorship, partnership, private limited company, limited liability company (LLP) or any other that best suits the entrepreneur and is favourable for the business. Other factors to be considered while choosing a business entity is the taxation law that applies to each business type and also the requirements and compliances for each business type.

Carry Out GST Registration

Post registering as a business entity, the next vital step is to register the travel business under the new GST laws. The GST application is a straight forward process and the GST registration documents required include-

  • Identity proof  
  • Address proof
  • Shops & Establishments Act Registration
  • Current Bank Account

GST is mandatory for agencies that have an annual turnover of over Rs 20 lakhs. The air travel tickets, travel packages, etc. all have GST rates applicable to them and thus it is vital that the travel agency register itself under GST.

travel company registration formalities

Register Under A Tour Operator Body

After the mandatory registrations of GST and business entity, the next step while starting a travel agency is to register under a Government approved travel body. This either means to become a Government approved travel agent or TA. This is not mandatory but is a way to ensure that travel agents provide standard and quality service everywhere. In order to be eligible for becoming a TA the entrepreneur must satisfy certain requirement such as the capital invested, the number of staff employed, maintenance of minimum office space and other stipulations. Apart from this, while starting a travel agency, entrepreneurs can even become an International Air Transport Association or IATA agent. The IATA provides training to travel agents and offers professional development services. Additionally, IATA certification is recognised worldwide.

Are You Ready To Start A Travel Agency?

Apart from the travel agency registrations, the agency does not require much in terms of equipment and setting up the business and specifically the premises but there are a few factors that need to be considered to find whether an entrepreneur is ready and prepared to start a travel agency/business.

Knowledge And Enthusiasm

Starting a business just because it seems like a profitable venture is not always a good way to move forward. A passion and enthusiasm for the field help to work with rigour and eagerness. Along with enthusiasm, knowledge about the travel industry, the registrations and compliances is a must.

Ability To Conduct Research

When embarking on a journey to a new destination, tourists look forward to visiting places of interest at the destination such as famous landmarks and architectural wonders, or popular local sites, along with staying in a conveniently located, comfortable hotel with amenities and having access to restaurants or getting homely meals. All of this is possible when the travel agency conducts a complete research about the place and makes arrangements for the tourists before-hand, to ensure a hassle free holiday. Thus entrepreneurs must be able to carry out a thorough research about all aspects of travelling.

Organisation Skills And Eye For Details

As a travel agent, entrepreneurs need to prepare detailed itineraries and organise travel plans with the greatest planning, whether it is regarding travel bookings, schedules, visa applications, transportation arrangements, etc to avoid a glitch-free travel experience for the clients. Also, they must look around for deals in airfares, hotel bookings, ticket prices to avail of benefits for the clients too.

People Skill To Connect With Customers

The travel industry is such that entrepreneurs need to constantly connect and interact with clients. For this, they need to have excellent communication skills and must be friendly and approachable for the clients to come to them repeatedly for travel bookings.

Seeking Assistance

Entrepreneurs are relatively new to the world of starting a business and might be overwhelmed with the thought of all the legalities and compliances to complete before starting the actual operations. However, deAsra can help with the details regarding all of the travel agency registrations including the GST registration processes since deAsra ’s motto is to be of assistance to entrepreneurs at every step in their journey as an entrepreneur.

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1°. Defining the activity

A. definition.

The travel and travel operator (travel agency, for example) is a professional who develops and sells or offers for sale:

  • tourist packages;
  • travel services on transportation, accommodation, car rental or other travel services that they do not produce themselves.

It also applies to professionals who make it easier for travellers to purchase "related travel benefits."

To go further  Articles L. 211-1 and L. 211-2 of the Tourism Code.

b. Competent Business Formalities Centre (CFE)

The relevant CFE depends on the nature of the structure in which the activity is carried out. In the case of a travel and stay operator, it is a commercial activity. The relevant CFE is therefore the Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI).

2°. Installation conditions

A. professional qualifications.

No diploma or special training is required to carry out the activity of travel and residence operator since January 1, 2016. Only the conditions of professional liability insurance and financial guarantee are necessary to carry out this activity.

To go further  : Ordinance No. 2015-1682 of December 17, 2015 simplifying certain pre-authorization and reporting regimes for companies and professionals.

b. Financial guarantee

Having a sufficient financial guarantee is a mandatory prerequisite for registration in the register of travel and residence operators. This registration conditions the legal practice of the profession in France.

The financial guarantee is intended to ensure, if necessary, the reimbursement of funds and advances paid by customers to the travel and residence operator for current or future services. It also ensures the repatriation of customers in the event of a cessation of payments situation that has resulted in the bankruptcy filing of travel and holiday operators.

The financial guarantee is the result of a surety contract made, by choice, by:

  • A collective guarantee body
  • A credit institution, a finance company or an insurance company authorized to give a financial guarantee;
  • a group of associations or non-profit organizations that have received special authorisation by decree from the Minister in charge of tourism and have a sufficient solidarity fund.

The amount of the financial guarantee must cover all funds paid by clients and the costs of repatriating travellers in the event of a failure of the agency.

The subscription to a financial guarantee gives rise to the delivery of a certificate which must specify:

  • The name of the guarantor
  • the validity dates of the warranty contract.

To go further  Article R. 211-26 and following of the Tourism Code; Decree No. 2015-1111 of 2 September 2015 relating to the financial guarantee and professional civil liability of travel and holiday operators and other operators for the sale of travel and stays.

c. Liability insurance

In order to practice legally in France, the travel and residence operator has the obligation to have professional liability insurance.

Professional liability insurance provides coverage for the repair of damage caused by the operator to customers, service providers or third parties as a result of faults, errors, omissions or negligence committed during the sale or execution of tourism services.

The travel and travel operator must clearly inform its customers of the risks covered and the guarantees underwritten under this insurance.

Once insured, the travel and travel operator receives a certificate of subscription, a model of which is available on the  Atout France website .

The certificate must bear the following mentions:

  • Reference to existing legal and regulatory provisions;
  • The name of the insurance company;
  • The number of the insurance policy underwritten
  • The validity period of the contract (beginning and end of validity);
  • The name and address or name of the insured travel operator;
  • the extent of the guarantees.

To go further  Article L. 211-16 and R. 211-35 and following of the Tourism Code.

d. Some peculiarities of the regulation of the activity

Obligation to keep books and documents available to authorized officers to consult them.

Individuals or legal entities registered in the registration register of travel and residence operators, must keep their books and documents available to the authorized agents for consultation.

To go further  Article L. 211-5 of the Tourism Code.

Requirement to mention the registration of travel and holiday operators in the registration register

Travel and holiday operators are obliged to mention their registration in the registration register of travel and holiday operators on their sign, in documents given to third parties and in their advertising.

To go further  Articles L. 211-5 and R. 211-2 of the Tourism Code.

Rules for the conclusion and execution of travel and holiday sales contracts

The conclusion of contracts for the sale of travel or stays by a travel and residence operator must comply with certain conditions of form and substance detailed in articles L. 211-7 and following of the Tourism Code. These conditions include the obligation to provide pre-contract information by the travel and stay operator to the customer, the mandatory mentions to be included in the contract (description of the services provided, rights and reciprocal obligations of the parties in terms of price, timing, payment terms, etc.) or the terms of the contract change.

For more information, please refer to articles L. 211-7 and the following articles of the Tourism Code.

Timeshare building enjoyment contract

Travel and stay operators registered in the register of travel operators may enter into any contract for the enjoyment of a timeshare building or lend their assistance to the conclusion of such contracts under a written mandate.

For more information on the mandatory mentions of the mandate contract as well as the conditions of remuneration of the agent, it is advisable to refer to Article L. 211-24 of the Tourism Code.

To go further  Articles L. 211-24, R. 211-45 and following of the Tourism Code.

Air passenger information requirement on the identity of the airline

For services including air transport in a tourist package, travel and travel operators must provide the consumer with a list of up to three carriers for each leg of flight, including a list of the contract carrier and the de facto carrier that the tour operator will eventually use.

To go further  Article R. 211-15 of the Tourism Code.

Accreditations of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and SNCF

In some cases, travel and travel operators must obtain an accreditation in order to be able to book and issue airline or rail tickets. For more information, please refer to the "Accreditation Service" section of the IATA website .

General regulation applicable to all public institutions (ERP)

If the premises are open to the public, the professional must comply with the rules on public institutions (ERP):

  • accessibility.

For more information, it is advisable to refer to the listing Establishment receiving the public (ERP).

3°. Installation procedures and formalities

A. company reporting formalities.

The formalities depend on the legal nature of the business. For more information, please refer to the "Formality of Reporting a Commercial Company" activity sheet.

b. Post-registration authorisation

Requirement to register travel and stay operators.

In order to legally carry out the activity of a travel and residence operator, the person concerned must first apply for registration in the register of travel and holiday operators.

Good to know

Registration for travel and travel operators must be renewed every three years.

Competent authority

The application for registration must be addressed  online to the registration commission of Atout France - French Tourism Development Agency.

Supporting documents

The application for registration must be accompanied by the following documents:

  • certificate of professional liability insurance, in accordance with the  model provided by Trump-France  ;
  • financial guarantee certificate, in accordance with the  model provided by Trump-France ).

The registration commission of Atout-France sends, by email, to the applicant a receipt attesting to the completeness of his file. From the date of receipt, the commission has one month to:

  • decide to register the applicant. In this case, a registration certificate with the registration number and registration date is sent to the applicant by email;
  • or refuse to register the applicant. In this case, this reasoned decision must be addressed to it by letter recommended with notice of receipt.

The failure of the commission to make a decision within one month of receipt is worth accepting the registration.

There are no more registration fees.

Renewal of registration in the register of travel and travel operators

The registration is valid for three years, its renewal is subject to the same conditions as the registration.

The operator receives, three months before the end of the validity of its registration, a relaunch by email and mail inviting it to proceed with the renewal application.

The renewal application must be sent to the registration commission of Atout-France before the end date of the registration.

Renewal terms

The operator must apply for renewal at least 30 days before the due date.

  • Valid financial guarantee certificate
  • professional liability insurance certificate valid.

There are no more renewal fees.

Changes to file data

The operator is required to inform the registration board of any changes in the items seized during the registration application. Changes may relate to the legal form of the company, the address, the guarantor, etc.

How to change

The change must be notified within one month of the amendment when it can be anticipated or, failing that, within a month of the event at the latest.

The amendment must be made known to the registration board.

The changes validated by this commission result in an update of the travel and travel operator's description sheet. Its update date is authentic and serves as information for both the public and other relevant authorities.

For more information, it is advisable to refer to the  Atout-France website .

c. Make a prior declaration of activity for EU nationals engaged in one-off activity (Freedom to provide services)

Any national of an EU or EEA state legally established in one of these states to carry out the activity of travel and residence operator may carry out this activity in France on a temporary and occasional basis provided that the activity is made prior to any performance.

What to know

Advance declaration automatically and temporarily takes the person's registration on the register of travel operators.

The prior declaration, as part of a free provision of services, must be:

  • updated during the year, in case of a change in the component elements;
  • renewed once a year, if the person intends to provide services on a temporary and occasional basis during the year in question.

The prior declaration is addressed, by any means, to the registration commission within Trump France.

Response time

The first advance statement is the subject of an acknowledgement to the registrant.

The statement must be accompanied by the following documents, translated into French if applicable:

  • A certificate certifying that the registrant is legally established in an EU or EEA state to carry out his activity there;
  • a sufficient financial guarantee certificate issued by one of the authorized structures mentioned in Article R. 211-26 of the Tourism Code (see supra "2." c. Financial guarantee);
  • information on the state of coverage of the registrant by insurance guaranteeing the monetary consequences of professional civil liability.

To go further  Articles L. 211-20 to L. 211-22, R. 211-26, R. 211-51 and following of the Tourism Code.

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Starting A Travel Agency In India – A Complete Guide

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Tourism and travel are among the largest industries in India and generate significant employment. The UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) estimates that the travel and tourism industry contributes 6-7 per cent to the world's total employment.

Starting with one of the 7 Wonders of the World, the Taj Mahal, there are several places in India that every person should see at least once in their lifetime. Thus, apart from having a huge scope for domestic tourism, India is a magnet for international tourists as well.  

There are many states in India, like Goa and the northeastern states, where the state’s primary revenue depends on tourism. Other important cities like Delhi, Bangalore, and Mumbai have grown more and more cosmopolitan due to the influx of international tourists in the country. 

Thus, taking all these things into account, tourism has become inevitable for the country’s revenue as a whole. However, making a mark in the tourism industry is not easy, and starting a travel agency involves a variety of steps and processes.

Business Model Choices for Travel Agency

Any person who is willing to open a tourist agency can do so under various business entities, and these choices are left to the entrepreneurs. Private limited companies are typically chosen by entrepreneurs as their preferred option over others because they receive numerous government benefits and subsidies. 

People who wish to develop the travel business slowly generally do it under a limited liability partnership. In this case, offering online services won’t be possible. Besides, for travel companies, it is imperative to use the internet as a tool for developing the business. 

In cases where the entrepreneur wishes to have a unique name and symbol, he can do so by way of register a trademark under the intellectual property rights laws in India.

GST Taxation for Travel Agents

GST registration is required for all suppliers with a total annual turnover of more than ₹ 20,00,000. The number of category states is limited to ₹100,000. Furthermore, the threshold limit of ₹ 200,000 does not apply in the case of taxable inter-state supply. 

The following table lists the SAC codes of travel agents for outward supply.

How to Become A Government-Approved Trade Agent?

There are various parameters for becoming a government-approved trade agent such as invested capital amount, the number of working staff in the agency, and the office space. An agency must comply with these requirements to become a recognized trade agency. 

The application for this must be forwarded to the ministry of tourism in the prescribed format by a recognized travel agency. Though the registration procedure is not mandatory, it is still preferred to be a recognized travel agency over an unrecognized travel agent. Moreover, the government encourages these recognitions so as to maintain a definite standard in the services rendered by these agencies.

IATA Agent 

IATA stands for International Air Transport Association, which represents almost 84% of the total airlines in the world. This travel association provides various training manuals to travel agencies within its purview. 

It is strongly advised that travel agencies become a member of  IATA in order to take advantage of the benefits available. It is also really important for a travel agency offering international travel packages to be a member of this association, as it gives a lot of discounts on air services across the globe.

The Takeaway

According to statistics, India ranks 12th in the world in terms of travel and tourism GDP contribution. And there is a predicted 7.8% annual growth between 2013 and 2023. Thus, it is clear that tourism constitutes a big part of our country’s growth, owing to which the Indian government has sanctioned a ton of subsidies for start-up entrepreneurs in the travel agency space.

  • Licensed Travel Agent In India
  • Eligibility to Apply for a Business License

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License required for Tour and Travel agencies for running their business

License required for Tour and Travel agencies for running their business

Travel and tourism industry, also known as Tour and Travel agencies is one of the major industries in India and plays a very significant role as employment generators. States like Goa and North-Eastern generate their primary revenue depending on tourism.

The licenses required to start a tour and travel agencies business in India are;

Business Entity Choices for Travel Agency

Any individual who is willing to open a Tour and Travel agency could open it under various selections of business entities, and these choices are left with the person who wants to start the business. Entrepreneurs generally select Private Limited companies as the preferred one amongst the rest, because Private Limited companies get a lot of benefits and subsidies from the government.

Also, business enterprises like Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) or One Person Company (OPC) could also be preferable for businesspersons who want to gradually build the business or carry it out on a part-time basis. As Limited Liability Partnerships have no obligation for audit unless the turnover goes beyond Rs.40 lakhs in a year, it shall be ideal for businesspersons who are getting their first-hand experience in their Tour and Travel agency venture. Then again, OPCs can also be ideal for businesspersons who are establishing their commerce as a single individual and want to avoid having broad compliance-related requirements to follow. However, a business enterprise offering limited liability status as well as separate legal entity status shall be perfect for a travel agent.

GST Registration for the Travel Business

It is important for business owners to adopt GST Registration so that they could collect GST from the customers on the service incurred through the business.

GST payable by Air Travel Agent is;

•    Commission income from the airlines for booking domestic air tickets, GST at the rate of 18% on 5% of Basic fare

•    Commission income from the airlines for booking international air tickets at the rate of 18% GST on 10% of basic fare

•    Processing/service fee for booking of tickets for the customer, GST at the rate of 18% on invoice from Air traveller

Trademark Required for the Travel Business

If the businessperson wishes to have a unique name and symbol, he could do so by means of registering as a trademark provided under the Intellectual Property Rights laws in India.

Becoming a Government of India approved Travel Agent

By registration as a Government of India approved Travel Agent is not compulsory; it is useful and provides recognition for the travel agent. The goal and objective of the scheme for recognition of Travel Agent or Agency (TA) is to boost the quality standard and service in the tourism industry. In order to become a Government of India recognized travel agent, the travel agent is required to satisfy few requirements on capital invested, number of employees employed, maintenance of minimum office space as well as other stipulations. Furthermore, application should be made towards the Ministry of tourism in the prescribed format in order to become a Government of India approved Travel Agent.

The Travel agency is required to be approved by the International Air Transport Association (IATA). This travel Association offers several training methods and professional development services towards the travel agencies. IATA accreditation is very much preferred seal of approval recognized worldwide. It is important for a travel agency or for a travel agent availing international travel packages towards being a member of IATA, as it gives a lot of benefits in the air services across the globe.  

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travel company registration formalities

  • Business tax
  • Spring Budget 2024: Overview of tax legislation and rates (OOTLAR)
  • HM Revenue & Customs

Spring Budget 2024 — Overview of tax legislation and rates (OOTLAR)

Published 6 March 2024

travel company registration formalities

© Crown copyright 2024

This publication is licensed under the terms of the Open Government Licence v3.0 except where otherwise stated. To view this licence, visit nationalarchives.gov.uk/doc/open-government-licence/version/3 or write to the Information Policy Team, The National Archives, Kew, London TW9 4DU, or email: [email protected] .

Where we have identified any third party copyright information you will need to obtain permission from the copyright holders concerned.

This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/spring-budget-2024-overview-of-tax-legislation-and-rates-ootlar/spring-budget-2024-overview-of-tax-legislation-and-rates-ootlar

Introduction

This document sets out the detail of each tax policy measure announced at Spring Budget 2024 and of previously announced measures that will be included in Spring Finance Bill 2024. It is intended for tax practitioners and others with an interest in tax policy changes, especially those who will be involved in consultations both on the policy and on draft legislation.

Spring Budget 2024 will be published on 6 March 2024. The information in the document is set out as follows:

Chapter 1 contains details of all measures that are included in Spring Finance Bill 2024.

Chapter 2 contains details of measures which are part of Spring Budget 2024 but are not in Spring Finance Bill 2024.

Table 1 lists measures in this document without a corresponding announcement in the Budget report.

Annex A provides tables of tax rates and allowances for the tax year 2023 to 2024 and the tax year 2024 to 2025.

Annex B provides a guide to the impact assessments set out in tax information and impact notes.

The government will bring forward a further set of tax administration and maintenance announcements on 18 April 2024. None of these announcements will require legislation in Spring Finance Bill 2024 or have an impact on the government’s finances at this stage.

For an update on previously announced consultations, see the tax policy consultation tracker .

Chapter 1 — Spring Finance Bill 2024

Personal tax, 1.1 income tax charge & rate.

The government will introduce legislation in Spring Finance Bill 2024 to set the charge for income tax, and the corresponding rates, as it does every year.

Spring Finance Bill 2024 will set: 

  • the main rates for 2024 to 2025, which will apply to non-savings, non-dividend income of taxpayers in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland
  • the savings rates for 2024 to 2025, which will apply to savings income of all UK taxpayers
  • the default rates for 2024 to 2025, which will apply to non-savings, non-dividend income of taxpayers who are not subject to the main rates of income tax, Welsh rates of income tax or the Scottish rates of income tax

Income tax rates and thresholds on non-savings, non-dividend income for Scottish taxpayers are set by the Scottish Parliament. The UK rates are reduced by 10 pence in £1 for Welsh taxpayers, and the Welsh rates of income tax for non-savings, non-dividend income are set by the Welsh Parliament and added to the UK rates.

1.2 Starting Rate for Savings Limit

As announced at Spring Budget 2024, the government will introduce legislation in Spring Finance Bill 2024 to retain the 0% band for the starting rate for savings income at its current level of £5,000 for 2024 to 2025. This measure will apply to the whole of the UK.

1.3 Collective money purchase ( CMP ) winding up

The Pension Schemes Act 2021 introduced legislation to allow collective money purchase ( CMP ) pension schemes to operate in the United Kingdom. The government will introduce legislation in Spring Finance Bill 2024 to ensure that the Commissioners of HMRC can accommodate the detailed provisions necessary for the treatment of funds transferred from a CMP scheme in the process of winding up.

Further consequential tax changes will then be made through secondary legislation to authorise payments made during the wind-up process.

The measure will have effect from Royal Assent to Spring Finance Bill 2024.

1.4 Changes to the Capital Gains Tax rate on UK residential property disposals

As announced at Spring Budget 2024, the government will introduce legislation in Spring Finance Bill 2024 to reduce the higher rate of Capital Gains Tax for residential property gains from 28% to 24%. The change will take effect from 6 April 2024. The lower rate will remain at 18% for any gains that fall within an individual’s basic rate band.

The tax information and impact note for this measure provides more information: Capital Gains Tax: changes to the higher rate of tax on residential property .

1.5 High Income Child Benefit Charge threshold

As announced at Spring Budget 2024, the government will introduce legislation in the Spring Finance Bill 2024 to increase the High Income Child Benefit Charge ( HICBC ) adjusted net income starting threshold to £60,000, from the 2024 to 2025 tax year onwards.

The charge will apply at a rate of one per cent of the full Child Benefit award for each £200 of adjusted net income between £60,000 and £80,000, halving the rate at which HICBC is charged. The charge on taxpayers with income above £80,000 will be equal to the full amount of Child Benefit paid.

For new Child Benefit claims made after 6 April 2024, any backdated payment will be treated for HICBC purposes as if the entitlement fell in the 2024 to 2025 tax year if backdating would otherwise create a HICBC liability in the 2023 to 2024 tax year.

This measure will apply to the whole of the United Kingdom.

The tax information and impact note for this measure provides more information: Income Tax: Increasing the High Income Child Benefit Charge threshold .

1.6 Geographical scope of agricultural property relief and woodlands relief from Inheritance Tax

As announced at Spring Budget 2024, the government will introduce legislation at Spring Finance Bill 2024 to restrict the scope of agricultural property relief and woodlands relief to property in the UK. Property located in the European Economic Area (EEA), the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man will be treated the same as other property located outside the UK. The changes will take effect from 6 April 2024.

The tax information and impact note for this measure provides more information: Changes to the geographical scope of agricultural property relief and woodlands relief for Inheritance Tax .

Corporate Tax

1.7 corporation tax rates.

The government will introduce legislation in Spring Finance Bill 2024 to set the charge for Corporation Tax as it does every year, and to maintain the main rate at 25% and the small profits rate at 19%, for the financial year beginning 1 April 2025.

1.8 Additional support for independent film

As announced at Spring Budget 2024, the government will introduce legislation in Spring Finance Bill 2024 to provide additional support for independent films via the Audio-Visual Expenditure Credit.

The Independent Film Tax Credit is aimed at films that have budgets (or total core expenditure) of up to £15 million and that receive a new accreditation from the British Film Institute. The credit rate will be 53% of qualifying expenditure. Qualifying expenditure is capped at a maximum of 80% of a film’s total core expenditure; the most taxable credit a film can receive will be £6.36 million.

The changes will take effect for films that commence principal photography from 1 April 2024 on expenditure incurred from 1 April 2024. Claims may be submitted from 1 April 2025.

The tax information and impact note for this measure provides more information: Corporation Tax: tax relief for independent film productions .

1.9 Permanent extension for higher rates of Theatre Tax Relief, Orchestra Tax Relief, and Museums and Galleries Tax Relief

As announced at Spring Budget 2024, the government will introduce legislation in Spring Finance Bill 2024 for permanent 40%/45% (for non-touring/touring and orchestral productions respectively) headline rates of relief for Theatre Tax Relief, Orchestra Relief, and Museums and Galleries Exhibition Tax Relief. These rates will take effect from 1 April 2025.

The tax information and impact note for this measure provides more information: Corporation Tax: extension to the temporary rates of relief for theatre, orchestra, museum and galleries exhibition tax relief .

1.10 Stamp Duty Land Tax — Multiple Dwellings Relief ( MDR )

As announced at Spring Budget 2024, the government will introduce legislation in Spring Finance Bill 2024 abolishing Multiple Dwellings Relief, a bulk purchase relief in the Stamp Duty Land Tax regime. This change will come into effect for transactions with an effective date on or after 1 June 2024. Transitional rules mean that MDR can still be claimed for contracts which are exchanged on or before 6 March 2024, regardless of when completion takes place. This is subject to various exclusions, for example that there is no variation of the contract after that date.

A response to the 20 November 2021 consultation Stamp Duty Land Tax: mixed-property purchases and Multiple Dwellings Relief is published, as well as the outcome of the external evaluation of MDR , carried out under HMRC’s Tax Relief Evaluation programme .

The tax information and impact note for this measure provides more information: Stamp Duty Land Tax: abolition of Multiple Dwellings Relief .

1.11 Stamp Duty Land Tax — Acquisitions by Registered Social Landlords and Public Bodies

As announced at Spring Budget 2024, the government will introduce legislation in Spring Finance Bill 2024 to amend out of date references and definitions in Stamp Duty Land Tax ( SDLT ) legislation relating to registered social landlords. The government will also introduce legislation to remove public bodies from the SDLT 15% higher rate charge when purchasing residential property with a value of more than £500,000. These changes will take effect from 6 March 2024.

The tax information and impact note for this measure provides more information: Stamp Duty Land Tax: change to rules for acquisitions by registered social landlords and public bodies .

1.12 Stamp Duty Land Tax – First-time Buyers’ Relief: Leases and Nominees

As announced at Spring Budget 2024, the government will introduce legislation in Spring Finance Bill 2024 amending the rules for claiming First-time Buyers’ Relief from Stamp Duty Land Tax.

The changes will mean that individuals who purchase new leases using nominee or bare trust arrangements will be able to claim the relief and ensure that individuals who have used such arrangements in the past are unable to claim the relief on future purchases made in their own name.

The changes will take effect from 6 March 2024. Where contracts are exchanged on or before 6 March 2024, transitional rules may apply subject to conditions.

The tax information and impact note for this measure provides more information: Stamp Duty Land Tax: First-Time Buyers’ Relief .

1.13 Energy Profits Levy – Energy Security Investment Mechanism

As announced at Spring Budget 2024, the government will introduce legislation in Spring Finance Bill 2024 to provide for the Energy Security Investment Mechanism ( ESIM ).   

The detail and application of the ESIM were announced in a Technical Note at Autumn Statement 2023.

The tax information and impact note for this measure provides more information: Energy Profits Levy: Energy Security Investment Mechanism .

1.14 Economic Crime Levy

The Economic Crime (Anti-Money Laundering) Levy was announced at Spring Budget 2020 to raise approximately £100 million per annum to tackle money laundering and deliver economic crime reforms.

Levy receipts for the first period between April 2022 and March 2023 show a shortfall against the levy’s target of raising £100 million per year. The government’s policy objective is to mitigate this shortfall, putting funding for measures to tackle economic crime back on a sustainable footing. 

The government will increase the charge paid by very large businesses with UK revenue greater than £1 billion, and which are regulated for anti-money laundering purposes, under the Economic Crime (Anti-Money Laundering) Levy (the levy). The charge for these entities will rise from £250,000 to £500,000 per annum, from tax year 2024 to 2025 onwards. Amounts are payable following the end of each financial year.

There will be no change to the charge for small entities (which remain exempt), medium entities (which will continue to pay £10,000), or large entities (which will continue to pay £36,000).

The tax information and impact note for this measure provides more information: Economic Crime Levy: increased charges for very large entities .

1.15 Changes to anti-avoidance legislation: Transfer of Assets Abroad Provisions

As announced at Spring Budget 2024, the government will introduce legislation in Spring Finance Bill 2024 so that individuals cannot bypass anti-avoidance legislation, the Transfer of Assets Abroad provisions, by using a company to transfer assets offshore in order to avoid tax. This applies to individuals who are resident in the UK. 

The changes will take effect for income arising to a person abroad from 6 April 2024.

The tax information and impact note for this measure provides more information: Amendments to the transfer of assets abroad provisions .

1.16 Reserved Investor Funds ( RIFs )

As announced at Spring Budget 2024, the government will introduce legislation in Spring Finance Bill 2024 in relation to the Reserved Investor Fund (Contractual Scheme) ( RIF ), including to provide for a power to make detailed tax rules through secondary legislation at a later date.

The government is also publishing the summary of responses to the 2023 consultation on the scope and design of a tax regime for the RIF .

The tax information and impact note for this measure provides more information: Reserved Investor Fund .

Indirect Tax

1.17 vat — bringing trades in carbon credits within the scope of the terminal markets order ( tmo ).

As announced at Spring Budget 2024, the government will introduce legislation in Spring Finance Bill 2024 that underpins the VAT Terminal Markets Order ( TMO ) which will take effect from the date of Royal Assent to Spring Finance Bill 2024. This will allow for further reform, including bringing trades in carbon credits within the scope of the TMO in due course, and forms part of the government’s broader commitment to update the TMO legislation, which was announced at Tax Administration and Maintenance Day 2023.  

A summary of responses to the consultation on reforming the TMO legislation, which was launched in 2023, will be published in due course.

1.18 VAT: DIY Housebuilders Scheme: Power to request evidence

Following digitisation of the DIY Housebuilders Scheme, the government will introduce legislation in Spring Finance Bill 2024 to give HMRC Commissioners additional powers to request further evidential documentation in relation to a DIY housebuilder’s claim. This will assist the Commissioners in validating claims and carrying out compliance checks. 

The power will come into force on the date of Royal Assent to Spring Finance Bill 2024 and will apply to claims made on or after the day the provisions come into force.

The tax information and impact note for this measure provides more information: VAT: DIY Housebuilders Scheme request for evidence .

Tax Administration and Other Measures

1.19 penalty reform — vat credit amendment.

The government will introduce legislation in Spring Finance Bill 2024 to make technical amendments so interest for VAT operates as intended. The legislation corrects the unintentionally narrow scope of the common period rules, and ensures that HMRC’s power to automatically collect overpaid VAT repayment interest applies consistently to all such amounts.

The tax information and impact note on Interest harmonisation and penalties for late submission and late payment of tax provides more information on the VAT interest legislation announced in Spring Budget 2021.

The changes will take effect from 1 January 2023.

Chapter 2 — Measures announced at Spring Budget 2024 but not in Spring Finance Bill 2024

This chapter contains details of other tax measures announced at Spring Budget 2024 but are not in Spring Finance Bill 2024. This includes consultations and measures that will be legislated by secondary legislation and future Finance Bills.

2.1 A reduction in the main rates of Primary Class 1 and Class 4 National Insurance contributions

As announced at Spring Budget 2024, the government will introduce legislation to reduce the main rate of primary Class 1 National Insurance contributions by 2 percentage points from 10% to 8% from 6 April 2024.

For the self-employed, the government will introduce legislation to reduce the main rate of Class 4 National Insurance contributions by 2 percentage points from 8% to 6% from 6 April 2024.

This is in addition to the previously announced reduction in the main rate of Class 4 National Insurance contributions from 9% to 8%, and means that from 6 April 2024 the main rate will reduce from 9% to 6%.

Technical specifications for payroll software companies will be published shortly.

2.2 Class 2 National Insurance contributions — Commitment to Consult

As announced at Spring Budget 2024, the government will consult on how it will deliver Class 2 National Insurance contributions abolition later this year.

At Autumn Statement 2023, the government announced the removal of the requirement to pay Class 2 National Insurance contributions from 6 April 2024 and committed to abolishing Class 2 entirely.

2.3 Replacing Non-UK Domicile tax rules with a residence-based regime

As announced at Spring Budget 2024, the government will abolish the remittance basis of taxation for non-UK domiciled individuals and replace it with a simpler residence-based regime, which will take effect from 6 April 2025. Individuals who opt into the regime will not pay UK tax on foreign income and gains for the first four years of tax residence.

Overseas Workday Relief ( OWR ) will be reformed with eligibility for the relief based on the new regime. OWR will continue to provide Income Tax relief for earnings from duties carried out overseas for the first three years of tax residence with restrictions on remitting these earnings removed.

The government has also announced an intention to move to a residence-based regime for Inheritance Tax, with plans to publish a policy consultation on these changes, followed by draft legislation for a technical legislation, later in the year.

2.4 UK Individual Savings Account ( ISA )

As announced at Spring Budget 2024, the government will introduce a new UK ISA with its own allowance of £5,000 a year. The government will consult on the details at a later date.

2.5 ISAs and Fractional Share Contracts

As announced at Spring Budget 2024, the government is committed to ensuring people have the opportunity to invest in a diverse range of investment types through their ISAs .

As previously announced at Autumn Statement 2023 this includes certain fractional share contracts, and the government is working as quickly as possible to bring forward legislation by the end of the Summer following detailed engagement with industry and the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).

2.6 Amending Gift Aid legislation due to implications of the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Bill

The Digital Markets, Competition, and Consumers Bill will introduce new protections for consumers who take out subscription contracts.

As announced at Spring Budget 2024, the government will amend existing Gift Aid legislation by Statutory Instrument to ensure that eligible charities which operate subscription models can continue to claim Gift Aid while complying with these new protections.

The intention is that these amendments to the Gift Aid regime will be in place by the time the relevant provisions of the Bill come into force.

2.7 Abolition of the Furnished Holiday Lettings ( FHL ) tax regime

As announced at Spring Budget 2024, the government will abolish the Furnished Holiday Lettings tax regime, eliminating the tax advantage for landlords who let out short-term furnished holiday properties over those who let out residential properties to longer-term tenants. This will take effect from April 2025.

Draft legislation will be published in due course and include an anti-forestalling rule. This will prevent the obtaining of a tax advantage through the use of unconditional contracts to obtain capital gains relief under the current FHL rules. This rule will apply from 6 March 2024.

2.8 Taxation of environmental land management and ecosystem service markets

As announced at Spring Budget 2024, the government will introduce legislation in a future finance bill to extend the scope of agricultural property relief from Inheritance Tax to environmental land management from 6 April 2025 following the consultation in 2023.

Relief will be available for land managed under an environmental agreement with, or on behalf of, the UK government, Devolved Administrations, public bodies, local authorities, or approved responsible bodies. This includes agreements in place on or after 6 March 2024.

The government will also establish a joint working group between HM Treasury, HMRC, and industry representatives to identify solutions that provide clarity on the tax treatment of the production and sale of ecosystem service credits and associated units, where existing law or guidance may not provide sufficient clarity.

2.9 Technical consultation on extending full expensing to leased assets

As announced at Autumn Statement 2023, full expensing and the 50% first-year allowance for special rate assets were made permanent. Expenditure on plant or machinery for leasing is excluded from these allowances.

The government will shortly publish draft legislation for technical consultation to help it consider any potential extension to include plant and machinery for leasing, which is subject to future decision.

2.10 Additional tax relief for expenditure on visual effects

As announced at Autumn Statement 2023, and following a call for evidence, the government will give additional tax relief to visual effects costs in films and high-end TV. Under the Audio-Visual Expenditure Credit, visual effects costs will receive tax credit at a rate of 39%. The 80% cap on qualifying expenditure will also be removed for visual effects costs. The changes will take effect from 1 April 2025. 

A consultation will be published shortly on the types of expenditure that will be within scope of the additional tax relief.

2.11 Energy Profits Levy — One Year Extension

As announced at Spring Budget 2024, the government will extend the end date of the Energy Profits Levy to 31 March 2029.

2.12 Freeport tax reliefs sunset date extension

As announced at Autumn Statement 2023, the government will extend the window to claim the tax reliefs available in Freeport special tax sites from 5 to 10 years. At Spring Budget 2024, the government announced that the sunset date will be extended to:

  • 30 September 2031 for special tax sites in respect of English Freeports
  • 30 September 2034 for special tax sites in respect of Scottish Green Freeports and Welsh Freeports

The government will extend the sunset dates through secondary legislation.

2.13 Amendments to Common Reporting Standard (CRS2)

As announced at Spring Budget 2024, the government is publishing a consultation to seek views on the implementation of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development’s ( OECD ) amendments to the Common Reporting Standard (CRS2), the international tax transparency regime for the automatic exchange of information on financial accounts.

The consultation also seeks views on two proposed changes to regulations and a potential extension of the CRS to include reporting on UK resident taxpayers by UK financial institutions.

The consultation will close on 29 May 2024.

2.14 Crypto-Asset Reporting Framework ( CARF )

As announced at Spring Budget 2024, the government is publishing a consultation to seek views on the implementation of the OECD ’s Crypto-Asset Reporting Framework ( CARF ), the new international tax transparency regime for the automatic exchange of information on crypto-assets.

The consultation also seeks views on a potential extension of the CARF to include reporting on UK resident taxpayers by UK service providers. The consultation will close on 29 May 2024.

2.15 Administrative change to ease the payment of Inheritance Tax before probate or confirmation

As announced at Spring Budget 2024, the government will relax the Inheritance Tax requirements for ‘grants on credit’. 

From 1 April 2024, personal representatives of estates will no longer need to have sought commercial loans to pay Inheritance Tax before applying to obtain a ‘grant on credit’ from HMRC.

2.16 Guidance on deductibility of training

As announced at Autumn Statement 2023, HMRC has published guidance to provide greater clarity of the tax deductibility of training costs for sole traders and the self-employed.

The guidance clarifies that updating existing skills, maintaining pace with technological advancements, or changes in industry practices, are deductible costs when calculating the taxable profits of a business.

2.17 Vaping Products Duty

As announced at Spring Budget 2024, the government will introduce legislation in a future finance bill to introduce a new duty on vaping products.

The government has published a consultation on the detailed design and implementation of the duty, which will close on 29 May 2024.

Registration for the duty will open on 1 April 2026 with the duty taking effect from 1 October 2026 alongside a proportionate increase in tobacco duties.

The duty will apply to liquids for use in vaping devices and e-cigarettes at the following rates:

  • £1 per 10ml for nicotine free liquids
  • £2 per 10ml for liquid containing nicotine at concentrations between 0.1 to 10.9mg per ml
  • £3 per 10ml for liquids containing nicotine at concentrations 11mg per ml, or above

The government will also make a one-off tobacco duty increase of £2 per 100 cigarettes or 50 grams of tobacco from 1 October 2026.

2.18 Alcohol Duty Uprating

As announced at Spring Budget 2024, the government will freeze alcohol duty from 1 August 2024 until 1 February 2025. This extends the six-month freeze announced at Autumn Statement 2023. There will be no revisions to existing legislation and no new legal provisions will be introduced.

The alcohol duty rates and allowances as introduced on 1 August 2023 are set out at Annex A.

2.19 Closure of the Alcohol Duty Stamps Scheme

As announced at Spring Budget 2024, the government will end the Alcohol Duty Stamp Scheme that applies to many retail containers for spirits, wine and other fermented products following a review by HMRC. 

The government will publish draft legislation later in 2024 for an orderly wind-down of the Scheme.

2.20 VAT Registration Threshold: increase to £90,000

As announced at Spring Budget 2024, secondary legislation will amend the VAT Act 1994 to increase the VAT registration and deregistration thresholds.

The taxable turnover threshold which determines whether a person must be registered for VAT, will be increased from £85,000 to £90,000

The taxable turnover threshold which determines whether a person may apply for deregistration will be increased from £83,000 to £88,000

These changes will be effective from 1 April 2024. 

2.21 Landfill Tax Rates for 2025 to 2026

As announced at the Spring Budget 2024, the government will legislate in a future finance bill to increase the standard and lower rates of Landfill Tax in line with Retail Price Index ( RPI ), adjusted to take account for high inflation in the period 2022 to 2024 and rounded up to the nearest 5 pence.

The change will take effect on and after 1 April 2025. The rates of Landfill Tax from 1 April 2025 are set out in Annex A.

Landfill Tax was devolved to the Scottish Parliament in April 2015 and to the Welsh Assembly in April 2018.

2.22 Landfill Communities Fund 2024 to 2025

The government will set the value of the Landfill Communities Fund for 2024 to 2025 at £30.9 million, with the cap on credits claimed by landfill operators in respect of contributions remaining at 5.3% of their Landfill Tax liability.

2.23 Air Passenger Duty rates ( APD ) 2025-2026

As announced at Spring Budget 2024, the government will legislate in a future finance bill to increase APD rates for 2025 to 2026. The reduced rates for economy passengers will increase in line with forecast RPI , rounded to the nearest pound.

This means that economy, domestic and shortfall rates will remain frozen. The standard and higher rates will also increase by forecast RPI and will also be further adjusted to account for recent high inflation.   

The new rates will apply from 1 April 2025. APD rates are set out in Annex A.

2.24 Fuel Duty main rates

As announced at Spring Budget 2024, the government will introduce legislation by Statutory Instrument to extend the cut in the rates of Fuel Duty introduced at Spring Statement in March 2022, and extended at Spring Budget in March 2023, for a further 12 months.

This will maintain the cut in the rates for heavy oil (diesel and kerosene), unleaded petrol, and light oil by 5 pence per litre, and the proportionate percentage cut (equivalent to 5 pence per litre from the main Fuel Duty rate of 57.95 pence per litre) in other lower rates and the rates for rebated fuels, where practical.

The changes will take effect from 23 March 2024.

The tax information and impact note for this measure provides more information: Fuel Duty: extending the temporary cut in rates to March 2025 .

2.25 Road Fuel Gases Rates

As announced at Spring Budget 2024, following review, the government will maintain the difference between road fuel gas and diesel duty rates until 2032.

2.26 VAT Treatment of Private Hire Vehicles

As announced at Autumn Statement 2023, the government will publish a consultation on the potential implications of the High Court’s ruling in ‘Uber Britannia vs Sefton MBC’ in April 2024.

Tax administration and other measures

2.27 raising standards in the tax advice market: strengthening the regulatory framework and improving registration.

As announced at Spring Budget 2024, the government is today publishing a consultation both on options to strengthen the regulatory framework in the tax advice market, and on requiring tax advisers to register with HMRC if they wish to interact with HMRC on a client’s behalf. The government will also explore making it quicker and easier for tax advisers to register with HMRC.

2.28 Tackling non-compliance in the umbrella company market

As announced at Spring Budget 2024, the government will provide an update on the progress of its work to tackle non-compliance in the umbrella company market shortly.

Table 1 — Measures in this document without a corresponding announcement in the Budget report

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  • Mexico- Business Travel and Etiquette
  • Investment Climate Statement

This section on business travel provides an overview of business customs and travel tips that may be useful during your time working in Mexico.

Business Customs

Mexican businesspeople in major cities place a great deal of importance on appearances, and in many settings generally dress more formally than in most U.S. cities. We recommend wearing professional attire when meeting with prospective business partners in Mexico, and it is advisable to avoid overly casual clothes and athletic shoes when going out to business meals.

Being sensitive to typical business hours and mealtimes is extremely important. It is not uncommon for offices to open at 10:00 a.m. and for people to work until 8:00 p.m. or later. This means that during the week, many Mexicans follow a pattern of five meals, with desayuno consisting of fruit or a pastry between 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. before going to work, a somewhat heavier almuerzo around 10:30 a.m. or 11:30 a.m., a heavy lunch called comida generally after 2:00 p.m., an evening snack called merienda, and/or a light dinner or cena after 8 p.m. Don’t try to schedule a meeting between 2:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. unless it is a lunch meeting.

The business lunch is a key tool in Mexico. Use it to build relationships and discuss matters in greater leisure. Before beginning a business discussion, it is common to discuss family, recent events, or other social themes. Mexican businesspeople and government contacts may smoke and drink during business meals. Business lunches can span two hours or more and, again, usually do not begin until 2:00 p.m. or 3:00 p.m. Many restaurants do not open for lunch before 1:30 p.m. and most restaurants do not begin offering dinner before 7:30 p.m.

Patience is key when doing business in Mexico. Business meetings in Mexico will often take longer than they would in the United States. Mexican social etiquette often includes more small talk before business. Social custom makes it difficult to say no. Therefore, “yes” does not always mean yes. In conversation, Mexicans emphasize tactful and indirect phrasing, and may be more effusive than Americans with praise and emotional expressions. Email communication may be significantly more formal than it is in U.S. practice, and it is courteous to mirror this formality in your own correspondence. The mobile messaging application WhatsApp is popular for quick, informal communications. Do not be overly aggressive while negotiating. It is considered rude.

The concept of time is flexible in Mexico. Guests to social events (except in the case of cities in the North) can arrive up to an hour late. However, punctuality is the norm for most business and government appointments.

Business cards are used extensively. Come with a large supply. Mexican pesos are used throughout the country. It is not legal or common to pay with U.S. dollars (although in border regions and tourist areas dollars are sometimes accepted).

Travel Advisory

The State Department provides a security assessment of every state in Mexico. All U.S. travelers and investors to the country are strongly encouraged to review the State Department’s  Mexico Travel Advisory and other country-specific travel information. We also recommend you register your trips through the Safe Traveler Enrollment Program , which will allow you to receive security updates and instructions in the event of a natural disaster or other incident.

Visa Requirements

If a U.S. businessperson wants to reside in Mexico and work on a more permanent basis, it is necessary to obtain a Temporary Mexico Resident Card, which has a validity of up to four years.

For definitive immigration regulations from the Government of Mexico, please review the information on immigration law and regulations (in Spanish only).

All U.S. citizens must have a passport or passport card to enter Mexico. Passport cards can be used only to cross into Mexico within 13 miles from the border. Passports are required for air travel or for land border travel when visiting any state in Mexico that is outside of this border zone. There is a single visa form for tourist and business visitors, valid for 180 days upon entry with no fee.  

A new system was implemented in 2023 that replaced the old Visitor Card (the Forma Migratoria Múltiple or FMM). The new system involves a stamp (sello migratorio) called the Forma Migratoria Múltiple Digital or FMMD. Passengers arriving at land crossings or any of Mexico’s 66 international airports will receive the stamp in their passports that shows the date of arrival and length of stay allowed (up to 180 days without a visa). Upon departure, air travelers may be asked to show their stamp at the airline’s ticket counter. If you enter Mexico by land, make sure to get the FMMD stamp in your passport.

Additionally, the Mexico City airports (both AIFA and Benito Juarez) and Cancun airport are currently using a new system for tourists called Filtros Migratorios Autonomos (E-Gates), which is scheduled to be rolled out nationwide later in 2023. Tourists who carry regular passports with a chip from the United States, United Kingdom, France, Spain, Germany, Italy, and Mexicans with dual citizenship can choose to use the E-Gates system instead of going through an immigration official to get a stamp. Tourist travelers just need to scan the passport at the E-Gates booth, and it will print a ticket with their arrival information and indicate a 180-day valid stay. The E-Gates booth will also take a photo of the traveler’s face. The ticket issued by the E-Gates is official and valid to check-in with the airline when departing Mexico. The E-Gates system is not for residents of Mexico, whether permanent or temporary, but for tourists only. 

For further information please visit the Mexican Secretariat of Tourism website .

United States companies that require travel of foreign businesspersons to the United States are advised that security evaluations are handled via an interagency process. Applicants for a U.S. visa should go to the following links:

  • State Department Visa Website
  • U.S. Embassy Mexico Visa Information

Expedited Entry into the U.S. and Mexico

Members of the U.S. Global Entry program know how convenient it is for entry into the United States. Global Entry allows U.S. citizens and residents of select countries, including Mexico, who have applied and been approved to have expedited entry at airport immigration and customs facilities when returning to the United States. Global Entry membership also gives you access to SENTRI lanes at the U.S.-Mexico land border. If you are not a Global Entry member, you can get more information and apply at the Global Entry website .

Mexico has a similar program for frequent travelers entering Mexico by air called the Programa Viajero Confiable (Trusted Traveler Program). Members of Viajero Confiable who are Mexican Nationals can now also apply for NEXUS to have expedited entry at airports in Canada.

Viajero Confiable provides similar benefits for entering Mexico and is in operation at airports in Mexico City, San Jose del Cabo, and Cancun. The application may be done online. Once preapproved, applicants must undergo an interview at an enrollment center at one of the three Mexican airports for final approval. Membership is good for five years and you can apply at the program website .

NEXUS offers benefits at airport and land border ports of entry in Canada. For more information visit the NEXUS website .

Those who cross the U.S. land border regularly but do not need the full benefits of Global Entry might be interested in membership in SENTRI, open to all nationalities who meet membership criteria. Information on the program is available at the SENTRI website .

Mexico’s currency is the Mexican peso. In the first half of 2022, the average exchange rate was approximately 20 pesos to the U.S. dollar, with the U.S. dollar steadily losing value in 2023 to around 17 pesos to the U.S. dollar in July 2023. In most cities and tourist areas, credit and debit cards are widely accepted in established businesses. There is usually easy access to ATMs that accept U.S. ATM networks. Take the usual precautions to prevent skimming or theft of your card and banking information, including your PIN, and be cautious of anyone approaching you at ATM machines.

Telecommunications/Electronics

Telephone Services

In Mexico, cellular telephones and smart phones are used by 75.5 percent of the population. On mobile devices, country codes may be dialed with a plus sign (+) before the country code. Mexico’s country code is +52 and it is +1 for the United States. The three main mobile carriers are Telcel, Movistar, and AT&T, and all offer national coverage and international roaming services. Telcel and AT&T offer packages with no roaming charges throughout North America, available through T-Mobile and AT&T in the United States.

Internet Services

According to the Federal Institute of Telecommunications (Instituto Federal de Telecomunicaciones or IFT) 72 percent of the population above six years old has Internet access in Mexico. Tourist and business hotels provide Internet services in rooms or in business centers. Internet hotspots are common. Free Wi-Fi is offered in select public spaces through the government-sponsored Internet para Todos (Internet for Everyone) program, and most restaurants and cafes offer free Wi-Fi. Mexico still has many Internet cafes that offer Internet access for a fee.

Electricity

Mexico uses the same voltage (120v) and the same size wall plugs as the United States.

Transportation

Mexico City, Guadalajara, Monterrey, Tijuana, Querétaro, and other Mexican cities have frequent direct and non-stop flights from major U.S. cities. American carriers to Mexico include American, Delta, United, Jet Blue, and Southwest. Mexican carriers providing scheduled service within Mexico include Aeromexico, Volaris, and Viva Aerobus.

Taxis, Uber, and Road Transportation

It is important to ONLY use registered sitio taxi services or application-based car services such as Uber throughout the country, including using only the taxi vendor booths located INSIDE the airports. For Uber or other app-based services such as Cabify, you will need to check if there is service in your city of destination, download the app, and configure a profile and payment account (preferably prior to arrival). Hotels and restaurants can also call a sitio or radio taxi for you. The taxi driver will provide you with a receipt (un recibo) upon request. For airport taxis, the receipt is usually the pre-paid stub from your ticket. App-based services may face local restrictions. For more information, please see the State Department’s Mexico Travel Advisory .

Airport Arrivals

The Mexico City Benito Juarez International Airport offers a fixed price taxi service to any point in the city. You can pay with a credit card or pesos, and you purchase tickets at one of several taxi company booths just after exiting the customs area. The fare from the airport to most areas within the city can vary widely as Mexico City is so large but should average MXN 200-350 for car service (rates are higher for a SUV). Alternatively, travelers can use the Uber app for an airport pickup and to move around Mexico City. Allow time for travel to and from the airport to major hotels. While the trip can take as little as 20 minutes in light traffic in the middle of the night, the same trip can take nearly two hours if accidents, demonstrations, rain, or other occurrences disrupt traffic.

The Monterrey General Mariano Escobedo Airport has a very similar taxi service. The fare to most locations in Monterrey is about MXN 250-300. With your ticket in hand, exit the lobby, and an attendant from the taxi company will guide you to your taxi. Alternatively, travelers can use the Uber app for an airport pickup and to move around Monterrey. Airport and Flight Information is available by calling +52 (81) 8345 4434.

The fare from Guadalajara International Airport to most locations in Guadalajara is about MXN 260-420. The trip from the airport to Guadalajara can take up to 45 minutes, depending upon traffic. Uber pickups from Guadalajara’s airport are restricted and it is better to take a sitio taxi by prepurchasing the fare from the TAXI booth located immediately after exiting customs. For airport and flight Information, call +52 (33) 3688-5894.

Sitio taxi services and Uber (depending upon location) are available at other airports and hotels around the country as well.

Spanish is the official language of Mexico. While many people in the large cities speak some English, it may be difficult for them to conduct detailed business discussions. Non Spanish-speaking visitors to Mexico should consider hiring an interpreter for formal business meetings. It is considered courteous for U.S. businesspeople to speak a few words of Spanish. Many mid and high-level government officials and business executives speak English, and many are U.S.-educated.

A high standard of medical care is available in the principal cities, especially from the main private hospitals and doctors. Many private Mexican doctors have U.S. training and speak English. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention maintains a website with health recommendations for travelers at CDC - Travel.

The Embassy and Consulates maintains a List of Doctors and Hospitals in Mexico . The U.S. Embassy does not assume responsibility for the professional ability or integrity of the persons or firms whose names appear on the above lists.

In case of medical emergency, U.S. citizens may call the American Citizen Services sections at any U.S. Embassy or Consulate for help. Please find additional information and contacts for all U.S. consulate locations in Mexico at Mission Mexico - Locations .

Mexico does have health concerns. You should take normal tourist precautions regarding drinking water and eating uncooked items such as fresh fruits, vegetables, and salads. Some individuals react to the pollution and high altitude of various cities, so take things slowly at first. Travelers to Mexico City may require some time to adjust to the altitude (7,400 feet), which can adversely affect blood pressure, digestion, sleep, and energy level. Individuals with the sickle cell trait should consult with the appropriate medical unit or their personal physician before commencing travel. Visitors on short-term assignments carry an added risk because of the lack of time to acclimate. Dehydration, stress, or illnesses compound the basic risks of high altitude. For more information, contact your health provider.

Please note that health insurance is an important consideration. Travelers are responsible for ensuring that they have adequate health coverage while in Mexico.

Mexico has no entry restrictions related to COVID-19 and there is no obligation to carry a COVID-19 test or to quarantine upon arrival. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) nonetheless encourages visitors to Mexico to be up to date with COVID-19 vaccines. The CDC has issued a Travel Alert Level 2 “Practice Enhanced Precaution for Mexico” stemming from recent cases of fungal meningitis infections and multidrug-resistant Salmonella outbreaks. Before planning any international travel, please review the CDC’s specific recommendations for vaccinated and unvaccinated travelers.  

Local Time, Business Hours, and Holidays

Mexico spans several time zones. From the Yucatán Peninsula to Tijuana, there is a three-hour time difference. Mexico City and Central Mexico are on Central Standard Time (CST). Mexico passed a law in October 2022 regulating time zones in the country. Some cities that used to implement Daylight Saving Time will discontinue the practice in 2023. Going forward, Mexico City, Mérida, Monterrey, Hermosillo, Nogales, and Guadalajara will not observe Daylight Saving Time. Ciudad Juarez, Matamoros, Nuevo Laredo, and Tijuana will continue to observe Daylight Savings Time.

Listed below are Mexican holidays for 2023. On these days, banks will not open, and most businesses will be closed. Be aware of the popular “puentes,” which is the local term for when holidays fall near the weekend and create a three-day weekend. As in the United States, holidays falling on a Thursday, Friday, Monday, or Tuesday are rapidly converted into long weekends and are not a good time to schedule business trips. Also review the Business Customs topic above for notes on business hours and mealtimes.

Mexican Holiday Schedule (July 2023-December 2023)

  • September 16, Saturday, Mexican Independence Day
  • November 2, Thursday, All Souls’ Day (“Day of the Dead”)
  • November 20, Monday, Anniversary of the Mexican Revolution
  • December 25, Monday, Christmas Day
  • January 1, Monday, New Year’s Day

Temporary Entry of Materials or Personal Belongings

Please refer to the Customs, Regulations, and Standards topic in the Temporary Entry section of this guide.

MyVisaToRussia

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Registration in Russia: what it is and how to arrange it

Registration in Russia is one of the most important issues for foreigners coming to this country, especially for those who plan to stay in a flat or in a private home. I will try to clarify the basic moments in the article below.

What is a registration?

The registration is a procedure in which Russian authorities get information of your residence so that they can find you if needed.

Often this procedure is considered as a relic of the times of the USSR when the authorities controlled all the migration flows and could restrict people’s movement in the country.

It’s really good that since 2011 the procedure of registration has become simpler and now it’s actually easy for those foreigners who come to Russia.

However, despite the obvious simplification, some aspects stay unclear so every organization gets it in its own way.

In this article, I will try to explain what every foreigner has to know about the registration (however, the main responsibility falls on the receiving party).

Filling out foreign visa registration in Russia

When you really don’t need the registration

If you stay in Russia for less than 7 days, you don’t need to register. For example, you came to Russia on Saturday, the 1 st of August, and left the country on Monday, the 10 th of August. This means that you did not need to register because you have stayed in Russia for 6 working days (weekend days, Saturdays and Sundays, are not considered as working days).

The documents confirming your arrival and starting the counting of 7 working days are your plane/train/bus tickets.

In which cases is it necessary to register?

It is necessary to undergo the registration if you plan to stay in Russia for more than 7 days. If you crossed the border on Monday planning to stay for longer than next Tuesday, you have to register.

If you change cities, it is necessary to register in each new city (if you plan to stay there for more than 7 days). In this case, you will be “checked out” of one city and registered in another one upon arrival. If you stay in one city for 5 days and stay in another one for 5 days, it is enough to register in the first one because the overall period of your stay in Russia will amount more than 7 days. It is not necessary to register in the second city because you will stay there for less than 7 days.

In the case you come to Russia multiple times (by a double-entry or a multiple-entry visa), you need to undergo a registration every time you cross the Russian border (if you stay for more than 7 days).

Who arranges the registration?

The arrangement falls on the receiving party.

  • Hotel. If you stay in a hotel that means the administration of the hotel is responsible for your registration.
  • Rent apartment. The owner of the apartment carries out the registration whether it is a private person or a company.
  • Private home. If you stay at your friend or relative, he/she has to register you to his/her home address.

The owner is always responsible for the registration. He/she has to be a citizen of Russia or a foreigner with a permanent residence in Russia.

The registration has to be undergone not later than in 7 days since the foreigner’s arrival.

Foreign nationals cannot register themselves because it is the responsibility of the receiving party. Actually, the foreigner does not even have to attend the registration.

Where do I have to register?

The registration can be issued:

  • Directly in the regional authorities of the Directorate-General for Migration of the MFA of the RF. Earlier it was called the Federal Migration Service but this name was abolished in April of 2016.
  • In any Russian post office (the cost is 216 rubles).

The procedure of the registration in Russia

If you stay in a hotel, the administration will register you freely although hostels or mini-hotels can ask you to pay a small amount of money (from 200 to 1000 rubles). It doesn’t matter if you stay in the hotel not mentioned in your invitational letter. Registration is a duty of every Russian hotel.

Foreign Visa Registration in Russia

The registration requires the following documents:

  • Foreign passport. The pages with your photo, personal data, and a visa will be copied.
  • Migration card that also will be copied by the employees of your hotel.

With these documents, the administration will be able to fill in the special note of foreign national’s arrival.

The hotel’s administration is also responsible for the procedure of registration. The employees fill in the form and present it in addition to other documents to Russian migration authorities. You will be registered within 1-2 working days.

The main part of the form goes to the authorized body while you obtain the bottom part (separated by the dotted line) or the copy of this part as a confirmation of the address of your residence and the duration of your stay. The employees of the hotel also notify the authorized body of your departure.

In the case you stay in a private apartment (for example, by using the Airbnb service), your registration falls on the owner of the flat/house. You will probably have to pay for it (from 500 to 2000 rubles); sometimes the owner can even refuse to do it (although he is legally obligated to register you).

Before payment, ask your owners if they are going to register you and how much will it cost. If they refuse to register you or want too much money, seek for another apartment with registration for a reasonable price.

In the case, you have already paid for the apartment but the owner doesn’t want to register you, contact the company that has issued your invitation and ask if they can register you in the city of your stay. The organization will take a payment for the registration (in their own address or another one).

If the company that has issued your invitation do not provide registration services, you will have to seek for the organization offering this service. It has to have representation in the city where you will stay because you will have to apply to this company in person and bring the passport and the migration card.

If you stay at your relatives/friends, they can register you in any post office. In addition, you can use services of some of the organizations in the city providing such services.

Some details for a conclusion

  • The registration is similar whether you come to Russia by a tourist or by a business visa. The only difference is that in the case you obtain a business visa, you can register for a period up to 3 months.
  • If you travel through the Trans-Siberian route by train and stays in it for a night, your travel ticket is considered as a registration document and you should always keep it around.
  • The Russian police is not authorized to ask for your registration in the street. The responsibility for all the violations falls on the receiving party. In the case, you have been asked for registration right on the street (which happens rarely), contact the consulate immediately.
  • In order to leave the country, you don’t have to present the government registration but you do have to present a migration card.

I hope this article has been useful and helped you to understand how the procedure of the registration goes. You can share your experience below.

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Company creation: formalities for the registration of a business

Verified 01 January 2023 - Directorate for Legal and Administrative Information (Prime Minister)

Ready to build your business? After completing various formalities, including your domicile, you must proceed to the registration of your business.

When should the application for registration be filed?

It is possible to start your business before the registration of the business.

For example, it may be necessary to sign a lease or to charge future customers.

It is important to indicate on all documents the words "Business in training".

An annex to the articles of association must also be drawn up, indicating all the documents passed before the application for registration was made.

In this case, the application for registration must be made within 30 days which follow the start of activity.

Conversely, it is also possible to start business after the application for registration. In this case, the starting date must be fixed at the latest within 15 days of the application for registration.

Where do you apply for registration?

Warning  

Since 1 er january 2023 , it is no longer possible to carry out your procedures in a company Formalities Center (CFE). You must make them on the website of the company formalities office .

You must apply for registration at the company formalities window:

Company Formalities Window

Where are you registered?

You are a member of the National company Directory ( RNE : titleContent ) and the register of commerce and business ( SCR : titleContent ).

If you are a commercial agent, you are also automatically registered in the special register of commercial agents ( SFCR : titleContent ).

What documents are to be provided?

Répondez aux questions successives et les réponses s’afficheront automatiquement

You must attach the following documents in PDF format:

  • If you have not signed your company creation declaration yourself, original of the power by which you authorize a third party to sign the declaration on your behalf
  • Entitlement of domiciliation on your company with the clearly identifiable address (electricity bill, lease)
  • Certificate of publication of the notice of establishment in a legal listing support
  • Declaration on Honor of non-conviction and proof of parentage dated and signed by you
  • Copy of your ID
  • Original copy of the articles of association of your business, dated and signed by all the partners or their representative, supported by an original copy of the power special or dispatch
  • Copy of company project support contract for creating or resuming a business activity that you certify as compliant
  • If you are engaged in a regulated activity, a copy of the authorization to engage in the activity, diploma or qualification
  • If you're married, exemplary signed and dated the certificate of issue of the information given to the spouse of the consequences on the common property of the debts incurred in the exercise of your profession
  • Original copy of the statutes of your business, dated and signed by all partners or their authorized representative and supported by an original copy of the power special or dispatch

How much does it cost to register the business?

Registering your business in the Commercial and business Register costs €37.45 .

In the case of double registration in the national register of companies in the category of craftsmen, it costs more €15 .

What happens once the application for registration is made?

Once your complete file has been sent, you will receive a receipt for the deposit of a company creation file (RDDCE) marked Pending Registration.

This receipt is important because it will allow you to do all the necessary procedures with public and private organizations. For example, you can subscribe to compulsory insurance and complementary for the company, join a pension fund.

The receipt is valid until you receive a notification from the companies formalities window confirming the registration of the business. The maximum validity of the receipt is 1 month.

Once you have registered, you will receive a document containing your Siren number.

If your file is incomplete, you will receive a receipt from the companies you depend on, indicating the missing items to be sent. You will have a deadline of 15 working days upon receipt of the receipt to send these items.

The registration of your business takes place after certain formalities. These steps may include:

  • Formalities related to regulated activities (application for accreditation, diploma, license)
  • Registration of beneficial owners
  • Domiciliation of the business
  • Appointment of a Capital Adequacy Commissioner
  • Adoption of statutes
  • Appointment of the President, management bodies and auditors
  • Filing of the share capital
  • Publishing a creation notice in a legal listing support
  • Reporting to La Poste
  • Acquisition of the various registers

If you are a commercial agent, you are also automatically registered in the Special Commercial Agents Register (SFCR).

Attach the following documents in PDF format to your application for registration:

  • Original copy of the statutes of the business, dated and signed by all members or their authorized representative and supported by an original copy of the power special or dispatch
  • Original copy of the certificate of the depositary of the funds constituting the share capital the business (dated and signed) with the list of subscribers (dated and signed). You must also indicate the number of shares subscribed and the amounts paid.
  • If you used a report by a report commissioner, a copy of the report that was dated and signed
  • If you have appointed an External Auditor (ACC), proof of his/her inclusion on the official list of ACCs if the entry is not yet published and the letter of acceptance of his/her appointment
  • If you have made a purchase of goodwill, copy of the bill of sale and copy of the certificate of publication in a medium of legal announcements of the notice of purchase
  • If you have taken management leasing of the goodwill , copy of the management leasing agreement and of the certificate of publication in a medium of legal announcements of the notice relating to the management leasing
  • If you have taken a mandate-management of goodwill, copy of the mandate-management contract and the certificate of publication in a legal advertisement medium of the notice relating to the mandate-management

Documents to be provided for the Director, Managing Director or Chairperson:

  • Copy of their ID card
  • Declaration on Honor of non-conviction and attestation of filiation for each of them (dated and signed)
  • If the President has not been appointed in the statutes, a copy certified by the President of the instrument appointing him
  • If the Director-General has not been appointed in the statutes, a certified copy by the President of the instrument appointing him

Documents to be provided for the business, Managing Director or Chairperson:

  • Siren Number the governing business (or a document attesting to its existence if it is not registered)
  • If the business is not registered in the European Union, a copy of its statutes translated into French and certified by its permanent representative
  • Copy of his ID card
  • Declaration on Honor non-conviction and proof of parentage (dated and signed)
  • Copy of the document confirming the place of permanent representative of the administrative business

The registration of your business takes place after certain formalities. Examples of steps include:

  • Domiciliation on your business
  • Appointment of directors and an auditor (CAC)

It is possible start your business before registration business.

anonymous board business

  • Copy of the minutes of the Board of Directors designating the Chairman of the Board of Directors, the Managing Director and the Deputy Managing Directors that you certify as being in conformity
  • Original copy of the certificate of the depositary of the funds constituting the capital of your business (dated and signed) with the list of subscribers (dated and signed). You must also indicate the number of shares subscribed and the amounts paid.
  • If you have appointed an External Auditor (ACC), proof of his/her entry on the official list of ACCs if the entry is not yet published and the letter of acceptance of his/her appointment

Documents to be provided for natural persons (director, officer):

Documents to be provided for administrator companies:

anonymous business with executive board and supervisory board

When applying for registration, you must attach the following documents in PDF format:

  • Copy of the minutes of the Supervisory Board designating the Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson of the Supervisory Board and the members of the Executive Board whom you certify as compliant

Documents to be provided for the members of the Executive Board, the Supervisory Board and the management:

Documents to be provided for the Member businesses of the Supervisory Board:

  • Extract from the Commercial and business Register (RCS) less than 3 months if registered (or a document attesting to its existence if not registered)

This receipt is important because it will allow you to do all the necessary procedures with public and private organizations. For example, you can subscribe to compulsory and supplementary insurance for the company, join a pension fund.

If your file is incomplete, you will receive a receipt from the companies formalities office with the missing items to send. You will have a deadline of 15 working days from receipt of the receipt to transmit these elements.

Who can help me?

Find who can answer your questions in your region

  • Chamber of Crafts and Crafts
  • Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI)

Statute and miscellaneous references

Commercial Code: Articles R123-31 to R123-171-1

Commercial Code: Article R526-27

Rural and Maritime Fisheries Code: Articles D311-8 to D311-17

Online services and forms

Online service

How do I get a Siren number or a Siret?

Additional topics

Artist-author: declaration of activity

Company Creation: Choose and protect the company name

Company creation: domiciliate your company and your business 

Creating a company: implementing mandatory registers

Creating a business: Writing and Saving Statuses

Setting up and depositing the share capital of a business

Ensuring company

National Register of companies

Trade and businesses Register

Special Register of Commercial Agents

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Russian Tours and Cruises from Express to Russia

  • Moscow Tours

Our 20 Best Moscow Tours of 2022

Join us on an unforgettable tour to Moscow, the capital of Russia. Imagine visiting Red Square, St. Basil’s the Kremlin and more. Moscow is one of Europe’s most vibrant cities and one of Russia’s most historical. All of our tours to Moscow are fully customizable and can be adjusted to fit any budget. Our most popular tours are listed below. Please click on the tour details to learn more or contact us for more information about our Moscow tours using the form at the side of the page. You can also schedule a call with one of our Russian travel specialists to learn more.

Moscow Kremlin, photo by Walkerssk on Pixabay

Classic Moscow

This is our most popular Moscow tour that includes all the most prominent sights. You will become acquainted with ancient Russia in the Kremlin, admire Russian art in the Tretyakov Gallery, listen to street musicians as you stroll along the Old Arbat street, and learn about Soviet times on the Moscow Metro tour.

Accommodation

PRIVATE TOUR

St. Basiils Cathedral, Moscow, Photo by vierro from Pexels

A Week in Moscow

This tour is a perfect choice for those who wish to get to know Moscow in depth. One of the highlights of this package is the KGB history tour which gives an interesting perspective on the Cold War. You will also have time for exploring the city on your own or doing extra sightseeing.

Photo by Andrey Omelyanchuk on Unsplash

Weekend in Moscow

This tour is a great way to get acquainted with the capital of Russia if you are short of time. You will see all the main attractions of the city, the most important of which is the Kremlin - the heart of Russia. The tour starts on Friday and can be combined with a business trip.

travel company registration formalities

Group Tour Moscow Break by Intourist

Russia's capital has so much to offer, from the Kremlin and the Metro to the Old Arbat street and the Tretyakov Gallery. Besides these sites, you will also visit a fascinating country estate which today is quite off the beaten path, Gorky Estate, where the Soviet leader Lenin spent the last months of his life.

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Kolomenskoye Tour with transport

The history of Kolomenskoye stretches back for centuries. In 1380, Dmitri Donskoi’s army passed through Kolomenskoye on their way to the Kulikovo battlefield, and it was...

Tours by car

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Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals & Armory Tour

The Kremlin is truly a fascinating structure, at the same time it is an ancient tower, the city’s former military fortification, a palace, an armory, the sovereign treasury...

Walking tours

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Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals, Armory, Diamond Fund Tour

travel company registration formalities

Old Arbat walking tour

You will be told of the street’s interesting history and view the street’s artisan culture. You will also have the opportunity to view and purchase souvenirs from the...

travel company registration formalities

Tour to Sergiev Posad with transport

Considered by some to be the Russian Vatican, Sergiev Posad is the temporary residence of the Patriarch of the Russian Orthodox Church. The Trinity St. Sergius Monastery (Lavra)...

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Tour to Kuskovo with transport

The Kuskovo Estate often called the Moscow Versailles due to its perfectly preserved French park, is an example of an 18th century, luxurious Moscow summer residence. Its history...

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Tour to Tsaritsyno with transport

The Tsaritsyno Estate is located in the southern part of Moscow. The estate was constructed for Catherine the Great by the Russian architects Bazhenov and Kazakov in a romantic...

travel company registration formalities

Moscow Metro and Old Arbat Tour

The Moscow Metro is one of the largest and most grandly built metro systems in the world. It was meant to be a showcase of the Soviet Union’s achievements for both the Russians...

travel company registration formalities

Vodka Museum Tour with transport (excursion and vodka tasting)

Vodka is an important component of Russian life, an element of national identity and everyday culture. We invite you to visit the Vodka Museum and feel the atmosphere of long-gone...

travel company registration formalities

Mikhail Bulgakov Apartment Museum

This apartment museum located close to Patriarch Ponds became the prototype of the "bad apartment" described in the novel "The Master and Margarita." Currently the museum's...

Spasskaya Tower,Moscow Kremlin, Russia, image from Shutterstock

Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals & Diamond Fund Tour

Portrait of Leo Tolstoy by Ilya Repin (1887)

The State Museum of Lev Tolstoy Tour

Take this opportunity to learn more about the Russian writer Lev Tolstoy. During the visit to the museum you will see part of a vast collection of exhibits connected to Tolstoy...

Novodevichy convent, Moscow, Russia, image from Shutterstock

Novodevichy Convent Tour with transport

Tour of the Novodevichy Monastery. Founded in 1524 by Grand Prince VasiliIoanovich, the original convent was enclosed by fortified walls and contained 12 towers. The structure...

St. Basil's Cathedral, Moscow, Russia, image from Shutterstock

City Tour with Visit to St. Basils & Red Sq. with transport

Panoramic City Tour. This Moscow tour is a great start to your trip and the best way to get acquainted with many of the city’s major highlights. Our professional guide will...

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City Tour of Moscow

Head to the heart of Moscow with a professional guide on a 4-hour private walk through the city center. See Tverskaya and Old Arbat streets, Theatre Square with the world-famous...

travel company registration formalities

Moscow Metro walking tour

The Kremlin, Moscow, Russia, image from Shutterstock

Kremlin, Red Square and Cathedrals Tour

travel company registration formalities

KGB Tour with transport

This is a very interesting and insightful tour. You will visit places connected with Stalin’s terror - a time of great repression and fear. You will be shown monuments to...

travel company registration formalities

Soviet and Post-Soviet Moscow Tour

The tour begins with a drive or walk down Tverskaya Street – a Soviet masterpiece. In the years of Soviet power, Tverskaya began to undergo a transformation: it was widened...

Girl with Peaches by Alexander Serov

Tretyakov State Gallery Tour

This world-famous gallery contains masterpieces of Russian art beginning in the 10th century up until today. You will view exquisite Russian icons and paintings from the 18th and...

travel company registration formalities

Jewish Heritage of Moscow Tour

This tour offers a detailed look into the history and present-day life of the Jewish community of Moscow. On the tour, you will visit sites connected with the cultural and religious...

Vodka, photo by Detonart at Pixabay

Vodka Museum Tour with transport (excursion only)

Customer

Lena, our guide in Moscow was excellent. She was very knowledgable and could answer any question we had for her. We liked that she could pick up on our interests and take us places we might not have thought of to go. When we realized that one of the places we had chosen to see would probably not be that interesting to us, she was able to arrange entry to the Diamond Fund and the Armoury for us. Riding the Metro with Lena was a real adventure and a lot of fun. In Saint Petersburg we found Anna well versed in the history of the Tsars and in the Hermitage collection. Arkady in Veliky Novgorod was a very good guide and answered all of our questions with ease. Novgorod was perhaps a long way to go for a day trip, but we did enjoy it. Vasily was a great driver to have and kept us safe with good humour and skill. We enjoyed ourselves so much, my daughter says she is already planning to return. We would both have no hesistation to recommend ExpresstoRussia to anyone we know.

Just wanted to let you know that My grandson Bruno and I couldn´t have been more pleased with our week in Moscow (6/15 - 6/21). We were absolutely enchanted with the whole experience, including getting lost a couple of times in the Metro during our free time. Although both our guides (both Eleanas) were excellent, I would particularly commend the first one (she took us to the Tatiakov, the KGB tour, and to that beautiful cemetery where so many great Russian artists, authors, composers, musicians, militarists, and politicians are buried). Her knowledge is encyclopedic; and her understanding of today´s Russia as a product of its past was, for us, truly enlightening. I will be taking another tour in Russia, with my wife, within the next two or three years. I will be in touch with you when the time comes. Meanwhile, I will refer you to other potential visitors to Russia as I meet them.

Tours to Moscow

Our Moscow tours are land only meaning that you arrange your own air travel to Russia and our expert staff meets you at the airport and handles everything else from there. Our online Airline Ticket booking system offers some of the most competitive rates to Russia available on the web so if you need tickets, please visit our Russian air ticket center . Rest assured that you will be taken great care of on one of our Moscow tours. Express to Russia has a fully staffed office in Moscow that will help to make your visit fun, informative and unforgettable. Please remember that of all these tours are private and can be adjusted to your taste. You can add, replace or skip some sights; you can add more days to the package or cut the tour short. Our specialists will be glad to help you create the tour of your dreams!

Novodevichy Convent, Moscow

Moscow, a City Like No Other

Moscow is Russia’s largest city with a population of between 12 and 13 million. It is also Europe’s largest city and when you visit Moscow, you can feel it. The layout and architecture of the city is eclectic, ranging from crooked, ancient streets and alleyways to wide, bustling boulevards, from medieval churches to Stalin skyscrapers and to modern, glass buildings towering over everything and of course in the center of it all is the Kremlin and the magnificent Red Square. Moscow is also home to a fantastic, efficient and very beautiful metro system – each station having its own special design. In fact, Express to Russia’s Moscow metro tours and excursions are some of our most popular attractions that we offer. On our Moscow tours, you will see this and more.

Moscow Kremlin in the times of Ivan III

Moscow Tours centering on Russian History

Moscow has a long and interesting history and has been the capital of Russia in many of its different iterations – capital of the Grand Duchy of Moscow , the Russian Empire and of course the Soviet Union (who could ever forget the Soviet Union?). Moscow, was founded in the 12th century by Prince Yuri Dolgaruki (Yuri of the long arms – he really did have long arms!). From that time on, it was home to the Russian Tsars until Peter the Great moved the capital to St. Petersburg in 1703. The city has survived invasions and sieges from the Mongols, the Tartars, the Poles, Lithuanians and Napoleon but has always persevered. Our Moscow tours will enlighten you on this great history and give you insights into Muscovites and their unique culture. Our Moscow tours show you what the city is like today but also brings to life the past. Moscow never seems to sleep and is bursting with energy. A Moscow tour with Express to Russia is truly the best way of getting to know Russia’s largest and most vibrant city.

Frequently Asked Questions From Our Travelers

What is the best time to visit moscow.

Any time of year is fine depending on what you plan to do. Summertime is pleasantly warm, ideal for exploring the city and its vibrant atmosphere, but Moscow will be much busier and accommodation is more expensive. Winter can be quite cold but beautiful nonetheless, and this is unproblematic if you intend to spend most of your trip in museums and galleries. There are also various festivals and events organised throughout the year. For more information about the best time to visit, read our guide

How many days are enough in Moscow?

If you plan your itinerary strategically and aren’t averse to a packed schedule, you can cover Moscow’s main sights over a long weekend. Most popular attractions are in the city centre, and the Moscow Metro allows you to cover much ground in a small amount of time. Ensure that your accommodation is fairly central and book tickets in advance, so that you can make the most of your days. For an informative and well-organised day out, check out our Moscow day tours with options to suit all interests.

Do they speak English in Moscow?

As Russia’s capital city, tourists are well accommodated in Moscow. There should be English-speaking staff in restaurants, bars, hotels, shops and attractions in tourist hotspots, and there are also English-speaking tourist police. Transport services have English translations on their maps and English announcements via intercom; alternatively, order taxis from the Yandex Taxi app (Russian Uber), though it’s unlikely that your taxi driver will speak English. If you get stuck and cannot communicate, it’s fine to use Google Translate.

Is it safe to travel to Moscow?

It is no less safe to travel to Moscow than to any European city if you exercise common sense and look after your belongings. As with every city some regions can be more unsavoury than others, but no tourist attractions are located there. The traffic in Moscow is notorious, so exercise caution when crossing roads. Do not take unlicensed taxis; book in advance or take public transport, which is widespread and perfectly safe. If you encounter any problems, look for the special tourist police who can help you. For more information, read our guide about staying safe in Russia .

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How to Start a Travel Agency in Dubai

travel company registration formalities

There’s no denying the fact that Dubai is one of the most attractive tourist destinations in the world. As per the latest report, Dubai received almost tourists a rough 15 million tourists until last year before the global health crisis. This number is expected to spike up massively. Additionally, the thriving tourism industry in this part of the world often generates interest among foreign investors to set up a travel agency to cater to the oncoming tourism crowd for superior revenue.

Things to Consider When Opening a Travel Agency in Dubai

It is essential to mention that you can run a travel agency both as a limited liability company and as a sole proprietorship. This distinction is all the more necessary for the eventual registration and licensing formalities. When you are considering a company setup as a limited liability company, the requirements and demands for the registration formalities are way more stringent. On the other hand, when you are setting up the travel agency , you will have to gain certification to practice lawfully under a sole proprietorship.

  • Business Form Which Will Help The Travel Agency Operate
  • Necessary To Establish If The Company Will Operate In Dubai Or One Of Its Free Zones
  • Need To Appoint A Local Agent To Register The Company On Your Behalf Only If A Foreign Entrepreneur
  • Important To Carefully Choose The Type Of Travel Agency License For Application
  • Sufficient Funds To Set Up The Business

It is essential to mention that if you plan to set up a travel agency in one of Dubai’s free zones , you will have superior relaxation for manoeuvring your business to yield greater profits. Furthermore, you will enjoy complete control by this method, and you don’t need a partner for the company.

Steps To Open a Travel Agency in Dubai

It is noteworthy to mention that opening a Travel Agency in Dubai is extremely easy, only if the registration procedure is followed to the dot. Furthermore, you must apply for the appropriate tourism license for the cause.

  • Travel Company License
  • Travel Agency License
  • Inbound Travel Operator License
  • Outbound Travel Operator License

Necessary Documents That Need Submission for the Issuance of Dubai Travel Agent License Here’s a detailed breakdown of all the necessary documentation that you must file to the Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce along with the deposit.

  • An Application Form
  • Passports Copies Of The Applicants And Manager
  • Khulasat Al Qi (Family Record ) And Copy Of The Citizenship
  • Identification Documents
  • Duplicate Copy Of The Manager’s Certificate Of Experience
  • Certificates for the Owner And Manager’s Good Conduct
  • Non Objection Certificate Issued By The Civil Aviation Authority

Requirements for Opening a Travel Agency in Dubai Any Dubai-based travel company setup agency needs to have a manager with three years of experience to hold a university diploma or a certificate in travel and tourism. Otherwise, they will need five years of experience for just having a high school diploma.

  • Initial Approval Fee
  • Approval Of The Agency’s Trade Name
  • An Insurance Policy
  • Provide A Lease Contract
  • Provide The Blueprint Of The Location Where The Travel Agency Will Operate

PS. You must have the contract signed at least three months before the application. Furthermore, you must also have an office space that has at least thirty meters for each activity.

Obtaining an Inbound/Outbound Travel Agency License in Dubai It is essential to mention that the most common types of licenses that travel agencies obtain for business in Dubai include either inbound or outbound. This will help you to offer tourism packages, both inside as well as outside the UAE.

  • Application Form Issued By The Department For Tourism And Commerce Marketing
  • A Copy Of The Passport Must Also Be Submitted For Foreign Owners
  • For Any New Facility, A Feasibility Report On The Project To Be Completed
  • Certificate For Travel Agency’s Manager’s Qualifications
  • Certificate for the Business’ Owner Good Conduct

If you plan to set up a travel agency in Dubai, you must adhere to the qualification mentioned earlier requirements. This will effectively help you in starting your business on the right note. Furthermore, if you need any professional help in the process, you must give us a call at Dubai Business Setup.

We are industry famous for our company formation specialists, who will be at your disposal. They will provide you with all the necessary information and services for you to get a bright start. When it comes to any matters relating to company incorporation procedures, our skilful trainers are trained to provide end-to-end services, starting from tax to VAT registration.

The tourism sector in Dubai is regulated exceptionally tightly. Hence if you are not getting the right opportunity for your business investment while complying with the rules, you must rely on professional guidance to save costly headaches while also futureproofing your venture.

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travel company registration formalities

IMAGES

  1. FREE 8+ Sample Travel Registration Forms in PDF

    travel company registration formalities

  2. FREE 8+ Travel Registration Form Samples in PDF

    travel company registration formalities

  3. FREE 8+ Travel Registration Form Samples in PDF

    travel company registration formalities

  4. FREE 8+ Travel Registration Form Samples in PDF

    travel company registration formalities

  5. FREE 39+ Registration Form Templates in PDF

    travel company registration formalities

  6. FREE 8+ Sample Travel Registration Forms in PDF

    travel company registration formalities

VIDEO

  1. How to take coverwise travel insurance

  2. How To Start a Travel Agency Business without License

  3. 36 Types of Business Registration

  4. Formation of Companies

  5. Customer journey to cancel a residence permit via a personal, establishment & typing centres account

  6. Step-by-Step Guide for Company Registration until your Visa Processing

COMMENTS

  1. How to Register Your Travel and Tour Operator Business

    Here's what you need to know about naming your company. Apply online on with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs for the DIN (Director Identification Number) Register online for a DSC (Digital Signature Certificate) Gather your application materials. Complete e-Form 1A. File Form 1A online to apply for company name.

  2. How to Start a Travel Agency

    Start a travel agency by following these 10 steps: Plan your Travel Agency. Form your Travel Agency into a Legal Entity. Register your Travel Agency for Taxes. Open a Business Bank Account & Credit Card. Set up Accounting for your Travel Agency. Get the Necessary Permits & Licenses for your Travel Agency.

  3. How to Start an LLC for Your Travel Agency

    The information required on the document varies by state, but at the very least, it will require your travel agency's LLC name and address and your registered agent's information. Some states also require member or manager names and addresses. Fees for filing the document vary by state and range from $40 to $500.

  4. Starting a Travel Business: How to Launch One in 6 Steps

    Here's how to get started: Develop a business plan. Set clear goals and objectives for your travel business. Outline strategies for attracting customers, budgeting and promotion. Obtain all necessary licenses and permits. Before you can start offering services, make sure you obtain any necessary local, state, or federal permits.

  5. How to Start a Travel Agency

    Step 4: Create a Travel Agency Business Plan. Every business needs a plan. This will function as a guidebook to take your startup through the launch process and maintain focus on your key goals. A business plan also enables potential partners and investors to better understand your company and its vision:

  6. Travel Agency Registrations By State

    Apply for your Travel Agency Registration today! Select Your License Type (Required) Choose the state or agency in which you'd like to be licensed. Note that the states listed generally require you to register with them if you're advertising or selling travel related services to their citizens. This is true even if you don't have a ...

  7. How To Start a Travel Agency in 8 Steps

    4. Make a budget. The next step in developing your business strategy is to spend some time calculating how much money you'll need to spend to launch a travel agency poised for success. The startup costs for your travel agency don't need to be exorbitant, especially if you're running an online-only operation.

  8. Starting a Travel Business: How to Become a Travel Agent

    13 Tips for Hiring Your First Employee. A Comprehensive Guide to Creating a Business Website. 7. Market and launch your travel business. Marketing will likely be where the majority of your initial funding budget goes, as it's an important area to focus on when becoming a travel agent and starting a travel business.

  9. How to register a business: a guide for small businesses

    You'll need to register with the Washington State Department of Revenue if you meet any of a number of conditions, including: Your business requires city, county, and state endorsements. You're doing business under a name that's not your full legal name. You plan to hire employees within 90 days.

  10. Travel Agency Registration Process

    After the mandatory registrations of GST and business entity, the next step while starting a travel agency is to register under a Government approved travel body. This either means to become a Government approved travel agent or TA. This is not mandatory but is a way to ensure that travel agents provide standard and quality service everywhere.

  11. Travel agent

    3°. Installation procedures and formalities a. Company reporting formalities. The formalities depend on the legal nature of the business. For more information, please refer to the "Formality of Reporting a Commercial Company" activity sheet. b. Post-registration authorisation Requirement to register travel and stay operators

  12. Starting A Travel Agency In India

    Besides, for travel companies, it is imperative to use the internet as a tool for developing the business. ... GST Taxation for Travel Agents. GST registration is required for all suppliers with a total annual turnover of more than ₹ 20,00,000. The number of category states is limited to ₹100,000. Furthermore, the threshold limit of ...

  13. Complete-Guide- How-to-Start-Hajj-Umrah-Booking-Service

    The booking process has been made completely online and easy for all agents and travel operators: Upon successful registration, as an Umrah Operator and External Agents make Hajj & Umrah bookings on any approved OTA / B2B booking platform.; UO & EA should register on the Umrah booking platform with their IBAN and all requisite details.; Search and select the services they wish to book and ...

  14. Starting a License Travel Agency in India

    Do you about the procedure and license required for tour and travel agencies for running their business. +91-9717109099 +91-9717344473 [email protected] Knowledge Hub Income Tax eFiling GST Filing ExpertsDesk Login / Register Cart 0. ... GST Registration for the Travel Business.

  15. Overview of tax legislation and rates (OOTLAR)

    2.20 VAT Registration Threshold: increase to £90,000 As announced at Spring Budget 2024, secondary legislation will amend the VAT Act 1994 to increase the VAT registration and deregistration ...

  16. Mexico- Business Travel and Etiquette

    Mexican businesspeople and government contacts may smoke and drink during business meals. Business lunches can span two hours or more and, again, usually do not begin until 2:00 p.m. or 3:00 p.m. Many restaurants do not open for lunch before 1:30 p.m. and most restaurants do not begin offering dinner before 7:30 p.m.

  17. Iowa Department of Transportation: Iowa Transportation Commission to

    AMES, Iowa - March 6, 2024 - The Iowa Transportation Commission will hold its next business meeting on Tuesday, March 12, 2024, in the Materials Conference Room at the Iowa Department of Transportation's headquarters at 800 Lincoln Way in Ames. Business meeting agenda for Tuesday, March 12, 2024 Time Title Presenter 1 p.m. *Approve Minutes of the Tuesday, Feb. 13, 2024 Commission Meeting ...

  18. Registration in Russia: what it is and how to arrange it

    The owner is always responsible for the registration. He/she has to be a citizen of Russia or a foreigner with a permanent residence in Russia. The registration has to be undergone not later than in 7 days since the foreigner's arrival. Foreign nationals cannot register themselves because it is the responsibility of the receiving party.

  19. Swedish PM travels to US as NATO accession nears

    Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and Foreign Minister Tobias Billstrom will travel to Washington on Wednesday, the government said, where they are expected to complete the process of joining ...

  20. PDF Government of India Ministry of Tourism Guidelines for Recognition

    APPROVED TRAVEL AGENT / AGENCY (TA) [Revised with effect from 18 th July 2011] 1. The aims and objectives of the scheme for recognition of Travel Agent / Agency (TA) are to encourage quality standard and service in this category so as to promote tourism in India. This is a voluntary scheme open to all bonafide travel

  21. Company creation: formalities for the registration of a business

    These steps may include: Formalities related to regulated activities (application for accreditation, diploma, license) Registration of beneficial owners. Domiciliation of the business. Appointment of a Capital Adequacy Commissioner. Adoption of statutes. Appointment of the President, management bodies and auditors. Filing of the share capital.

  22. The 20 Best Moscow Tours for 2022

    This tour is a perfect choice for those who wish to get to know Moscow in depth. One of the highlights of this package is the KGB history tour which gives an interesting perspective on the Cold War. You will also have time for exploring the city on your own or doing extra sightseeing. $ 941 From/Per person. Details.

  23. How to Start a Travel Agency in Dubai

    Any Dubai-based travel company setup agency needs to have a manager with three years of experience to hold a university diploma or a certificate in travel and tourism. Otherwise, they will need five years of experience for just having a high school diploma. Initial Approval Fee. Approval Of The Agency's Trade Name.

  24. Registration of Tourism Unit

    0177-2625924. [email protected]. Follow Us. Follow Us. Document Name. Download Link. Registration of Tourism Unit. Download. Registration of Adventure Sports Operator.

  25. Registration of foreigners in Russia. What should I do?

    Step 2: With your passport and immigration card details, the hotel will fill out the " notification form for the arrival of a foreign citizen to the Russian Federation " and notify the Russian immigration authorities within 1 business day. Russian authorities need to approve the registration, which usually happens quickly (less than 1 day).

  26. Russian Tour Agency

    Welcome to Russia! Grand Russia is a Russian Tour Agency based out of the cosmopolitan Moscow city. We are a prominent Russia Travel Agency engaged in providing travel experiences to the people wishing to explore Russia for more than ten years. We specialise in providing guided tours, custom made packages, exclusive excursions, visa facility services, unexplored destinations and lot more.