How to Become a Group A Travel Agency?

To become a Group A Travel Agency in Turkey, it is necessary to follow certain steps in accordance with the regulations and conditions set by the Association of Turkish Travel Agencies (TÜRSAB). Below are the processes to become a Group A Travel Agency:

Learn the Requirements:

Understand the criteria and conditions set by TÜRSAB to become a Group A Travel Agency. These requirements typically include financial status, experience, number of staff, business size, and other regulations.

Company Registration from the Trade Registry Office:

Firstly, you need to establish a company. Apply to the Trade Registry Office to obtain company registration for a travel agency business. The main business activity of your company should be a travel agency.

TÜRSAB Membership:

To become a Group A Travel Agency, you need to become a member of TÜRSAB. You can apply through TÜRSAB’s official website or complete the membership process by visiting a local TÜRSAB office.

Meet Financial Requirements:

To qualify as a Group A Travel Agency, there is a specific capital requirement. This requirement may change over time, so it’s important to visit TÜRSAB’s website or office to learn about the current financial requirements.

Staff and Experience:

You may need to employ a certain number of staff to become a Group A Travel Agency. Additionally, having a specific period of experience in the industry may be required.

Ensure Compliance with Legal Regulations:

Travel agencies must comply with certain legal regulations. You need to obtain the necessary licenses and permits to conduct your business.

Insurance and Guarantee Certificate:

To ensure the safety and protection of your customers as a travel agency, you must obtain the necessary insurances and a guarantee certificate.

Monitor the Process:

After completing the application process, monitor the review and evaluation process conducted by TÜRSAB. Once your application is approved, you can operate as a Group A Travel Agency.

What documents are required to become a Group A Travel Agency?

Application Letter
Original Trade Registry Certificate
Original Criminal Record Certificate
Original Signature Circulars or Notarized Copies
Original Travel Agency Establishment Guarantee
Original Agency Title Commitment
Mandatory Staff Employment Certificate for Travel Agencies
SGK (Social Security Institution) Entry Declaration or the latest SGK Insured Service List for the submitted personnel proving their employment within the company
Original Declaration regarding the employed personnel
Original Travel Agency Information Update Form
Original Trade Registry Gazette Declaration
What services do Group A Travel Agencies offer?
Once the necessary permits are obtained, Group A Travel Agencies can provide all travel agency services.

How much guarantee deposit must be paid to the ministry for Group A Travel Agencies?

The Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the Republic of Turkey has set the guarantee deposit for Group A Travel Agencies at 7,000.00 TL for the year 2023. Additionally, for each branch opened by a Group A Travel Agency, a deposit equal to 25% of the mentioned amount is paid.

What is the registration fee and annual membership fee for TÜRSAB?

TÜRSAB determines the registration fee and annual membership fee annually. For the year 2023, the entry fee for new members is 226,856.51 TL, and the annual fee is 11,342.83 TL.

Which bank should the deposit to the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the Republic of Turkey be transferred to?

The deposit amount to be transferred to the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the Republic of Turkey should be deposited into the account number 350 154 021-9 at T.C. Central Bank Ankara Branch (IBAN NO: TR 890 000 100 100 000 350 154 021), with the Ministry’s approved title written in the explanation section.

When can a Group A Travel Agency start operating?

Once you become a member of TÜRSAB and obtain the business license issued by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the Republic of Turkey, you can start operating as a Group A Travel Agency. Activities carried out without obtaining the license are subject to legal penalties according to Law No. 1618.

Are the registration fees, annual fees, and deposits refunded for applications not approved by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the Republic of Turkey and TÜRSAB?

The deposit amount paid to the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the Republic of Turkey is refunded upon the personal application of the applicant. TÜRSAB also promptly refunds the registration fee and annual fee paid.

Conclusion:

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