Have you been dreaming of starting your own tourism business in India? One of the most important things you will need is a tourism license.
A tourism license is a legal requirement for any business that provides services to tourists. In this article, we will take you through the process of obtaining a tourism license in India.
Types of Tourism License in India
There are different types of tourism licenses that you can apply for in India, depending on the nature and scale of your business. Here are some of the most common types:
1. Travel Agent License
If you plan to operate as a travel agent or tour operator, you will need to apply for a travel agent license. This license allows you to sell travel packages, make bookings, and provide other related services to tourists.
2. Tourist Transport Operator License
If you plan to operate tourist vehicles like taxis, buses or coaches, you will need to apply for a tourist transport operator license. This license allows you to operate vehicles that transport tourists from one place to another.
3. Hotel License
If you plan to start a hotel or guesthouse, you will need to obtain a hotel license from the concerned authorities.
Steps for Obtaining Tourism License in India
Now that we know about the different types of tourism licenses in India let’s take a look at how you can obtain one:
Step 1: Register Your Business
The first step towards obtaining a tourism license is registering your business with the Registrar of Companies (ROC) under the Companies Act 2013.
Step 2: Apply for GST Registration
Once your business is registered with ROC, the next step is to apply for GST registration. GST registration is mandatory for businesses with an annual turnover of more than Rs.20 lakhs.
Step 3: Apply for PAN and TAN
After obtaining GST registration, you will need to apply for Permanent Account Number (PAN) and Tax Deduction and Collection Account Number (TAN).
Step 4: Apply for Tourism License
Once you have completed the above steps, you can apply for the tourism license that is relevant to your business. You will need to submit the following documents along with your application:
- Proof of business registration
- GST registration certificate
- PAN and TAN details
- Affidavit stating that your business complies with all the relevant rules and regulations
- Details of the proposed business activity
- Proof of ownership or lease of property where the business will be located (in case of hotel license)
- Details of vehicles that will be used for tourist transport (in case of tourist transport operator license)
Conclusion
Getting a tourism license in India involves several steps, but it is an essential requirement if you want to start a tourism business. Make sure to follow all the necessary procedures and regulations to avoid any legal complications in the future. With proper planning and execution, your tourism business can thrive in India’s rapidly growing tourism industry.