Online Travel Aggregator(OTA) Registration - Process, Documents, Fees

Updated on June 23, 2025 04:25:41 PM

Online Travel Aggregators (OTAs) have revolutionized the way we book travel, offering a one-stop shop for flights, hotels, activities, and more. But behind the seamless user experience lies a complex web of regulations and registrations, particularly in the realm of legal compliance. For aspiring OTA entrepreneurs, navigating this maze can be daunting. The ministry of Tourism launched a voluntary scheme for Travel Aggregators to onboard them on the common platform and bring them in an organised sector. The objective of this scheme is to incorporate good practices and quality factors in this sector of OTA.

Registration of Online Travel Aggregator(OTA) is important if you are an entrepreneur and planning to establish your own OTA platform. Travel Agent/Agency License Registration provides legitimacy, networking opportunities, and access to valuable resources. Remember, building a successful OTA goes beyond registration. Focus on creating a user-friendly platform, forging strategic partnerships, and delivering exceptional customer service. By embracing these principles, you can contribute to the dynamic Indian travel landscape and become the trusted companion for countless unforgettable journeys.

 Introduction OTA
table content image

What is an Online Travel Aggregator(OTA)?

An Online Travel Aggregator (OTA) is an intermediary / agent selling travel products and services on behalf of suppliers using the internet or a website as a medium. The general services offered by an OTA are the airlines, car rental, cruise lines, Hotels / Accommodation, railways and vacation packages.

They establish an online marketplace and earn profits on the discounts commonly referred to as commission offered by the suppliers. OTA may list travel related services on their platform, work as a medium between buyers and sellers of travel related services, describe amenities offered by service providers on the website to match the needs of potential buyers.

pu seperater

Checklist for Online Travel Aggregator(OTA) Registration

Here are the minimum requirements for registration of an Online Travel Aggregator(OTA):

  • OTA should have been in continuous operation for a minimum period of 3 years prior to the date of application.
  • OTA should have a minimum Paid up Capital of ₹1 Crore.
  • OTA should have an office premises under the charge of the owner/director/partner or a full-time member of their company.
  • The minimum office space should be at least 1000 sq. ft.
  • OTA should be an income tax assessee and should have filed Income Tax Returns for the last 2 assessment years.
  • The OTA should adhere to the tenets of the Code of Conduct for "Safe & Honourable Tourism".
  • It shall be mandatory for an approved OTA to prominently display the Certificate of approval given by MOT in the office premises and on the website.
  • The OTA shall designate a Grievance Officer and publish his name and contact details on its website.
 checklist OTA
pu seperater

Documents Required for Registration of Online Travel Aggregator(OTA)

Here is the list of documents required for registration of online travel aggregator(OTA):

  • Shop and Establishment registration
  • Certificate of Incorporation under Companies Act
  • Copy of Partnership deed and registration certificate
  • Sole proprietorship registration
  • Registration under FEMA Act for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI)
  • GST Registration
  • Manpower possessing necessary qualifications to carry out the business operations
  • Paid-up capital certified by Statutory Auditor
  • Copies of complete Audited Balance Sheet with the Director’s Report for the immediate 02 previous years
  • Record of filing Income Tax Return for the last 02 years
  • Reference letter from Bank on its original letterhead regarding the applicant firm’s bank account and address with telephone numbers

Registration Process of Online Travel Aggregator(OTA)

The detailed stepwise process of Online Travel Aggregator(OTA) Registration is as follows:

Step 1: Apply for Online Travel Aggregator Registration

The very first step for registration of Online Travel Aggregator registration is to file an online application with the Tourism department or just consult with Professional Utilities to file the application.

Step 2: Submit Documents

After filing an online application the next step is to submit required documents in the format as prescribed by the Tourism ministry. All the documents related to incorporation, taxation and supporting documents for ownership of property and office premises.

Step 3: Documents Verification

In the next step all the submitted documents are verified by the Ministry of Tourism to ensure smooth and secure onboarding of OTA service. It is always recommended to attach required documents in the prescribed format.

Step 4: Payment of Fees

After following aforementioned steps it is required to make a necessary payment on the government portal of the amount ₹25,000. Apart from this a professional fee will also be charged for filing the application of OTA.

Step 5: Inspection by Authority

The inspection for first approval/re-approval of OTAs would be conducted by the Inspection Team within the time frame of 40 working days from the receipt of the complete and deficiency-free application and confirmation of the fee payment by Pay & Accounts Office, Ministry of Tourism.

pu seperater

Registration Fees for Online Travel Aggregator

The basic registration fees for Online Travel Aggregator starts from ₹25,000 which is government filing fees whereas the total fees will include professional fees also.

Online Travel Aggregator Registration Registration Fees
✅ Government fees ₹25,000
✅ Professional Fees Contact Us

Note: The aforementioned fees is only the basic government registration fee. However a separate professional fee for application filling will also be charged. An additional fee will be charged for any other registration or license requirement.

Note: The aformentioned Fees is exclusive of GST.

Get Expert Consultation

pu seperater

Why Register for an Online Travel Aggregator?

The registration of an online travel aggregator is important for both the service providers as well as for the travellers. Given below are the benefits of registration of an Online travel aggregator(OTA):

Benefits for Service Providers

  • Increased Visibility and Reach: Being listed on a popular online travel aggregator platform can significantly increase a service provider's visibility. This exposure to a broader audience can lead to more bookings and increased business.
  • Marketing Opportunities: Travel aggregators often invest in marketing and advertising to attract users to their platforms. By partnering with these platforms, service providers can benefit from the marketing efforts of the aggregator, reaching potential customers they might not have reached otherwise.
  • Efficient Booking Management: Online travel aggregators typically provide tools for service providers to efficiently manage their bookings. This can include centralized booking systems, real-time availability updates, and streamlined communication channels, making it easier for providers to handle reservations.
  • Customer Reviews and Feedback: While it can be a double-edged sword, online reviews and feedback on travel aggregator platforms allow service providers to build their reputation. Positive reviews can attract more customers, and negative reviews can provide valuable insights for improvement.

Benefits for Travelers

  • Comprehensive Search and Comparison: Travel aggregators offer a wide range of options, allowing travellers to compare prices, services, and reviews for various accommodations, flights, and other services in one place. This streamlines the decision-making process and helps users find the best deals.
  • Time and Cost Savings: By aggregating information from different providers, these platforms save travellers time that they would otherwise spend visiting multiple websites. Additionally, the competition among providers on the aggregator can lead to cost savings for the traveller.
  • Access to Exclusive Deals: Many travel aggregators negotiate exclusive deals and discounts with service providers, and registered users may have access to these special offers. This can result in cost savings or additional perks for those who book through the aggregator.
  • User-Friendly Booking Process: Online travel aggregators usually offer a user-friendly interface and a seamless booking process. Travellers can easily compare options, read reviews, and complete bookings without the need to navigate multiple websites, enhancing the overall user experience.
pu seperater

Conclusion

In conclusion, registration of an online travel aggregator stands as a strategic decision that brings about a multitude of advantages for both service providers and travellers alike. For service providers, it opens doors to increased visibility, marketing opportunities, efficient booking management, and the valuable insights derived from customer feedback.

Travellers, on the other hand, benefit from the convenience of comprehensive search and comparison, significant time and cost savings, exclusive deals, and a user-friendly booking experience. The registration process not only facilitates a more personalized and streamlined journey for individual travellers but also fosters a collaborative environment that propels the entire travel industry forward.

Conclusion OTA
pu seperater
Why Professional Utilities?

At Professional Utilities, we leverage our industry knowledge and expertise to help businesses navigate complex regulations, minimize risks, and optimize operations for maximum efficiency and profitability.

All Corporate Services at Professional Utilities

One Stop Corporate Solution

All Corporate Services at Professional Utilities

PAN India
Services

All Corporate Services at Professional Utilities

Free Expert
Assistance

All Corporate Services at Professional Utilities

Google Verified
Business

All Corporate Services at Professional Utilities

Dedicated Support
Staff

All Corporate Services at Professional Utilities

Money-Back
Guarantee

Trusted By
clients logo
clients logo
clients logo
clients logo
clients logo
clients logo
clients logo
clients logo
clients logo
clients logo
clients logo
clients logo
clients logo
clients logo
pu seperater

FAQs on OTA Registration

What is an online travel aggregator?

An online travel aggregator is a web-based platform that consolidates and displays information from various travel service providers, allowing users to compare and book travel-related services in one place.

What are some of the best Online Travel Aggregators?

Some examples of Online Travel aggregators in India are Expedia, Booking.com, Kayak, Skyscanner, TripAdvisor, Priceline, Orbitz, Hotwire, Agoda, Trivago.

What is the registration fees of Online Travel Aggregators in India?

The basic registration fees for online travel aggregators starts from ₹25,000.

What are the documents required for registration of an Online Travel Aggregator?

The list of documents required for registration of Online Travel Aggregator are Shop and Establishment registration, COI, Partnership deed, Sole proprietorship registration, FEMA registration, GST Registration, Paid-up capital, income tax return.

Speak Directly to our Expert Today

Reliable

Reliable

Affordable

Affordable

Assurity

Assured