With a conference at the Alvear Palace Hotel in Buenos Aires, the Argentine Federation of Associations of Travel and Tourism Companies presented the new National Registry of Travel Agencies.
The origin of this record is in DNU 70/2023 by Javier Milei, which establishes the “deregulation of the tourism sector”: Until December, travel agencies had to have, among other things, a file number granted by the then Ministry of Tourism to operate legally.
Since that body no longer exists, FAEVYT took the initiative – and an “opportunity to improve” – to offer a tool that generates trust – both in travel agencies and in travelers – and serves to avoid informality in the sector and the possible scams that may arise from it.
“The National Registry of Travel Agencies is synonymous with professionalism and suitability; control and self-regulation of the sector; Quality guarantee; Consumer protection; facilitates supervision and collaboration with sector associations, with national, provincial and municipal authorities and promotes responsible tourism,” said Andrés Deyá, president of FAEVYT, who started the presentation by talking about a “historic day” and the “beginning of a new stage.”
Who must register in the Travel Agency Registry
With a much simpler process, the registration is less bureaucratic and more agile. It is also self-manageable for companies and travelers who want to know if the chosen agency is registered can enter www.agenciasdeviajes.ar
For the more than 5,300 agencies that were already operating in Argentina until December 2023, the Registry maintains file numbers.
New companies that register from now on will receive a new file number.
It must also be clarified that registration is not mandatory. But, Deyá said, “we are convinced that the best thing that can happen to an agency is to be there.”
What is required of travel agencies to register
To complete the online registration, travel agencies are asked to complete five steps that include commercial information, general data and documentation, among other things. They must have:
- the registration form in AFIP under heading 791100 (Retail services of travel agencies) and 791200 (Wholesale services of travel agencies)
- at least one registered professional in the registry of suitable in tourism
- proof of registration in the National Registry of Databases and its registered trademark. Those who do not have this will have a period of 30 days to register their trademark and accredit it in the Registry.
Andrés Deyá led the presentation of the new registry. Photo FAEVYTDuring the presentation, Deyá explained that “only travel companies registered in this tool will have access to quality and sustainability certifications and seals offered, which will have both national and international recognition. All of this brings peace of mind to passengers knowing that they have the protection, knowledge and professionalism of a travel agency.”