How to register a company in Romania?

In order to register a company in Romania, you need to choose the type of company form you want to incorporate, to prepare the necessary documents and to submit the application to the Romanian Trade Registry. Most common forms of companies in Romania are the Limited Liability Company (LLC), Joint Stock Company (SA) and sole trader (PFA).

How long does it take to open a company in Romania?

The company formation in Romania process will take 2 working days, since the date the incorporation application is submitted to the Romanian Trade Registry.

What is the main advantage to open a company in Romania?

One of the lowest taxation in EU: 1% turnover tax for the companies whose turnover does not exceed EUR 60,000 and have at least one employee or 3% turnover tax if the companies has a revenue exceeding EUR 60,000 or the companies is engaged in some specific activities.

Can I start a company in Romania as a foreigner?

Foreign citizens and legal persons can quickly and easily incorporate their own company in Romania, without any restrictions. There is no need for a Romanian shareholder and director

Create a Travel Agency in Romania | Open Tourism Business

Discover how to start a travel agency in Romania and obtain the tourism license, create unforgettable itineraries as a tour operator in Romania, and connect with travelers seeking authentic experiences. Whether you're planning to establish a Romania tour agency or offer specialized services as a tour and travel agency, we’ve got everything you need to succeed. Ready to bring your vision to life? Let's explore how to start a travel business, obtain tour guide license and make your mark in the growing tourism industry in Romania

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If you’ve ever dreamed of creating your own travel agency in Romania, now is the perfect time to turn your vision into reality. With Romania’s growing popularity as a tourist destination, the demand for tour operators, luxury travel companies, and specialized tourism services is on the rise. Whether you’re targeting Bucharest’s bustling travel market or aiming to provide unique experiences across the country, opening a travel agency in Romania and obtaining the tourism license can be a rewarding venture. This comprehensive guide will walk you through how to create a travel agency, the steps to start your business, and tips to thrive in the competitive tourism market.

Why to Start a Travel Agency in Romania?

Romania is a treasure trove of tourist attractions. From the medieval towns of Transylvania to the pristine landscapes of the Danube Delta and the vibrant city life in Bucharest, Romania offers endless opportunities for travel enthusiasts. Tour operators and travel agencies can cater to a diverse clientele, including adventure travelers seeking hikes in the Carpathians, history buffs exploring Bran Castle and other landmarks and luxury travelers interested in bespoke tours and high-end accommodations. With increasing demand for travel services, starting a travel agency in Romania is not only timely but also financially promising.

What Kind of Travel Agency to Create? Types of Travel Agencies in Romania

A travel agency is a specialized entity in travel services. It is a legal entity authorized to provide, organize, and sell travel components or packages, acting as an intermediary between the consumer and travel service providers such as transportation companies and accommodation providers. Whether you're looking to open a travel agency in Romania, or exploring how to create a travel agency, this structure allows you to manage and sell travel-related products efficiently.

In Romania, travel agencies are generally categorized into two main types:

Tour Operators: These agencies take charge of designing and organizing their own travel components and packages. They can sell these directly to customers or work through intermediary agencies to reach a broader audience.
Retail Agencies: Acting as intermediaries, these agencies do not create their own travel packages. Instead, they sell the packages or individual components provided by tour operators, based on the terms of their agreements with the respective tour operator agencies.

This distinction ensures a collaborative framework within the travel industry, allowing both types of agencies to cater effectively to a diverse range of traveler needs.

Special Requirements to Open a Travel Agency in Romania. How to Obtain the Tourism License in Romania?

To operate a travel agency in Romania, obtaining a tourism license is a crucial first step. This license, issued by the central public institution responsible for tourism, certifies that the agency or its responsible manager meets regulated safety and quality standards for selling travel services to clients. Without this authorization, the agency is prohibited from conducting tourism and travel business.

The following special requirements are necessary for creating a travel agency in Romania, irrespective if the company will be a tour operator travel agency or a retailer travel agency (intermediary), being different than incorporating a simple company:

The company’s object of activity must include the following NACE (CAEN) codes in the agency's activity: 7911 Travel agency activities (this class includes activities of agencies, primarily engaged in selling travel, tour, transportation and accommodation services on a wholesale or retail basis to the general public and commercial clients), 7912 Tour operators activities (this class includes arranging and assembling tours that are sold through travel agencies or directly by tour operators. The tours may include any or all of the following: transportation, accommodation, food, visits to museums, historical or cultural sites, theatrical, musical or sporting events) and 7990 Other reservation service and related activities;
The travel agency headquarter must be located in a building, in good condition and meet hygiene standards and must have a minimum area of 16 square meters, not being acceptable to open a travel agency with virtual headquarter. The travel agency must be located in a building with access from the street, on the basement, ground floor, mezzanine, or first floor. If you want to open an online travel agency, there is no imposed square meter limit for the office space and the agency can operate on any floor of the building as long as it is purely electronic and operates through websites or online platforms without direct sales to tourists. If you want to open a travel agency as a retailer, the minimum area for the travel agency must be 10 square meters, not 16 square meters as for tour operators.
Minimum share capital for tour operators travel agencies (tour operators). Tour operators travel agencies can obtain an operating license if they have established a guarantee mechanism and have a minimum share capital of EUR 5,000.
The agency’s staff must be qualified as travel agents, holding a certificate of completion from a professional course organized by an authorized training provider or legal documents proving at least 3 years of relevant professional experience.
The agency must have licensed tour guides. This applies if the travel agency organizes and conducts tourist programs. If you want to open a travel agency as a retailer, you don’t need to have licensed tour guides. As a retailer, you only resell the packages provided by the tour operator, so they are responsible for this aspect.
The agency must have an insurance policy covering repatriation costs for tourists and/or refunds for services/packages in case of non-fulfillment of services.
The name of the travel agency must appear on the premises. If located in residential/business buildings, a sticker or plaque with the agency's name must be placed at the entrance.
Adequate furniture and communication equipment for the agency's operations must be found operational in the headquarter, such as a desk, chair, printer, computer, fax telephone, internet access etc.
The agency’s website must display the identification details in accordance with Law no. 31/1990 on Commercial Companies, as amended, including the tourism license number of the agency, the tour operator's certification number, and the policy's validity.
The person responsible for the operational management of the travel agency must be employed with an individual labor agreement, registered in the REVISAL system, and hold at least one of the following documents: a certificate of completion of a managerial training course organized by an authorized training provider (ANC), a bachelor's/master's/doctorate diploma in tourism, or a tourism license specific to the position. However, if the agency is managed by one of the shareholders or associates who already holds the necessary qualifications, no employment contract is required.

By ensuring these requirements are met, prospective travel agency operators can secure their tourism license and legally begin operations in Romania.

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Steps to Obtain the Tourism License in Romania

For obtaining the tourism license for the travel agency (Organizer Tour Operator /Retailer Intermediary), the economic operator must submit a formal request to the central public tourism authority, before beginning the activity of organizing, offering, and marketing travel services and/or travel packages, accompanied by the following documents:

a) Standardized Affidavit: A declaration made under own personal responsibility, in the form outlined in Annex 6 of these methodological norms.

b) Copy of the founding / incorporation documents of the company, public institutions, organizations, associations, foundations, religious cults and copy of the fiscal registration document, the statute / articles of incorporation, or another document proving the possibility to operate as a travel agency.

c) Proof of guarantee instrument: Proof of holding a guarantee instrument, applicable only to the tour operators in Romania.

d) Fiscal record certificate: A fiscal record certificate belonging to the requesting economic operator, as well as to the associates / shareholders (either sole or majority), the person responsible for the operational management of the travel agency, and the administrator of the economic operator. This certificate must confirm that no offenses under financial, customs, and financial discipline laws have been committed. Alternatively, if the person is not fiscally registered in Romania, a personal statement according to Government Ordinance no. 39/2015, must be submitted and must confirm that no offenses have been committed and that the operator is not registered fiscally in Romania.

e) Proof of employment registration: Evidence of the employment agreement registration in the General Registry of Employees (REVISAL extract) or a certified copy of the management contract, accompanied by a certified copy of the document proving the professional training of the person managing the operational activity of the travel agency Romania.

In Romania, regardless of the type of travel agency, the operational manager must meet specific requirements to ensure compliance and professionalism.

Employment Contract: The operational manager must have an individual, full-time labor contract that is duly registered in the employees' register.
Qualifications: The manager is required to hold a certificate obtained from a recognized management course and possess a tourism patent specific to this role. Alternatively, a diploma earned upon graduating from a tourism-related university or specialized course is also acceptable.

These regulations are in place to maintain high standards in the travel industry and to ensure that operational managers are well-qualified to oversee agency activities.

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8 Practical Steps to Follow in Order to Create a Travel Agency in Romania Successfully

Step 1: Research the Travel Market in Romania. Before diving into the logistics of how to open a travel company, conduct in-depth market research. Having a clear understanding of the market will help you position your travel agency effectively. Identify: Popular Destinations (what locations are most sought after by tourists?), Target Audience (are you catering to domestic travelers, international tourists, or both?), Competitors (analyze Romania tour operators, travel companies near you, and the travel agency market in Bucharest) and the Trends (is there a growing interest in eco-tourism, luxury travel, or adventure tourism?)

Step 2: Decide on Your Niche. To stand out in the crowded travel agency market, define your niche. Choosing a niche will help you attract a loyal customer base and differentiate your services from other Romania tour companies. Consider specializing in: Cultural Tours (highlight Romania’s rich heritage and traditions), Adventure Travel (offer trekking, skiing, or wildlife tours), Luxury Travel (cater to affluent clients with bespoke packages), Eco-Tourism (focus on sustainable and environmentally friendly travel) and Themed Tours (provide experiences like wine tours, Dracula-themed tours, or wellness retreats).

Step 3: Register Your Business. To legally open a travel agency in Romania, follow these steps: 1. Choose a Business Name: Ensure it’s unique and resonates with your brand. 2. Register Your Company: Submit the necessary documents to the Romanian Trade Register. 3. Obtain Licenses and Permits: You’ll need specific certifications to operate as a travel agency, including a tourism license from the Ministry of Tourism. 4. Tax Registration: Register your business with the Romanian tax authorities and 5. Open a Business Bank Account: Keep your personal and business finances separate.

Step 4: Build Your Service Portfolio. Create travel packages and services that align with your niche and market demand. Make sure your services are competitively priced while offering value to your customers. Your portfolio might include: guided tours with knowledgeable tour operators, customizable itineraries for individual clients, group travel packages for corporate or educational purposes and partnerships with local hotels, transport providers, and restaurants.

Step 5: Set Up Your Office. Whether you’re planning a physical location or an online presence, your office is the face of your business. If you’re opening a travel agency in Bucharest or another city, choose a central location with good visibility. Alternatively, create a professional and user-friendly website to reach clients nationwide or globally.

Step 6: Market Your Travel Agency. Marketing is essential to attract clients and grow your travel agency.

Step 7: Focus on Customer Service. Exceptional customer service is the backbone of any successful travel agency. Satisfied customers are more likely to recommend your travel agency, boosting your reputation and client base.

Step 8: Comply with Legal and Safety Standards. Ensure your travel agency adheres to Romanian laws and international tourism standards. Compliance builds trust and credibility among your clients. This includes providing travel insurance options, ensuring your tours and activities are safe and well-organized and maintaining transparency in pricing and services.

Challenges and Tips for Success

Starting a travel agency in Romania is not without challenges. Be prepared to face: Competition (stand out by offering unique and high-quality services), Seasonality (plan for off-peak seasons by diversifying your services) and Regulatory Hurdles (stay informed about changing tourism laws).

Tips for Success: 1. Invest in training for your team to enhance their expertise, 2. Regularly update your services to match market trends and 3. Build a strong network with local businesses and international partners.

Conclusion: Does it worth to create a travel agency in Romania?

Opening a travel agency in Romania and obtaining the tourism license is a rewarding endeavor with immense potential. By following this guide, from market research to marketing your services, you can create a thriving tourism agency that caters to both local and international travelers. Whether you’re starting in Bucharest or targeting niche markets across the country, the key to success lies in offering exceptional experiences and staying ahead of industry trends. Start your journey today and make your mark in Romania’s vibrant tourism industry!

For any question regarding the tour and travel agency in Romania and tourism license in Romania, feel free to reach out to us at tudor@roadvocacy.ro or use the contact form on our website at www.roadvocacy.ro. Your business, our mission.

How to Open a Travel Agency in Romania and Obtain the Tourism License as Tour Operator

Why to Start a Travel Agency in Romania?

What Kind of Travel Agency to Create? Types of Travel Agencies in Romania

In Romania, travel agencies are generally categorized into two main types:

Tour Operators: These agencies take charge of designing and organizing their own travel components and packages. They can sell these directly to customers or work through intermediary agencies to reach a broader audience.

Retail Agencies: Acting as intermediaries, these agencies do not create their own travel packages. Instead, they sell the packages or individual components provided by tour operators, based on the terms of their agreements with the respective tour operator agencies.

This distinction ensures a collaborative framework within the travel industry, allowing both types of agencies to cater effectively to a diverse range of traveler needs.

Special Requirements to Open a Travel Agency in Romania. How to Obtain the Tourism License in Romania?

The following special requirements are necessary for creating a travel agency in Romania, irrespective if the company will be a tour operator travel agency or a retailer travel agency (intermediary), being different than incorporating a simple company:

Minimum share capital for tour operators travel agencies (tour operators). Tour operators travel agencies can obtain an operating license if they have established a guarantee mechanism and have a minimum share capital of EUR 5,000.

The agency’s staff must be qualified as travel agents, holding a certificate of completion from a professional course organized by an authorized training provider or legal documents proving at least 3 years of relevant professional experience.

The agency must have an insurance policy covering repatriation costs for tourists and/or refunds for services/packages in case of non-fulfillment of services.

The name of the travel agency must appear on the premises. If located in residential/business buildings, a sticker or plaque with the agency's name must be placed at the entrance.

Adequate furniture and communication equipment for the agency's operations must be found operational in the headquarter, such as a desk, chair, printer, computer, fax telephone, internet access etc.

The agency’s website must display the identification details in accordance with Law no. 31/1990 on Commercial Companies, as amended, including the tourism license number of the agency, the tour operator's certification number, and the policy's validity.