How to Become an IATA Accredited Travel Agent – Step-by-Step Guide
Published by Air Grace Aviation Academy | New Delhi, India If you’ve ever wondered how to become an IATA accredited travel agent, you’re not alone. Many aspiring agents seek this certification to enhance their credibility and open up global opportunities.
Are you planning to launch your own travel agency or expand your existing business with airline ticketing services? Getting IATA Accreditation is the ultimate seal of trust in the travel industry. It allows you to issue airline tickets directly, streamline operations, and build stronger partnerships with global carriers.
At Air Grace Aviation Academy, we not only train aspiring professionals with GDS certifications (Amadeus/Galileo), but we also assist agencies in getting IATA Accreditation—end to end.
How to Become an IATA Accredited Travel Agent – What is IATA Accreditation?
IATA (International Air Transport Association) accreditation is a globally recognized credential that authorizes travel agencies to sell international and domestic air tickets on behalf of IATA member airlines.
How to Become an IATA Accredited Travel Agent: With IATA accreditation, you gain:
- Direct ticketing authority through a single, standardized platform.
- Access to BSP (Billing and Settlement Plan) for secure payment collection.
- Global recognition through the IATA Numeric Code and accreditation badge.
- Enhanced credibility with customers, airlines, and industry partners.
Key Benefits of IATA Accreditation
- Direct Airline Ticketing: No intermediaries—issue tickets straight from the airline’s inventory.
- Standardized Contracts: One agreement with IATA unlocks access to 400+ airlines.
- Secure Payment Handling: Streamlined payments via BSP, IATA EasyPay, or credit card systems.
- New Revenue Opportunities: Earn commissions, access special fares, and upsell ancillary services.
- Professional Identity: Your agency is listed in IATA’s global registry, gaining trust instantly.
IATA Accreditation Requirements (India)
To become an IATA accredited agent in India, you must meet several documentation, staffing, and financial criteria. Here’s a quick breakdown:
How to Become an IATA Accredited Travel Agent: Business Entity Documents
Depending on your business structure, you’ll need:
For a Private Ltd. Company:
- Notarized Certificate of Incorporation
- Memorandum & Articles of Association
- Annual Return with current shareholding
- CA letter confirming shareholders & percentages
- Photo ID (Passport/Aadhaar) of each shareholder
LLP Company:
- LLP Registration Certificate
- LLP Agreement
- CA Letter confirming shareholding structure
- Photo IDs of partners
- Signed IATA Application Summary by all partners
For Partnerships:
- Registered Partnership Deed
- CA Letter on partner shares
- Valid photo IDs of partners
- Signed Application Summary
For Sole Proprietors:
- Valid government-issued photo ID
Other Mandatory Registrations
- GST Registration Certificate (GST REG-06)
- Trade License or Shop & Establishment Certificate
- Udyog Aadhaar / MSME Registration
- PF Registration, Profession Tax License (as applicable)
Staff Qualification Requirement
IATA requires your agency to have at least TWO trained employees who have:
- Completed a recognized Airline Ticketing Course
- Valid certificate in Amadeus or Galileo GDS
- Digital verification or recent endorsement (not older than 6 months)
At Air Grace Aviation Academy, we provide these certified GDS courses along with digital endorsements that comply with IATA standards.
Financial Requirements
- Most recent Audited Financial Statements (Balance Sheet, P&L, Auditor’s Report), Not older than 12 months
- Bank Beneficiary Form + Bank Statement
- Note: Financial Statements are not required for GoLite accreditation
How to Become an IATA Accredited Travel Agent – Types of IATA Accreditation
| Accreditation Type | Suitable For | Payment Options | Financial Security Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| GoLite | Startups & small agents | IATA EasyPay & Credit Cards only | No guarantee required |
| GoStandard | Established agencies | BSP (cash), EasyPay & cards | Bank/Insurance Guarantee |
| GoGlobal | Multi-country presence | All global payment modes | Varies by region |
Step-by-Step Process to Get Accredited
Step 1: Complete GDS Certification
Enroll in a certified Amadeus or Galileo GDS course. At Air Grace, we offer both.
Step 2: Prepare Required Documents
Collect all business and registration certificates, GDS certificates, financial records, and identification documents.
Step 3: Register on the IATA Customer Portal
Create your account, select your accreditation type (GoLite/GoStandard), and begin the application.
Step 4: Upload Documents and Pay Fees
Attach scanned, notarized copies. Pay the one-time application and annual accreditation fee (amount varies by country).
Step 5: Await IATA Review
IATA will review your documents and may request clarifications. This process usually takes 3-5 weeks.
Step 6: Receive IATA Numeric Code
Once approved, you’ll receive your IATA Numeric Code, signifying official accreditation and BSP access.
Why Choose Air Grace Aviation Academy?
✅ IATA-oriented training
✅ Official Amadeus & Galileo GDS certifications
✅ Application support & guidance
✅ Digital certificate endorsement
✅ 100% compliance with IATA criteria
How to Become an IATA Accredited Travel Agent – Contact Us
Air Grace Aviation Academy
514, 5th Floor, New Delhi House, Barakhamba Road, Connaught Place, New Delhi – 110001
+91 8527 44 6364
www.airgraceacademy.com
[email protected]
