Running a Travel Business? Here’s How to Get Licensed with MOTAC! ✈️

Starting a travel agency in Malaysia requires proper registration with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) to ensure compliance and legality. Follow these essential steps to obtain your travel agency license:

Step 1: Register Your Company 💻
Begin by registering your company with the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM). Your company name should reflect the nature of a travel agency, aligning with relevant legal requirements. The business structure must be a private limited company (Sdn. Bhd.).

Step 2: Choose Your Business Category 📚
Travel agencies fall under 2 main categories:
i) Inbound Travel Agency:
Organizes travel itineraries for foreign tourists visiting Malaysia.
ii) Outbound Travel Agency:
Organizes travel for Malaysian tourists to destinations abroad.

Step 3: Select an Appropriate Business Location For Your Business Category📍
Your office must comply with local regulations and be situated in a commercial area, as residential areas are not permitted for travel agency operations. Ensure your office space meets MOTAC’s standards for facilities.

Step 4: Prepare Required Documents 📄
Prepare the following documents to submit with your application:
i) Company Registration Documents (including Articles of Association and Certificate of Incorporation)
ii) Shareholder and Director Information (identification documents required)
iii) Company Financial Reports
iv) Office Lease Agreement or proof of ownership
v) Employee Information(relevant tourism qualifications and experience)
vi) Business Plan Include a detailed plan for launching your travel agency

Step 5: Submit Your Application 📁
When all documents are in order, submit your application through the MOTAC portal or at their office. Be sure to:
i) Visit MOTAC’s official website for the latest forms and requirements.
ii) Pay the application fee as specified.

Step 6: Await Review and Audit ✅
MOTAC will review your application, which may include an on-site inspection of your office to ensure it meets the necessary standards. This process can take several months, so plan accordingly.

Step 7: Obtain Your License and Maintain Compliance 🪪
Once approved, you’ll receive a Tour Operating Business and Travel Agency Business License. Ensure you maintain compliance with MOTAC’s ongoing regulations, such as:
i) Regular license renewals
ii) Keeping your bank guarantee valid
iii) Submitting financial reports as required

Step 8: Join Industry Associations 🏭
After obtaining your license, consider joining the Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) or other relevant industry associations. Membership can enhance credibility and provide valuable industry resources.

Registering a travel agency in Malaysia involves company registration, document preparation and compliance with MOTAC’s requirements. Although the process may seem complex, ensuring your documents and office space meet standards will help facilitate approval.

For additional questions or assistance, visit https://www.motac.gov.my for guidance.

Got your MOTAC license? The next step is to master the essentials of setting up and running your own Sdn Bhd.
Join our upcoming online webinar to learn how! 👨🏻‍💻