The Travel Industry Council of Ontario (TICO) plays a crucial role in enforcing the Travel Industry Act, 2002, and Ontario Regulation 26/05, which are the cornerstone of the travel industry's regulations in Ontario. The primary focus of these regulations is to ensure that anyone selling travel services in the province complies with these legislative requirements. This guide provides a simplified overview of who needs to register under these regulations and outlines the key exemptions as per TICO’s guidelines. It's essential to note that this information is not legal advice, and for the most accurate and up-to-date information, travel service providers should directly consult TICO.
In Ontario, travel agents and wholesalers are required to register with TICO, as per Section 4 of the Travel Industry Act. This registration is fundamental to operating legally in the travel industry within the province. It ensures that the service providers adhere to the standards and practices mandated by TICO, thereby maintaining the integrity and reliability of travel services offered to consumers.
There are specific groups and activities that are exempted from the necessity of registration under the Act, as laid out in Section 2 of the Regulation. Understanding these exemptions is vital for travel service providers to determine whether their business activities fall under the scope of the Act or if they are exempt:
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This guide serves to simplify the understanding of TICO's regulations for travel agents and wholesalers in Ontario. It’s crucial for businesses to regularly consult TICO for the latest information and guidelines, as this guide does not serve as legal advice. For detailed legal advice and the most current regulatory information, go on their site here or contacting TICO directly is recommended.