The Path to Accreditation
The GSTC accreditation process is designed to ensure that certification bodies operate in line with internationally recognized requirements for competence, consistency, and impartiality. The process typically includes application, assessment, decision-making, and ongoing surveillance.
Application Process
Certification bodies seeking GSTC accreditation are required to submit an application demonstrating their scope, competence, and readiness to meet GSTC accreditation requirements. Following acceptance, GSTC conducts an assessment to evaluate conformity with the applicable requirements.
- For Industry Certification, review the latest GSTC Accreditation Manual for Certification Bodies – Industry, Hotel, Accommodation & Tour Operator version 4.1.
- For Destination Certification, review the latest GSTC Accreditation Manual for Certification Bodies – Destination version 2.0.
Accreditation Requirements
Certification Bodies are required to fulfill the requirements set out in the GSTC Accreditation Manual, including:
- Applicable legislation
- Documented rules and policies for applying the reference standard
- A transparent and impartial certification procedure
- Competent personnel capable of conformity assessment in sustainable tourism
- Compliance with ISO/IEC 17065:2012
The exact technical requirements may vary depending on the accreditation scope being sought.
Six stages
Accreditation Process
Explore the key stages of GSTC accreditation, from submitting the initial application through ongoing surveillance.
Application Submission
Certification Bodies begin their accreditation journey by submitting the GSTC Application Form and Application Checklist to accreditation@gstc.org. Complete and accurate supporting documentation enables a smooth review process and forms the foundation for the desk assessment.
- Submit an application for initial accreditation, reaccreditation, or a scope extension.
- GSTC reviews the application and documentation.
- If accepted, the applicant signs the contract and makes payment.
Download GSTC Application Checklist Type
Checklist for Industry
Desk Assessment
Once the application is accepted, GSTC appoints a Lead Assessor to conduct a desk-based review.
This stage typically takes about 30 days and evaluates documented policies, procedures, and certification systems for conformity with the GSTC Accreditation Manual and international norms such as ISO/IEC 17065.
Any nonconformities identified must be addressed before proceeding.
Office Assessment
Following successful closure of desk-assessment findings, normally within 90 days, GSTC conducts an on-site office assessment.
The Lead Assessor evaluates implementation of documented systems, including impartiality mechanisms, decision-making processes, auditor competence, and internal controls.
This confirms that the Certification Body’s practices align both on paper and in day-to-day operations.
Witness Assessment
After office-assessment findings are resolved, GSTC proceeds to the witness-assessment phase.
GSTC assessors observe the Certification Body conducting actual certification audits to evaluate technical competence, consistency, and adherence to GSTC-accredited procedures.
This provides direct evidence of how the Certification Body applies GSTC standards in practice.
Accreditation Decision
The Accreditation Decision-Making Committee reviews the full assessment report and recommendations after all assessments are complete.
The committee ensures impartial, evidence-based decision-making, typically within 30 days, before granting accreditation status.
Successful applicants are formally approved as GSTC-Accredited Certification Bodies and may sign the Certification Body Licensing Agreement.
Learn more about the Accreditation Decision-Making Committee.
Maintaining Accreditation
Accreditation is valid for five years, subject to continued compliance.
GSTC conducts annual surveillance assessments to confirm ongoing adherence to accreditation requirements and operational integrity. Certification Bodies are expected to improve continuously, address assessment feedback, and promptly report changes that may affect their accreditation scope or status.
Benefits of GSTC Accreditation
GSTC accreditation enhances credibility for accommodations, tour operators, and destinations. It assures travelers that certified entities adhere to sustainable practices, fostering trust and attracting eco-conscious customers.
Exclusive specialization in sustainable tourism
Unlike general accreditation schemes, GSTC Accreditation is explicitly developed for sustainable tourism.
- It evaluates Certification Bodies working with tourism businesses—including hotels, tour operators, MICE, and attractions—and tourism destinations.
- It ensures compliance with GSTC Standards, globally recognized as a leading reference in sustainable tourism.
Based on international norms, with sectoral relevance
GSTC Accreditation Requirements align with ISO/IEC 17065 principles and incorporate integrity, transparency, and impartiality requirements specific to tourism.
- Requires traceability of decisions and clear separation between certification, consulting, and promotional functions.
- Conducts rigorous, periodic, and multidimensional evaluations of accredited Certification Bodies.
International recognition across sectors
GSTC Accreditation is recognized by governments, global travel companies, online travel agencies, institutional buyers, and corporate sustainability initiatives.
Certifications issued by GSTC-accredited Certification Bodies gain greater legitimacy and global visibility, are preferred in responsible markets, and reduce the risk of greenwashing through independent, competent third-party auditing.