Accreditation guidance
Frequently Asked Questions
Find reviewed answers to common questions about GSTC Accreditation, certification, standards, and application requirements.
Does GSTC certify hotels or tour operators directly?
No. GSTC does not directly certify any products or services; it provides an accreditation program to accredit Certification Bodies, which in turn certify tourism businesses and destinations.
How can a Certification Body apply for accreditation?
Certification Bodies submit an application demonstrating their scope, competence, and readiness. GSTC then conducts an assessment (document review, onsite assessment, witness assessment) before the ADMC issues the accreditation decision.
What is GSTC Accreditation?
GSTC Accreditation is granted to Certification Bodies that voluntarily undergo a thorough evaluation of their technical competencies and integrity to deliver conformity assessment services for tourism businesses and destinations, based on GSTC Standards.
What standards does GSTC manage?
GSTC manages four sets of standards: Industry Criteria (for Hotels/Accommodations and Tour Operators), Destination Criteria, MICE Criteria, and Attractions Criteria.