With the COVID-19 pandemic continuing to surge through the community and worldwide, there is an ongoing, significant financial impact to Ontario’s travel agencies and wholesalers.
To assist the industry through this hardship, the Ontario government will provide funding to the Travel Industry Council of Ontario (TICO), allowing TICO to waive registrant fees for a third year. This temporary funding arrangement allows TICO to continue its operations in support of consumer protection.
Ross Romano, Minister of Government and Consumer Services, said: “Our government is doing everything in our power to support our travel and tourism sectors so that we can protect Ontarians’ jobs and ensure our communities remain vibrant.”
Minister Romano added: “By unlocking nearly $2.5 million in funds for TICO, we’re providing further relief for this vital industry while working hand-in-hand to maintain consumer protection as a priority.”
Richard Smart, TICO’s CEO and Registrar, said that: “Since the beginning of the pandemic, TICO has worked closely with the Ontario government to find ways to support our registrants. We appreciate the government’s continued assistance and funding through these unprecedented times. While there are many challenges ahead, TICO remains committed to its mandate of strong consumer protection and the recovery of Ontario’s travel marketplace in the years ahead.”
Through funding from the Ontario government, TICO has offered fee waivers to registrants for the last two fiscal years, beginning on April 1, 2020.
Due to the prolonged nature of the pandemic and the ongoing need for assistance, both the provincial and federal governments are offering further business supports.
What does the fee waiver mean for registrants?
Travel agencies and wholesalers will receive a fee waiver for annual registration renewal fees and Travel Industry Compensation Fund payments (Form-1) owed to TICO from April 1, 2022 to March 31, 2023.
This will allow registrants to focus on their priority business needs without the added financial stress of meeting certain payment obligations with TICO. The waiver applies to all registrants registered with TICO as of March 31, 2022.
What do I need to submit to renew my registration?
Registrants are still required to complete and submit their Registration Renewal Form (without payment) and their Form-1 (without payment) by the filing deadline.
What if I have additional questions?
We understand that you may have additional questions relating to your registration renewal fees and Travel Industry Compensation Fund payments.
Any questions can be directed to tico@tico.ca or toll free at 1-888-451-TICO (8426).
