Pro Area
Tourism guide
Travel agency
Tourist accommodation
Restaurant

Welcome to the Tourism Professionals Portal in Benin.

A unique platform to register, manage and follow your procedures as a tourism operator: guide, travel agency, accommodation establishment or restaurant.

Tourism in Benin
1000+ Registered Professionals
Simplicity
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About us

The Tourism Operators Platform, led by Benin Tourism Agency and the Ministry of Tourism, is the official one-stop shop for registration, management and monitoring of sector professionals. It allows actors to carry out their procedures online, access their documents and offers the public a directory, regulations and statistics.

Our Mission

🔹 Simplify and speed up administrative procedures for tourism operators

🔹 Guarantee transparency and traceability of registrations and authorizations

🔹 Strengthen the visibility and credibility of registered professionals with tourists, partners and institutions

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Procedures to follow according to your tourism profession

Tourism guide

Accompany visitors in the cultural, historical and natural discovery of Benin.

Application for Tourism Operator Registration

The operation of a tourist accommodation establishment (EHT), a travel agency, a restaurant or similar establishment, as well as the practice of the tourism guide profession in Benin, are each regulated by the following decrees:

  • Decree No. 2023-494 of September 26, 2023, regulating tourist accommodation establishments in the Republic of Benin;
  • Decree No. 2023-493 of September 26, 2023, regulating travel and tourism agencies in the Republic of Benin;
  • Decree No. 2024-777 of February 7, 2024, regulating restaurant establishments in the Republic of Benin;
  • Decree No. 2023-492 of September 26, 2023, regulating the tourism guide profession in the Republic of Benin.

In accordance with the general provisions of these decrees and their respective implementing orders, every private tourism operator (OTP) must register on the dedicated platform in order to access authorization services.


Steps to follow:

To submit the application:

  • The operator must first register on the National Public Services Portal (PNS). To create an account on the PNS, they must have their Personal Identification Number (NPI) and an active phone number.

  • Using their login credentials and a valid email address, they can then submit their application.

 


Required supporting documents:

No document is required at the enrollment stage.

 


  • Target audience: All persons fulfilling the conditions set by regulations.
  • Institution in charge: Ministry in Charge of Tourism
  • Competent institution: Benin Tourism Development Agency
  • Contact / Location: Location: Immeuble Sainte Cécile - Rue Sylvère Alexandre R.7.15, Quartier Gbèdomidji, Cotonou
    Phone number: +229 99 77 95 95
    Monday to Friday Morning: 08h00-12h30 Afternoon: 14h00-17h30

Submit Application

Request for a professional card

Governed by Decree No. 2023-492 of September 26, 2023, regulating the profession of tourist guide in the Republic of Benin; Order No. 0212 of October 16, 2024, setting the conditions and procedures for issuing the professional card; and Order No. 0213 of October 16, 2024, establishing the procedures and modalities for organizing the competency validation tests for tourist guides — the practice of the tourist guide profession in the Republic is subject to obtaining said card.


Steps to follow:

Only an applicant previously enrolled on the platform may apply for a professional tourist guide card. If enrollment has not yet been completed, the applicant must first visit the National Public Services Portal to fulfill this prerequisite.

To submit an application, the enrolled applicant logs in using their credentials, selects their guide status (employee or independent), fills out the application form, uploads the required documents, and submits the form.

The administration verifies the submitted documents for compliance and notifies the applicant by email regarding the conformity of their file. From this stage, the application is considered received and under review.

If the evaluation is favorable, the applicant will be invited to a technical interview, the results of which will determine the final decision on the application.

If applicable, the applicant may be asked to provide a valid copy of their professional and civil liability insurance contract.

Once approved, the applicant is invited to collect their professional card and badge to officially begin practicing the profession.

 


Required supporting documents:
  • a copy of the identity document

  • a copy of registration under Regime A of the Trade Register (required only for independent guides, not for employed guides)

  • a copy of the tourism guide diploma or a certificate of validation of experiential achievements issued by the State or an accredited institution

  • a copy of the certificate of success in the competency validation test

  • an extract from the criminal record dated less than three (03) months

  • a medical fitness certificate issued by the competent services of the Ministry of Health (required only for nature guides)

  • a first aid certificate, dated less than three (03) years, issued by the competent services for nature guides

  • proof of payment of the application review fee


  • Target audience: Any tourism guide
  • Institution in charge: Ministry in Charge of Tourism
  • Competent institution: Tourism Development Department
  • Contact / Location: Location: Immeuble Sainte Cécile - Rue Sylvère Alexandre R.7.15, Quartier Gbèdomidji, Cotonou
    Phone number: +229 99 77 95 95
    Monday to Friday Morning: 08h00-12h30 Afternoon: 14h00-17h30

Submit Application

Travel agency

Organize and market stays, tours and tourism services at local or international level.

Application for Tourism Operator Registration

The operation of a tourist accommodation establishment (EHT), a travel agency, a restaurant or similar establishment, as well as the practice of the tourism guide profession in Benin, are each regulated by the following decrees:

  • Decree No. 2023-494 of September 26, 2023, regulating tourist accommodation establishments in the Republic of Benin;
  • Decree No. 2023-493 of September 26, 2023, regulating travel and tourism agencies in the Republic of Benin;
  • Decree No. 2024-777 of February 7, 2024, regulating restaurant establishments in the Republic of Benin;
  • Decree No. 2023-492 of September 26, 2023, regulating the tourism guide profession in the Republic of Benin.

In accordance with the general provisions of these decrees and their respective implementing orders, every private tourism operator (OTP) must register on the dedicated platform in order to access authorization services.


Steps to follow:

To submit the application:

  • The operator must first register on the National Public Services Portal (PNS). To create an account on the PNS, they must have their Personal Identification Number (NPI) and an active phone number.

  • Using their login credentials and a valid email address, they can then submit their application.

 


Required supporting documents:

No document is required at the enrollment stage.

 


  • Target audience: All persons fulfilling the conditions set by regulations.
  • Institution in charge: Ministry in Charge of Tourism
  • Competent institution: Benin Tourism Development Agency
  • Contact / Location: Location: Immeuble Sainte Cécile - Rue Sylvère Alexandre R.7.15, Quartier Gbèdomidji, Cotonou
    Phone number: +229 99 77 95 95
    Monday to Friday Morning: 08h00-12h30 Afternoon: 14h00-17h30

Submit Application

Initial application/confirmation of travel and tourism agency license

Regulated by Decree No. 2023-493 of September 26, 2023, governing travel and tourism agencies in the Republic of Benin, and Order No. 0216 of October 16, 2024, which sets the conditions and procedures for issuing licenses to travel and tourism agencies and the declaration receipt for branches in the Republic of Benin, the operation of travel organization activities in Benin is subject to obtaining an operating license issued by the Tourism Administration for travel and tourism agencies, and a declaration receipt for branches.


Steps to follow:

Only an operator previously enrolled on the platform may apply for an operating license for their travel and tourism agency. If enrollment has not yet been completed, the applicant must first visit the National Public Services Portal to complete this prerequisite.

To submit the application, the promoter logs in using their credentials, selects the company already enrolled on the platform for this specific activity, completes the form, uploads the required documents, and submits it.

The administration reviews the submitted documents for compliance and notifies the promoter by email whether the file is compliant. From this stage, the application is considered received and under review.

If the review is favorable, the applicant will be invited to a technical interview, the results of which will be taken into account for the final decision on the application.

If approved, the applicant is required to complete the formalities by depositing the guarantee with the Caisse des Dépôts et Consignations du Bénin (CDCB) and providing a valid civil and professional liability insurance contract.

Once completed, the applicant is invited to collect their operating license and may proceed with branch registration if applicable. The link for branch registration is the same as that for the operating license application.

 


Required supporting documents:

I. For businesses

  • A license application form for travel and tourism agencies provided by the Tourism Administration

  • A project description document detailing the agency’s organization, target activities, and a three-year business plan

  • An extract from the trade and personal property credit register

  • Copies of experience certificates related to the travel and tourism agent profession

  • A commitment to adhere to the professional code of good practices

  • A receipt of payment for the application review fee (account No. 10172970 – Intermediate revenue services of the Directorate of Tourism Development, Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Arts, paid to the Public Treasury on behalf of the agency)

Note: Any incomplete or non-compliant application will be rejected.

II. For legal entities

  • A license application form for travel and tourism agencies provided by the Tourism Administration

  • A project description document detailing the agency’s organization, target activities, and a three-year business plan

  • An extract from the trade and personal property credit register

  • A copy of the company’s bylaws

  • A staff recruitment plan with their professional qualifications

  • A certificate of non-bankruptcy

  • A receipt of payment for the application review fee

The designated manager must provide:

  • A copy of their identity document

  • A curriculum vitae

  • Copies of experience certificates related to the travel and tourism agent profession

The file is completed, after favorable review of the theoretical study, with:

  • A copy of the receipt for a cash deposit guarantee at the Caisse de Dépôt et Consignation (CDC) of Benin

  • A copy of the civil and professional liability insurance contract

 


  • Target audience: All persons fulfilling the conditions set by regulations.
  • Institution in charge: Ministry in Charge of Tourism
  • Competent institution: Benin Tourism Development Agency
  • Contact / Location: Location: Immeuble Sainte Cécile - Rue Sylvère Alexandre R.7.15, Quartier Gbèdomidji, Cotonou
    Phone number: +229 99 77 95 95
    Monday to Friday Morning: 08h00-12h30 Afternoon: 14h00-17h30

Submit Application

Tourist accommodation

Offer temporary accommodation solutions in a regulated and recognized framework: hotels, hostels, lodges, etc.

Application for Tourism Operator Registration

The operation of a tourist accommodation establishment (EHT), a travel agency, a restaurant or similar establishment, as well as the practice of the tourism guide profession in Benin, are each regulated by the following decrees:

  • Decree No. 2023-494 of September 26, 2023, regulating tourist accommodation establishments in the Republic of Benin;
  • Decree No. 2023-493 of September 26, 2023, regulating travel and tourism agencies in the Republic of Benin;
  • Decree No. 2024-777 of February 7, 2024, regulating restaurant establishments in the Republic of Benin;
  • Decree No. 2023-492 of September 26, 2023, regulating the tourism guide profession in the Republic of Benin.

In accordance with the general provisions of these decrees and their respective implementing orders, every private tourism operator (OTP) must register on the dedicated platform in order to access authorization services.


Steps to follow:

To submit the application:

  • The operator must first register on the National Public Services Portal (PNS). To create an account on the PNS, they must have their Personal Identification Number (NPI) and an active phone number.

  • Using their login credentials and a valid email address, they can then submit their application.

 


Required supporting documents:

No document is required at the enrollment stage.

 


  • Target audience: All persons fulfilling the conditions set by regulations.
  • Institution in charge: Ministry in Charge of Tourism
  • Competent institution: Benin Tourism Development Agency
  • Contact / Location: Location: Immeuble Sainte Cécile - Rue Sylvère Alexandre R.7.15, Quartier Gbèdomidji, Cotonou
    Phone number: +229 99 77 95 95
    Monday to Friday Morning: 08h00-12h30 Afternoon: 14h00-17h30

Submit Application

Request for an Operating Authorization for Restaurant and Similar Establishments

This e-service is intended for operators who wish to apply for an operating authorization for either a lodging establishment or a restaurant or similar establishment.

In accordance with Decree No. 2024-777 of February 7, 2024, regulating restaurant establishments in the Republic of Benin, Decree No. 2023-494 of September 26, 2023, regulating tourist accommodation establishments in the Republic of Benin, and their respective implementing orders, the operation of these types of establishments is subject to prior approval through an operating authorization.

The authorization process includes a project accreditation stage followed by the operating authorization.

The operating authorization application must be submitted online by the promoter of the establishment through a dedicated platform before the start of operations.


Steps to follow:

To submit the application, the legal representative must first enroll together with the operating company. Using their login credentials, they can complete the application and upload all required documents online.

 


Required supporting documents:

Accreditation Procedure
The prior accreditation application for the construction and development project must include the following documents:

  • An accreditation request form, available from the Directorate of Tourism Development and the regional offices of the Ministry in charge of Tourism, duly completed and signed

  • A copy of the promoter’s trade register, if applicable

  • A general project presentation outlining the technical, economic, commercial, architectural, and financial feasibility of the proposed establishment

  • A copy of the property title for the site or a long-term lease agreement, if applicable

  • A copy of the promoter’s identity document

Operating Authorization Procedure
The operating authorization application file must include the following documents:

  • An extract from the operator’s trade and personal property credit register indicating the activity

  • A copy of the operator’s bylaws if a legal entity, if applicable

  • A copy of the building permit (for new constructions)

  • A copy of the certificate of conformity and habitability (for operators already holding a building permit)

  • A copy of the regularization certificate (for existing buildings)

  • A copy of the operating contract between the owner and the operator, if applicable

  • A report on the proposed technical and operational organization, including a description of infrastructure and technical installations, photographs of the establishment and its surroundings, planned services, and human resources

  • A copy of the identity document of the establishment manager

  • Copies of certificates or diplomas proving the manager’s qualifications and experience

Note:
The operating contract must include the following mandatory elements: the identity of the parties, their obligations, the governance model, duration and termination clauses, financial arrangements, and any special clauses.

Application review fees are paid online automatically upon submission. It is recommended to have the necessary funds available before initiating the procedure, as well as all required documents.

 


  • Target audience: All persons fulfilling the conditions set by regulations.
  • Institution in charge: Ministry in Charge of Tourism
  • Competent institution: Benin Tourism Development Agency
  • Contact / Location: Location: Immeuble Sainte Cécile - Rue Sylvère Alexandre R.7.15, Quartier Gbèdomidji, Cotonou
    Phone number: +229 99 77 95 95
    Monday to Friday Morning: 08h00-12h30 Afternoon: 14h00-17h30

Submit Application

Restaurant and related establishment

Offer tourism catering services that comply with current standards, promoting local hospitality and gastronomy.

Application for Tourism Operator Registration

The operation of a tourist accommodation establishment (EHT), a travel agency, a restaurant or similar establishment, as well as the practice of the tourism guide profession in Benin, are each regulated by the following decrees:

  • Decree No. 2023-494 of September 26, 2023, regulating tourist accommodation establishments in the Republic of Benin;
  • Decree No. 2023-493 of September 26, 2023, regulating travel and tourism agencies in the Republic of Benin;
  • Decree No. 2024-777 of February 7, 2024, regulating restaurant establishments in the Republic of Benin;
  • Decree No. 2023-492 of September 26, 2023, regulating the tourism guide profession in the Republic of Benin.

In accordance with the general provisions of these decrees and their respective implementing orders, every private tourism operator (OTP) must register on the dedicated platform in order to access authorization services.


Steps to follow:

To submit the application:

  • The operator must first register on the National Public Services Portal (PNS). To create an account on the PNS, they must have their Personal Identification Number (NPI) and an active phone number.

  • Using their login credentials and a valid email address, they can then submit their application.

 


Required supporting documents:

No document is required at the enrollment stage.

 


  • Target audience: All persons fulfilling the conditions set by regulations.
  • Institution in charge: Ministry in Charge of Tourism
  • Competent institution: Benin Tourism Development Agency
  • Contact / Location: Location: Immeuble Sainte Cécile - Rue Sylvère Alexandre R.7.15, Quartier Gbèdomidji, Cotonou
    Phone number: +229 99 77 95 95
    Monday to Friday Morning: 08h00-12h30 Afternoon: 14h00-17h30

Submit Application

Request for an Operating Authorization for Restaurant and Similar Establishments

This e-service is intended for operators who wish to apply for an operating authorization for either a lodging establishment or a restaurant or similar establishment.

In accordance with Decree No. 2024-777 of February 7, 2024, regulating restaurant establishments in the Republic of Benin, Decree No. 2023-494 of September 26, 2023, regulating tourist accommodation establishments in the Republic of Benin, and their respective implementing orders, the operation of these types of establishments is subject to prior approval through an operating authorization.

The authorization process includes a project accreditation stage followed by the operating authorization.

The operating authorization application must be submitted online by the promoter of the establishment through a dedicated platform before the start of operations.


Steps to follow:

To submit the application, the legal representative must first enroll together with the operating company. Using their login credentials, they can complete the application and upload all required documents online.

 


Required supporting documents:

Accreditation Procedure
The prior accreditation application for the construction and development project must include the following documents:

  • An accreditation request form, available from the Directorate of Tourism Development and the regional offices of the Ministry in charge of Tourism, duly completed and signed

  • A copy of the promoter’s trade register, if applicable

  • A general project presentation outlining the technical, economic, commercial, architectural, and financial feasibility of the proposed establishment

  • A copy of the property title for the site or a long-term lease agreement, if applicable

  • A copy of the promoter’s identity document

Operating Authorization Procedure
The operating authorization application file must include the following documents:

  • An extract from the operator’s trade and personal property credit register indicating the activity

  • A copy of the operator’s bylaws if a legal entity, if applicable

  • A copy of the building permit (for new constructions)

  • A copy of the certificate of conformity and habitability (for operators already holding a building permit)

  • A copy of the regularization certificate (for existing buildings)

  • A copy of the operating contract between the owner and the operator, if applicable

  • A report on the proposed technical and operational organization, including a description of infrastructure and technical installations, photographs of the establishment and its surroundings, planned services, and human resources

  • A copy of the identity document of the establishment manager

  • Copies of certificates or diplomas proving the manager’s qualifications and experience

Note:
The operating contract must include the following mandatory elements: the identity of the parties, their obligations, the governance model, duration and termination clauses, financial arrangements, and any special clauses.

Application review fees are paid online automatically upon submission. It is recommended to have the necessary funds available before initiating the procedure, as well as all required documents.

 


  • Target audience: All persons fulfilling the conditions set by regulations.
  • Institution in charge: Ministry in Charge of Tourism
  • Competent institution: Benin Tourism Development Agency
  • Contact / Location: Location: Immeuble Sainte Cécile - Rue Sylvère Alexandre R.7.15, Quartier Gbèdomidji, Cotonou
    Phone number: +229 99 77 95 95
    Monday to Friday Morning: 08h00-12h30 Afternoon: 14h00-17h30

Submit Application