Procedures for star classification of tourist accommodation establishment

1. Application file for star classification of a tourist accommodation establishment

An application for star classification of a tourist accommodation establishment includes:

a) An application form for star classification of a tourist accommodation according to the form specified by the Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism.

b) A self-assessment form of the quality of the tourist accommodation establishment in accordance with the regulations of the national standards in star classification of tourist accommodation establishments.

c) The list of managers and employees of the tourist accommodation establishment.

d) Certified true copy of qualifications, certificate of professional training and certificate of working experience in the tourism industry of the managers of the tourist accommodation establishment.

2. Procedures for applying for star classification of a tourist accommodation establishment

a. The power to rate tourist accommodation establishments:

- The General Department of Tourism has the power to assign 04-star and 05-star ratings.

- The tourism authority of the province shall assign 01-star, 02-star and 03-star ratings.

b. The procedures for star classification a tourist accommodation establishment:

Step 1: Submit an application for recognition of the accommodation establishment's star classification

Organizations and individuals providing tourist accommodation services shall submit 01 set of dossiers to competent state agencies.

Step 2: Receipt of application

(i) In case the dossier is invalid, within 03 working days from the date of receipt of the dossier, the competent state agency must notify in writing and clearly state the request for amendment and supplement.

(ii) If the application is valid, the competent state agency shall assume the prime responsibility for, and coordinate with the socio-professional organization in tourism in, appraising the grade of the tourist accommodation establishment.

Step 3: Decide to recognize the star classification of the tourist accommodation establishment

Time: 30 days.

- Competent state agencies shall assume the prime responsibility for, and coordinate with socio-professional organizations in tourism to appraise and issue decisions on recognition of tourist accommodation establishments.

- In case of non-accreditation, a written notice must be given clearly stating the reason.

3. Legal basis

• Law on Tourism 2017.

• Decree 168/2017/ND-CP guiding the Law on Tourism.