The Ministry of Economy, Digitalization, Entrepreneurship, and Tourism (MEDAT) has released for public consultation a new set of norms for the classification of accommodation and public catering units, replacing regulations from the 1990s. The new criteria, announced by Minister Irineu Darău, aim to modernize standards through digitalization, energy efficiency, and the simplification of bureaucratic procedures, according to data provided by Agerpres.
The reform proposed by MEDAT introduces the mandatory digitalization of tourist information via QR codes and applications, eliminating the need for printed materials, while requiring the possession of a website and an official email address. From an administrative perspective, economic operators are exempt from submitting the ONRC (National Trade Register Office) certificate in the classification file, as the verification is performed directly by the state. For consumer protection, companies that give up their classification certification must declare that they have not collected advance payments for reservations that will not be honored.
In technical terms, the new standards mandate the installation of charging stations for electric vehicles, energy efficiency measures, and strict accessibility requirements for people with disabilities, including ramps and adapted rooms. Additionally, the regulations extend the deadline for rectifying minor deficiencies from 7 to 15 business days and make the conditions for obtaining a tourism license more flexible. This license can also be granted to individuals without specialized studies, based on management experience and knowledge of a foreign language. The new norms will modify the methodology previously approved by Order 65/2013.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main updates in tourist classification?
The main updates include the digitalization of information via QR codes, the mandatory requirement for electric vehicle charging stations, and the simplification of bureaucracy.
How is the administrative procedure simplified for operators?
Operators no longer need to submit the ONRC certificate, and the deadline for rectifying minor deficiencies has been extended from 7 to 15 business days.
Can a tourism license be obtained without specialized studies?
Yes, the new norms allow obtaining the license based on management experience and knowledge of a foreign language, facilitating access for professionals.