TORONTO — ACTA has announced that it will start recognizing select travel advisor certifications from other jurisdictions and organizations as equivalent to its own Certified Travel Counsellor (CTC) and Certified Travel Manager (CTM) designations.

With this new pathway, individuals who hold recognized equivalent credentials – including the U.S.-based Travel Institute’s Certified Travel Associate (CTA) or Certified Travel Counselor (CTC) –can apply toward ACTA’s CRC or CTM without duplicating coursework.

Said Suzanne Acton-Gervais, ACTA president: “We recognize that many travel advisors working in Canada hold credentials from other countries and institutions that are equivalent to ACTA’s CTC or CTM designations. Our goal is to reduce barriers and avoid unnecessary duplication by recognizing these travel advisors’ qualifications, supporting their eligibility to convert to ACTA’s CTC or CTM designations, and enabling them to gain the recognition and benefits that come with them.”

In 2026, ACTA will unveil new CTC and CTM lapel pins. Each certified member will receive a pin that recognizes their destination.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR EQUIVALENCY

Applicants must complete the following to be eligible for CTC or CTM equivalency and conversion:

• Hold a valid travel advisor certification recognized as equivalent to ACTA’s CTC or CTM
• Be currently employed in the Canadian travel industry
• Agree to uphold ACTA’s Code of Ethics
• Provide an Employer Verification Letter confirming current or recent employment

The conversion fee for eligible applicants is $180, plus applicable taxes. Approved applicants will have their CTC or CTM designation activated for 2026; each year thereafter, their membership can be renewed under the CTC or CTM category.

To apply, click here. 

WHY EARN CERTIFICATION?

According to ACTA, the CTC and CTM professional designations reflect an individual’s commitment to lifelong learning while also enhancing their credibility with customers and peers. 

Additionally, an ACTA membership provides access to exclusive offers and opportunities for ACTA’s International experiential learning programs as well as inclusion in ACTA’s Certified Member Directory. Members also receive an ACTA membership card and digital certificate displaying their designation, official CTC/CTM logos for professional use, as well as recognition in the ACTA Vision newsletter.

For more details, go to https://www.acta.ca/ctc-ctm-enrollment.php.