Starting 29 July 2025, Ecuador will enforce a new border entry and exit requirement. All travelers—regardless of citizenship or reason for visit—must complete the Customs Registration Form (Formulario de Registro Aduanero, FRA) before arrival or departure.
This update replaces the older rule that required the form only when carrying taxable goods or over $10,000 in cash. Now, every traveler entering or leaving Ecuador by air or land must submit the FRA and present a valid QR code at border checkpoints.
Table of Contents
What Has Changed
Previously, travelers only filled out the FRA if they carried high-value goods or large amounts of money. That restriction is gone. Beginning 29 July, the FRA becomes mandatory for everyone, with no exceptions—even if you’re not carrying anything taxable.
The QR code generated upon submission is essential. If you cannot present the QR code, you may be denied entry or exit, and fines or penalties may apply.
What the FRA Covers
The form asks for:
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- Personal identification details
- Travel itinerary and airline or border details
- Customs declarations, including valuables and cash
Once submitted, the system generates a QR code that you must show at immigration and customs.
When and How to Submit the FRA
You can fill out the form up to three days before your travel date. The Ecuadorian Customs Authority strongly recommends doing it as early as possible to avoid delays.
Steps to Complete the FRA:
- Visit the official customs website: www.aduana.gob.ec
- Navigate to the FRA section: Click “Citizen Service” → “For Travelers” → “Customs Registration Form”
- Create or log in to your ECUAPASS account
- Complete the online form with your travel details and declarations
- Submit the form up to 3 days before departure
- Download or save your QR code, which is required at border checks
Why Ecuador Introduced the New Rule
The change is part of Ecuador’s broader effort to:
- Strengthen customs regulation
- Monitor immigration patterns more effectively
- Enhance border security
- Track movement of goods and currency
- Align with international trends toward digital border control
Consequences of Not Submitting the FRA
Failure to submit the FRA can result in:
- Refusal of entry or exit
- On-the-spot fines or administrative penalties
- Delays or flight/border denials
This makes the FRA a mandatory item on every traveler’s pre-departure checklist.
Conclusion
If you’re planning to visit Ecuador, be sure to add the Customs Registration Form (FRA) to your travel preparation. Submitting it online is simple, free, and now required. And remember—no QR code, no entry or exit.
