Planning an international trip like an African safari requires awareness of new travel regulations that can affect your departure. The government of Ecuador has implemented a new rule requiring all travelers to complete an online form before leaving the country. As of July 29, 2025, every person leaving or entering Ecuador must fill out the online Customs Registration Form (Formulario de Registro Aduanero - FRA).
This guide explains the process to help you meet this requirement. Following these steps will help you depart from Ecuador smoothly, so you can focus on your trip. At Kenya Peaks Adventures, we help travelers manage these details as part of our planning service.
What Is the Customs Registration Form (FRA) and Who Needs It?
The Customs Registration Form, or FRA, is a digital declaration that collects traveler information and details about goods being carried across the border. This online system replaces the traditional paper forms previously handed out on airplanes or at border crossings.
The most significant change is who must complete the form. The FRA is now mandatory for all travelers, regardless of age or nationality. This includes:
- Ecuadorian citizens
- Foreign residents
- Tourists
- Adults, children, and infants
You must complete the form whether you are leaving from Quito or Guayaquil, by air, land, or sea. Previously, a declaration was only necessary if you were carrying taxable goods. Now, it is a required step for everyone. The government states this measure is intended to modernize border control, improve security, and create a more efficient digital record of entries and exits.
How to Complete the FRA Form Online
Completing the form in advance is a straightforward process. The entire process is online and takes only a few minutes once you have your travel information ready. Here are the steps:
- Find the Official Portal: The form must be completed through the official website of Ecuador's National Customs Service (SENAE). Use the government portal, found at aduana.gob.ec, to avoid unofficial third-party websites that may charge unnecessary fees.
- Fill Out the Form in Advance: You can complete the FRA up to three days before your travel date. We recommend completing it at home before you leave for the airport to avoid last-minute problems.
- Enter Your Information: You will need the following details for each traveler:
- Full name and personal details
- Passport number
- Flight information, including your airline and flight number
- A declaration of what you are carrying. For most tourists, this is a simple declaration of personal effects.
- Submit and Receive Your QR Code: Once you submit the form, the system generates a unique QR code. This code is your official proof of completion. You can save it as a screenshot on your phone, download the PDF, or print a physical copy. You will be required to present this QR code to customs and airline officials.
Common Questions for Travelers Heading to Africa
For those preparing for a major trip like a safari, questions about customs declarations are common. Here are answers to a few key concerns.
Do I need to declare my safari gear like a camera or binoculars?
No. Standard personal effects for use during your trip, such as clothing, cameras, binoculars, and laptops, do not need to be declared as taxable goods. The declaration form is primarily for individuals carrying large sums of cash (over $10,000 USD), goods for sale, or agricultural products. For most tourists, checking "personal effects" is sufficient.
Can I fill out one form for my whole family?
Yes, the system allows a single declaration for a family unit traveling together. One adult can complete the form and include the details of their spouse and any dependent children.
What happens if I make a mistake on the form?
Fill out the form carefully to ensure all details match your passport and flight information. If you realize you made a mistake after submitting, the best course of action is to try to submit a new, corrected form. If that is not possible, be prepared to explain the minor error to customs officials at the airport. It is better to have a form with a small mistake than no form at all.
What Happens If You Don't Complete the FRA Form?
Ignoring this requirement can lead to significant complications on your travel day. Arriving at the airport without a completed FRA form can cause problems ranging from inconvenient to severe.
The most common issue will be major delays. Airport or airline staff will require you to step out of line and complete the form on the spot, often in a crowded area with poor internet connectivity. This situation adds unnecessary stress and may cause you to miss your flight.
Beyond delays, Ecuadorian authorities have stated that non-compliance can result in financial penalties. It is an avoidable expense. In the most serious cases, customs and immigration officials have the authority to deny a traveler's exit from the country until the requirement is met. For anyone on a strict timeline to catch an international flight to Africa, this is a risk that should not be taken.
Final Steps for a Smooth Departure
This new regulation is a simple formality that is easy to manage with planning. To help your journey begin without any issues, you can follow these general steps.
Before Your Flight:
- Go to the official SENAE website and complete the Customs Registration Form (FRA).
- Double-check that all information is correct before submitting.
- Save the QR code you receive to your phone’s gallery or digital wallet.
- As a backup, email the confirmation PDF to yourself and print a physical copy to keep with your passport.
- Confirm your flight status with your airline.
At the Airport:
- Have your passport, boarding pass, and FRA QR code (digital or printed) easily accessible.
- Be prepared to show the QR code to airline staff at check-in and to customs officials.
Taking these steps will help you manage this requirement effectively. A smooth departure from Ecuador is the first step toward a successful trip.
If you have your travel documents in order and are ready to plan your trip, you can browse our collection of vetted Kenya Safari Tours or contact our safari experts today to start building a personalized itinerary.