Ecuador

You're traveling with a GoPro Hero 12 and its waterproof housing, total value around USD 600. Good news: Resolution SENAE-2026-0041-RE (Art. 23) allows 1 new or used video camera per passenger duty-free, and the housing is covered as 'material fotográfico' (Art. 23.5) with no value limit. Practically, upon arrival in Quito or Guayaquil, use the green channel: no declaration is required below these thresholds. Nevertheless, keep your purchase invoices in your luggage to prove value in case of a random check. Be mindful of memory cards: a maximum of 6 are duty-free. Upon arrival in the Galapagos, a second biosafety check (ABG) inspects luggage, but it targets organic products, not electronics. Main risk: almost zero if the equipment is visibly personal and used.

You're bringing a Sony A6700, an Ikelite housing, two strobes, and a macro lens, valued at approximately USD 4,000. Art. 23 covers 1 camera (new or used) duty-free; the housing, strobes, and arms likely fall under 'material fotográfico' (Art. 23.5), with no value ceiling. Strong recommendation: as the total value exceeds USD 1,000, complete the electronic FRA (Formulario de Registro Aduanero) BEFORE customs inspection – this documents your equipment, facilitates re-export, and avoids a fine in case of dispute. Bring invoices and photograph serial numbers. Risks: a SENAE agent might strictly interpret the list and consider strobes as unlisted items (catch-all allowance limited to USD 500); the pre-filled FRA is your best protection. Allow extra time at the airport if you are directed to the red channel.

You're traveling with a Sony A1 in a Nauticam housing, a fisheye dome, two Retra strobes, aluminum arms, and lenses, valued at approximately USD 15,000. Two possible paths. If you are a professional photographer: Art. 23.8 exempts all portable equipment specific to your profession without value limits – present your press card, contract, or certification issued BEFORE customs inspection. This is the golden ticket. If you are a wealthy amateur: the camera and photographic material are still covered by Arts. 23.1 and 23.5, but you MUST complete the electronic FRA before arrival, supported by invoices and serial numbers. Ecuador does NOT accept the ATA Carnet; formal temporary admission (Art. 44) exists but requires an Aduanera Declaration within 5 working days – a cumbersome procedure to avoid. Risk: without an FRA or professional justification, a dispute over value can lead to taxation (FODINFA 0.5% + IVA 15%) and a fine.

Does the ATA Carnet work in Ecuador for my underwater photography equipment?

No. Ecuador is not a member of the ATA Carnet system. For equipment exceeding the traveler's allowance, the only formal alternative is temporary admission for re-export in the same condition (Art. 44, Resolution SENAE-2026-0041-RE), which requires an 'Declaración Aduanera de Importación' within 5 working days of arrival. In practice, prioritize the traveler's allowance (Art. 23) and the FRA form completed before inspection.

Are my waterproof housings and strobes exempt from duties upon entry into Ecuador?

Most likely, yes. Art. 23.5 lists 'material fotográfico' among personal effects exempt without quantity or value restrictions, which in principle covers housings, strobes, and arms. However, interpretation can vary depending on the SENAE agent: if these items were deemed unlisted, only the catch-all allowance of USD 500 would apply. Complete the FRA if your equipment exceeds USD 1,000 and keep your invoices.

When should I complete the FRA (Formulario de Registro Aduanero)?

As soon as the total value of your dutiable equipment exceeds USD 1,000. This electronic form must be completed BEFORE customs inspection upon arrival in Ecuador; completing it late may result in a fine. It registers your equipment, proves it accompanies you upon entry, and simplifies departure from the territory. Note serial numbers and keep invoices accessible throughout your stay in the Galapagos.