Galápagos Entry Requirements: What You Need to Know

Planning a trip to the Galápagos Islands? Whether you’re coming for the wildlife, the landscapes, or the once-in-a-lifetime adventure, it’s essential to first understand the entry requirements before you go. Since the Galápagos is one of the most ecologically sensitive destinations on Earth, it therefore enforces strict regulations to protect its unique environment. As a result, all visitors are expected to comply.

Before you board your flight from Quito or Guayaquil, be sure to have all required documents ready and clearly understand the rules for entering both the province of Galápagos and the Galápagos National Park. To help you prepare, this guide breaks down everything you need to ensure a smooth arrival and a responsible, unforgettable experience in the Islands.

Galápagos travel requirements:

Valid ID or Passport

Most travelers don’t need a visa to visit the Galápagos. Visitors from the U.S., Canada, the U.K., the EU, Australia, and many other countries receive a 90-day tourist stay upon entering Ecuador.

What you do need is a valid passport that meets the following requirements:

• At least 6 months of validity from your date of entry
• Matches the name on your airline ticket and your TCT registration (Transit Control Card)

Before your trip, double-check your passport’s expiration date and ensure all personal information matches your booking details. It’s a simple step that keeps your Galápagos adventure running smoothly from the start.

Tourist Days Available

If you’ve visited the Islands previously, ensure you haven’t exceeded the permitted 60-day limit within a 12-month period, as per Ecuadorian regulations.

Round-Trip Airline Ticket

You must show a personal, non-transferable round-trip ticket, with a maximum stay of 60 days in the Galápagos.

Transit Control Card (TCT)

The Transit Control Card (TCT) is mandatory for all travelers entering the Galápagos. This document helps regulate and protect the islands by tracking all visitors.

You must complete and pay for your TCT online before your flight, ideally within 48 hours of departure, using the official site:

https://siig-registro.gobiernogalapagos.gob.ec/app/tct/emitir

The fee is $20 USD per person. Once the payment is processed, download or print your confirmation, you’ll need to show it during check-in and again at the boarding gate.

Although airports in Quito and Guayaquil still have INGALA counters, the in-person option is being phased out. Completing the TCT online is the fastest and most reliable way to avoid delays and ensure your trip starts smoothly.

Be sure to keep your digital or printed confirmation handy, you’ll present it more than once before landing in the islands.

Galápagos Biosafety Sworn Declaration

To help protect the fragile ecosystems of the Galápagos, all visitors must complete the Galápagos Biosafety Sworn Declaration. This form ensures you are not bringing any items, such as seeds, fresh foods, or biological materials, that could introduce invasive species to the islands.

You must submit the form online within 48 hours before your flight at:
https://declaracion.abgalapagos.gob.ec

Once completed, you’ll receive a confirmation email with a QR code. Keep this handy, digital or printed, as you will need to present it to the biosecurity team when you arrive in the Galápagos.
Paper forms are being phased out, and travelers who do not complete the declaration in advance may experience delays. Submitting it online is the easiest way to ensure a smooth arrival and support the conservation efforts that keep the islands thriving.

Your Flight to the Galápagos

Arrive at the airport at least 2.5 hours before your flight. You’ll need time for INGALA verification, luggage inspection, check-in, and security.

All luggage, checked and carry-on, must be scanned by Agrocalidad to ensure you’re not carrying organic products or anything that could threaten the islands’ biodiversity.

Arriving early keeps everything smooth, so you can start your Galápagos adventure stress-free. If You would like more details on Your Flight to Galapagos explore our blog covering all the details.

Galápagos National Park Entry Fee

All visitors pay the Galápagos National Park entrance fee when they arrive in the islands. This contribution directly supports conservation, community programs, and the ongoing protection of the archipelago.

• $200 for international tourists (ages 12 and older)
  
• $100 for children under 12

Important: Payment must be made in cash, so be sure to have the correct amount ready before you land.

Final Tips Before Your Trip

• Complete your TCT registration online before arriving at the airport.
• Fill out the Galápagos Biosafety Sworn Declaration online at declaracion.abgalapagos.gob.ec up to 48 hours before your flight. Saving the QR code to your phone. 
• Arrive at the airport early to allow time for check-in, Transit Control Card (TCT) verification, and mandatory baggage inspection by the Galápagos Biosecurity Agency.
• Keep your TCT and ID/passport with you at all times during your trip.
• Respect local rules to help protect the Galápagos environment and wildlife.

Ready to Explore the Galápagos?

Make your journey to the Galápagos smooth, and stress-free by preparing in advance. From securing your Transit Control Card (TCT) to having the right documents in hand, a little planning goes a long way.

Good news: You can now complete your TCT registration digitally, saving you time at the airport.

 → Learn about TCT registration here

When you travel with Galakiwi, you won’t have to worry about the paperwork or logistics. We help coordinate your permits, requirements, and key travel details, so you can focus on the experience.

If you’d like to get inspired and explore some top Galápagos experiences, click here and check out our tours!