Galápagos TCT Guide: How to Get Your Transit Control Card

If you’re planning a trip to the Galápagos Islands, you’ve likely come across the term TCT.

The Transit Control Card (TCT) is a mandatory document required for every traveler entering the Galápagos (except local residents). It’s issued by the Ecuadorian government to monitor visitors’ time in the islands and ensure tourism remains sustainable, one of the most important protections for this fragile ecosystem.

As of May 29, 2025, the Governing Council of the Galápagos Islands introduced the option to complete your TCT registration online. This new system is designed to streamline the process, reduce airport lines, and make preparing for your Galápagos adventure a little easier.

At Galakiwi, we don’t issue the TCT ourselves, but we assist all our adventurers with the permits and requirements needed for smooth entry into the islands. If you prefer to handle the TCT on your own, here is your updated, step-by-step guide.

Who Needs a TCT?

Every traveler entering the Galápagos as a tourist must obtain a TCT, regardless of nationality.

The only exceptions are Galápagos residents.

What Do You Need to Apply?

There are just a few requirements for registering for your TCT, and don’t worry, they’re all details you likely already have on hand.

A valid passport

Must have at least 6 months of validity from your travel date.

A round-trip flight ticket

Your entry and exit dates between mainland Ecuador and the Galápagos must not exceed 60 days (the maximum allowed tourist stay per year).

Available tourist days

Visitors, both Ecuadorian and foreign, may stay up to 60 non-extendable days per calendar year, counted from your first entry.

$20 TCT fee

Payable online by card or in person at the airport (if the system allows on-site processing at the time of travel).

How to Complete the TCT Online (New Process)

We recommend filling out your online registration within 48 hours before your flight.

You can start the process here:
👉 https://siig-registro.gobiernogalapagos.gob.ec/app/tct/emitir/

Step-by-step instructions

1. Select your language and document type

• Choose your preferred language.
• Under Tipo de documento, select Passport.
• Enter your passport number (no symbols or spaces).
  

2. Fill in your personal information

You’ll be asked for:

• Full name
• Nationality
• Birthdate
• Passport details
  Make sure everything matches your official documents and flight information.

3. Add your flight details

Have your itinerary handy. You will need:

• Airline name
• Flight codes
• City of origin
• Arrival airport 
• Arrival date and time
• Return flight information

Accuracy matters, your TCT is tied to these flights.

4. Provide your stay information

You must enter:

• Hotel names or lodging details 

5. Accept the legal agreements

You will see:

• Acceptance of the Current Legal Regulations and Acceptance of Responsibility for the Information Provided

Read and accept both to continue.

6. Pay the $20 fee

The system allows secure online payment by credit card.

7. Download your confirmation

Once the payment is complete:

• Download or print your TCT certificate.
• You can carry it digital or printed, both are accepted.

You will need to show this at:

• Airline check-in counters
• Boarding gates

Completing this ahead of time saves you significant time at the airport.

How Long Can You Stay in the Galápagos?

All tourist, may stay u to 60 consecutive, non-extendable days per calendar year. You may enter multiple times, but all entries count toward the same 60-day limit and consider each entry requires paying for a new TCT.
If you encounter errors or issues with the online TCT platform, you can contact the Governing Council:

asistencias.consultas@gobiernogalapagos.gob.ec

Planning a Galápagos Tour?

If you’re exploring Galápagos tours, island-hopping itineraries, or traveling with family, check out our blog for more detailed guides, or explore our trips designed for high-service, land-based, deeply immersive Galápagos experiences.

At Galakiwi, we take care of the logistical details so you can enjoy your adventure, not the paperwork.

And if you’re curious about the full entry process, don’t miss our guide on Traveling to the Galápagos & What to Expect at the Airport