International Commitment
In 2011, Mexico’s tax authority (SAT), together with the then General Customs Administration, launched the OEA program (Operador Económico Autorizado, Mexico’s Authorized Economic Operator), aligned with the World Customs Organization’s SAFE Framework. Today the program is run by the SAT and Mexico’s National Customs Agency (ANAM), and it makes cross-border trade easier for companies that demonstrate a secure supply chain.
Companies eligible for this certification include: Importers and exporters, IMMEX companies and manufacturers, Holding companies, Customs brokers and brokerages, Trucking carriers, Rail carriers, Courier and parcel companies, Bonded warehouses, Customs-bonded facilities and Industrial parks. The benefits of OEA certification include:
- Use of dedicated “Express” lanes for imports, and FAST lanes for exports when the carrier is also certified.
- Customs clearance at any port of entry in Mexico and, for exporters, clearance at their own facilities.
- New in 2026: the e-document and the E2 Value Declaration form are no longer required on customs entries (pedimentos), unless the authority requests them.
- Mutual Recognition Arrangements with equivalent programs in other countries, such as CTPAT (United States).
- Review at origin for companies in the electrical, electronics, auto parts and automotive sectors.
- In-bond transit without a guarantee, with extended time limits and the use of electronic seals.
- Corrections to customs entries within the first three months without prior authorization.
- A special time limit to file the entry for excess or undeclared goods found during customs inspection.
- Return of undeclared goods that are not part of the company’s production processes.
- Virtual operations (transfers) with Mexican residents, with extended time limits for IMMEX companies.
- Weekly payment, or payment within the first 20 days of the month, for consolidated transfer and temporary import entries.
- For IMMEX companies: temporary imports may remain up to 36 months, a broader definition of waste, and a single entry for multiple regime changes.
- Sample-taking registration valid for 2 years.
- Listing in the SAT’s public register of Certified Companies.
Benefits apply according to each company’s certification type and category.
Stricter Requirements in 2026
Under the Customs Law reform and the General Foreign Trade Rules in force since January 1, 2026, the authority also verifies that:
- No partner has been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment.
- The company has no administrative penalties related to importing or exporting goods.
- Neither the company nor its suppliers appear on the SAT’s lists of issuers of false invoices (EFOS).
- If a certification is cancelled for tax crimes or customs violations, the company may not apply again.
COVA helps you review your compliance before you apply for or renew your certification. Contact us
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for OEA certification?
Importers and exporters, IMMEX companies and manufacturers, holding companies, customs brokers and agencies, motor carriers, rail carriers, courier and parcel companies, general deposit warehouses, bonded facilities and industrial parks, among others. Each category has its own requirements; in the assessment we define the modality that applies to you.
What is the relationship between OEA and CTPAT?
Both programs follow the World Customs Organization SAFE Framework, and there is a Mutual Recognition Arrangement between Mexico and the United States. Many border companies hold both certifications; we manage both programs in coordination to reuse the same evidence and avoid duplicating efforts.
What changed for OEA in 2026?
With the reform to the Customs Law and the General Foreign Trade Rules in force since January 1, 2026, the authority reviews shareholders, administrative penalties and suppliers listed by the SAT as issuers of false tax receipts more strictly. Before applying or renewing, we help you review these points.
Is OEA certification renewed?
Yes. The certification is valid for a set period and must be renewed on time, in addition to meeting the obligations the authority sets during its validity. With our maintenance plan we keep track of dates and the necessary evidence.
Do you offer staff training?
Yes. We provide supply chain security training for all levels of the company, with certificates that can be verified online. Learn about our training.
