Services

OEA

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.

SAT and OEA program logos

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:

  1. Use of dedicated “Express” lanes for imports, and FAST lanes for exports when the carrier is also certified.
  2. Customs clearance at any port of entry in Mexico and, for exporters, clearance at their own facilities.
  3. 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.
  4. Mutual Recognition Arrangements with equivalent programs in other countries, such as CTPAT (United States).
  5. Review at origin for companies in the electrical, electronics, auto parts and automotive sectors.
  6. In-bond transit without a guarantee, with extended time limits and the use of electronic seals.
  7. Corrections to customs entries within the first three months without prior authorization.
  8. A special time limit to file the entry for excess or undeclared goods found during customs inspection.
  9. Return of undeclared goods that are not part of the company’s production processes.
  10. Virtual operations (transfers) with Mexican residents, with extended time limits for IMMEX companies.
  11. Weekly payment, or payment within the first 20 days of the month, for consolidated transfer and temporary import entries.
  12. For IMMEX companies: temporary imports may remain up to 36 months, a broader definition of waste, and a single entry for multiple regime changes.
  13. Sample-taking registration valid for 2 years.
  14. 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