Visa and Residency in Ecuador

Like neighboring Peru, Ecuador has a place in the global imagination as one of the cradles of South American civilization. Famed for its towering snow-capped mountains, the country has also become one of the hottest expat destinations in South America, especially for people looking to make their retirement income go further. Here's how you can do that.

Visa Types

Ecuador’s stunning landscapes and affordable visa options attract expats seeking a vibrant and budget-friendly lifestyle.|©iStock/IRYNA KURILOVYCH

Temporary Visas

Citizens of the US, Canada, and most of the European Union do not need visas to visit Ecuador. You need a valid passport, proof of return travel, and sufficient funds. Note, however, that Ecuadorian tourist permits are only valid for up to 90 days in a 12-month period, so visa runs are not possible.

Long-Term Visas

Confusingly, Ecuador classifies long-term visas as “temporary” visas. That is to distinguish them from permanent residency. Here are the most common:

Retirement/Rentista: there are actually two different visas here, but they are distinguished only by the source of income needed. Retirees need to show a guaranteed minimum of $1,350 per month from a pension or Social Security. People of independent means need to show the same income, but it can be generated from any type of foreign investment. In both cases, additional dependents require an extra $250 per month.

Investor: You can also get essentially the same visa by investing at least $42,500 in real estate, a business, or a certificate of deposit in an Ecuadorian bank.

Both of these visas are valid for two years and can be renewed once.

Permanent Residency

After at least 21 months on a temporary visa, during which you have not been absent from Ecuador from more than 90 days in each year, you can apply for permanent residency. As long as you can show the ability to support yourself with a clean criminal record, as well as health insurance and some basic understanding of Ecuadorian culture, geography, and law, you will be approved.

Note that once you are granted permanent residency, you may not be absent from Ecuador for more than 180 days in each of the first two years. After that, you must not be absent from Ecuador for more than five consecutive years.

Citizenship

Ecuador accepts dual nationality without restriction. Citizenship by naturalization is possible after three years of permanent residency. In addition, you'll need to show a command of basic Spanish language and Ecuadorian culture, as well as integration into society.

Requirements and Documentation

• Completed application form.

• A valid passport with a minimum of six months validity.

• Bank statements, employment contracts, or pension statements.

• Criminal background checks from your home country and anywhere else you have lived for the last five years.

• Proof of valid health insurance.

Processing Time

Temporary residence permits usually take one to two months to process, while permanent residency and citizenship applications require two to four months.

Cost

All Ecuadorian visa categories require a $50 nonrefundable fee when you submit your application. Once it is approved, you need to pay a $400 visa issuance fee. Document translation costs between $50 and $100 per page, while apostille costs run between $10 and $50 per document. If you use a local immigration attorney or agent, you can expect to pay between $500 and $1,500. Assistance with a permanent residence application is generally twice that.

Contacts

Embassy of Ecuador in U.S.

• 2535 15th Street NW, Washington, DC 20009

• Tel.+1 (202) 234-7200

• Email:embassy@ecuador.org

• Web:http://www.ecuador.org