Tourist Visa (12-X Visa): Allows stays of up to 90 days per calendar year for most nationalities. Some travelers can apply for a 180-day extension.
Temporary Resident Visa (Visa de Residencia Temporal): Typically valid for 2 years, renewable. Includes work, student, investor, and retiree visas.
Permanent Resident Visa (Visa de Residencia Permanente): Grants indefinite stay, but must be renewed every 10 years.
Visa cost
Tourist Visa: Free for most nationalities; however, an extension may cost approximately $150.
Temporary Resident Visa: Costs around $450, including application and processing fees.
Permanent Resident Visa: Costs approximately $550, including processing fees.
Visa extension
Tourist Visa: Yes, can be extended for an additional 90 days, but must be applied for before the initial 90-day stay expires.
Temporary Resident Visa: Yes, renewable every 2 years. After 21 months, holders may apply for permanent residency.
Permanent Resident Visa: Not applicable; grants indefinite stay, but must be renewed every 10 years.
Visa processing time
Tourist Visa: Typically processed within 5 to 10 business days if required.
Temporary Resident Visa: Processing time ranges from 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the visa category.
Permanent Resident Visa: Can take 3 to 6 months for approval.
Who can apply?
Tourist Visa: Citizens of most countries (including the U.S., Canada, EU) can stay visa-free for 90 days. Nationals of some countries require a visa before arrival.
Temporary Resident Visa: Available to workers, students, investors, retirees (pensionado program), digital nomads, and those with family ties in Ecuador.
Permanent Resident Visa: Open to individuals who have legally resided in Ecuador for 21 months on a temporary resident visa or have Ecuadorian family connections.
Where to apply?
Visa applications are submitted at Ecuadorian embassies or consulates abroad, or at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Human Mobility in Ecuador.
How to apply:
Determine Visa Type: Choose between a Tourist, Temporary Resident, or Permanent Resident Visa.
Gather Required Documents:
Tourist Visa: Valid passport, proof of onward travel, and financial proof.
Temporary Resident Visa: Additional documents such as a background check, proof of income, health insurance, and sponsorship (if applicable).
Permanent Resident Visa: Proof of legal residency for 21 months, financial stability, and ties to Ecuador.
Submit Application: Apply at the Ecuadorian consulate or the immigration office in Ecuador.
Pay the Visa Fee: Fees vary depending on the visa type.
Attend an Interview (if required): Some applicants may be required to provide additional documents or attend an interview.
Await Processing: Processing times vary, and additional documents may be requested.
Minimum income requirements
Tourist Visa: No specific income requirement, but proof of sufficient funds may be required (typically around $50 per day of stay).
Temporary Resident Visa:
Retiree (Pensionado) Visa: Must show a stable pension income of at least $1,350 per month.
Investor Visa: Requires a minimum investment of $42,500 in Ecuadorian real estate or a bank deposit.
Digital Nomad Visa: Requires proof of remote work or self-employment with a minimum income of $1,350 per month.
Permanent Resident Visa: Applicants must demonstrate financial stability or an eligible source of income.
Popular cities
Quito: The capital city, known for its colonial architecture and cultural heritage.
Guayaquil: Ecuador’s largest city and main economic hub.
Cuenca: A popular expat destination with a relaxed atmosphere and historic charm.
Manta: A coastal city known for its seafood and beaches.
Baños: A tourist hotspot famous for its adventure activities and hot springs.
Minimum income requirements
Official Language: Spanish.
Other Languages: Indigenous languages such as Kichwa are spoken in some regions. English is spoken in major tourist areas.
Average internet speeds
Fixed Broadband: Average download speed of approximately 45 Mbps.
Mobile Internet: Average download speed of around 30 Mbps.
