What are the visa & residency requirements in Ecuador?
We asked people about the visa & residency requirements in Ecuador, they wrote...
"The latest residency visas are a two year temporary deal that can then be exchanged for a permanent one. Rules for qualifying stayed the same as when I came 3 years ago, but the temporary visa was a new idea instituted in 2017. The requirements of background checks and proof of ability to support yourself are pretty straightforward. Canadians have had good luck at getting visas before they arrive but most expats I know have used an expediting service or lawyer since the actual rules can change," remarked another expat who made the move to Rio Chico, Ecuador.
"That is a tough one! We made some mistakes, but the best way if one would choose to live in the area where we are to go to Cuenca. We know an ex-pat that told us after we had some serious problems, that we should have been able to get everything done there instead of traveling to Machala or Quito.," explained one expat living in Catamayo and Loja, Ecuador.

Get Quote
Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.

Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Get Quote
Please login to continue reading this article.
Not a member? Join Today (it's free).
Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before moving to Ecuador?
- How do I find a place to live in Ecuador?
- What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Ecuador?
- What is the average cost of housing in Ecuador?
- Should I buy or rent a home in Ecuador?
- What should I pack when moving to Ecuador?
- What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Ecuador?
- Why do people move to Ecuador?
- What are healthcare services like in Ecuador?
- What are medical services in Ecuador like?
- What are typical rents in Ecuador?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?
What are the visa & residency requirements in Ecuador?
If you live in Ecuador, newcomers to Ecuador would love to hear your answer to this question:
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.