A Beginner's Guide to Understanding Ecuador Visa Options and Paperwork You Need to Relocate
- Ecuador Expat Journeys
- Aug 29
- 5 min read
Updated: Aug 31
Moving to a new country is often a mix of excitement and apprehension, especially when it comes to the visa process. If Ecuador is on your radar as a new home, understanding your visa options is essential. This guide covers the five main types of visas utilized by expats—Tourist, Pensioner, Investor, Professional, and Digital Nomad—along with the required paperwork for each. Since visa requirements can shift frequently, consulting a visa expert like our trusted partner Ecuador Visas, is wise to stay updated.
Popular Visas for Ecuador
Tourist Visa
The tourist visa is the most popular visa for visiting Ecuador or short stays. This visa lasts for 90 days and allows you to travel freely throughout the country. If you decide you'd like to stay longer, this visa can be extended for an additional 90 days by paying a small fee. You can apply for an extension online, or by visiting the office of migration located at the airport. If you decide you'd like to stay longer than 90 days, be sure to apply for the visa extension anytime between day 80 and 89 of your tourist visa or you will face fines for overstaying your visa upon exiting the country.
Pensioner Visa
The Pensioner Visa, also known as the "Pensionado" visa, is ideal for retirees who can prove a steady income from a pension or retirement fund. This visa appeals to those who wish to enjoy Ecuador's stunning landscapes and low cost of living.
To qualify for the Pensioner Visa, you must show proof of a monthly income of at least 4x the Ecuadorian Minimum Wage from your pension or retirement fund. For 2025, the Ecuadorian minimum wage is $470 per month.
Here's what you need to apply:
Completed visa application form
Valid passport with a minimum six-month validity
Recent passport-sized photo
Proof of income (such as pension statements)
Criminal background check from your home country, plus your home state if you are from the US
Proof of health insurance
This visa grants you the ability to live in Ecuador for two years but can be renewed indefinitely. You can also apply for permanent residency after two years, making it a popular choice for many retirees looking for a peaceful retirement destination.
Investor Visa
If you plan to invest in Ecuador, the Investor Visa may be suitable for you. This visa is designed for individuals who can invest a minimum of 100x the Ecuadorian Minimum Wage in Ecuadorian real estate, a business, or a Certified Deposit (CD) in an Ecuadorian bank. When choosing the CD option, your investment must remain for the duration of your visa (2 years), and can be withdrawn once your visa expires or permanent residency is established.
To secure an Investor Visa, you’ll need to gather the following documents:
Completed visa application form
Valid passport with a minimum six-month validity
Recent passport-sized photo
Proof of investment (like bank statements, property deeds, or business registrations)
Criminal background check from your home country, plus your home state if you are from the US
Proof of health insurance
With an Investor Visa, you can live in Ecuador for up to two years. It opens paths to permanent residency after the two-year period, giving you more stability in your new home.
Professional Visa
The Professional Visa is designed for individuals with degrees or professional qualifications. It is particularly valuable for those with job offers from Ecuadorian companies or who plan to start their own business.
To apply for the Professional Visa, you will need:
Completed visa application form
Valid passport with a minimum six-month validity
Recent passport-sized photo
Proof of your professional qualifications (like diplomas or transcripts)
Criminal background check from your home country, plus your home state if you are from the US
Proof of health insurance
This visa can also lead to permanent residency, making it a great option for those holding a 4-year degree from a college or university.
Digital Nomad Visa
In today's digital world, the need for flexibility has led to the creation of the Digital Nomad Visa. This visa is tailored for people who work remotely—whether for a foreign company or as a self-employed individual.
To apply for the Digital Nomad Visa, you will have to submit:
Completed visa application form
Valid passport with at least six months of validity
Recent passport-sized photo
Proof of employment guaranteed for 2 years or self-employment (such as contracts or pay stubs)
Criminal background check from your home country, plus your home state if you are from the US
Proof of health insurance
This visa allows you to reside in Ecuador while continuing your remote work, making it an excellent choice for those who wish to explore the country without compromising their careers.
Paperwork Needed for Each Visa
If you choose to use a tourist visa to stay in Ecuador for three to six months each year, no paperwork will be required for many countries. Your passport will be stamped upon entry, and you have 90 days to travel and explore Ecuador without any restrictions. It is important that you visit an office of migration if you wish to extend your visa for the additional 90 days so you don't face any fines upon leaving Ecuador.
For other visas, it is important to know that all paperwork gathered for your visa application is only valid for 180 days. Therefore, the timing for gathering the necessary documents is critical. It is recommended that you start gathering your documents around 3 months before your planned move so they will be valid when you arrive in Ecuador or apply for your visa at an Ecuadorian Consulate in your home country. Another item of note is that once you arrive in Ecuador, your documents remain valid, as long as you arrive before the 180 day expiration date. This is because you are no longer in your home country, so the information collected will still be accurate.
While some paperwork may vary by visa type, here are common documents required for all applications:
Completed Visa Application Form: Typically found on Ecuadorian consulate or embassy websites.
Valid Passport: Ensure your passport remains valid at least six months beyond your intended stay.
Passport-Sized Photo: Most applications require a recent photo meeting specific criteria.
Criminal Background Check: Obtain this from your home country, and it might need translation into Spanish.
Proof of Health Insurance: A document showing your health insurance is often required.
Additional Documents: Depending on the visa type, you might need proof of income, investment, or professional qualifications.
Seeking Guidance from a Visa Expert
The visa process for relocating to Ecuador can be complicated, and details matter. Visa requirements can change often, and yesterday's acceptable documents might not suffice today.
For these reasons, it’s wise to consult with a visa professional. They can help decode the latest requirements, assist in gathering paperwork, and ensure your application is correctly submitted. This approach saves you time and reduces stress, allowing you to focus on the exciting aspects of your relocation. If you are interested in pursuing help from a visa expert we recommend contacting our trusted partner, Sara Chaka, with Ecuador Visas.
Your Path to a New Life in Ecuador
Moving to Ecuador presents numerous opportunities, from breathtaking natural beauty to rich cultural experiences. Understanding the visa options available is essential for ensuring a seamless transition. Whether you see yourself enjoying retirement, pursuing investments, or working remotely, there’s a fitting visa for you.
Gather all necessary paperwork and consider professional guidance to navigate the visa process efficiently. With thorough preparation, you’ll be ready to embark on your exciting new adventure in Ecuador!
