Ecuador continues to be a top destination for expats thanks to its quality of life, affordable healthcare, and use of the US dollar. However, 2026 brings important changes to Ecuador’s visa system that every applicant must understand before applying.
Some of these updates affect how visas are submitted, others affect income and investment requirements, and several impact processing times and travel rules. Whether you are already in Ecuador or planning your move, proper preparation is more important than ever.
This guide breaks everything down clearly so you know what to expect - and what mistakes to avoid.
Prefer video? Here’s the one we made on this topic:
Ecuador still follows a two-step residency system:
Most applicants must first qualify for a temporary residence visa before applying for permanent residence. While the structure remains the same, how applications are processed has changed significantly.
One of the biggest changes for 2026 is that visa applications are no longer submitted in person.
Previously, applicants could go directly to immigration offices in Ecuador. That option no longer exists.
While this sounds convenient, it is important to understand that online does not mean simpler.
The E-Visa platform allows applicants to apply from anywhere in the world - Ecuador, the United States, Canada, or elsewhere.
However, the system is very strict.
Once errors occur inside the system, they can be very difficult, and sometimes impossible, to fix.
The government states an estimated processing time of approximately 60 days, but this timeline is not guaranteed.
Some applications move faster, but many take longer due to system errors, platform outages, document review delays, or requests for corrections or additional information.
Because these issues are often outside the applicant’s control, planning ahead is essential.
A common misconception is that an online application means a fully remote process.
This is not always true.
Immigration authorities may still require an in-person interview, request that applicants present original documents, or ask for official translations at the immigration office selected during the application.
The E-Visa system does not eliminate all physical requirements.
In some situations, applicants can grant a Power of Attorney to allow a legal representative to act on their behalf.
However, this does not apply to all cases. Immigration may still require personal attendance, and requirements vary depending on visa type and applicant history.
Every case must be evaluated individually.
The current system leaves very little room for error.
Once mistakes happen inside the E-Visa platform, corrections are difficult, delays become common, and time and money are often lost.
For this reason, working with an immigration specialist is no longer optional. It is essential for avoiding unnecessary complications and protecting your legal status in Ecuador.
In 2026, Ecuador’s basic salary increased to $482 USD.
Since visa income and investment requirements are tied directly to the basic salary, this change affects several visa categories.
For visas such as the Retirement Visa, Digital Nomad Visa, and Rentista Visa, applicants must now demonstrate income equal to three basic salaries.
$1,446 USD per month
Income must be stable, verifiable, and properly documented.
For the Investment Visa, the minimum required investment is now $48,200 USD.
This applies to qualifying investments such as real estate or other approved investment vehicles.
For the Professional Visa, applicants must demonstrate $482 USD per month in income.
In addition, professional degrees must be apostilled, registered with SENESCYT, and properly recognized in Ecuador.
As of now, visa categories and required documents remain unchanged, and government fees have not yet been updated.
Any official changes announced during 2026 will be shared as soon as they are published.
Dependent visas remain available for spouses and children only.
For each dependent, $250 USD must be added to the primary applicant’s income requirement. Official relationship documents must be apostilled and properly translated.
Permanent residence rules remain the same.
When transitioning from temporary to permanent residence, all original visa conditions must still be met, and updated documents are required.
For example, retirement visa holders must present an updated and apostilled pension letter.
Travel limits remain one of the most common reasons for visa problems.
There are no travel limits during the temporary visa itself. However, to qualify for permanent residence, you cannot leave Ecuador for more than 90 days total during the two-year temporary visa period.
During the first two years, you cannot be outside Ecuador for more than 180 days per year. After that, you cannot be outside Ecuador for more than two consecutive years, or your visa may be cancelled.
Are visa applications in Ecuador no longer done in person?
Yes. All visa applications must now be submitted through the E-Visa system. Immigration offices no longer accept in-person visa applications.
Does applying online make the visa process easier?
No. While applications are submitted online, the E-Visa system is stricter and more technical than the previous process. Errors are harder to correct.
How long does the visa process take in 2026?
The estimated processing time is around 60 days, but delays are common due to system issues and document reviews.
Will I still need to attend an immigration interview?
Possibly. Immigration may still require interviews or original documents to be presented in person.
What is the minimum income requirement for 2026 visas?
For visas requiring three basic salaries, the minimum monthly income is $1,446 USD.
Has the investment visa amount changed?
Yes. The minimum investment requirement is now $48,200 USD.
Have government visa fees changed in 2026?
No official fee changes have been announced at this time.
Can I apply using a Power of Attorney?
In some cases, yes. However, immigration may still require the applicant to appear in person depending on the case.
What are the travel limits for residency visas?
Temporary residents must not exceed 90 days outside Ecuador if they plan to apply for permanent residence. Permanent residents face stricter limits, especially during the first two years.
If you are planning to apply for an Ecuador visa in 2026, do not assume the online system is simple.
A proper legal review before applying can prevent costly mistakes, reduce delays, and protect your immigration status.
If you are unsure how these updates affect your situation, we invite you to schedule a free 15-minute consultation with our legal team.
We will review your case and guide you through the entire process with clarity and confidence.
Expat Law Group
Helping you build your future in Ecuador - legally and securely.
