The Ecuador Investment Visa unlocks a world of opportunities amid the captivating landscapes and rich culture of this South American nation. Understanding the intricacies of Ecuador's visa system is essential for investors eager to tap into its potential. Temporary and permanent visas are available for qualified individuals.
Choosing the right visa aligned with your investment goals is vital in harnessing Ecuador's growing market and seeking guidance from experienced professionals can help navigate the selection process expertly.
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Navigating the pathways of international relocation or investment - especially in a South American country brings with it the need to comprehensively understand local immigration policies. Ecuador, a country with a welcoming stance towards foreign nationals, offers a transparent visa system comprising both temporary and permanent residence visas tailored to various purposes.
Ecuador organizes its visas into three key categories:
The initial first step for most visitors is to obtain the 90 day tourism stamp. For nationals of many countries (including US & Canada), this is issued on arrival when entering the country. For a small number of countries, this option is not available and you'll need to obtain a tourism visa prior to arrival.
If you need more than these initial 90 days, then you can also apply for a tourist visa extension which will last a futher 90 days.
Then you can apply for a temporary visa, which allows expats to live in the country for two years.
Navigating towards permanent residency, however, requires adherence to certain mandates, such as not exceeding a 90-day absence from Ecuador during the initial 21 months. All visa types can extend their status to their family, it is called dependent visas with only a small addition to the monthly income requirement. Moreover, when preparing documentation for the application process, attention to detail is crucial. Documents must adhere to strict guidelines and have different protocols depending on the applicant's home country.
Diving into the Ecuadorian market as an investor entails a prerequisite comprehension of the visa infrastructure, especially understanding the specificities associated with this type. With a minimum threshold for investments in business, CD’s, or real estate, this visa is a gateway for entrepreneurs and property buyers to establish their footprint in Ecuador.
Ecuador Visa Types:
| Type | Purpose | Validity Period | Renewals? |
| Tourist Visa | Tourism | 90 days | No, you can apply once for a visa extension |
| Temporary Resident Visa | Work, Study, Investment, Retirement, Rentier, Professional, Digital Nomad Visa for remote workers, etc. | 2 years | Yes |
| Permanent Resident Visa | Long-term residency | Indefinitely after temporary | Indefinite |
When considering an investment in Ecuador, selecting the correct visa is pivotal. Ecuador's visa by investment provides a cost-effective pathway for foreign nationals, with a minimum investment. The exigible amount is fairly low in comparison to other nations, making it an attractive option for many investors.
Before committing, it is important to contemplate various factors:
Here are some key expenses to consider in your application process:
Your process requires professional advice and there is a wide variety of cases, each case must be evaluated and costs may vary but usually, the standard price is around $600-700 dollars for the assistance of a specialist to handle your visa application case and who can advise you throughout the entire process. Note, some visa providers will charge a lot more. We believe in fair pricing.
Familiarize yourself with the process through official resources such as the Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores. Understand that your investment needs to flow directly into the Ecuadorian economy. Whether you opt to buy shares of an existing local company or establish a new one, ensure that it's properly registered with the Superintendence of Companies and Securities. If you decide to deposit the money in a bank, verify that they can provide you with the necessary documentation. Careful research at this phase lays a solid foundation for a successful application.
Table: Ecuador Investment Visa Requirements
| Requirement | Detail |
| Valid Passport | 6+ months of validity |
| Apostilles/Authentications | All original documents submitted. You can find Apostilled services in your country if it's part of the Hague Convention. |
| Investment | $46,000 USD or + |
| Investment Options | - Real estate: Must be registered in any Property Registry in Ecuador. - Company shares: Minimum value of Ecuadorian company shares must be $46,000. - Certificate of Deposit: Certificate of Deposit at an eligible Ecuadorian Bank or Co-Operativa. You can take out the money after 2 years. |
| Police Background Checks | From your country of origin and if you have lived in another country for the last 5 years you have to bring it from there too. U.S. citizens need to show FBI background checks and Police reports. |
| Birth Certificates or Proof of Relationship (for dependents) | Up-to-date marriage licenses or birth certificates no older than six months are required when applying for dependents' visas. |
| Translations | All non-Spanish documents. Must be signed by a public notary in Ecuador. |
| Visa Validity | 2 years. Can be renewed. |
| Monthly Income | Minimum income of $460 / Ecuador Basic Salary into your account. |
Note: Any of the government offices can ask you for extra documentation in temporary residency visas like immigration status, you can get it in immigration offices all over the country and they can ask for health insurance.
Remember, each document needs to be current – dated within six months prior to submission – to ensure their validity in the eyes of Ecuadorian authorities.
Special attention
The submission (application form) must be in Spanish. This is time-sensitive and requires careful planning; it's prudent to initiate the whole process 3-4 months prior to your desired appointment. The complete process, including this step, tends to last between 30-45 days for approval and issuance of the visa. Now with the new e-Visas system process can be done online even before you arrive in Ecuador, this platform it's new, so assistance is crucial at this point.
The interview is an integral component of the application process, although it may not be required for everyone. If summoned, present yourself punctually and be prepared to discuss your investment and intentions in Ecuador with frankness and clarity. Your responses and interactions will contribute to the assessment of your eligibility.
Vigilance is key while awaiting your application's outcome, which typically spans 30-45 days. Engaging a visa agent can be advantageous in managing the labyrinth of steps including documentation, appointments, and tight deadlines.
Once you receive notification of visa approval, the next step is to get your new ID in one of the principal government offices around the country, this process can be done in one day. With your temporary status, you're entitled to a two-year stay.
An obvious positive is that the investment costs required to become a resident in Ecuador are quite low (we're talking five-figure amounts here). You also are free to leave the country for up to 90 days, which gives you a substanial degree of flexibility for exploring other countries.
It's beneficial to have the ability to do transactions in USD, and there are numerous attractive property deals to be found for those who are open to exploration.
By investment option, you can eventually lead to citizenship after four years. As a result, this can provide a passport allowing visa-free travel throughout much of Latin America and the Caribbean, as well as to other key countries in Asia.
Engaging the services of an immigration attorney or visa specialist is often a wise decision. Here's why:
In essence, our service with an attorney or a visa specialist not only simplifies the process but also ensures that you meet all legal requirements effectively.
What is the minimum investment for an Ecuador investment visa?
The minimum is $46,000, which is invested in the local Ecuadorian economy. No monthly income is required for this visa.
What investment do I need to qualify for this visa?
Investors have the option to invest in a local company, purchase shares in an Ecuadorian company registered with the Superintendence of Companies and Securities, or set up a new company in Ecuador.
Do I have to physically be in Ecuador to obtain my investment visa?
No, you have two options, before arrive (contact your specialist to start this process) or start the process in Ecuador if that is the case you must apply shortly after your arrival, during your 90 days of tourism. Save yourself the hassle of returning to your home country!
Which types of residency visas are available in Ecuador?
Ecuador offers two main categories of residency visas: temporary and permanent. Within these categories, there are several different types, including the investor type.
What documents do I need to apply for the investor visa?
The investment visa requirements vary depending on the type of investment and visa category. Generally, you may need to present bank statements, investment certificates, birth certificates, and the visa application form.
Can I get my permanent residency with a temporary one?
Yes, you don't have to leave the country for more than 90 days during your temporary residence visa.
Do I need private health insurance?
Maybe. It's not an official requirement for this visa type, but any official of the Ministry can ask for it in case they need it like an extra document.
What travel restrictions apply?
There are none to maintain this visa. But, if you want to apply for permanent status you can't leave the country for more than 90 days in 2 years or 21 consecutive months.
Can my family apply for this temporary visa too?
Yes, if you're the primary visa holder your family (kids, spouse or legal partner) can apply with a dependent visa.
Recommendation for a Cuenca real estate agency
There are numerous property options to consider for this visa type all over Ecuador. Cuenca is a popular area to consider. If you are looking to buy real estate in Cuenca, we suggest contacting YapaTree Properties for assistance.
