Ecuador’s beautiful landscapes and rich culture have made it a popular destination for expats and travelers alike. In 2025, updates to visa regulations reflect changes in the Ecuadorian basic salary, leading to adjustments in income and investment requirements. Understanding these updates is essential for a smooth application process and successful adaptation.
Ecuador has a clear path to residency. First, apply for a temporary residency visa. After that, you can proceed for a permanent residency visa.
Keep in mind that each case is different and must be evaluated. There are many variables that a specialist must evaluate in order to guide you and make the decision about which process is best for you.
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Temporary Residency Visa | The initial step for living in Ecuador. |
| Permanent Residency Visa | Applied after holding a temporary visa. |
For a hassle-free application, make sure every document meets Ecuador's visa requirements. Proper preparation ensures a smoother experience at immigration offices or online applications.
Ecuador has been known for its stable economy and relatively low inflation rate compared to other Latin American countries.
Ecuador’s use of the US Dollar as its legal currency and its comparatively low visa application costs make it an attractive option for expats, especially when compared to countries in Latin America, North America, and Europe.
In 2024, Ecuador had a basic salary of $460. The "Family Basket," which represents the average cost a family of four needs to cover essentials like rent, food, and education, was valued at $846.38 in Quito and $834.03 in Cuenca by the end of the year.
In 2025, the basic salary in Ecuador is set to increase to $470, impacting various aspects of daily life. Since many costs and requirements are pegged to the basic salary, this change will influence items such as updated income thresholds for residency visas. However, the government has not yet announced any adjustments to visa fees, such as the $50 application form cost.
If you are applying for a temporary or permanent residency visa, it's essential to understand these new requirements.
Ecuador offers several visa options for individuals seeking residency. Before you can apply for permanent status, you must first secure a temporary resident visa. All temporary visas guarantee you a stay of 2 years, and then if you meet certain requirements, you can apply for permanent residence.
| Visa | Who Can Apply? | 2025 Monthly Income Requirements |
| Retirement | Retirees or pensioners receive a stable income source and it needs to be justified by a legal document showing the information, for example: Social Security Letter. | At least $1410 |
| Digital Nomad | Business owners outside of Ecuador or remote workers. With documents that support this information, such as company registration in your own name and in Active status, employment contract, or legal document that supports that you are a remote worker with a fixed monthly or variable salary but that meets the base of 3 basic salaries. | At least $1410 |
| Investor | Any person who has invested in the Ecuadorian economy for at least 100 basic salaries ($47,000) and with supporting documents. | At least $470 |
| Professional | Any person with a Degree registered in Ecuador (This visa consists of the first fundamental part for the registration of your degree in the SENESCYT). | At least $470 |
When applying for a visa, watch out for these common pitfalls:
Family members may benefit from a Dependent & Marriage Visa. This relies on the legal residency of the primary visa holder.
Key requirements for family applications include:
For now, there have been no changes and the same rules of 2024 remain, you must first hold a Temporary Resident Visa. This visa requires you to stay in Ecuador for 21 months out of a 2-year period. You can apply in person or online through e-visas.
After submitting your application, you will face some travel limitations. In the first two years, you cannot travel outside Ecuador for more than 90 days. In the third and fourth years, this limit extends to 180 days. Once you attain a Permanent status, you may leave Ecuador for up to two years without risking your residency status.
Current Requirements and Expectations as a Tourist
Visitors who exceed their 90-day tourist limit have a chance to extend their stay. You must apply for the extension within 10 days after your tourist visa expires. However, failing to do so will cost you a $470 fine in addition to the extension fee and you will be able to apply for it until the 120 day.
Requirements may vary and the best option is always to be informed. Before embarking on the process, you will have many questions and a professional can guide you to find the visa that best suits your needs.
It is important to review all the documentation beforehand, even if you think you have all the documents, a professional can review them and verify that the information contained is correct or meets the parameters required by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Making mistakes during this part of the process can result in a much more expensive and time-consuming application process.
Staying informed about Ecuador's evolving visa landscape is key for expats and future residents planning a move. By understanding the latest requirements and preparing your documents carefully, you can simplify the process and avoid unnecessary delays. Whether you're retiring, working remotely, or reuniting with family, Ecuador offers a variety of residency paths to match your situation.
Schedule a free consultation with one of our specialists and you can begin the new path to becoming a temporary or permanent resident in Ecuador.
The proof of income changed for visa applications this 2025?
Yes, since the new Ecuadorian Salary is $470, the amounts on your bank statements should align with the new amount.
Will these changes affect the cost of obtaining a visa?
While exact costs are still being finalized, applicants should anticipate potential increases in fees associated with application processes and document verification. Keeping abreast of all costs will be essential for budget planning.
Can applicants appeal visa decisions?
Yes, applicants who face visa denials will typically have the right to appeal. It’s essential to understand the grounds for denial and the appeals process, which varies by visa category. Seeking legal assistance can help navigate these situations effectively.
Where can I find official updates on the visa changes?
For official updates, the best sources are the Ecuadorian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the immigration department. They often issue news releases regarding upcoming regulations and processes, ensuring applicants have access to accurate and timely information.
