Ecuador
State of Exception: Ecuador is not in a state of exception, according to National COE Resolutions - May 20, 2021 . Currently, the national COE has jurisdiction over decisions involving: teleworking, health, road axes on highways and safety, and others. For their part, the cantonal COE have authority over: autonomous commerce, the use of public spaces, crowds, beaches, capacity and nightclubs.
The evolution of coronavirus is monitored through the Ecuador Coronavirus Platform . For more information visit the website.
Sanitary measures have been arranged against COVID 19, among which are:
Use of Mask : The National COE Resolution - April 28, 2022 eliminated the mandatory use of face masks in open and closed spaces. There are still exceptions. The use is recommended in:
- Closed spaces will continue to be mandatory in the case of health centers, hospitals, and health establishments, both for the personnel who work in them, as well as for patients and visitors.
- closed and open spaces will be mandatory for people who present respiratory symptoms.
- closed and open places for people with aggravating conditions and in conditions of vulnerability.
- closed places such as public transport, air transport, classrooms of educational establishments of all levels and work spaces.
The National COE Resolution - May 05, 2022 and the National COE Resolution - May 17, 2022 They ratified the measure adopted in the session of April 28, by which it was defined that the use of a mask is not mandatory.
Handwashing : Wash your hands thoroughly and often using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer or soap and water. Respiratory hygiene: Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
Maintain good respiratory hygiene . That means covering your mouth and nose with a bent elbow or a tissue when you cough or sneeze. The used tissue must be disposed of immediately.
Physical distancing: Keep a minimum distance of 1 meter (3 feet) between you and anyone who is coughing or sneezing.
Airway:
- All travelers over 3 years of age must present the vaccination certificate with a QR code or valid vaccination card against COVID-19 with at least 14 days of validity after completing the scheme.
- Those who do not have these documents must present the negative result of a qualitative RT-PCR or antigen test carried out up to 72 hours prior to shipment to Ecuador.
- Passengers under 3 years old will not present these requirements.
- Any person who enters mainland Ecuador by international air must submit the Traveler's Health Declaration digitally when boarding the airline , it is available at the following link: https://declaracionsalud – msp.gob.ec/ , which must be presented only and compulsorily prior to boarding.
Land route:
Access the "Enabled entry points" section to find out which ones are in operation.
Airway:
- All travelers over 3 years of age must present the vaccination certificate with a QR code or valid vaccination card against COVID-19 with at least 14 days of validity after completing the scheme.
- Those who do not have these documents must present the negative result of a qualitative RT-PCR or antigen test carried out up to 72 hours prior to shipment to Ecuador.
- Passengers under 3 years old will not present these requirements.
- Any person who enters mainland Ecuador by international air must submit the Traveler's Health Declaration digitally when boarding the airline , it is available at the following link: https://declaracionsalud – msp.gob.ec/ , which must be presented only and compulsorily prior to boarding.
Land route:
Access the "Enabled entry points" section to find out which ones are in operation.
Airway:
- All travelers over 3 years of age must present the vaccination certificate with a QR code or valid vaccination card against COVID-19 with at least 14 days of validity after completing the scheme.
- Those who do not have these documents must present the negative result of a qualitative RT-PCR or antigen test carried out up to 72 hours prior to shipment to Ecuador.
- Passengers under 3 years old will not present these requirements.
- Any person who enters mainland Ecuador by international air must submit the Traveler's Health Declaration digitally when boarding the airline , it is available at the following link: https://declaracionsalud – msp.gob.ec/ , which must be presented only and compulsorily prior to boarding.
Land route:
Access the "Enabled entry points" section to find out which ones are in operation.
Airway
Foreign people:
- Valid and current travel document or identification document (minimum 6 months).
- Record of entry or exit in a format defined by the immigration control authority.
- Valid visa for cases established by law or the human mobility authority.
- The immigration control agent must verify the immigration status invoked by the foreign person at the time of their presentation at the official immigration control point.
- Declaration of health of the digital traveler (QR code), which must be presented prior to shipment to Ecuador.
Nationals:
- Passport
- National identity document
- Emergency passport or safe conduct.
- Declaration of health of the digital traveler (QR code), which must be presented prior to shipment to Ecuador.
Returnees:
They do not need to present the negative PCR test or the vaccination certificate, in case they arrive on humanitarian flights, in the context of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine .
Officials who are working in the conflict area by official mission are also exempted. Upon arrival in the national territory, they must undergo a diagnostic test for COVID-19. If they present a positive result, they must enter preventive isolation for 10 days.
land route
Ecuador and Colombia approved their digital vaccination certificates, at the Rumichaca bridge. Vaccination certificates can be scanned with a QR code on any mobile device.
Visas:
-Check here if your nationality requires a visa to enter the country. (List of Nationalities).
-In case your nationality requires a visa, enter here to learn about the different types of visas and the requirements to meet. (Types of visas and requirements).
Airway
Foreign people:
- Valid and current travel document or identification document (minimum 6 months).
- Record of entry or exit in a format defined by the immigration control authority.
- Valid visa for cases established by law or the human mobility authority.
- The immigration control agent must verify the immigration status invoked by the foreign person at the time of their presentation at the official immigration control point.
- Declaration of health of the digital traveler (QR code), which must be presented prior to shipment to Ecuador.
Nationals:
- Passport
- National identity document
- Emergency passport or safe conduct.
- Declaration of health of the digital traveler (QR code), which must be presented prior to shipment to Ecuador.
Returnees:
They do not need to present the negative PCR test or the vaccination certificate, in case they arrive on humanitarian flights, in the context of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine .
Officials who are working in the conflict area by official mission are also exempted. Upon arrival in the national territory, they must undergo a diagnostic test for COVID-19. If they present a positive result, they must enter preventive isolation for 10 days.
land route
Ecuador and Colombia approved their digital vaccination certificates, at the Rumichaca bridge. Vaccination certificates can be scanned with a QR code on any mobile device.
Visas:
-Check here if your nationality requires a visa to enter the country. (List of Nationalities).
-In case your nationality requires a visa, enter here to learn about the different types of visas and the requirements to meet. (Types of visas and requirements).
Airway
Foreign people:
- Valid and current travel document or identification document (minimum 6 months).
- Record of entry or exit in a format defined by the immigration control authority.
- Valid visa for cases established by law or the human mobility authority.
- The immigration control agent must verify the immigration status invoked by the foreign person at the time of their presentation at the official immigration control point.
- Declaration of health of the digital traveler (QR code), which must be presented prior to shipment to Ecuador.
Nationals:
- Passport
- National identity document
- Emergency passport or safe conduct.
- Declaration of health of the digital traveler (QR code), which must be presented prior to shipment to Ecuador.
Returnees:
They do not need to present the negative PCR test or the vaccination certificate, in case they arrive on humanitarian flights, in the context of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine .
Officials who are working in the conflict area by official mission are also exempted. Upon arrival in the national territory, they must undergo a diagnostic test for COVID-19. If they present a positive result, they must enter preventive isolation for 10 days.
land route
Ecuador and Colombia approved their digital vaccination certificates, at the Rumichaca bridge. Vaccination certificates can be scanned with a QR code on any mobile device.
Visas:
-Check here if your nationality requires a visa to enter the country. (List of Nationalities).
-In case your nationality requires a visa, enter here to learn about the different types of visas and the requirements to meet. (Types of visas and requirements).
Entry points enabled by air:
- Mariscal Sucre International Airport
- Jose Joaquin de Olmedo Airport
- Mariscal La Mar Airport
- Latacunga International Airport
- Santa Rosa Airport
- Carlos Concha Airport
- Eloy Alfaro Airport
- Baltra Airport
Entry points enabled by road :
Land borders remain closed to pedestrians, entry and exit of transport.
Exceptions:
The Binational Attention Centers on the Rumichaca border with Colombia and Huaquillas with Peru for foreign trade activities and entry of nationals and foreign residents according to requirements. For more details see: National COE Resolutions, June 10, 2021 .
Pedestrian flow is allowed and the entry and exit of all forms of transportation through Rumichaca , which links Ecuador and Colombia. For more details consult: National COE Resolutions, of December 17, 2021 .
Northern Border:
- San Miguel
- Carmel - The Victory
- Chiles - Tufiño
South Border:
- Alamor–Lalamor (International Bridge)
- Cariamanga – Ayabaca (Jimbura – Espíndola)
- Zumba – Namballe (La Balsa International Bridge)
- Border crossing over the Napo River (New Rocafuerte)
Entry points enabled by sea and river routes:
Cruise ships arriving in Ecuador through the ports of Guayaquil, Manta, Puerto Bolívar and Esmeraldas are authorized, when they comply with the protocols approved by the National COE. For more details, see Communiqué No. 45 , from the Ministry of Tourism.
Entry points enabled by air:
- Mariscal Sucre International Airport
- Jose Joaquin de Olmedo Airport
- Mariscal La Mar Airport
- Latacunga International Airport
- Santa Rosa Airport
- Carlos Concha Airport
- Eloy Alfaro Airport
- Baltra Airport
Entry points enabled by road :
Land borders remain closed to pedestrians, entry and exit of transport.
Exceptions:
The Binational Attention Centers on the Rumichaca border with Colombia and Huaquillas with Peru for foreign trade activities and entry of nationals and foreign residents according to requirements. For more details see: National COE Resolutions, June 10, 2021 .
Pedestrian flow is allowed and the entry and exit of all forms of transportation through Rumichaca , which links Ecuador and Colombia. For more details consult: National COE Resolutions, of December 17, 2021 .
Northern Border:
- San Miguel
- Carmel - The Victory
- Chiles - Tufiño
South Border:
- Alamor–Lalamor (International Bridge)
- Cariamanga – Ayabaca (Jimbura – Espíndola)
- Zumba – Namballe (La Balsa International Bridge)
- Border crossing over the Napo River (New Rocafuerte)
Entry points enabled by sea and river routes:
Cruise ships arriving in Ecuador through the ports of Guayaquil, Manta, Puerto Bolívar and Esmeraldas are authorized, when they comply with the protocols approved by the National COE. For more details, see Communiqué No. 45 , from the Ministry of Tourism.
Entry points enabled by air:
- Mariscal Sucre International Airport
- Jose Joaquin de Olmedo Airport
- Mariscal La Mar Airport
- Latacunga International Airport
- Santa Rosa Airport
- Carlos Concha Airport
- Eloy Alfaro Airport
- Baltra Airport
Entry points enabled by road :
Land borders remain closed to pedestrians, entry and exit of transport.
Exceptions:
The Binational Attention Centers on the Rumichaca border with Colombia and Huaquillas with Peru for foreign trade activities and entry of nationals and foreign residents according to requirements. For more details see: National COE Resolutions, June 10, 2021 .
Pedestrian flow is allowed and the entry and exit of all forms of transportation through Rumichaca , which links Ecuador and Colombia. For more details consult: National COE Resolutions, of December 17, 2021 .
Northern Border:
- San Miguel
- Carmel - The Victory
- Chiles - Tufiño
South Border:
- Alamor–Lalamor (International Bridge)
- Cariamanga – Ayabaca (Jimbura – Espíndola)
- Zumba – Namballe (La Balsa International Bridge)
- Border crossing over the Napo River (New Rocafuerte)
Entry points enabled by sea and river routes:
Cruise ships arriving in Ecuador through the ports of Guayaquil, Manta, Puerto Bolívar and Esmeraldas are authorized, when they comply with the protocols approved by the National COE. For more details, see Communiqué No. 45 , from the Ministry of Tourism.
The vaccination certificate or card with a complete scheme is mandatory for interprovincial, intraprovincial and tourism transport.
No passenger will be able to travel if they do not carry their ID and if they have not been vaccinated.
It is especially recommended to wear a mask in closed places such as public transport.
The vaccination certificate or card with a complete scheme is mandatory for interprovincial, intraprovincial and tourism transport.
No passenger will be able to travel if they do not carry their ID and if they have not been vaccinated.
It is especially recommended to wear a mask in closed places such as public transport.
The vaccination certificate or card with a complete scheme is mandatory for interprovincial, intraprovincial and tourism transport.
No passenger will be able to travel if they do not carry their ID and if they have not been vaccinated.
It is especially recommended to wear a mask in closed places such as public transport.
Aerial
There are mandatory documents to enter continental and insular Ecuador by air.
It is necessary to carry out forty, according to the country of transit or previous stay.
People who wish to travel to Ecuador must deliver the Traveler's Health Declaration form to the airline at the time of boarding.
Maritime
Aerial
There are mandatory documents to enter continental and insular Ecuador by air.
It is necessary to carry out forty, according to the country of transit or previous stay.
People who wish to travel to Ecuador must deliver the Traveler's Health Declaration form to the airline at the time of boarding.
Maritime
Aerial
There are mandatory documents to enter continental and insular Ecuador by air.
It is necessary to carry out forty, according to the country of transit or previous stay.
People who wish to travel to Ecuador must deliver the Traveler's Health Declaration form to the airline at the time of boarding.
Maritime
Aerial
There are mandatory documents to enter continental and insular Ecuador by air.
It is necessary to carry out forty, according to the country of transit or previous stay.
People who wish to travel to Ecuador must deliver the Traveler's Health Declaration form to the airline at the time of boarding.
Maritime
Aerial
There are mandatory documents to enter continental and insular Ecuador by air.
It is necessary to carry out forty, according to the country of transit or previous stay.
People who wish to travel to Ecuador must deliver the Traveler's Health Declaration form to the airline at the time of boarding.
Maritime
Aerial
There are mandatory documents to enter continental and insular Ecuador by air.
It is necessary to carry out forty, according to the country of transit or previous stay.
People who wish to travel to Ecuador must deliver the Traveler's Health Declaration form to the airline at the time of boarding.
Maritime
The Organic Law of Health of Ecuador guarantees health care to all people without any discrimination.
Migrants who require medical care in the event of an urgency or emergency can go to a public or private facility regardless of their immigration status.
If you have a fever, cough and shortness of breath, call 171 to assess your condition.
If you need an appointment, you can schedule Appointments at the Ministry of Public Health. Self-assessment: https://www.coronavirusecuador.com/programa-covid-19/
Aerial
There are mandatory documents to enter continental and insular Ecuador by air.
It is necessary to carry out forty, according to the country of transit or previous stay.
People who wish to travel to Ecuador must deliver the Traveler's Health Declaration form to the airline at the time of boarding.
Maritime
Aerial
There are mandatory documents to enter continental and insular Ecuador by air.
It is necessary to carry out forty, according to the country of transit or previous stay.
People who wish to travel to Ecuador must deliver the Traveler's Health Declaration form to the airline at the time of boarding.
Maritime
The Organic Law of Health of Ecuador guarantees health care to all people without any discrimination.
Migrants who require medical care in the event of an urgency or emergency can go to a public or private facility regardless of their immigration status.
If you have a fever, cough and shortness of breath, call 171 to assess your condition.
If you need an appointment, you can schedule Appointments at the Ministry of Public Health. Self-assessment: https://www.coronavirusecuador.com/programa-covid-19/
Aerial
There are mandatory documents to enter continental and insular Ecuador by air.
It is necessary to carry out forty, according to the country of transit or previous stay.
People who wish to travel to Ecuador must deliver the Traveler's Health Declaration form to the airline at the time of boarding.
Maritime
Aerial
There are mandatory documents to enter continental and insular Ecuador by air.
It is necessary to carry out forty, according to the country of transit or previous stay.
People who wish to travel to Ecuador must deliver the Traveler's Health Declaration form to the airline at the time of boarding.
Maritime
The Organic Law of Health of Ecuador guarantees health care to all people without any discrimination.
Migrants who require medical care in the event of an urgency or emergency can go to a public or private facility regardless of their immigration status.
If you have a fever, cough and shortness of breath, call 171 to assess your condition.
If you need an appointment, you can schedule Appointments at the Ministry of Public Health. Self-assessment: https://www.coronavirusecuador.com/programa-covid-19/
Aerial
There are mandatory documents to enter continental and insular Ecuador by air.
It is necessary to carry out forty, according to the country of transit or previous stay.
People who wish to travel to Ecuador must deliver the Traveler's Health Declaration form to the airline at the time of boarding.
Maritime
Aerial
There are mandatory documents to enter continental and insular Ecuador by air.
It is necessary to carry out forty, according to the country of transit or previous stay.
People who wish to travel to Ecuador must deliver the Traveler's Health Declaration form to the airline at the time of boarding.
Maritime
Nacionales de MERCOSUR
Regularization
Regularization - Mercosur
In order to reside and work in Ecuador, you must complete the respective procedure to regularize your immigration status, depending on the type of visa you apply for.
For the Temporary or Permanent MERCOSUR visa, the requirements are: nationals of the countries that are part of the Mercosur Residence Agreement. The procedures can be done in person at the zonal coordination in Ecuador or at the Consular Offices abroad.
The regularization process follows these stages :
- Get a turn on the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Human Mobility (MREMH) to submit the visa application.
- Presentation of the application: Payment of the fee for the application and delivery of the physical file in a folder in the Visa and Naturalization Office of the MREMH
- Identification order.
- Presentation of passport for placement of visa.
- Approval.
For more details consult the page of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Human Mobility (MREMH) .
Normative foundations
Constitution of the Republic : Article 9 of the Magna Carta guarantees the principle of equality for people in human mobility. In number 2 of article 11, it is established that no one may be discriminated against, among others, because of their migratory status or place of birth and provides that the law will sanction all forms of discrimination, expressly guaranteeing the principle of non-discrimination with respect to the migratory condition of people in human mobility. In its article 41, it recognizes the rights of asylum and refuge in accordance with the law and international human rights instruments, granting this population group special protection to guarantee the full exercise of their rights and prohibiting criminal sanctions for entry or stay in an irregular situation. , also respecting the principle of non-refoulement.
Organic Law of Foreign Service : Article 1 of the Organic Law of Foreign Service establishes that the Foreign Service is in charge of fulfilling the international management of the State, in accordance with the constitution, international law and laws.
Organic Law of Human Mobility (LOMH) : article 2 of the LOMH establishes, among other principles: free human mobility, prohibition of criminalization of migration, protection of Ecuadorians abroad, equality before the law and non-discrimination, pro- person in human mobility, best interest of the girl, boy and adolescent, non-refoulement and regional integration in harmony with the Constitution and human rights treaties.
Official sources of information
Filing
Mercosur permanent residence in the host country
a) Place of management
Zonal Coordinations of Ecuador.
Monday to Friday from 08:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Check the list of Zonal Addresses before entering the country.
b) Digital platforms for such purposes
- Services provided by the MREMH during the health emergency
- Visa Application Form
- Information of the Zonal Directions
c) Requirements
All foreigners from the Member States of the Mercosur Residence Agreement may request temporary authorization (valid for 2 years) and permanent residence if they enter the country, and intend to carry out legal activities as part of regular immigration.
The procedures in the Zonal Directorates in Ecuador:
- Start the request for the procedure in accordance with the guidelines of each of the service provider offices in the country. Detail of each office of the Zonal Directorates .
- Follow the instructions that will be sent to your email.
Necessary documentation:
- Color photograph in JPG format, maximum 1 MB, 5 x 5 cm (2 x 2 inches), updated, white background, neutral facial expression (preferred) or natural smile, eyes open
- Original and photocopy of valid passport.
- MERCOSUR Temporary Residence Certificate (The visa application must be submitted within 90 days before expiration)
- Ecuadorian criminal record certificate. Documents are only required for people over 18 years of age.
- Prove that the applicant has legal living conditions.
- Payment of fixed rates (Consular and Diplomatic Tariff).
*Minors
For minor applicants, the minor's birth certificate will be attached, affixed or legalized and translated if necessary.
*Special requirements:
The Zonal Coordinations or the Consulates of Ecuador may summon the person requesting the migratory category and/or their legal representative to an interview to verify the information provided or request information related to the procedure.
Tariffs :
- Visa application: $50.
- Visa granting: $250. VAT is not charged.
Seniors (65 and older) receive 50% off nationwide.
The 100% exemption applies at the national level for people with disabilities equal to or greater than 30%, who have a disability card issued by the Ministry of Public Health of Ecuador .
d) Documentary formalities
Documents issued abroad must respect the apostille regulations.
e) Official sources of information
Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Human Mobility (MREMH)
f) Regulatory foundations
The government of Ecuador adhered to the Mercosur Residency Agreement in June 2011 and ratified it through Official Registry No. 209/2014 with internal regulations located in the MREMH Ministerial Agreement No. 000031/2014. The principles of the Agreement and the 2008 Constitution converge in the approach that guarantees and promotes equal rights for nationals and foreigners. At the beginning of 2017, the Organic Law on Human Mobility was approved , which highlights "the portability of their human rights, regardless of their immigration conditions, nationality and place of origin, which will lead to the gradual termination of immigration," according to the purpose of the Agreement.
Mercosur temporary residence in the host country
a) Place of management
Zonal Coordinations of Ecuador.
Monday to Friday from 08:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Check the list of Zonal Addresses before entering the country.
b) Digital platforms for such purposes
- Services provided by the MREMH during the health emergency
- Visa Application Form
- Information of the Zonal Directions
c) Requirements
All foreigners from the Member States of the Mercosur Residence Agreement may request temporary authorization (valid for 2 years) and permanent residence if they enter the country, and intend to carry out legal activities as part of regular immigration.
The procedures in the Zonal Directorates in Ecuador:
- Start the request for the procedure in accordance with the guidelines of each of the service provider offices in the country. Detail of each office of the Zonal Directorates .
- Follow the instructions that will be sent to your email.
Necessary documentation:
- Color photograph in JPG format, maximum 1 MB, 5 x 5 cm (2 x 2 inches), updated, white background, neutral facial expression (preferred) or natural smile with open eyes.
- Original and photocopy of valid passport.
- Original criminal record certificate from your country of origin or from your place of residence for the last five years, translated, apostilled or legalized. It is valid for one hundred and eighty (180) days from the date of issuance of the certificate until the last time the party entered the country. Certificates issued by federal governments are valid as long as they include a criminal record at the state level. The document is only required for people over 18 years of age.
- Payment of fees (Consular Fee).
- Other documents required by the competent authority.
Duty:
- Visa Application Form: $50.00
- Authorized Visa: $200.00. VAT is not charged.
Seniors (65 and older) receive 50% off nationwide.
The 100% exemption applies at the national level for people with disabilities equal to or greater than 30%, who have a disability card issued by the Ministry of Public Health of Ecuador .
d) Documentary formalities
Documents issued abroad must respect the apostille regulations.
e) Official sources of information
Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Human Mobility (MREMH)
f) Regulatory foundations
The government of Ecuador adhered to the Mercosur Residency Agreement in June 2011 and ratified it through Official Registry No. 209/2014 with internal regulations located in the MREMH Ministerial Agreement No. 000031/2014. The principles of the Agreement and the 2008 Constitution converge in the approach that guarantees and promotes equal rights for nationals and foreigners. At the beginning of 2017, the Organic Law on Human Mobility was approved , which highlights "the portability of their human rights, regardless of their immigration conditions, nationality and place of origin, which will lead to the gradual termination of immigration," according to the purpose of the Agreement.
Mercosur permanent residence abroad
a) Place of management
Consular Offices Abroad.
Monday to Friday from 08:30 a.m. to 02:00 p.m.
Check the list of embassies and consulates abroad .
b) Digital platforms for such purposes
c) Requirements
All foreigners from the Member States of the Mercosur Residence Agreement may request temporary authorization (valid for 2 years) and permanent residence if they enter the country, and intend to carry out legal activities as part of regular immigration.
Procedures at Consular Offices abroad :
- Go to the Consular Office and/or Counseling Unit closest to your place of residence.
- Register on the virtual consulate site .
- Select the procedure according to the immigration category and upload the requirements in PDF format.
- Make the visa application payment (Consular and Diplomatic Fee) and select the payment method, once authorized by the consulate.
- The consulate will authorize the payment of the visa fee, according to the Consular Fee.
- Select an appointment date to complete the interview and obtain a visa. Dates may change depending on the availability of consulate services.
- Provide your personal email address;
- Check the receipt of the electronic visa issued in your email.
Necessary documentation :
- Color photograph in JPG format, maximum 1 MB, 5 x 5 cm (2 x 2 inches), updated, white background, neutral facial expression (preferred) or natural smile, eyes open
- Original and photocopy of valid passport.
- MERCOSUR Temporary Residence Certificate (The visa application must be submitted within 90 days before expiration)
- Ecuadorian criminal record certificate. Documents are only required for people over 18 years of age.
- Prove that the applicant has legal living conditions.
- Payment of fixed rates (Consular and Diplomatic Tariff).
*Minors
For minor applicants, the minor's birth certificate will be attached, affixed or legalized and translated if necessary.
*Special requirements:
The Zonal Coordinations or the Consulates of Ecuador may summon the person requesting the migratory category and/or their legal representative to an interview to verify the information provided or request information related to the procedure.
Tariffs :
- Visa application: $50.
- Visa granting: $250. VAT is not charged.
Seniors (65 and older) receive 50% off nationwide.
The 100% exemption applies at the national level for people with disabilities equal to or greater than 30%, who have a disability card issued by the Ministry of Public Health of Ecuador .
d) Documentary formalities
Documents issued abroad must respect the apostille regulations.
e) Official sources of information
Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Human Mobility (MREMH)
f) Regulatory foundations
The government of Ecuador adhered to the Mercosur Residency Agreement in June 2011 and ratified it through Official Registry No. 209/2014 with internal regulations located in the MREMH Ministerial Agreement No. 000031/2014. The principles of the Agreement and the 2008 Constitution converge in the approach that guarantees and promotes equal rights for nationals and foreigners. At the beginning of 2017, the Organic Law on Human Mobility was approved , which highlights "the portability of their human rights, regardless of their immigration conditions, nationality and place of origin, which will lead to the gradual termination of immigration," according to the purpose of the Agreement.
Mercosur temporary residence abroad
a) Place of management
Consular Offices Abroad.
Monday to Friday from 08:30 a.m. to 02:00 p.m.
Check the list of embassies and consulates abroad .
b) Digital platforms for such purposes
c) Requirements
All foreigners from the Member States of the Mercosur Residence Agreement may request temporary authorization (valid for 2 years).
Procedures at Consular Offices abroad :
- Go to the Consular Office and/or Counseling Unit closest to your place of residence.
- Register on the virtual consulate site .
- Select the procedure according to the immigration category and upload the requirements in PDF format.
- Make the payment for the visa application (Consular and Diplomatic Fee) and select the payment method, once authorized by the consulate.
- The consulate will authorize the payment of the visa fee, according to the Consular Fee.
- Select an appointment date to complete the interview and obtain a visa. Dates may change depending on the availability of consulate services.
- Provide your personal email address;
- Check the receipt of the electronic visa issued in your email.
Necessary documentation :
- Color photograph in JPG format, maximum 1 MB, 5 x 5 cm (2 x 2 inches), updated, white background, neutral facial expression (preferred) or natural smile with open eyes.
- Original and photocopy of valid passport.
- Original criminal record certificate from your country of origin or your place of residence for the last five years, translated, apostilled or legalized. It is valid for one hundred and eighty (180) days from the date of issuance of the certificate until the last time the party entered the country. Certificates issued by federal governments are valid as long as they include a criminal record at the state level. The document is only required for people over 18 years of age.
- Payment of fees (Consular Fee).
- Other documents required by the competent authority, when requested.
Tariffs :
- Visa Application Form: $50.00
- Authorized Visa: $200.00. VAT is not charged.
Seniors (65 and older) receive 50% off nationwide.
The 100% exemption applies at the national level for people with disabilities equal to or greater than 30%, who have a disability card issued by the Ministry of Public Health of Ecuador .
d) Documentary formalities
Documents issued abroad must respect the apostille regulations.
e) Official sources of information
Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Human Mobility (MREMH)
f) Regulatory foundations
The government of Ecuador adhered to the Mercosur Residency Agreement in June 2011 and ratified it through Official Registry No. 209/2014 with internal regulations located in the MREMH Ministerial Agreement No. 000031/2014. The principles of the Agreement and the 2008 Constitution converge in the approach that guarantees and promotes equal rights for nationals and foreigners. At the beginning of 2017, the Organic Law on Human Mobility was approved , which highlights "the portability of their human rights, regardless of their immigration conditions, nationality and place of origin, which will lead to the gradual termination of immigration," according to the purpose of the Agreement.
Nacionales de otros países
Regularization
Regularization - Other nationalities
In Ecuador there are different alternatives to regularize the immigration status of foreigners.
It is important to know that South Americans may not be inadmissible or deported when they have re-entered the country after having started the process of regularizing their immigration status until it is resolved.
Still, when a foreign person has not regularized their migratory situation in Ecuador within the term established according to the specificity of each case, the migratory control authority will notify them of the obligation to leave the country within a period of thirty days, unless Once this period is met, a deportation procedure will be initiated.
In this way, if you are irregular in Ecuador, you must apply for one of the temporary or permanent residence visas. For this, you will need a series of requirements that include a valid passport, a criminal record certificate, the payment of fees for the application and issuance of visas, and some specific requirements for each category.
Once you have the documents, you can request an appointment online , at the chancelleries or zonal addresses, in order to continue your regularization process and where you will receive information about the other steps to follow.
Normative foundations
Constitution of the Republic : Article 9 of the Magna Carta guarantees the principle of equality for people in human mobility. In number 2 of article 11, it is established that no one may be discriminated against, among others, because of their migratory status or place of birth and provides that the law will sanction all forms of discrimination, expressly guaranteeing the principle of non-discrimination with respect to the migratory condition of people in human mobility. In its article 41, it recognizes the rights of asylum and refuge in accordance with the law and international human rights instruments, granting this population group special protection to guarantee the full exercise of their rights and prohibiting criminal sanctions for entry or stay in an irregular situation. , also respecting the principle of non-refoulement.
Organic Law of Foreign Service : Article 1 of the Organic Law of Foreign Service establishes that the Foreign Service is in charge of fulfilling the international management of the State, in accordance with the constitution, international law and laws.
Organic Law of Human Mobility (LOMH) : article 2 of the LOMH establishes, among other principles: free human mobility, prohibition of criminalization of migration, protection of Ecuadorians abroad, equality before the law and non-discrimination, pro- person in human mobility, best interest of the girl, boy and adolescent, non-refoulement and regional integration in harmony with the Constitution and human rights treaties.
Official sources of information
Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Human Mobility (MREMH): https://www.gob.ec/mremh .
Filing
Permanent residence in the receiving country
a) Place of management
Zonal Coordinations of Ecuador.
Monday to Friday from 08:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Check the list of Zonal Addresses before entering the country.
b) Digital platforms for such purposes
- Services provided by the MREMH during the health emergency
- Visa Application Form
- Information of the Zonal Directions
c) Requirements
For those who are not in Ecuador and need to apply for one of the permanent residence visas. To do this, you will need a number of requirements, including a valid passport, proof of a criminal record, payment of fees to apply for and issue the visa, and some specific requirements for each visa. Here the main ones:
- Agreements : foreign persons who intend to settle in the country and who prove to be part of an Agreement.
- Permanence greater than 21 with temporary residence in Ecuador : foreigners who intend to settle in the country and who prove temporary residence in Ecuador greater than 21 months.
- Foreign minor or person with a disability who depends on an Ecuadorian person or a foreigner who has permanent residence : foreign minors or people with disabilities who depend on an Ecuadorian person or a foreigner who has permanent residence and who intend to settle in the country.
- Mercosur Amparo and Ecuador-Venezuela Migratory Statute : foreigners who are not nationals of Mercosur or the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela are covered by holders of these migratory conditions.
- Marriage or de facto union with an Ecuadorian or foreigner holding an indefinite or permanent visa : foreign persons who prove a marriage bond or de facto union with Ecuadorian nationals or a foreign person holding an indefinite visa.
- Foreign person up to the second degree of consanguinity or affinity of an Ecuadorian citizen or a foreign citizen with permanent residence in Ecuador : foreign persons who intend to settle in the country to carry out legal activities and who prove to be relatives within the second degree of consanguinity or affinity of an Ecuadorian citizen or a foreign citizen with permanent residence in Ecuador.
In general, the procedures in the zonal addresses in Ecuador are the following:
Face-to-face
- Go to the Zonal Addresses closest to the place of residence.
- Request an appointment at the information window.
- Submit the general and specific requirements at the entry window.
- Pay visa application (Consular and diplomatic fees).
- Provide your personal email.
- Verify in your email the receipt of the electronic visa issued.
There are fees associated with each of the visa categories.
d) Documentary formalities
Documents issued abroad must respect the apostille regulations. The service can be accessed according to each zonal address .
Tariffs :
- Apostille in Ecuador: USD $30.00 does not tax VAT
- Legalization: USD $25.00 does not tax VAT
Seniors (65 and older) receive 50% off nationwide.
The 100% exemption applies at the national level for people with disabilities equal to or greater than 30%, who have a disability card issued by the Ministry of Public Health of Ecuador .
e) Official sources of information
Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Human Mobility (MREMH)
f) Regulatory foundations
Organic Law of Human Mobility :
Art. 47 Residence authorization. Applications to obtain a permanent resident visa, established in the Organic Law on Human Mobility, may be submitted to the Zonal Coordination Offices of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Human Mobility or to consular offices abroad (...).
Art. 59 Foreigners who apply for a visa under an agreement or agreement ratified by the Ecuadorian State, will be governed in accordance with the provisions of the respective international instrument (...).
Temporary residence in the receiving country
a) Place of management
Zonal Coordinations of Ecuador.
Monday to Friday from 08:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Check the list of Zonal Addresses before entering the country.
b) Digital platforms for such purposes
- Services provided by the MREMH during the health emergency
- Visa Application Form
- Information of the Zonal Directions
c) Requirements
For those who are in Ecuador and need to apply for one of the temporary residence visas. To do this, you will need a number of requirements, including a valid passport, proof of a criminal record, payment of fees to apply for and issue the visa, and some specific requirements for each visa. Here the main ones:
- Temporary student : foreign people who intend to settle in the country to carry out academic studies.
- Temporary agreement : nationals of the States with which Ecuador signs international instruments to remain in Ecuadorian territory for the time established in said instrument.
- Retired temporary : intended for foreign retirees who wish to settle in the country and whose source of income is the retirement pension, from public or private institutions located abroad.
- Temporary scientist, researcher or academic : foreign persons dedicated to carrying out scientific, research or academic activities in the country.
- Temporary protection for all categories : foreigners, children, spouse or common-law partner, legally recognized, who intend to settle in the country under the protection of the holder of a migratory category provided for in article 60 of the Organic Law of Human Mobility.
- Temporary annuitant : foreign people who intend to settle in the country and receive their income from abroad.
- Temporary exception : is the granting of a special travel document, which authorizes temporary stay to foreign citizens who intend to settle in the country.
In general, the procedures in the zonal addresses in Ecuador are the following:
Face-to-face
- Go to the Zonal Addresses closest to the place of residence.
- Request an appointment at the information window.
- Submit the general and specific requirements at the entry window.
- Pay visa application (Consular and diplomatic fees).
- Provide your personal email.
- Verify in your email the receipt of the electronic visa issued.
There are fees associated with each of the visa categories.
d) Documentary formalities
Documents issued abroad must respect the apostille regulations. The service can be accessed according to each zonal address .
Duty:
- Apostille in Ecuador: USD $30.00 does not tax VAT
- Legalization: USD $25.00 does not tax VAT
Seniors (65 and older) receive 50% off nationwide.
The 100% exemption applies at the national level for people with disabilities equal to or greater than 30%, who have a disability card issued by the Ministry of Public Health of Ecuador .
e) Official sources of information
Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Human Mobility (MREMH)
f) Regulatory foundations
Organic Law of Human Mobility :
Art. 47 Residence authorization. Applications to obtain a permanent resident visa, established in the Organic Law on Human Mobility, may be submitted to the Zonal Coordination Offices of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Human Mobility or to consular offices abroad (...).
Art. 59 Foreigners who apply for a visa under an agreement or agreement ratified by the Ecuadorian State, will be governed in accordance with the provisions of the respective international instrument (...).
Permanent residence abroad
a) Place of management
Consular Offices Abroad.
Monday to Friday from 08:30 a.m. to 02:00 p.m.
Check the list of embassies and consulates abroad .
b) Digital platforms for such purposes
c) Requirements
For those who are not in Ecuador and need to apply for one of the permanent residence visas. To do this, you will need a number of requirements, including a valid passport, proof of a criminal record, payment of fees to apply for and issue the visa, and some specific requirements for each type of authorization. Here the main ones:
- Agreements : foreign persons who intend to settle in the country and who prove to be part of an Agreement.
- Permanence greater than 21 with temporary residence in Ecuador : foreigners who intend to settle in the country and who prove temporary residence in Ecuador greater than 21 months.
- Foreign minor or person with a disability who depends on an Ecuadorian person or a foreigner who has permanent residence : foreign minors or people with disabilities who depend on an Ecuadorian person or a foreigner who has permanent residence and who intend to settle in the country.
- Mercosur Amparo and Ecuador-Venezuela Migratory Statute : foreigners who are not nationals of Mercosur or the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela are covered by holders of these migratory conditions.
- Marriage or de facto union with an Ecuadorian or foreigner holding an indefinite or permanent visa : foreign persons who prove a marriage bond or de facto union with an Ecuadorian or foreign person holding an indefinite visa.
- Foreign person up to the second degree of consanguinity or affinity of an Ecuadorian citizen or a foreign citizen with permanent residence in Ecuador : foreign persons who intend to settle in the country to carry out legal activities and who prove to be relatives within the second degree of consanguinity or affinity of an Ecuadorian citizen or a foreign citizen with permanent residence in Ecuador.
In general, the procedures at consular offices abroad are as follows:
blended
- Contact the Consular Office closest to the place of residence and/or the Counseling Unit .
- Register at: https://consuladovirtual.gob.ec/web/guest/visas
- Choose the procedure and upload the requirements in PDF format according to the migratory category.
- Pay the visa application (Consular and Diplomatic Fee), choose the form of payment, once authorized by the Consulate.
- The consulate will authorize the payment of the visa, according to the Consular Fee.
- Choose the date of the shift to comply with the interview and receive the visa. The date may be changed according to the availability of consulate care.
- Provide your personal email;
- Verify in your email receipt of the issued visa.
Service channels: Email, Online (Site / Web Portal / Web Application) or face-to-face.
Face-to-face
- Contact the Consular Office closest to the place of residence.
- Submit the general and specific requirements at the Consulate.
- Pay visa application (Diplomatic Consular Fee).
- Provide your personal email.
- Verify in your email the receipt of the electronic visa issued.
There are fees associated with each of the visa categories.
d) Documentary formalities
Documents issued abroad must respect the apostille regulations.
Contact the nearest consular office .
Duty:
- Apostille Abroad: USD $40.00 VAT not levied
- Legalization: USD $25.00 does not tax VAT
- Seniors (65 and older) receive 50% off nationwide.
- The 100% exemption applies at the national level for people with disabilities equal to or greater than 30%, who have a disability card issued by the Ministry of Public Health of Ecuador .
e) Official sources of information
Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Human Mobility (MREMH)
f) Regulatory foundations
Organic Law of Human Mobility :
Art. 47 Residence authorization. Applications to obtain a permanent resident visa, established in the Organic Law on Human Mobility, may be submitted to the Zonal Coordination Offices of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Human Mobility or to consular offices abroad (...).
Art. 59 Foreigners who apply for a visa under an agreement or agreement ratified by the Ecuadorian State, will be governed in accordance with the provisions of the respective international instrument (...).
Temporary residence abroad
a) Place of management
Consular Offices Abroad.
Monday to Friday from 08:30 a.m. to 02:00 p.m.
Check the list of embassies and consulates abroad .
b) Digital platforms for such purposes
c) Requirements
Intended for those who are not in Ecuador and need to apply for one of the temporary residence visas.
To do this, you will need a number of requirements, including a valid passport, proof of a criminal record, payment of fees to apply for and issue the visa, and some specific requirements for each visa. Here the main ones:
- Temporary student : to all foreign people who intend to settle in the country to carry out academic studies.
- Temporary agreement : to all nationals of the States with which Ecuador signs international instruments to remain in Ecuadorian territory for the time established in said instrument.
- Retired temporary : to all foreign citizens who intend to settle in the country, who receive a pension from abroad whose amount allows them to cover the expenses for their stay.
- Temporary scientific, researcher or academic person : to all foreign citizens hired by public or private entities recognized in the country, to be part of programs of the Ecuadorian education system.
- Temporary protection for all categories : to foreigners, children, spouse or partner in common law, legally recognized, who intend to settle in the country under the protection of the holder of a migratory category.
- Temporary annuitant : who intend to settle in the country with the intention of settling in the country and receiving their income from abroad.
- Temporary exception : authorizes the temporary stay of foreign citizens who intend to settle in the country.
In general, the procedures at consular offices abroad are as follows:
blended
- Contact the Consular Office closest to the place of residence and/or the Counseling Unit .
- Register at the Virtual Consulate .
- Choose the procedure and upload the requirements in PDF format according to the migratory category.
- Pay the visa application (Consular and Diplomatic Fee), choose the payment method, once authorized by the Consulate.
- The consulate will authorize the payment of the visa, according to the Consular Fee.
- Choose the date of the shift to comply with the interview and receive the visa. The date may be changed according to the availability of consulate care.
- Provide your personal email;
- Verify in your email receipt of the issued visa.
Service channels: Email, Online (Site / Web Portal / Web Application) or face-to-face.
Face-to-face
- Contact the Consular Office closest to the place of residence.
- Submit the general and specific requirements at the Consulate.
- Pay visa application (Diplomatic Consular Fee).
- Provide your personal email.
- Verify in your email the receipt of the electronic visa issued.
There are fees associated with each of the visa categories.
Duty:
- Apostille Abroad: USD $40.00 VAT not levied
- Legalization: USD $25.00 does not tax VAT
d) Documentary formalities
Documents issued abroad must respect the apostille regulations.
Contact the nearest consular office .
Duty:
- Apostille Abroad: USD $40.00 VAT not levied
- Legalization: USD $25.00 does not tax VAT
- Seniors (65 and older) receive 50% off nationwide.
- The 100% exemption applies at the national level for people with disabilities equal to or greater than 30%, who have a disability card issued by the Ministry of Public Health of Ecuador .
e) Official sources of information
Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Human Mobility (MREMH)
f) Regulatory foundations
Organic Law of Human Mobility :
Art. 47 Residence authorization. Applications to obtain a permanent resident visa, established in the Organic Law on Human Mobility, may be submitted to the Zonal Coordination Offices of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Human Mobility or to consular offices abroad (...).
Art. 59 Foreigners who apply for a visa under an agreement or agreement ratified by the Ecuadorian State, will be governed in accordance with the provisions of the respective international instrument (...).
NNAs acompañados con ambos representantes legales
In the case of Ecuadorian nationals and/or foreigners who have minor children in Ecuador, children of foreigners who remain in Ecuador for more than 6 months and/or who exercises parental authority, they must issue authorization to leave the country. The exit must be registered in the National Integrated Information System on Human Mobility, in said registry it must be stated with whom they leave, who will be their guardian in the country of destination, as well as the place where they will remain.
There are costs associated with the procedures and the complete requirements are available on the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs .
NNAs acompañados con un representante legal
In the case of children and adolescents of Ecuadorian or foreign nationality with legal residence or in process and those who, without being so, are found to reside in the country and who are traveling in the company of a legal representative, they will be required to have a written authorization signed by one of them. of the parents or both, as the case may be. The guardian or curator of the minor may also sign and present this authorization. This document can be issued by a Judge for Children and Adolescents with validity for a single trip and there is no deadline; a Notary Public valid for 90 days or until the date indicated; or an Ecuadorian Consulate, whose document is used for a single trip.
There are costs associated with the procedures and the complete requirements are available on the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs .
There are exceptions described in the See More section.
NNAs no acompañados
Reference is made to those children and adolescents who are not traveling in the company of their legal representatives.
In the case of children and adolescents of Ecuadorian or foreign nationality with legal residence or in process and those who, without being so, are found to reside in the country, they will require express authorization from their legal representatives, by presenting an authorization for the departure of minors. of age from Ecuador , for each trip you make.
The authorization to leave the country allows the minor to travel alone or accompanied, whether for tourism purposes, family reunification, studies, etc.; even if his father and mother lived apart. For children and adolescents, the authorization of the father and mother or whoever exercises parental authority is necessary. In case of refusal, absence or incapacity of one of the parents, the other may request the necessary authorization before the competent courts in Ecuador.
There are costs associated with the procedures and the complete requirements are available on the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs .
There are exceptions described in the See More section.

Legend
Entry points
You can filter the information by clicking on the entry points