Visa Types
Ecuador Permanent Residency Pathway
How you can immigrate to Ecuador, how to protect yourself from Fraud and What to expect after you arrive in Ecuador.
Key Points for Ecuador PR Visa >>>
Do you need a visa to travel to Ecuador?
Yes, Indians need visa to travel to Ecuador.
Ecuador Visa application is made online or offline?
The Ecuador visa application process must be completed offline. You can download, fill out, and print the visa application form, and then submit your application at the Embassy/Consulate of Ecuador.
Do I need to give biometrics?
No, biometrics are not required for obtaining an Ecuador visa.
Is there an interview required to obtain a visa?
No, an personal interview is not required for Indian nationals to obtain Ecuador visa.
What is the maximum length of stay permitted on a PR visa?
You can live indefinitely on a permanent resident (PR) visa.
What kind of visa will we acquire from Ecuador?
It will be a physical sticker visa, which will be affixed to a page in your passport.
Current Visa fees: (Updated on 16-10-2023)
For Visitor Visa application: USD $50
For Visitor Visa granting: USD $30.
For Permanent Residence visa application: $50
For Permanent Residence visa granting fee: $225 (There is no VAT tax)
Note: Senior citizens (65 years and older) get a 50% discount, and people with disabilities equal to or greater than 30% are fully exempt by presenting the disability card from the Ministry of Public Health of Ecuador.
Step-by-step guide
Let us walk you through the process
- Determine the appropriate visa type for your travel to Ecuador, considering factors such as the purpose of your visit (e.g., tourism, business) and ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria. Familiarize yourself with the required documents, application processing time, and associated fees.
- Fill out the visa application form accurately. You can find the application form on the official website of the Ecuadorian embassy or consulate in India. Provide all required information, ensuring it matches the supporting documents.
- Contact the embassy or consulate to schedule an appointment. You will receive the appointment details via email, phone call, or SMS. Locate the nearest Ecuador embassy or consulate in New Delhi, Kolkata, or Mumbai.
- Attend the scheduled appointment at the Ecuador Embassy/Consulate. Submit the completed application form and all required documents to the consular officer.
- Pay the applicable visa fees as instructed by the embassy/consulate. Information on payment methods and fee amounts can usually be found on their official website.
- Once your visa application is processed, collect your passport from the Visa Application Center or the embassy/consulate. If your visa is approved, it will be stamped in your passport.
DOCUMENT CHECKLIST
When applying for Permanent Residence visa in Ecuador, you will generally need to provide a comprehensive set of documents to support your application. The following checklist covers the most common documents needed:
- Certificate of Criminal Record from Ecuador:
- Original or certified copy of the Certificate of Criminal Record from Ecuador for individuals over 18 years of age, confirming a clean criminal record.
- Proof of Temporary Residence (21 Continuous Months):
- Documentation proving temporary residence in Ecuador for at least 21 continuous months. Include:
- Visa entry stamps or residency card.
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs registration.
- Lease agreements or utility bills reflecting the period of stay.
- Documentation proving temporary residence in Ecuador for at least 21 continuous months. Include:
- Application for Permanent Residence:
- Completed and signed application form for permanent residence. Ensure submission before the expiration of the current immigration status.
- Documentation for the Event Leading to Temporary Residence:
- Comprehensive documentation explaining the event or circumstance that led to the granting of the temporary residence visa. Include:
- Employment contract.
- Investment details.
- Family reunification documents.
- Proof of retirement income (if applicable).
- Any other relevant documents specific to the basis of temporary residence.
- Comprehensive documentation explaining the event or circumstance that led to the granting of the temporary residence visa. Include:
- Valid Passport:
- Original and a photocopy of your valid passport with a minimum validity of six months.
- Visa Application Form:
- Completed and signed visa application form for permanent residency.
- Passport-sized Photographs:
- Recent passport-sized photographs with a white background.
- Police Clearance Certificate:
- Original and a photocopy of a police clearance certificate or a clear criminal record check from your home country and any country you have resided in.
- Medical Certificate:
- A medical certificate issued by a recognized health institution indicating good health and free from contagious diseases.
- Proof of Financial Means:
- Documentation proving your financial stability and the ability to support yourself in Ecuador. This may include bank statements or other financial documents.
- Proof of Legal Stay in Ecuador:
- Documentation proving your legal stay in Ecuador, such as a valid visa or other residency permits.
- Proof of Address:
- Evidence of your current address in Ecuador, such as utility bills or a rental agreement.
- Marriage Certificate or Birth Certificate:
- If applicable, provide a marriage certificate or birth certificate for family members included in the application.
- Pension Certification (If Applying for Pensioner Residency):
- Documentation proving that you are receiving a pension, such as a pension certification or statements.
- Investment Documentation (If Applying for Investor Residency):
- Documentation proving your investment in Ecuador, such as property deeds, business ownership documents, or other relevant investment papers.
- Professional Qualifications (If Applying for Professional Residency):
- Documents proving your professional qualifications, such as academic degrees, certifications, or licenses.
- Humanitarian Justification (If Applying for Humanitarian Residency):
- A written justification explaining the humanitarian reasons for your residency application.
Important Notes:
- Translations and Notarization:
- If any of your documents are not in Spanish, you may need to provide certified translations. Some documents may also need to be notarized.
- Legal Assistance:
- Consider seeking legal assistance or advice to ensure that your application meets all the specific requirements for the type of permanent residency you are applying for.
- Application Fees:
- Check the applicable fees for permanent residency applications and ensure that you include proof of payment.
Note: Always verify the specific requirements for the type of permanent residency you are applying for and consult with the Ecuadorian immigration authorities or the embassy/consulate for the latest information.
- Investor Visa (Visa de Inversionista):
- Business Investment:
- Investment plan detailing the business activities.
- Proof of investment amount.
- Business registration documents.
- Bank statements showing the source of funds.
- Real Estate Investment:
- Title deeds or purchase agreement of the property.
- Proof of property value meeting the required threshold.
- Bank statements showing the source of funds for the real estate investment.
- Property assessment and valuation reports.
- Pensioner Visa (Visa de Rentista):
- Monthly Income:
- Proof of a stable monthly income from a pension or retirement fund.
- Official pension statements.
- Bank statements showing regular pension deposits.
- Letter from the pension provider or retirement fund confirming the income.
- Professional Visa (Visa de Profesional):
- Academic Qualifications:
- Copy of university degree.
- Transcripts or academic records.
- Professional certifications related to the field (if applicable).
- Employment Documentation:
- Job offer or work contract from an Ecuadorian employer.
- Letter from the employer detailing the job responsibilities and salary.
- Certificate of employment from previous employers.
- Investor in Real Estate Visa (Visa de Inversionista en Bienes Raíces):
- Real Estate Investment:
- Title deeds or purchase agreement of the property.
- Proof of property value meeting the required threshold.
- Bank statements showing the source of funds for the real estate investment.
- Property assessment and valuation reports.
- Entrepreneur Visa (Visa de Emprendimiento):
- Business Plan:
- Detailed business plan outlining the nature of the business.
- Proof of investment in the business.
- Business registration documents.
- Bank statements showing the source of funds.
- Family Reunification Visa (Visa de Reagrupación Familiar):
- Family Relationship Proof:
- Birth certificates or marriage certificates.
- Document proving the family member’s Ecuadorian citizenship or permanent residency.
- Sponsorship letter from the family member in Ecuador.
- Special Cases (Visa de Casos Especiales):
- Documentation Supporting Special Circumstances:
- Letter explaining the special circumstances warranting consideration.
- Any relevant supporting documentation (medical records, legal documents, etc.).
- Retiree Investor Visa (Visa de Jubilado Inversionista):
- Retirement Income and Investment Documents:
- Proof of retirement income through pension statements.
- Documentation supporting the investment in Ecuador.
- Bank statements showing the source of funds for the investment.
Note: Always check with the Ecuadorian consulate or immigration authorities for the most current and specific document requirements. Additionally, consider translating documents into Spanish if they are not already in that language, as this is often a requirement for visa applications.
VISA APPLICATION FORMS
Before submitting your visa application, please ensure to review the list of required documents. The guidelines provided on this website will assist you in preparing your documents accurately. By following these guidelines, you can minimize the risk of your visa application being rejected due to incorrect or insufficient documents.
Ecuador Visa Application Form
- You need to fill out the application form completely and honestly.
- Make sure your writing is clear and easy to read.
VISA APPLICATION GUIDELINES:
The process for applying for a Permanent Residence visa in Ecuador typically involves the following steps:
- Eligibility Criteria:
- Determine your eligibility for permanent residence. Common eligibility criteria include having a temporary residence visa for at least 21 months before applying for permanent residency.
- Choose the Appropriate Visa Type:
- Ecuador offers several visa options, such as the pensioner visa, investor visa, professional visa, etc. Choose the one that best suits your situation.
- Gather Required Documents:
- Document requirements may vary depending on the type of visa you’re applying for. Common documents include a passport, visa application form, proof of financial stability, a criminal background check, and health insurance.
- Apply for a Temporary Visa:
- In most cases, applicants must first obtain a temporary visa before applying for permanent residency. Temporary visas are usually valid for two years.
- Enter Ecuador and Register at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs:
- Once you have your temporary visa, you’ll need to enter Ecuador and register at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This step is essential to start the process of obtaining permanent residency.
- Complete the Residency Process:
- After registering at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, you will need to complete additional steps, which may include obtaining a certificate of visa registration, undergoing a medical examination, and obtaining a certificate of conformity.
- Apply for Permanent Residency:
- Towards the end of your temporary visa period, you can apply for permanent residency. This process involves submitting additional documents, such as proof of continuous legal residence and updated financial information.
- Wait for Approval:
- The immigration authorities will review your application, and if approved, you will be granted permanent residency.
- Receive your Residency Card:
- Once your permanent residency is approved, you will be issued a residency card. This card is crucial for legal stays in Ecuador.
Important Considerations:
- Stay Informed:
- Immigration laws and processes may change, so it’s essential to stay informed about the latest requirements and procedures.
- Consult with Professionals:
- Given the complexity of immigration processes, it’s advisable to consult with immigration professionals or legal experts who can provide guidance tailored to your specific situation.
- Language Requirement:
- Ecuador may have language requirements for certain types of visas, so check if proficiency in Spanish is necessary for your chosen visa.
Note:
- Start the process early, as it can take time to gather all the required documents and complete the application.
- Ensure all documents are authentic and translated into Spanish, if necessary.
- Follow the instructions and meet all the requirements thoroughly to increase your chances of approval.
- Consider seeking professional guidance from a visa consultant or immigration lawyer for additional support.
- Investor Visa (Visa de Inversionista):
- This visa is designed for individuals who plan to make significant investments in Ecuador. Requirements may include proof of investment in a productive activity, such as a business or project that generates employment or contributes to economic development.
- Pensioner Visa (Visa de Rentista):
- This visa is for retirees who receive a pension or have a stable income from a reliable source. The income should meet a minimum threshold specified by Ecuadorian immigration authorities.
- Professional Visa (Visa de Profesional):
- Aimed at individuals with recognized professional qualifications, this visa is suitable for those planning to work in Ecuador. Applicants typically need to provide evidence of their professional credentials and may be required to register with the relevant professional association in Ecuador.
- Investor in Real Estate Visa (Visa de Inversionista en Bienes Raíces):
- This visa is tailored for individuals who invest in real estate in Ecuador. The investment should meet the minimum threshold set by immigration authorities. Proof of the real estate transaction and its contribution to economic development may be required.
- Entrepreneur Visa (Visa de Emprendimiento):
- Geared towards entrepreneurs and business owners, this visa is for those who plan to start a business or invest in a venture that generates employment and contributes to economic development in Ecuador.
- Family Reunification Visa (Visa de Reagrupación Familiar):
- Designed for individuals who have family members already residing in Ecuador, this visa allows for family reunification. The sponsor (family member in Ecuador) will typically need to demonstrate their legal residency status and ability to support the family members.
- Special Cases (Visa de Casos Especiales):
- This category may include unique situations that do not fit into the standard visa types. Individuals falling under special circumstances may need to work closely with immigration authorities to determine the appropriate visa category.
- Retiree Investor Visa (Visa de Jubilado Inversionista):
- Combining elements of the pensioner and investor visas, this category is for retirees who also wish to make investments in Ecuador. It often requires proof of retirement income and evidence of an investment in a productive activity.
Note: To obtain the most accurate and up-to-date details regarding the requirements and procedures for each visa category, it is imperative to refer to the official website of the Ecuadorian government or to contact the nearest Ecuadorian consulate or embassy.