Ecuador Visa Requirements for US Citizens
US citizens can visit Ecuador visa-free for 90 days. For longer stays and residency, you will need a visa. This guide covers everything specific to Americans applying for Ecuador residency.
No Visa Required: 90-Day Tourist Stay
US passport holders can enter Ecuador without a visa and stay for up to 90 days within any 12-month period. You only need a valid US passport with at least 6 months of remaining validity from your date of entry. No advance application, no fees, no special documents.
Visa Options for Longer Stays
If you want to live in Ecuador beyond 90 days, you will need one of the following residency visas. Each has specific requirements tailored to your situation.
Professional Visa
For remote workers, freelancers, and those with employment or business income. Requires proof of monthly income of at least $1,375 (3x minimum wage).
Key requirement: Proof of income / employment
Retirement Visa
For retirees receiving Social Security, pension, or retirement account distributions. Requires proof of at least $1,375/month in retirement income.
Key requirement: Social Security or pension letter
Investor Visa
For those investing in Ecuador through real estate, a CD, or a business. Minimum investment of $46,000 (subject to annual adjustment).
Key requirement: Proof of qualifying investment
Requirements Specific to US Citizens
While the core visa requirements apply to all nationalities, US citizens have several country-specific processes to follow.
FBI Background Check
Every country requires a police background check from the applicant's home country. For US citizens, this means an FBI Identity History Summary, commonly called the FBI background check. You submit your fingerprints either directly to the FBI or through an FBI-approved channeler. Processing takes 12 to 18 weeks through the FBI directly, or 4 to 6 weeks through a channeler (for an additional fee).
Cost: $18 (FBI direct)
Apostille Through US Department of State
Your FBI background check must be apostilled through the US Department of State (not your state Secretary of State). Other documents like birth and marriage certificates go through your state. The apostille authenticates your documents for international use under the Hague Convention.
Read our full Apostille GuideSocial Security Benefit Letter (Retirement Visa)
If applying for a Retirement visa using Social Security income, you need an official benefit verification letter from the Social Security Administration. You can request this online through your my Social Security account at ssa.gov, by calling 1-800-772-1213, or visiting a local SSA office.
Step-by-Step Process for US Citizens
Determine Your Visa Type
Review the Professional, Retirement, and Investor visa options above. Consider your income sources, work situation, and long-term plans. Most US citizens qualify for at least one category.
Request Your FBI Background Check
Submit your fingerprints to the FBI for an Identity History Summary. The direct FBI fee is $18. For faster processing, use an FBI-approved channeler (costs $50 to $100 more but reduces wait time from 12 to 18 weeks down to 4 to 6 weeks). Start this step first — it has the longest lead time.
Get Apostilles from the Dept of State
Once you have your FBI background check, send it to the US Department of State for apostille ($20, 4 to 6 weeks). Send state-issued documents (birth certificate, marriage certificate) to your state's Secretary of State. Process multiple documents simultaneously to save time.
Get Certified Spanish Translations in Ecuador
All apostilled documents must be translated into Spanish by a certified translator in Ecuador. Do this after you arrive or have the translations done remotely by an Ecuador-based translator. The translation must cover both the document and the apostille certificate. Cost is typically $30 to $60 per document.
Submit Through the E-Visa Portal
Create an account on Ecuador's e-visa portal, upload your documents, and pay the application fee. The portal guides you through selecting the correct visa category and uploading each required document. You can submit from the US or from within Ecuador.
Attend Your Appointment
After your application is reviewed, you will be scheduled for an in-person appointment at a Ministry of Foreign Affairs office in Ecuador. Bring all original documents. The appointment typically involves document verification and biometrics. Your visa is usually approved within 1 to 2 weeks after the appointment.
Cost Summary for US Citizens
| Expense | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| FBI Background Check | $18 | Direct submission; channeler adds $50-$100 |
| Apostille — FBI check | $20 | US Dept of State |
| Apostille — State docs | $5 - $25 each | State Secretary of State |
| Certified translations | $30 - $60 each | 3-4 documents typical |
| Visa application fee | $50 | Paid through e-visa portal |
| Visa approval fee | $400 | Paid upon approval |
| Cedula (ID card) | $4 | Issued after visa approval |
| Census registration | $0 | Free; required after visa |
Total estimated cost for a US citizen: $650 - $900 depending on number of documents, expedited services, and whether you use a channeler for the FBI check.
See Full Cost BreakdownCommon Questions from US Citizens
Do I need to renounce US citizenship?
No. Ecuador allows dual nationality. You can hold both US and Ecuadorian citizenship simultaneously. Your US passport remains valid, and you retain all rights as a US citizen including voting in US elections and consular protection abroad.
Can I use my US driver's license in Ecuador?
Temporarily, yes. US citizens can drive with their valid US license for up to 90 days. After that, you must obtain an Ecuadorian driver's license. The process involves a written exam, vision test, and driving test — your US license can simplify the process at some agencies.
How do I get my Social Security sent to Ecuador?
Direct deposit still works internationally. You can have your Social Security payments deposited directly into a US bank account and withdraw funds in Ecuador using ATMs, or set up an international wire transfer. The Social Security Administration also offers direct deposit to banks in certain countries.
Do I still need to file US taxes from Ecuador?
Yes. US citizens must file federal income tax returns regardless of where they live. However, you may qualify for the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE) and Foreign Tax Credit. Consider using a service like FileAbroad.com that specializes in expat tax filing.
How long does the full visa process take?
From start to finish, expect 3 to 6 months. The FBI background check takes 12 to 18 weeks, apostille processing adds 4 to 6 weeks, and the Ecuadorian visa application itself takes 2 to 4 weeks once all documents are submitted.
Need Help With Your Visa Application?
EcuaPass provides professional visa guidance for retirees, investors, and professionals. We handle the paperwork so you can focus on your new life in Ecuador.
Trusted by hundreds of expats since 2025