Investor Visa (Visa de Inversionista)

The Ecuador Investor Visa is for foreign nationals who make a qualifying investment in Ecuador. This can include purchasing real estate, investing in a business, or buying government securities. The minimum investment threshold is approximately $46,000 (as of 2026).

$47,000–50,000+ (including investment)

6–12 weeks (after submission)

Who Is This Visa For?

Real estate investors buying property in Ecuador
Entrepreneurs investing in Ecuadorian businesses
Investors purchasing government bonds or securities
Those who prefer an investment-based path to residency

Requirements

Qualifying investment

Minimum approximately $46,000 in real estate, business, or government securities (2026)

Proof of investment

Property deed, business registration, or securities certificate

Background check

FBI background check (US citizens) or equivalent, apostilled

Health insurance

Valid health insurance covering Ecuador

Valid passport

Minimum 6 months validity remaining

Proof of funds

Bank statements showing the source of investment funds

Document Checklist

Valid passport

Minimum 6 months validity, color copies of all pages

Proof of investment

Property deed, business certificate, or securities statement

Bank statements

Showing source and transfer of investment funds

FBI background check

Apostille

Must be less than 6 months old

Birth certificate

Apostille

Original or certified copy

Marriage certificate (if applicable)

Apostille

Required if applying with spouse

Health insurance policy

Must cover Ecuador

Passport photos

4x4 cm, white background

Application form

Completed online through Ecuador e-visa system

Step-by-Step Process

Choose Your Investment Type

1–4 weeks

Decide between real estate, business investment, or government securities. Each has different documentation requirements and timelines.

Make the Investment

2–8 weeks

Complete your investment purchase. For real estate, this means closing on a property. Ensure all transactions are properly documented.

Gather & Apostille Documents

2–4 weeks

Collect your background check, birth certificate, and other required documents. Get apostilles from the US Department of State.

Get Certified Translations

1–2 weeks

Have all apostilled documents translated into Spanish by an Ecuadorian-certified translator.

Submit Online Application

1–2 hours

Create an account on Ecuador's e-visa portal and submit your application with investment proof and all documents.

Attend Visa Appointment

1 day

Attend your appointment with proof of investment and all original documents.

Receive Visa & Register

3–8 weeks

After approval, pay the issuance fee, receive your visa, and register for your cédula within 30 days.

Cost Breakdown

Item	Cost
Visa application fee	$50
Visa issuance fee	$400
Cédula (Ecuador ID card)	$40
Census registration	$15
FBI background check	$18
Apostille (per document)	$20
Certified translation (per document)	$30–80
Minimum investment	~$46,000
Property transfer tax (if real estate)	~1% of property value
Total Estimated Cost	$47,000–50,000+ (including investment)

Frequently Asked Questions

The minimum investment threshold for 2026 is approximately $46,000, calculated as a multiple of Ecuador's minimum wage. This amount is adjusted annually.

Yes. Purchasing real estate in Ecuador is one of the most common paths for the Investor Visa. The property must be valued at or above the minimum threshold.

Yes. There are no restrictions on renting out property purchased for the Investor Visa. Many visa holders use rental income to offset their costs.

If you sell within the first two years, your visa could be at risk. After obtaining permanent residency, you have more flexibility. Consult with your visa advisor before selling.

Yes, business investments qualify, but they must be formally documented with the Superintendencia de Compañías. You'll need proper business registration and proof of your investment stake.

Need Help With Your Visa Application?

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