I’ll walk you through every detail—from who qualifies for visa-free entry to extending your stay—so you can plan your Ecuadorian adventure with complete confidence.
Do You Need a Tourist Visa for Ecuador?
Most visitors don’t. Citizens of the United States, Canada, the European Union and many other countries enjoy visa-free entry for up to 90 days within any 12-month period (U.S. Department of State’s Ecuador entry requirements).
If you hold a passport from Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Paraguay, Peru or Uruguay, you can even enter with just your national ID card (Mercosur’s national ID travel agreement).
When you arrive, you’ll automatically receive a 90-day tourist permit (T-3) stamped into your passport—no advance application required (World Nomads’ guide to Ecuador entry requirements).
Key Requirements and Documents
Before you pack your bags, make sure you have:
– A valid passport (for most travelers, valid at least 6 months beyond your arrival date)
– Proof of onward or return travel
– Evidence of sufficient funds (bank or airline statements often suffice)
– A few blank pages in your passport for entry and exit stamps
Passport Validity Exceptions
If you’re from one of Ecuador’s Mercosur neighbors, you only need your national ID card—your passport can stay at home.
How to Obtain Your Tourist Permit
Starting in 2025, Ecuador rolled out an online visa platform so you can skip the consulate visit and submit everything from your laptop (Ecuador’s Ministerio de Gobierno visa portal). If you prefer face-to-face, simply visit an Ecuadorian consulate or apply upon arrival at the airport or land border.
- Complete the online form or fill out the arrival card on the plane.
- Present your passport (or ID card) and onward-ticket proof.
- Receive your free 90-day T-3 permit stamped in your passport.
Extending Your Stay
Want to linger beyond 90 days? You may apply for a single 90-day extension (prórroga) at an immigration office for US $50—just submit your application within 10 days after your initial permit expires (iVisa’s Ecuador tourist visa extension process). The new period begins the day after your original permit ends, so you still get a full 180 days.
Extension Timing Details
Applying early won’t eat into your stay. Your extension only kicks in once the first 90 days are up.
Avoiding Penalties and Common Pitfalls
Staying past your permitted time can cost you dearly. Overstaying without an approved extension incurs a fine of approximately US $470, payable before any new application is considered (Immigroup’s overview of Ecuador overstay penalties).
Beware of unofficial “visa agents” online. The Ecuadorian Foreign Ministry warns of scammers offering fake visa services—always use government platforms (Cancillería de Ecuador’s fraud warning).
- Never leave and re-enter to reset your 90 days—Ecuador counts your days by calendar year.
- Keep copies of all receipts and correspondence.
Special Considerations for Temporary Residents
If you decide to switch from tourist to temporary resident status, note that during your first two years you cannot spend more than 90 days outside Ecuador annually (Nomad Capitalist’s guide to Ecuador residency requirements). Plan any side trips carefully.
Your Next Adventure Awaits
Now that you know how to enter Ecuador, gather the right documents, and lengthen your stay without surprises, you’re ready to explore the Andes, the Amazon and the Pacific coast. Safe travels!