The New 2025 Ecuador Visa Changes You Need to Know

A quick update on the latest immigration law changes in Ecuador, including new transit visa requirements.

Staying informed about Ecuador's immigration laws is crucial for anyone planning to visit or move here. The laws are subject to change, and recent updates for 2025 are particularly important for travelers and future expats. Here’s a quick summary of the most significant changes announced by the Ecuadorian government.

New Transit Visa Requirement

Starting September 1, 2025, Ecuador has implemented a new requirement for nationals of 45 countries who are simply transiting through the country. Previously, many travelers could have a layover in an Ecuadorian airport without needing a visa, as long as they did not clear customs.

Under the new rule, citizens of a specific list of 45 countries—primarily in Africa, Asia, and the Caribbean—must now obtain a "Temporary Transit Visitor Visa" (Visa de Visitante Temporal de Transeúnte) before their trip. The application is entirely digital and must be completed online via the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website, with a total cost of $80. This measure is part of a strategy to enhance national security and migration control.

Pensioner Visa Income Requirement Increases

For those interested in the popular Pensioner Visa (9-I Pensionado), it's important to note that the required monthly income has been adjusted. The legal requirement for this visa is tied to Ecuador's basic monthly salary (SBU). With a recent increase in the SBU, the minimum required monthly income for the Pensioner Visa has been raised to $1,410 USD (from a previous value of $1,350 USD). This is to ensure that retirees and other individuals with guaranteed income can adequately support themselves in the country.

Investor Visa Threshold Adjustment

The minimum investment for the Investor Visa (9-II Inversionista) has also been adjusted in line with the new SBU. The investment requirement is now a minimum of $47,000 USD. This can be in a real estate purchase or a Certificate of Deposit (CD) in an Ecuadorian bank. This change is a direct result of the updated SBU for 2025 and is a standard annual adjustment.

Stay Informed with an Expert

These changes highlight why it's so important to have a trusted partner who stays on top of the latest legal developments. At Cuenca Visas, we are constantly monitoring these regulations to provide our clients with accurate and up-to-date guidance, ensuring a seamless and worry-free process.