• Skip to main content
  • Skip to "About this site"

Language selection

Search travel.gc.ca.

Help us to improve our website. Take our survey !

COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Ecuador travel advice

Latest updates: Natural disasters and climate – updated information on volcanoes

Last updated: March 6, 2024 16:25 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, ecuador - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Ecuador due to high levels of crime.

Border areas - Avoid all travel

  • Carchi (except for the Panamerican Highway which connects to the official border crossing with Colombia at Tulcán/Ipiales)
  • Sucumbíos

Minefields near the southern portion of the border with Peru - Avoid all travel

Esmeraldas province, parts of el oro, guayas and los ríos provinces - avoid non-essential travel.

  • the province of Esmeraldas
  • Durán
  • Bastión Popular
  • El Fortín
  • Flor de Bastión
  • Las Orquídeas
  • Monte Bello
  • Monte Sinaí
  • Nueva Prosperina
  • Paraíso de la Flor

Back to top

State of internal armed conflict

On January 9, 2024, the Government of Ecuador declared a nationwide state of “internal armed conflict” to allow security forces to better respond to a sharp increase in gang violence across the country, including in Guayaquil and Quito. There are reports of small explosions, attacks on businesses, and car burnings. The Government of Ecuador previously declared a state of emergency on January 8, 2024.

A nationwide curfew is in place for cantons labelled as medium or high risk:

  • from 2 to 5 am for medium-risk cantons
  • from midnight to 5 am for high-risk cantons

While the curfew is in effect, you must stay indoors. An exception is in place to allow travellers to go to and from the airport for scheduled commercial flights. If you are travelling to or from the airport after the curfew is in effect, ensure that you have your ID and your flight information on hand to show authorities.

While the state of emergency is in effect, security forces have the power to:

  • restrict freedom of assembly
  • enter private homes
  • read prisoners’ private mail

While certain flights have been cancelled due to the security situation, airports continue to operate. Before your departure, check with your airline to determine if there are delays or changes to your itinerary. There may be disruptions to bus travel. If you are travelling overland by bus, confirm your itinerary and schedule in advance at each terminal along your route.

If you are in Ecuador:

  • expect an increased police and military presence, especially near prisons
  • carry your ID at all times
  • follow the instructions of local authorities

Border areas

Border areas often see higher criminal activity and violence.

Criminal groups are active in the border area with Colombia. Criminal activities include:

  • drug trafficking
  • armed assault

Work to clear landmines in certain areas near the border with Peru is still ongoing. See the Regional Risks, above, for specific locations.

Criminal activity has been reported near the border crossing at Huaquillas, where we advise against non-essential travel. If you do cross the border by land from Peru, do so during daylight hours and ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times.

Crime rates are high in Ecuador.

Arrest and detention rates are low and contribute to high levels of criminality. Infiltration within the security forces by local gangs weakens law enforcement even further.

Violent crime

Violent crime is a significant concern throughout Ecuador. Drug trafficking, transnational organized crime and street gang activity is prevalent. Violent incidents include:

  • armed robberies
  • kidnappings
  • home invasions
  • sexual assaults
  • car-jacking

These crimes occur even during the day in tourist destinations. Tourists, including Canadians, have been assaulted:

  • in downtown areas
  • on hiking trails
  • in public parks
  • outside banks

While you're in Ecuador:

  • be aware of your surroundings at all times
  • ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
  • avoid travelling after dark, and in isolated or deserted areas
  • avoid showing signs of affluence
  • avoid carrying large amounts of cash
  • be extra cautious when withdrawing cash from ATMs
  • don’t resist if you’re threatened, hand over your cash and valuables immediately

Tourist police officers are present in major cities, including Quito, Guayaquil and Cuenca.

Organized crime

Criminal gang activity has increased in recent years, particularly in the coastal provinces of El Oro, Esmeraldas, Guayas, Los Ríos, Manabí and Santa Elena. Since late 2022, the use of explosives has increased, especially in coastal provinces. Targets have included small businesses, gas stations, government offices, and bridges.

Organized criminal groups and gangs commit crimes such as targeted killings, express kidnapping, and armed robberies. They generally use knives and guns, and occasionally explosives.

Although tourists are not usually targeted, you may find yourself in the wrong place at the wrong time and caught in the crossfire.

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, bag snatching and car break-ins, occurs daily in major cities.

Thieves often work in teams to divert the victims and snatch their possessions. Groups of street children selling candies are sometimes engaged in this type of team operation.

Thefts commonly occur in:

  • popular tourist areas
  • public transportation, especially city and inter-city buses
  • bus terminals and airports
  • shopping malls
  • hotel lobbies
  • restaurants, including patios

To avoid becoming a victim:

  • keep a low profile when walking in public areas
  • avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuable items
  • avoid hitchhiking
  • be suspicious of recent acquaintances or strangers approaching you
  • avoid accepting rides or invitations from strangers

The number of kidnappings, especially express kidnappings, has significantly increased since 2022. Kidnappers mainly target locals, but foreigners have also been targeted. Many victims have been rescued by the police. Some victims are released in exchange for ransom.

While you’re in Ecuador:

  • choose accommodation with good security measures
  • keep your doors and windows locked at all times
  • check your car for suspicious markings after leaving it parked on the street
  • if you're kidnapped, comply with the kidnappers’ demands and don’t resist

Express kidnappings

These kidnappings are often committed by organised gangs, sometimes in collaboration with taxi or rideshare drivers. Kidnappers may take their victims to an ATM and force them to make a cash withdrawal, or else hold their victims for a few days and force them to make online bank transfers before releasing them.

  • Use only reputable taxi companies
  • Avoid hailing taxis on the street
  • Use the security features in rideshare apps
  • If you’re threatened, don’t resist

Credit card and ATM fraud may occur. Be cautious when using debit or credit cards:

  • cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
  • pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
  • avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
  • use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
  • check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Overseas fraud

Police officers sometimes try to extort drivers by threatening detention or confiscating identity documents.

If police threaten you with a fine:

  • remain calm and courteous but firm
  • show original documents but keep them in your possession
  • try to cooperate by following the instructions of police to avoid escalation
  • ask for a clear explanation of the offence and a written fine that can be paid at a police station
  • don’t pay a bribe to anyone
  • call 911 to report the incident to the National Police

National Police  – Ecuador (in Spanish)

Demonstrations 

Demonstrations occur frequently.

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

  • Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
  • Follow the instructions of local authorities
  • Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Ecuadorian law prohibits political activities by foreigners. You may face detention if you take part in demonstrations or political activities.

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Women's safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse.

Incidents of attacks and sexual assault against foreign women, including rape and murder, have been reported throughout the country, particularly in tourist areas. Even women travelling in pairs have been targeted.

  • Choose accommodation with good security measures
  • Be suspicious of recent acquaintances or strangers approaching you
  • Avoid hospitality exchange arrangements, such as couch-surfing
  • Avoid accepting rides or invitations from strangers

Useful links

  • Recommendations for female travellers – Ecuador ministry of tourism
  • Advice for women travellers

Spiked food and drinks

Snacks, beverages, gum and cigarettes may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery. Incidents can occur in various locations, including buses, nightclubs and bars.

  • Be wary of accepting these items from new acquaintances
  • Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers

Scopolamine

Scopolamine is a drug that temporarily incapacitates unsuspecting victims, who become disoriented quickly and are vulnerable to crime.

Thieves may slip the drug into food and drinks, smear it on papers, or blow it into the face of the victim. They often work in teams, with an attractive woman or man who eases their victim into a false sense of security.

Incidents occur in nightclubs, bars and restaurants, on public transportation and in the streets. They occur most frequently in larger cities.

Use extreme caution when dealing with strangers offering pamphlets, requesting information, or selling street wares.

Indigenous shamanic ceremonies

The consumption of ayahuasca is common during indigenous shamanic ceremonies in Ecuador. These ceremonies are not regulated. The safety of the facilities, services, operators, or shamans cannot be assessed. They often take place in remote areas without access to medical facilities, emergency services or telecommunications.

The consumption of ayahuasca has caused serious medical complications, including cognitive and physical impairment. Several tourists, including Canadians, have died while taking part in such ceremonies. Some have also been assaulted or injured.

Water activities

Coastal waters can be dangerous. Riptides are common.

Rescue services may not be consistent with international standards. Most beaches don’t have lifeguards or warning flags.

  • Only undertake scuba diving and other water activities with a well-established company
  • Don’t swim alone, after hours or outside marked areas
  • Consult residents and tour operators for information on possible hazards and safe swimming areas
  • Monitor weather warnings

This advice applies to both mainland Ecuador and to the Galápagos Islands.

Water safety abroad

Adventure tourism

Outdoor activities, such as snorkelling, diving, surfing, white water rafting, horseback riding, parasailing, hiking, trekking and other adventure activities, can be dangerous if unprepared. Trails are not always marked, and weather conditions can change rapidly, even in the dry season.

Avalanches pose a risk in Ecuador. They can be fatal, even with light snow accumulations. Tourists, including Canadians, have died in avalanches on Ecuadorian volcanoes.

If you intend to practice adventure tourism:

  • never do so alone, and don’t part with your expedition companions
  • consider hiring an experienced guide from a reputable company certified by the Ministry of Tourism
  • obtain detailed information on your activity and on the environment in which you will be before setting out
  • avoid venturing off marked trails
  • ensure that your physical condition is good enough to tackle the challenges of your activity
  • carry an avalanche beacon, a mobile phone and a fully charged battery pack to generate your position in case of emergency
  • inform a family member or friend of your itinerary

If you require emergency assistance in a remote area, find an area with a signal and call 911 so that authorities can geolocate your phone and send help more quickly.

Ministry of Tourism  – Government of Ecuador

Road travel

Road conditions and road safety vary throughout the country. Accidents causing fatalities are common.

Road conditions

Road conditions are generally in fair conditions in urban areas. However, they remain poorly maintained in rural areas.

Heavy rain and mudslides often close or wash out roads. Driving in Ecuador may be hazardous due to:

  • unmarked speed bumps
  • large pot holes
  • poorly maintained vehicles
  • traffic lights on major highways
  • heavy traffic, especially on weekends and statutory holidays
  • stray livestock in rural areas  
  • heavy fog in mountainous areas

Driving habits

Drivers don’t respect traffic laws. They may drive at excessive speed and be reckless. Drinking and driving is frequent. 

If you drive in Ecuador:

  • always drive defensively and maintain heightened awareness
  • plan your trip ahead of time, especially if you plan to visit a rural area
  • avoid road travelling alone and at night
  • carry a cell phone and a charger
  • always keep your gas tank fullkeep your car doors locked and the windows closed at all times
  • do not leave valuables within reach or in plain sight and unattended

Public transportation

Many buses are not safe. Some are poorly maintained and often overcrowded. They lack safety equipment. Drivers are reckless. They often make illegal stops to pick up passengers. Robberies and assault occur regularly, especially in the Guayaquil area.

Avoid using local or intercity public buses. 

Taxis are generally safe to take during the day. They are easily available in urban areas.

Ride-sharing apps are also popular in Ecuador. They are usually a safe option to move around.

Incidents of assault and express kidnapping have occurred at night.

  • Use official taxis with orange plates only
  • Never share a taxi with strangers 
  • Make sure the driver doesn’t pick up other passengers along the way to your destination
  • Note driver’s name and plate number
  • Ask the driver to start the meter or negotiate the fare in advance
  • Have small bills ready for payment

Ferries 

Ferry accidents have occurred mostly due to severe weather conditions or poor safety measures. 

Some boats are poorly maintained and overloaded. 

If you decide to travel by ferry:

  • use only a reliable company
  • make sure appropriate safety equipment is available 
  • make sure you have access to a lifejacket at all times 
  • don't board a boat that appears overloaded or unseaworthy

Pirate attacks and armed robbery against ships occur.

Take appropriate precautions.

Live piracy report  - International Maritime Bureau

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Ecuadorian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

entry_restrictions_at_land_and_river_borders_with_peru_and_colombia

Entry restrictions at land and river borders with Peru and Colombia

On January 11, 2024, the Government of Ecuador announced new entry restrictions as part of the ongoing state of internal armed conflict.

All foreigners entering Ecuador at crossing points with land or river borders with Peru and Colombia will need to present a criminal records check from their country of origin or residence. Both the original criminal record check and the Spanish translation must be apostilled and cover the past five years. Minors travelling with their family members will generally be exempt.

The Apostille Convention took effect in Canada on January 11, 2024. An apostille is a standard certificate allowing documents to be accepted in all countries where the convention is in effect.

  • Migration information – Ecuador Immigration Agency (in Spanish)
  • Changes to authentication services in Canada
  • Authentication of documents

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Ecuador.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

  • Foreign Representatives in Canada
  • Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for stays up to 90 days per period of 12 months  Business visa: not required Student visa: not required

Entry stamp

Make sure your passport is stamped upon arrival. You may face significant problems if you fail to present an entry-stamped passport when departing Ecuador.  

Many tourists, including Canadians, have not stopped to get their passports stamped when arriving by land from Peru. When they try to leave the country later on, for example by airplane out of Quito, they are often required to return to the Peruvian border to obtain an entry stamp at the place of entry.

Stay extension

You may extend your stay for an additional 90-day period once. If you decide to do so while you are in Ecuador, you must obtain a visa from the immigration authorities before the entry stamp you received upon arrival expires.

If you overstay the initial 90-day period without the required extension or the 180-day period without the required visa, you may face:

  • denied entry for one year

Local authorities may also add your name to the immigration records. As a result, you would have to request a visa at an Ecuadorian embassy or consulate before re-entering the country.

  • Migration Ecuador  – Government of Ecuador (in Spanish)
  • Visas - Government of Ecuador (in Spanish)
  • Extension of stay – Ministry of Interior (in Spanish)

Galápagos Islands

To enter the Galápagos Islands, you must present:

  • personal identification
  • the Galápagos Transit Control Card obtained online at least 24 hours before time of departure
  • a return ticket

The maximum stay for tourists is 60 days in a 1-year period.

Guidelines for entering Galápagos  - Galápagos Governing Council (in Spanish)

Amazon region

Some Indigenous groups require permits to enter their territory. If you are planning on visiting the Amazon region, ensure that you have the required documentation prior to entering the area.

Children and travel

To leave the country, children born in Ecuador to a Canadian parent must:

  • be registered with the Ecuadorian Civil Registry
  • obtain an Ecuadorian passport
  • present valid Ecuadorian and Canadian passports

Minor dual citizens - under 18 - travelling alone with both passports must have a letter of consent from both parents. This letter should:

  • authorize the travel and stipulate the destination and duration of the intended trip
  • be legally certified and translated into Spanish
  • be notarized at the Embassy of Ecuador or an Ecuadorian consulate in Canada

Canadian minors travelling alone as tourists with Canadian passports don’t need this authorization letter.

  • Travelling with children
  • Recommended consent letter for children travelling abroad

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

  • Global Measles Notice - 31 August, 2023
  • Zika virus: Advice for travellers - 31 August, 2023
  • COVID-19 and International Travel - 31 August, 2023

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever  is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

  • There is a risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*    

Proof of vaccination is required if you are arriving from Brazil, Democratic Republic of the Congo, or Uganda, or have transited through an airport in one of these countries.

Recommendation          

  • Vaccination is recommended depending on your itinerary.
  • Contact a designated  Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre  well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.
  • Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
  • Protect yourself from mosquito bites.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada * It is important to note that  country entry requirements  may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest  diplomatic or consular office  of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

  •  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
  •  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
  •  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Malaria  is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by parasites spread through the bites of mosquitoes.   There is a risk of malaria in certain areas and/or during a certain time of year in this destination. 

Antimalarial medication may be recommended depending on your itinerary and the time of year you are travelling. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before travelling to discuss your options. It is recommended to do this 6 weeks before travel, however, it is still a good idea any time before leaving.    Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times:  • Cover your skin and use an approved insect repellent on uncovered skin.  • Exclude mosquitoes from your living area with screening and/or closed, well-sealed doors and windows. • Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquitoes cannot be excluded from your living area.  • Wear permethrin-treated clothing.    If you develop symptoms similar to malaria when you are travelling or up to a year after you return home, see a health care professional immediately. Tell them where you have been travelling or living. 

In this destination, rabies is commonly carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. In this destination, rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, therefore you may need to return to Canada for treatment.  

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

  • Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
  • Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
  • Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

  • Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
  • Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
  • Minimize exposure to insects
  • Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country.  The risk may vary between regions of a country.  Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

  • In this country,   dengue  is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
  • Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
  • The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
  • Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
  • Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue.

Zika virus is a risk in this country. 

Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.

During your trip:

  • Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
  • Use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact, particularly if you are pregnant.

If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, you should discuss the potential risks of travelling to this destination with your health care provider. You may choose to avoid or postpone travel. 

For more information, see Zika virus: Pregnant or planning a pregnancy.

American trypanosomiasis (Chagas disease)   is a risk in this country. It is caused by a parasite spread by infected triatomine bugs. The infection can be inactive for decades, but humans can eventually develop complications causing disability and even death.

Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from triatomine bugs, which are active at night, by using mosquito nets if staying in poorly-constructed housing. There is no vaccine available for Chagas disease.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Human cases of avian influenza have been reported in this destination. Avian influenza   is a viral infection that can spread quickly and easily among birds and in rare cases it can infect mammals, including people. The risk is low for most travellers.

Avoid contact with birds, including wild, farm, and backyard birds (alive or dead) and surfaces that may have bird droppings on them. Ensure all poultry dishes, including eggs and wild game, are properly cooked.

Travellers with a higher risk of exposure include those: 

  • visiting live bird/animal markets or poultry farms
  • working with poultry (such as chickens, turkeys, domestic ducks)
  • hunting, de-feathering, field dressing and butchering wild birds and wild mammals
  • working with wild birds for activities such as research, conservation, or rehabilitation
  • working with wild mammals, especially those that eat wild birds (e.g., foxes)

All eligible people are encouraged to get the seasonal influenza shot, which will protect them against human influenza viruses. While the seasonal influenza shot does not prevent infection with avian influenza, it can reduce the chance of getting sick with human and avian influenza viruses at the same time.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

  •   washing your hands often
  • avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
  • avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.

High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.

Medical services and facilities

Good health care is limited in availability. The quality of care varies greatly throughout the country.

Public medical services and facilities remain below Canadian standards, especially in rural areas. Medical facilities lack medical supplies.

Private hospitals and clinics offer better health care, but services are often expensive. Doctors typically require upfront payment. They may only speak Spanish.

Emergency services may not be available outside major cities. In the Galápagos Islands, you will likely require medical evacuation in case of a serious condition. The wait time to be evacuated can be up to 48 hours as there is no air ambulance service based on the islands.

Medical evacuations can be extremely expensive.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Medications

Some prescription medication may not be available in Ecuador.

If you take prescription medication, you’re responsible for determining its legality in the country.

  • Bring sufficient quantities of your medication with you
  • Always keep your medication in the original container
  • Pack your medication in your carry-on luggage
  • Carry a paper and an electronic copy of your prescriptions

Altitude sickness

Some cities and major tourist attractions are located at more than 2700 metres above sea level. In some parts of the country, you may experience health problems due to high altitudes.

Altitude sickness can range from mild to severe symptoms, which in extreme cases can be fatal. It may require immediate medical evacuation.

  • Know about the symptoms of altitude sickness
  • Find out how to prevent or reduce the effects of altitude sickness

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Transfer to a Canadian prison

Canada and Ecuador are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in Ecuador to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and Ecuadorian authorities.

This process can take a long time, and there is no guarantee that the transfer will be approved by either or both sides.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and heavy fines.

You may also be found guilty by association if they have criminal associates. For instance, drivers could be held responsible for passengers carrying drugs in their luggage.

  • Pack your own luggage and monitor it closely at all times
  • Never transport other people’s packages, bags or suitcases
  • Avoid picking up hitchhikers

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Identification

Local authorities may request to see your ID at any time.

  • Carry valid identification or a photocopy of it at all times
  • Keep a photocopy of your passport in a safe place in case it’s lost or seized
  • Keep a digital copy of your ID and travel documents

Investments

Disputes related to property acquisition or other investments are costly and take time to resolve.

If you plan to buy property, or making other investments in Ecuador:

  • seek legal advice in Canada and in Ecuador before making commitments
  • choose your own lawyer
  • avoid hiring a lawyer recommended by a seller

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Ecuador.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Ecuador, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

General information for travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Ecuador.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Ecuador, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Ecuadorian court.

If you are in this situation:

  • act as quickly as you can
  • contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
  • consult a lawyer in Canada and in Ecuador to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
  • report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

  • List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
  • International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
  • The Hague Convention - Hague Conference on Private International Law
  • Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
  • Emergency Watch and Response Centre

You can drive up to 6 months with your valid Canadian driver’s licence.

There is a traffic restriction based on the last digit of the vehicle licence plate number in Quito. You may be heavily fined and your vehicle temporarily seized if you fail to respect the restricted part of the city on the weekday (Monday to Friday) corresponding to your plate number.

If you are involved in a road accident-causing injuries, you will be temporarily detained, regardless of culpability. Detention may last until responsibility for the accident has been assigned and all parties are satisfied.

You should carry an international driving permit.

International Driving Permit

The currency in Ecuador is the U.S. dollar (USD).

Credit cards are accepted by many businesses.

El Niño

The effects of El Niño are expected to begin in November 2023. Severe weather mostly affects places lower than 1500 metres above sea level and could result in problems such as:

  • above-average temperatures

Secretariat of Risk Management – Government of Ecuador (in Spanish)

The complex weather phenomenon called El Niño happens at irregular intervals of 2 to 7 years. In Ecuador, El Niño generally generates heavy rainfalls for 6 to 9 months, occurring at the same time as the rainy season from October to May.

  • Keep informed of regional weather forecasts before and during your travels, and plan accordingly.
  • Ensure you have adequate insurance to cover the consequences of such events, including the disruption of travel plans.

Earthquakes and tsunamis

Ecuador is in an active seismic area. Earthquakes and tremors occur regularly. 

Even minor earthquakes can cause significant damage.

Tsunami warnings may be issued after a strong earthquake. A tsunami can occur within minutes of a nearby earthquake. However, the risk of tsunami can remain for several hours following the first tremor.

If you’re staying on the coast, familiarize yourself with the region’s evacuation plans in the event of a tsunami warning.

  • Alerts Ecuador - Risk Management Secretariat (in Spanish)
  • Tsunami Early Warning System – Government of Ecuador (in Spanish)
  • Earthquakes - What to Do?
  • Latest earthquakes  - U.S. Geological Survey
  • Tsunami alerts - U.S. Tsunami Warning System

Ecuadorian authorities are closely monitoring multiple volcanoes which are active:

  • Chiles-Cerro Negro
  • Guagua Pichincha
  • Sierra Negra

Access to the Cotopaxi National Park could be restricted at any time without notice.

There are several volcanoes on the mainland and on the Galápagos Islands, including around Quito and the tourist communities of Baños and Riobamba. 

Eruptions could occur at any time.  They sometimes lead to evacuations of surrounding areas on short notice. Volcanic ash fall may also disrupt domestic and international flights and cause the closure of major highways.

Exposure to falling ash and toxic fumes from active volcanoes can affect your health.

 If you are planning to travel near active volcanoes:

  • consult a physician in advance to determine associated health risks if you suffer from respiratory ailments
  • familiarize yourself with local emergency plans
  • avoid restricted areas
  • be prepared to modify your travel arrangements or even evacuate the area on short notice

In the event of a volcanic eruption:

  • pay careful attention to all warnings issued for national parks
  • monitor local media to stay informed of the evolving situation
  • follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders
  • Instituto Geofisico  - Ecuador’s geophysical institute (in Spanish)

Rainy season

The rainy season extends from December to May.

Seasonal flooding can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable due to mudslides and landslides. Bridges, buildings, and infrastructure may be damaged. Underpasses may fill quickly with water.

  • Monitor local media for the latest updates, including those on road conditions
  • Stay away from flooded areas
  • Monitor weather reports
  • Follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders
  • National Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology  – Government of Ecuador (in Spanish)
  • Road Conditions and Closures  – ECU911 (in Spanish)

Wildfires are common between June and September.

The air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke.

In case of a major fire:

  • stay away from the affected area, particularly if you suffer from respiratory ailments
  • follow the instructions of local emergency services personnel
  • monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation

National Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology – Government of Ecuador (in Spanish)

Consular assistance

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Ecuador, in Quito, and follow the instructions. You may also make a collect call to the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa at +1 613-996-8885.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

Language selection

  • Français fr

Application for a Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa - TRV)

You need to give your biometrics.

In most cases, you now need to give your fingerprints and photo (biometrics) after you apply.

Find out who needs to give biometrics and how the new application process works.

Biometrics and the application process

Image that represents the different stages of the application process and biometrics.

We refer to your fingerprints and photo as biometrics. We collect biometrics for most applications. Find out what happens from when you submit your application to when you get to Canada and where biometrics fits in the process.

1. Apply for your visitor visa, study permit or work permit

If you want to visit, study or work in Canada, make sure you’re eligible to apply. Use our application guides to help fill out your application properly, then submit your application.

Avoid processing delays by sending us a complete application .

2. Get your fingerprints and photo taken

If you’re between 14 and 79 years old, you probably need to give your fingerprints and photo (biometrics).You only need to give your biometrics once every 10 years to make repeat trips to Canada easier.

  • You must pay the  biometrics fee   when you submit your application.  Otherwise you may experience delays.
  • Get this done  as soon as you get the letter  from us that tells you to give biometrics.
  • You have  30 days  to do this from the date on the letter.

Find out who needs to give , how to give , and  where to give your biometrics .

COVID-19: Biometrics deadline

Some biometrics collection sites are closed. If the site closest to you is closed, we’ll extend your deadline to give your biometrics. Find out how COVID-19 is affecting biometrics .

3. We process your application

After we get your biometrics, we start processing your application. See how long it takes to process your application.

If we need more information from you, we’ll contact you.

4. We make a decision on your application

When we finish reviewing your application, we let you know if you’re approved to come to Canada. If you are, we issue your documents.

If your application is refused, we send you a letter that tells you why.

5. You travel to Canada (if you’re approved)

Make sure you travel with the documents we gave you. This includes travel documents like a visitor visa, study or work permits or an eTA (electronically linked to your passport).

Airline staff and border service officers at ports of entry will ask to see your travel documents. If you don’t have them, you may not be able to board your flight to Canada.

Make sure children under 18 travel with the right documents .

6. We check your identity when you arrive in Canada

When you arrive, we check your identity to make sure that you are the same person who was approved to travel to Canada. We may use your biometrics to do this.

If we can’t verify your identity, you may be detained by a border services officer. These officers help protect the health and safety of Canadians.

If the officer determines that you’re not admissible to Canada, you won’t be allowed to enter Canada. If you came by air, you’ll have to take a return flight to where you came from.

7. You’re allowed to enter Canada

If you pass the identity check and meet the entry requirements , the border services officer stamps your passport and lets you know how long you can stay in Canada. You’re normally allowed to stay in Canada for up to six months.

Children under 18 must meet the same entry requirements as adults. The border services officer may ask minor children to show other documents depending on whether the child is travelling alone or with someone.

Basic entry requirements

You must meet some basic requirements to enter Canada. You must:

  • have a valid travel document, like a passport
  • be in good health
  • have no criminal or immigration-related convictions
  • convince an immigration officer that you have ties—such as a job, home, financial assets or family—that will take you back to your home country
  • convince an immigration officer that you will leave Canada at the end of your visit
  • The amount of money you will need depends on how long you will stay and if you will stay in a hotel, or with friends or relatives.

Some people are not admissible to Canada, which means they are not allowed to enter the country. You can be inadmissible for several reasons, including being involved in:

  • criminal activity
  • human rights violations
  • organized crime

You can also be inadmissible for security, health or financial reasons.

Find out more about inadmissibility .

Biometrics fee

  • Individual  applicant: CAD $85
  • Families applying at the same time : maximum total fee of CAD $170
  • Groups of 3 or more performing artists and their staff  who apply for work permits at the same time: maximum total fee of $CAD 255

You can apply online or on paper (in specific situations) for:

  • visitor visas (also known as temporary resident visas)
  • super visas (for parents and grandparents)
  • transit visas

Apply online

Before you apply, make sure you need a visa to enter Canada. Find out what document you need to enter Canada .

You must have both of these to apply online:

  • access to a scanner or camera to create electronic copies of your documents to upload
  • a valid credit card to pay with

How you apply depends on what you apply for. Select the document you want to apply for to get instructions:

Visitor visa : Option 1 of 3

Apply for a visitor visa

Super visa (for parents and grandparents) : Option 2 of 3

Apply for a super visa

Transit visa : Option 3 of 3

Apply for a transit visa

Apply on paper (in specific situations)

Before you apply , make sure you need a visa to enter Canada. Find out what document you need to enter Canada .

Read the instruction guide to get all the details to apply on paper.

  • Instruction Guide 5256

Once you have read the guide, you can prepare your application package. You must select the country or territory from which you will apply to get your local visa office instructions.

canada tourist visa ecuador

Permanent residents of Canada

We do not issue temporary resident visas (TRV) to permanent residents (PR). If you are outside Canada without a valid PR card, you must apply for a permanent resident travel document (PRTD) instead. If you meet the requirements for a PRTD, you can return to Canada as a PR.

If you no longer want to be a PR, or if you know you do not meet the requirements to keep your PR status, you can voluntarily give up (renounce) your PR status to apply for a TRV.

Application for Temporary Resident Visa

You can’t fill out and save the application form using your Internet browser. To use the form, you need to:

  • Use your computer (Mac or PC). The form won’t open on mobile devices (iPads, tablets, mobile phones, etc.)
  • Install Adobe Reader 10 (or higher)
  • Download the PDF file to your computer . Save the file in a place you can remember.
  • Make sure you use Adobe Reader to open the form. Sometimes if you try to open the form directly, it will use your Internet browser to try to open it.

Note: If you are applying online , you don’t need to print and sign the form. Leave the signature section empty.

Get the form

  • Application for Temporary Resident Visa [IMM 5257] (PDF, 556.66 KB) June 2019

Having issues with the form?

  • I can’t open my visa application form in PDF format. What can I do?
  • After clicking the “validate” button on my visa application form, nothing happens and I don’t see the barcodes. Why is this happening?

How-to video

canada tourist visa ecuador

Find out if you are eligible

canada tourist visa ecuador

Living in Canada tool

canada tourist visa ecuador

Language selection

Canada and ecuador.

Services for Canadians if you're visiting, studying, working or doing business in Ecuador. Includes information about coming to Canada.

canada tourist visa ecuador

Travel advice and advisories - Ecuador

Exercise a high degree of caution (with regional advisories)

Travel advice, passport and entry requirements, health and safety information, and more.

Services and information

Coming to canada.

Apply to immigrate. Get a visa to study, work or visit Canada.

Travelling outside of Canada

Travel advice for how to stay safe and returning to Canada.

Living abroad

Everything you need to know to prepare to leave Canada to live in a foreign country.

Canada-Ecuador relations

Canada’s diplomatic, economic or cultural relationship with Ecuador.

Doing business in Ecuador

Business opportunities, market and sector advantages and other insights.

Most requested

  • Authentication of documents
  • Registration of Canadians Abroad

Find a Government of Canada embassy, high commission or consulate

  • Canada and Ecuador news (Canada news)
  • Canada and Ecuador news (Local statements)

canada tourist visa ecuador

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit.

canada tourist visa ecuador

  • Embassy of Canada to Ecuador

Terms of service

X (Twitter)

  • @CanadaEcuador

Language selection

  • Français fr

Visit Canada

Find out what document you need to travel, visit family and friends, do business, or transit through Canada, and how to extend your stay.

canada tourist visa ecuador

  Alert

Special measures for

For people affected by

  • Iranian temporary residents in Canada
  • The situation in Lebanon

Most requested

  • Find out if you need a visa or eTA
  • Sign in to your IRCC account
  • Check your application status
  • Check processing times
  • Get answers to your questions in the Help Centre

Services and information

Apply for a visitor visa.

What a visitor visa is, who is eligible and how to apply

Apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)

What an eTA is, eligibility and how to apply online

Stay in Canada longer

How to extend your stay in Canada

Visitor visas for workers and students

How to get a new visa from inside Canada

Visit your children or grandchildren

Who is eligible and how to apply for a super visa that lets you stay with family in Canada for 5 years at a time

Visit Canada on business

Find out about the travel documents you need and what to bring to Canada as a business visitor

Transit through Canada

What it means to transit through Canada and which documents you need

Get border information for visitors

Travel tips, what happens at the border, and prohibited or restricted goods

canada tourist visa ecuador

Explore immigration programs

Answer a few questions to see different ways you might be able to come to Canada

  • Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
  • Canada Border Services Agency

Page details

Caution October 19, 2023

Worldwide caution, update january 10, 2024, information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

  • Travel Advisories |
  • Contact Us |
  • MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents.

Before You Go

Learn About Your Destination

While Abroad

Emergencies

Share this page:

Travel Advisory March 8, 2024

Ecuador - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Updated with information about the current state of emergency and crime information in the province of Guayas.

Exercise increased caution in Ecuador due to  civil unrest,   crime , and kidnapping . Some areas have increased risk. U.S. embassy and consulate personnel are prohibited from traveling to some areas due to increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Reconsider travel to:

  • Guayaquil north of Portete de Tarquí Avenue due to crime .
  • El Oro province outside the cities of Huaquillas and Arenillas, due to crime .
  • Los Rios province outside the cities of Quevedo, Quinsaloma, and Pueblo Viejo, due to crime .
  • All areas south of Esmeraldas city in Esmeraldas province, due to crime .
  • The provinces of Sucumbíos, Manabí, Santa Elena, and Santo Domingo due to crime .

Do not travel to:

  • Guayaquil, south of Portete de Tarquí Avenue, due to  crime .
  • The cities of Huaquillas and Arenillas in the province of El Oro, due to crime .
  • The cities of Quevedo, Quinsaloma, and Pueblo Viejo in the province of Los Rios, due to crime .
  • The canton of Duran, in the province of Guayas, due to crime .
  • Esmeraldas city and all areas north of Esmeraldas city in Esmeraldas province, due to crime .

Country Summary : Crime is a widespread problem in Ecuador. Violent crime, such as murder, assault, kidnapping, and armed robbery, is prevalent and widespread. The rate of violent crime is significantly higher in areas where transnational criminal organizations are concentrated.

Demonstrations occur frequently throughout the country, usually motivated by political and/or economic factors.  Demonstrators routinely block local roads and major highways, often without prior notice. Past demonstrations have varied in duration, with some extending for several days or weeks. Blocked roads may significantly reduce access to public transportation, health services, and airports and may disrupt travel both within and between cities.

Outside of Ecuador’s urban and semi-urban population centers, much of the country’s territory is sparsely populated and isolated. First responders’ and U.S. government officials’ access to rural and remote regions of the country is often extremely limited and can lead to significant delays in assistance to U.S. citizens in these areas.

Ongoing State of Emergency:  On January 8, 2024, Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa declared a nationwide state of emergency for a period of 60 days. On March 7, 2024, President Noboa announced a 30-day extension to the state of emergency through April 8, 2024. U.S. citizens should be aware of several temporary rules applicable to residents and foreigners in Ecuador due to the state of emergency:

  • There is a nationwide curfew in effect for the duration of the state of emergency. Curfew restrictions vary based on location. For specific guidance, please refer to official curfew guidance issued by the Government of Ecuador. There is an exception for individuals traveling to and from the airports with a scheduled flight during curfew hours. U.S. citizens traveling to or from the airport during curfew hours should carry their flight itinerary and passport. 
  • All foreign citizens entering the country via land border crossings from Colombia or Peru are required to present an apostilled certificate showing a lack of criminal record. See Travel.State.Gov ’s Office of Authentications webpage and Criminal Records Checks webpage for information on how to obtain a criminal record check and apostille from the United States. The U.S. Embassy and Consulate in Ecuador cannot assist citizens crossing a land border in obtaining the required documentation. 
  • For additional information and updates to the state of emergency, please track official communications from the Government of Ecuador.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on traveling to Ecuador.

If you decide to travel to Ecuador:

  •  Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
  • Follow the Department of State on  Facebook ,  Twitter , and  Instagram
  • Review the  Country Security Report  for Ecuador.
  • Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .
  • Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.

Level 4: Do Not Travel

Guayaquil,  south  of Portete de Tarquí Avenue, due to  crime .

The cities of Huaquillas and Arenillas in the Province of El Oro, due to  crime .

The cities of Quevedo, Quinsaloma, and Pueblo Viejo in the province of Los Rios, due to  crime.

The canton of Duran, in the province of Guayas, due to crime.

Esmeraldas city and all areas north of Esmeraldas city in Esmeraldas province, due to  crime .

Transnational criminal groups and local gangs regularly engage in violent criminal acts in these areas, including indiscriminate attacks without warning in public spaces. Violent crimes have included murder, targeted assassinations, armed robberies, bombings, kidnappings, and assaults, among others. Violence in these areas has steadily increased in frequency and brutality in recent months, posing an increased security risk to U.S. citizens. U.S. government personnel are prohibited from traveling to these areas without prior authorization. As a result, the U.S. government is limited in its ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in these areas.

Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Guayaquil  north  of Portete de Tarquí Avenue, due to  crime .

El Oro province outside the cities of Huaquillas and Arenillas, due to  crime .

Los Rios province outside the cities of Quevedo, Quinsaloma, and Pueblo Viejo, due to  crime .

All areas south of Esmeraldas city in Esmeraldas province, due to  crime.

The provinces of Sucumbíos, Manabí, Santa Elena, and Santo Domingo, due to  crime.

Transnational criminal groups and local gangs have sporadically engaged in violent criminal activity in these areas, with violence increasing in recent months. U.S. government personnel are directed to exercise extreme caution and maintain increased vigilance when traveling in and around these areas. 

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

1 page per stamp.

Not for stays less than 90 days in any 12-month period.

Travelers must declare currency in amounts greater than $10,000. See the Ecuadorian customs website.

There is a 5 percent tax on currency taken out of Ecuador above $1200.00. See the Ecuadorian Revenue Service website.

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy quito.

Avigiras E12-170 y  Eloy Alfaro  Quito, Ecuador Telephone: 593-2-398-5000 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: 593-2-398-5000 or 593-9-9788-3222 Email:   [email protected]

U.S. Consulate General Guayaquil Santa Ana St. and Jose Rodriguez Bonin Ave. San Eduardo Sector Guayaquil, Ecuador Telephone: 593-4-371-7000 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: 593-4-371-7000 Email:   [email protected]

Destination Description

See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Ecuador for information about U.S.-Ecuador relations.  

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Contact the Embassy of Ecuador in Washington, DC, for the most current visa information.

If you are traveling for  business or tourism, you do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days  in any 12-month period. You can request an extension through provincial migration offices. Additional information is available on the  Ecuadorian Ministry of Interior website .

  • If you are planning a visit longer than 90 days, you must obtain a visa in advance. 
  • The Ministry of Tourism provides general information for travelers on its  website .
  • You must carry identification, including proof of U.S. citizenship. Carry a photocopy of your passport (including the entry stamp and/or visa) with you at all times.
  • If your passport is lost or stolen while you are in Ecuador, you should obtain a police report and apply for a new passport at the U.S. Embassy or U.S. Consulate General. We also recommend obtaining an entry/exit report from an Ecuadorian immigration office before leaving the country. For further information, see the  Ecuadorian Ministry of Interior website .
  • U.S. citizens born in Ecuador are required to show an Ecuadorian passport or national ID card upon entering and exiting Ecuador. 
  • U.S. citizen children born in Ecuador who are traveling without one or both parents must present a copy of a birth certificate and written authorization from the absent parent(s). If the parent is deceased, a notarized copy of the death certificate is required. For more information, contact the Embassy of Ecuador in Washington, DC.
  • While no specific vaccinations are required for entry, the Centers for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC) recommends travelers obtain certain immunizations. See the CDC  website  for more information.

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Ecuador.

Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction , and  customs regulations  on our websites.

Safety and Security

Exercise increased caution when traveling in Ecuador, and do not travel to the province of Carchi, the province of Sucumbíos, and the northern part of Esmeraldas province, including Esmeraldas city due to crime. U.S. government personnel may travel to the northern bank of the Napo River in Sucumbíos, where tourist lodges are located, an area approximately four miles wide, and to the portion of Esmeraldas province that is south of Esmeraldas city.

All other U.S. government travel to the northern border area is prohibited without prior permission. This region has a high rate of violent crime. U.S. citizens are not targeted, but have been victims of crime there in the past.

Crime:  Crime is a widespread problem in Ecuador.

  • Pick-pocketing, robbery, and hotel room theft are the most common crimes. Tourists have been robbed at gunpoint on beaches and along hiking trails. Passengers arriving at the Quito and Guayaquil airports have also been targets of armed robberies.
  • Use hotel safes if available, avoid wearing obviously expensive jewelry or clothing, and carry only the cash or credit cards that you need. Stay alert in crowds and on public transportation. Be aware that thieves might create distractions to target you.
  • Be alert for robberies, in which criminals enter a taxi and force victims to withdraw money from ATMs. Some victims have been beaten or raped. Avoid hailing taxis on the street. Order taxis by phone or use a service affiliated with major hotels. Avoid withdrawing large amounts of cash at one time. Use ATMs in well-protected indoor areas.
  • To avoid carjacking or theft from your car while you are stopped at intersections, drive with your doors locked and windows rolled up. Do not leave valuables in plain view.
  • Sexual assaults and rapes can occur, even in tourist areas. Travel in groups, do not leave food or drinks unattended, and never allow a stranger to give you a drink.
  • Do not let your credit card out of your sight in order to avoid credit card “skimming.”
  • Incapacitating drugs, such as rohypnol and scopolamine, have been used to facilitate violent robberies and sexual assaults.

Civil Unrest:  Demonstrations may occur occasionally. They may take place in response to local or international events or on politically significant holidays. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly become violent. Protesters may block roads and sometimes burn tires, throw rocks, and damage property.

  • Police may respond using water cannons and tear gas.
  • Avoid demonstrations and prepare back-up transportation plans. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent with little or no warning.
  • A disaster can disrupt food supply, so plan to have at least a 3-day supply of food and medicine on hand.

Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

International Financial Scams:  See the  Department of State  and the  FBI   pages for information.

Victims of Crime:  U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy in Quito or Consulate in Guayaquil for assistance. Report crimes to the local police by calling 911 . In Quito, you can visit an  Ecuadorian Tourist Security Service Attention Center . You can also contact the U.S. Embassy at +593-2-398-5000 or the U.S. Consulate General in Guayaquil at +593-4-371-7000.

Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

Information about victim’s assistance programs in Ecuador is available on the U.S.  Mission in Ecuador website .

  • help you find appropriate medical care
  • assist you in reporting a crime to the police
  • contact relatives or friends with your written consent
  • provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion
  • provide a list of local attorneys
  • provide our information on  victim’s compensation programs in the United States.
  • provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
  • help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
  • replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy or Consulate General for assistance.

Tourism:  The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities. First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities and to provide urgent medical treatment. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more  information on insurance providers for overseas coverage . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned.

  • Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking illegal drugs in Ecuador are severe. Offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines.
  • Never agree to carry a suitcase or package through customs for anyone.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see the State Department’s website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy or U.S. Consulate General immediately. See our webpage  for further information.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods: Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, they may still be illegal according to local laws. You may also pay fines or have to give them up if you bring them back to the United States. See the U.S. Department of Justice website for more information.

Seismic Activity:  There are numerous active volcanoes, and earthquakes are common. Earthquakes can trigger deadly tsunamis. Visit  Ecuador’s National Risk Management Secretariat  and the  Ecuadorian Geophysical Institute  for more information.

  • Mud or lava flows from  Tungurahua volcano  could pose a significant and immediate threat to travelers in Baños.
  • The town of Latacunga is directly in the path of potential mud or lava flow from the  Cotopaxi volcano . Even small emissions from the volcano can trigger avalanches and landslides. Low lying areas in the greater Quito area could also be affected if Cotopaxi erupts.
  • Reventador volcano is located in Napo province and is one of the most active in the country.
  • Sangay volcano is located in Morona Santiago province is active and local authorities advise against approaching the volcano and nearby Upano river.
  • In the event of a natural disaster, pay attention to the news media for updates. A disaster can disrupt food supply, so plan to have at least a 3-day supply of food and medicine on hand.
  • See the  Centers for Disease Control website  for information on emergency preparedness and response.

Hallucinogens:  Traditional hallucinogens, often referred to as ayahuasca or San Pedro, are often marketed to tourists as “spiritual cleansing” and typically contain dimethyltryptamine (DMT), a strong hallucinogen that is illegal in the United States, Ecuador, and many other countries. Health risks are not well understood, and, on occasion, people suffer serious illness or death after taking these drugs. Intoxicated travelers also have been assaulted and robbed. These incidents often occur a great distance from medical facilities, making the risks even greater.

Galápagos   Islands: Be aware of the following challenges:

  • Many Ecuadorian tour vessels operating in the Galápagos do not meet international safety standards. Inquire about safety features when boarding vessels.
  • The two hospitals on Santa Cruz and San Cristobal Islands do not perform major medical procedures.
  • Serious injury or illness in the Galapagos typically requires medical evacuation to the Ecuadorian mainland or the United States. This can cost $60,000 or more and take significant time to arrange.  We strongly recommend you purchase travel insurance that includes health coverage and air evacuation .
  • There are limited decompression facilities for scuba divers.
  • The Ecuadorian government restricts the entry of certain items into the Galapagos. Visit the  Agency for Biosecurity and Quarantine Regulation and Control for the Galapagos  for more information.

Retiring in Ecuador:  In recent years, Ecuador has become a top overseas destination for retiring U.S. citizens.

  • U.S. citizens have reported unethical practices by lawyers, real estate agents, and others, resulting in costly losses and little hope of remedy through the local judicial system.
  • Ecuadorian rules governing visas and customs are subject to change with little notice.  The Ecuadorian government publishes little information in English. The U.S. Embassy and U.S. Consulate General cannot give detailed advice about Ecuadorian immigration law.

Faith-Based Travelers:  See our following webpages for details:

  • Faith-Based Travel Information
  • International Religious Freedom Report
  • Human Rights Report
  • Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
  • Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTI Travelers:  There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in Ecuador.

See   our  LGBTI Travel Information   page and section 6 of our  Human Rights report  for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance:   Travelers with disabilities might have difficulty accessing buildings. Sidewalks in some areas are narrow and poorly maintained.

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

For emergency services in Ecuador, dial 911.

Ambulance services are:

  • not present throughout the country and unreliable in most areas except Quito. 
  • not equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment.

Injured or seriously ill travelers may prefer to take a taxi or private vehicle to the nearest major hospital rather than wait for an ambulance, particularly outside of Quito.

Adequate medical and dental care is available in major cities. In smaller communities and in the Galapagos Islands, services are limited, and the quality is generally well below U.S. standards.

  • Ambulance service is limited.
  • Specialized medical care can cost tens of thousands of dollars or is not available.
  • Pharmacies are widely available. However, some medications might not be offered, and brand names will differ from products in the United States. Not all pharmacies purchase medications from pharmaceutical companies that adhere to quality control standards.
  • Exercise caution if you explore herbal and folk remedies.
  • Quito is 9,400 feet above sea level. Some other tourist destinations in the mountainous region may be higher. Consult your doctor for recommendations concerning medication and lifestyle tips at high altitude.

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance : Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See  our webpage  for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage. Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with the government of Ecuador’s  National Customs Service  to ensure the medication is legal in Ecuador.

The following diseases are present:

  • Chagas disease
  • Chikungunya
  • Tuberculosis
  • Yellow fever

Vaccinations : Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information :

  • World Health Organization
  • U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

Air Quality : Visit  AirNow Department of State  for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

The U.S. Mission in Ecuador maintains a list of doctors and hospitals on its  webpage . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Health facilities in general :

  • Adequate health facilities are available in Quito and Guayaquil but health care in rural areas may be below U.S. standards.
  • Public medical clinics lack basic resources and supplies.
  • Hospitals and doctors often require payment “up front” prior to service or admission.
  • Private hospitals usually require advance payment or proof of adequate insurance before admitting a patient.
  • Medical staff may speak little or no English.

  Pharmaceuticals:

  • Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas. Pharmaceuticals, both over the counter and requiring prescription in the United States, are often readily available for purchase with little controls. Counterfeit medication is common and may prove to be ineffective, the wrong strength, or contain dangerous ingredients. Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments.
  • U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States. Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States. Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States. Visit the  U.S. Customs and Border Protection  and the  Food and Drug Administration  websites for more information.

Assisted Reproductive Technology and Surrogacy:

  • If you are considering traveling to Ecuador to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, see our  ART and Surrogacy Abroad page .
  • Surrogacy is legal for foreigners in Ecuador.

Water Quality:

  • In many areas, tap water is not potable. Bottled water and beverages are generally safe, although you should be aware that many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested. Be aware that ice for drinks may be made using tap water.
  • Many cities in Ecuador, such as Quito, are at high altitude. Be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness, and take precautions before you travel. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about  Travel to High Altitudes .

Adventure Travel:

Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about  Adventure Travel .

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:   Some roads are poorly maintained and may lack crash barriers, guard rails, signs, and streetlights. Heavy fog and rain make conditions more treacherous.

  • Due to a lack of sidewalks, many roads are also used by pedestrians.
  • Slow-moving buses and trucks frequently stop in the middle of the road unexpectedly.
  • In rural areas, you may encounter livestock in the road.
  • Many vehicles are poorly maintained, and breakdowns are common.

Traffic Laws:

You may use your U.S. driver’s license for up to 90 days. If you are staying in Ecuador longer, you should contact the  National Transit Agency  to obtain a valid driver’s license.

  • Drivers often disobey traffic laws and signals. They rarely yield to pedestrians and cyclists.
  • If you are involved in an accident, even if you are not at fault, you may be taken into police custody,  especially if there are injuries or if you do not have insurance. If the injuries or damages are serious, you may face criminal charges.
  • You might encounter intoxicated drivers. Chances of a drunk-driving accident are higher on weekends and Ecuadorian holidays.
  • If you want to import a vehicle, contact  Ecuador’s National Customs Service  for local regulations. You must pay for local liability insurance, called SPPAT.

Public Transportation: Intra- and inter-city bus passengers are often targets of crime, including robbery and sexual assault.

  • Armed criminals have been known to board local city buses and rob passengers.
  • Numerous bus accidents occur every year in Ecuador. Many buses are overcrowded, poorly maintained, and lack safety features such as seat belts.

See our  Road Safety page  for more information. Visit the website of Ecuador's  national tourist office  and national authority responsible for road safety.

Aviation Safety Oversight:   The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of Ecuador’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Ecuador’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Ecuador should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the NGA broadcast warnings .

For additional travel information

  • Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
  • Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
  • See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
  • Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
  • See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Ecuador was cited in the State Department’s 2022 Annual Report to Congress on International Child Abduction for demonstrating a pattern of non-compliance with respect to international parental child abduction. Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in  Ecuador . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for u.s. citizens, ecuador map, learn about your destination, enroll in step.

Enroll in STEP

Subscribe to get up-to-date safety and security information and help us reach you in an emergency abroad.

Recommended Web Browsers: Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome.

Make two copies of all of your travel documents in case of emergency, and leave one with a trusted friend or relative.

Afghanistan

Antigua and Barbuda

Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba

Bosnia and Herzegovina

British Virgin Islands

Burkina Faso

Burma (Myanmar)

Cayman Islands

Central African Republic

Cote d Ivoire

Curaçao

Czech Republic

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Dominican Republic

El Salvador

Equatorial Guinea

Eswatini (Swaziland)

Falkland Islands

France (includes Monaco)

French Guiana

French Polynesia

French West Indies

Guadeloupe, Martinique, Saint Martin, and Saint Barthélemy (French West Indies)

Guinea-Bissau

Isle of Man

Israel, The West Bank and Gaza

Liechtenstein

Marshall Islands

Netherlands

New Caledonia

New Zealand

North Korea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea)

Papua New Guinea

Philippines

Republic of North Macedonia

Republic of the Congo

Saint Kitts and Nevis

Saint Lucia

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Sao Tome and Principe

Saudi Arabia

Sierra Leone

Sint Maarten

Solomon Islands

South Africa

South Korea

South Sudan

Switzerland

The Bahamas

Timor-Leste

Trinidad and Tobago

Turkmenistan

Turks and Caicos Islands

United Arab Emirates

United Kingdom

Vatican City (Holy See)

External Link

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

canada tourist visa ecuador

Ecuador Visa: Visa Requirements And Application

Last Updated : 02 Oct 2023

Atlys in the news

Atlys featured in

Last Updated : 02 Oct 2023 at

Ecuador! The home of the Galapagos Islands. Although Ecuador is the fourth-smallest South American Nation, it thrives on its rich culture and natural beauty.

This post will cover everything you need to know about the Ecuador Tourist Visa application process and the required documents.

Let's get started:

What Is The Ecuador Tourist Visa?

Before I get started on the required documents and the application process, I will tell you what the Ecuador Tourist Visa is. You're reading this post because you are probably planning a tourism trip to Ecuador.

The Ecuador Tourist Visa allows you to stay in Ecuador for 90 days. However, this is only permitted for tourism. Example purposes when applying for an Ecuador Tourist Visa are:

Visiting friends

Attend sports activities

What You Need To Know About The Ecuador Tourist Visa?

Now that you have oversight about the Ecuador Tourist Visa, I will explain all the essential details. Later in the post, I will cover the required documents and the application process. Please feel free to use the navigational links at your disposal.

Should US Citizens Apply For An Ecuador Tourist Visa?

Who needs the ecuador tourist visa, how to enter ecuador without a visa, how long is the ecuador tourist visa valid, can you extend your ecuador tourist visa, what is the ecuador tourist visa fee, what is the processing time of the ecuador tourist visa.

If you are a US citizen planning a trip to Ecuador, you're lucky. You do not have to apply for an Ecuador Tourist Visa if you only plan on a 90-day trip.Alternatively, suppose you are planning a trip for more than 90-days. In that case, you must apply for a temporary resident visa or an extended Tourist Visa at the Ecuadorian Embassy or Ecuadorian Consulate.

Later in this post, I will explain the Extended Tourist Visa.

Before starting the application process, you must determine if an Ecuador Tourist Visa is required for your country of origin. US citizens don't need a visa to enter Ecuador, as I mentioned earlier. However, please remember that this is not the case for all citizens.

Luckily Ecuador has a very lenient visa policy. Therefore citizens from most countries do not need an Ecuador Tourist Visa. However, citizens from countries such as Afghanistan, Pakistan, Gambia, etc., must apply for an Ecuador Tourist Visa.

If you're unsure whether or not you have to apply for an Ecuadorian Tourist Visa, please feel free to use the Ecuador Minister of Foreign Affairs website .

Because Ecuador has a lenient visa policy, many countries are exempt from needing an Ecuador Tourist Visa. Suppose you are exempt from needing an Ecuador Tourist Visa.

In that case, you will need to present the following travel documents to the immigration officers upon entering:

A valid passport. It must be valid for at least six months from your entry date.

A round-trip or a ticket proving you will be leaving Ecuador for another trip.

Travel insurance that must cover the duration of your stay.

The Ecuador Tourist Visa is only valid for stays up to 90-days. This does not apply to other visa types, such as permanent residence and business visas.

I know you would want to stay longer than 90 days if you are like me. In that case, you can apply for a Special Tourist Visa. The Special Tourist Visa allows you to stay an additional 90-days. This means that your initial 90-day trip can be extended to 180 days. Please keep in mind that you cannot carry out work activities during your trip.

The only downside to the Special Tourist Visa is that only certain special regime countries can apply for this type of visa. These countries include Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Nepal, Nigeria, Pakistan, Somalia, Senegal, Cuba, and the Democratic Peoples' Republic of Korea.

Suppose you want to apply for the Special Tourist Visa. In that case, you must apply through Ecuador's Diplomatic Mission or Consular offices. On the other hand, suppose you enjoy your trip to Ecuador and want to extend your trip. In that case, you must use the Zonal Directorates in Ecuador.

Like all visa applications, you must pay a fee. With the Ecuador Tourist Visa application, you must pay 2 fees: an application fee and an approval fee. If you are a senior citizen, you only have to pay 50% of the costs.

The fees are as follows:

Application fee: USD 50 (Excluding VAT)

Visa approval (granting): USD 150 (Excluding VAT)

The processing can be between 4 and 6 weeks. Typically processing times can differ depending on certain factors. These factors include the location of your submission.

As an experienced traveler, I always try and submit my application at least 2 months before my trip. Therefore, I advise you to submit your Ecuador Tourist Visa application 2 months before your departure date.

What Are The Ecuador Tourist Visa Required Documents?

With all the information I mentioned earlier, you should now understand the Ecuador Tourist Visa. This section will explain the required documents you will need to be included during your application process.

You must gather all these documents before you start with the application process. Here is a list of all the documents you require for your application:

Completed application form (you have to submit a completed application form with your required documents).

Passport-size photograph (ensure that you have a digital copy if you want to submit your application online).

Valid passport (you must submit an original and a copy)

Proof of accommodation (this can either be a hotel itinerary or proof of your hotel booking).

Return flight ticket (you can submit a copy of your flight ticket or a flight itinerary).

Original criminal record certificate from your country of origin or the country where you have lived for the last 5 years (it should be valid for a minimum of 180 days and must be apostilled).

Proof of sufficient funds. You must prove that you have the financial means to support yourself during your trip (proof will be payslips, pensioners cheques, or bank statements).

Health insurance (must cover the total amount of days you will be in Ecuador).

Proof of paid application fee (this can be either a teller slip or online proof of payment).

What Are The Required Documents For Minors?

If you are applying for a minor, you must submit additional documents.These documents are:

Updated migratory movements of the applicant's parents.

In the absence of one of the parents, you must present a special power of attorney or authorization, apostilled or legalized, and, if applicable, translated.

The birth certificate of the minor, apostilled or legalized and, if applicable, translated, must be attached.

How To Apply For The Ecuador Tourist Visa?

Now that you are an Ecuador Tourist Visa professional and know everything about the Ecuador visa requirements, you can start your application. This section will outline the steps you must follow to complete the Ecuador Visa Application process.

Step 1 - Gather The Required Documents

Step 2 - complete the online application form, step 3 - book your visa appointment, step 4 - attend your visa appointment, step 5 - pay your visa application fee, step 6 - wait for your visa to be processed, step 7 - collect your approved visa.

Before starting with the application process, it is essential to gather all the required documents I mentioned earlier. I know I have said it before, but please note that it is crucial for the application process.

Professional traveler tip: Make copies of all your documents because you may misplace your documents, which will delay your application process.

To start with your application, you must complete the online application form. This document will require you to submit personal details, trip information, etc.

Keep in mind that you can complete it online, but you must print it before submitting your documents. Oh, and one last thing, ensure that you sign the online application form before submitting all your documents.

After completing, printing, and signing your online application form, you can now book your visa appointment.

There are two ways to book your visa appointment. The first way is to book your appointment online . Please note that not all Ecuador Embassies or consulates are applicable for online bookings. The alternative option is to book your appointment by contacting the nears Ecuadorian Embassy or Consulate general closest to you.

Quick note: You will receive your visa appointment booking confirmation via email, SMS, or phone call.

You must attend your visa appointment because it is where you will submit your Ecuador Tourist Visa application. I can only assume that you might be stressed about the visa appointment, but keep in mind that there is nothing to fear.

As I mentioned earlier, the visa appointment will be for submitting your documents. You will also be required to conduct a short in-person interview with an embassy or consulate staff member. The staff member will ask you questions regarding your trip and can ask you to submit additional documents.

After your visa appointment, you must pay the visa application fee. The payment method can vary depending on the embassy or consulate you are applying from.

All the hard work is finally done. So, pour yourself a refresher because all you need to do now is wait for your application to be finalized and processed. As I said earlier, this can take between 4 and 6 weeks. In the meantime, you can search for extra Ecuador tourist attractions while you wait.

The last thing you must do is collect your approved Ecuador Tourist Visa. You will get a notification from the Ecuador Embassy or Consulate where you applied. As soon as you receive your approval notification, head over and collect your approved visa with an entry stamp.

You Are Ready To Travel To Ecuador

I hope you enjoyed a stress-free Ecuador Tourist Visa application process. The time has come, and you are ready to travel to the beautiful sites of Ecuador.

Frequently Asked Questions

COVID-19 vaccinations are required for any type of international travel. Therefore, ensure that you have your vaccination certificate before traveling to Ecuador.

Visas in Under a Week

canada tourist visa ecuador

How to Apply for the Dubai Tourist Visa from the United States?

Dubai Tourist Visa

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about Dubai tourist visas, including fees, processing times, and application requirements.

canada tourist visa ecuador

Apply for a Bahrain Visa from the US - Bahrain E-Visa Application Process

Bahrain visa for US citizens

Need a Bahrain visa? You're in luck! This post covers everything you need to know about the Bahrain e-visa including the application process and requirements.

canada tourist visa ecuador

The Kenya visa for US citizens: How to travel to Kenya

Kenya visa for US citizens

In this post, you will find important information about the Kenya Visa for US citizens. This post will cover everything about the Kenya eVisa, the requirements, and how to apply.

canada tourist visa ecuador

Armenia Visa Requirements from the United States

Armenia visa

Learn how to get your Armenia visa online; discover all the necessary steps to apply with a step-by-step guide and the requirements.

canada tourist visa ecuador

Morocco e-visa: Requirements and Application 2024

Morocco e-visa

US citizens can travel visa-free to Morroco. Discover the Morocco e-visa for US Green card holders. How to apply, eligibility, requirements, and the e-visa fee.

canada tourist visa ecuador

Get a Russian Visa for US Citizens Now - A Guide on How to Apply

Russian tourist visa

Optimise your travel experience! Get your Russian visa for US citizens easily with this helpful guide. The post includes the application process and requirements.

canada tourist visa ecuador

The complete guide for the Egypt visa from the US

Egypt visa for US citizens

In this blog, we'll cover everything US citizens must know about applying for an Egypt E Visa. We'll discuss the visa requirements, application process, processing times, and Egypt visa costs.

canada tourist visa ecuador

Turkey e-visa for US: Cost and application 2023

Turkey e-visa

Explore a complete guide on Turkey's eVisa for US citizens: application process, requirements, and tips for a seamless travel experience to Turkey.

canada tourist visa ecuador

Zimbabwe visa on arrival application guide for US citizens

Zimbabwe visa on arrival

Need your Zimbabwe visa? No problem! This post has everything you need to know about getting a visa to Zimbabwe!

canada tourist visa ecuador

Philippines Tourist Visa: Requirements and visa fees in 2024

Philippines Tourist Visa

In this post, you'll learn everything you need to know about the Philippines Tourist Visa, including how to apply, the required documents, and the visa fee.

canada tourist visa ecuador

Dominican Republic Visa & Tourist Card: Application and Requirements

Dominican Republic Tourist Visa

Discover travel requirements for US citizens visiting the Dominican Republic. Stay informed on entry requirements for a seamless visit.

canada tourist visa ecuador

Saudi Arabia e-visa - Application guide and requirements 2024

Saudi Arabia e-visa

Get your Saudi Arabia visa now! This post will guide you through everything you need to know about the Saudi Arabia Tourist Visa.

canada tourist visa ecuador

Ethiopia tourist visa: Easy application process for travelers

Ethiopia tourist visa

Explore Ethiopia hassle-free with the e-visa for US citizens. Secure your visa online for a seamless travel experience. Apply now!

canada tourist visa ecuador

Myanmar e-visa— Application and requirements 2024

Myanmar visa for US citizens

US citizens must apply for a Myanmar Visa. You can apply for an e-visa that allows a stay of up to 28 days. Click to learn the most important visa requirements!

canada tourist visa ecuador

Kenya E-Visa Payment Issues And Solutions

Kenya E Visa Payment Issues

Tips for what to do when you experience issues with your Kenya e-Visa payment process.

Types Of Kenya Visas: Kenya Visa Requirements and Costs

Types Of Kenya Visas

This visa covers everything you need to know about the different types of Kenya visas. The post includes the requirements and costs for each Kenya Visa.

canada tourist visa ecuador

How To Complete Your Kenya Visa Application Form Online

Kenya Visa Application Form

In this post, you will find important information about the Kenya Visa Application Form. This post will outline how to complete it, important tips, and the easiest way to complete your Visa Application Form error-free.

canada tourist visa ecuador

Kenya eVisa For US Citizens: Application & Requirements 2023

A step-by-step guide on applying for a Kenya e-visa. You'll find everything about the Kenya evisa requirements, online visa application, and application form.

canada tourist visa ecuador

Kenya Visa Requirements: Documents, Passport, and Photo Requirements

Kenya Visa Requirements

This blog is all about the Kenya Visa requirements for US citizens applying for the Kenya Visa including Kenya Visa costs, passport requirements, and photo requirements.

canada tourist visa ecuador

Egypt Visa For US Citizens: Online Application and Enquiries

Egypt E Visa For US Citizens

Egypt Visa For US Citizens

Instant Visas

canada tourist visa ecuador

St Lucia Visa | US Citizens and US Green Card Holders

Travel To St Lucia

Discover the process of obtaining a St Lucia visa for US Green Card Holders. Learn entry requirements, application steps, fees, and visa validity.

canada tourist visa ecuador

Malawi visa for US Citizens

Malwai visa for US citizens

US citizens enjoy visa-free entry to Malawi. Learn about fees, visa-extension, US green-card holder requirement and more

canada tourist visa ecuador

Jamaica Entry Requirements: How To Apply For A Jamaican Visa

Jamaica Entry Requirements And Visa Process

Hi there! I am glad you found our blog. Check out this blog to learn more about Jamaica's entry requirements, the visa process, and visa fees.

canada tourist visa ecuador

The Nepal Tourist Visa For US Citizens: Requirements, Application Process, And Fees

The Nepal Tourist Visa For Us Citizens

In this blog, I talk about how to get a Nepal visa for US citizens, the visa fees, and the processing time

canada tourist visa ecuador

Thailand Pass: Requirements, Application, Cost, and Errors

How To Apply For A Thailand Pass

Find out exactly how to apply for a Thailand Pass in order to easily travel to Thailand.

canada tourist visa ecuador

Visa to Malawi—Malawi Visa Application Made Easy

Visa To Malawi

On your way to Malawi? Need a visa? Learn the exact requirements for your visa to Malawi and apply for yours with confidence! Or do it the easy way—use Atlys.

Apply For Thailand Visa For US Green Card Holders Online - 2023 Guide

Thailand Visa For Us Green Card Holders

Learn how to apply for a Thailand visa for US green card holders online. Find out about eVisa requirements, the application process, fees, processing time, and much more!

canada tourist visa ecuador

Maldives Tourist Visa: Entry and Visa Requirements to Maldives

Maldives Tourist Visa

In this post you'll learn everything you need to about the Maldives Tourist visa. Including the requirements, costs and other types of Maldives Visas you can apply for.

canada tourist visa ecuador

Travel To Jamaica From The US: Jamaica Travel Requirements

Travel To Jamaica From The Us

In this post you will find all the relevant information when traveling to Jamaica from the US. This post outlines if US citizens need a visa to visit Jamaica, the COVID-19 entry requirements and useful information when visiting Jamaica.

canada tourist visa ecuador

Nepal Tourist Visa For US Citizens: Nepal Visa Requirements

Nepal E Visa Vs Visa On Arrival

This post covers everything you need to know about the Nepal Tourist Visa for US citizens. This post includes the application process, costs, and processing time.

Revealed: These Are The Most Visited Cities In The World 2023

The Most Visited Cities In The World

Discover the most visited cities in the world. Read about why these destinations are so popular and special in the eyes of international travellers.

canada tourist visa ecuador

Maldives Health Declaration and Tourist Visa on Arrival

Maldives Health Declaration And Tourist Visa On Arrival

Traveling to the Maldives this quick guide will help make it a reality. We’ll show you how to obtain a health declaration and a visa on arrival for the Maldives.

Jamaica Travel Authorization Form and Requirements

How To Get Travel Authorization To Jamaica

This handy article will show you exactly how to get Travel Authorization to Jamaica.

canada tourist visa ecuador

Nepal Visa Extension Online: Processing Time and Cost

Nepal Visa Extension Process

It is crucial that visitors don't overstay their welcome in Nepal. In fact, in this post you'll learn about the consequences of overstaying your visit. Furthermore, you'll learn how to extend your visa successful so that you can enjoy your stay in Nepal, or return you your home country

canada tourist visa ecuador

Jamaica Eliminates COVID-19 Travel Authorization Form And Requirements

Jamaica Eliminates Covid 19 Travel Authorization Form

Minister Edmund Bartlett announced that Jamaica will eliminate Travel Authorization form and quarantine requirements starting March 1, 2022.

canada tourist visa ecuador

Barbados Visa From US: Costs, Visa Process, And Entry Requirements

Barbados Visa Requirements

In this post, you'll learn about everything you need for a Barbados Visa. Including if you need one, the Barbados visa requirements, the application process, and costs.

canada tourist visa ecuador

Do You Need A Passport To Go To Jamaica?

Do I Need A Passport To Go To Jamaica

In this post you will find all the relevant information regards to Jamaican passport requirements. This post will outline if you need a passport when going to Jamaica and what documents you can present when traveling with a minor.

canada tourist visa ecuador

Barbados Digital Nomad Visa: Welcome Stamp Requirements

Barbados Digital Nomad Visa

This post covers everything you need to know about the Barbados Digital Nomad Visa. It includes the application process, required documents and visa requirements.

canada tourist visa ecuador

Thailand Pass Requirements and Application Process

Thailand Pass

In this post you'll learn everything about the Thailand Pass including the required documents, entry requirements and how to apply.

logo

Featured on

We've updated our app!

Download it now

Woo Hoo! We've updated iVisa's brand! Hope you like it as much as we do.

We use cookies to enhance your experience and to help us understand how to improve usability. By continuing to use this site, you agree to receive cookies. Privacy Policy

Canada Visitor Visa for citizens of Ecuador

Are you an Ecuadorian citizen dreaming about exploring the breathtaking beauty of Canada? The Canada Visitor Visa for Ecuadorian citizens is your ticket to realizing this dream.

With this visa, you can immerse yourself in Canada's wonders, staying up to six months per visit. Our team of iVisa experts is here to guide you through the visa application process, making it a seamless experience and boosting your chances of getting this Canada visa for Ecuadorian citizens. Let's discover the steps of the Canada visa application from Ecuador.

canada tourist red jacket

Canada Visitor Visa - Ecuador: Do Ecuadorian citizens need a Canada Visitor Visa?

Are you an Ecuadorian eager to discover all that Canada offers? If so, getting a Canada Visitor Visa for Ecuadorian citizens before you embark on your journey is essential. This visa opens the doors to Canada's natural wonders, business opportunities, or reuniting with loved ones there.

Rely on our services to provide professional support throughout the application process, enhancing your chances of having your Canada visa approved . Learn more about the Canada Tourist Visa requirements here.

Canada from Ecuador: How to get a Canada Visitor Visa for Ecuadorian citizens with us

Obtaining your travel documents to venture into Canada from Ecuador is easier with our services. Here's a simple guide to getting your Canada visa for Ecuadorian citizens:

Step 1: Provide your essential travel and contact info on our online application or iVisa app . Double-check all the details, and pay the visa fee online.

Step 2: Complete the Canada Visitor Visa application form on our platform and upload the necessary documents. Our iVisa Experts will review your submission and schedule a biometrics appointment at Ecuador's nearest Canada Embassy or Visa Application Center (VAC).

Step 3: Attend your scheduled biometrics appointment and await the verdict. Once the Canadian government approves your visa, you’ll receive instructions on submitting your passport for visa stamping.

Do you still have questions about the Canada visa application from Ecuador? Contact us!

Curious about the Canada Visitor Visa for Ecuadorian citizens? Don't hesitate to reach out to us! Our customer service team is just a click away.

Contact us online chat or email [email protected] . Whether you have inquiries about this visa or want to know more about the specific Canada visa requirements for Ecuadorian citizens, we're here to help!

Related Articles

Canada Visa rejection: Common reasons and how to avoid it cover image

Canada Visa rejection: Common reasons and how to avoid it

Check Canada visa status: Track your application cover image

Check Canada visa status: Track your application

Canada Visitor Visa for citizens of Panama cover image

Canada Visitor Visa for citizens of Panama

  • iVisa is NOT affiliated with any government agency. This site does not provide legal advice and we are not a law firm. None of our customer service representatives are lawyers and they also do not provide legal advice. We are a private, internet-based travel and immigration consultancy provider dedicated to helping individuals travel around the world. You may apply by yourself directly on the various government websites. The source of information: https://www.canada.ca/en/services/immigration-citizenship.html

Intercom Chat

  • Skip to main content

Additional menu

The Visa Project

A place for your visa experiences and more

Ecuador Visa Application: How to Get Ecuador Visa?

Although most people from the world don’t need a visa to visit Ecuador, some do need one. And many people who want to retire in Ecuador or immigrate for work or business, need to know how to get Ecuador visa and the application process.

The process to apply for Ecuador visa can be a little complicated sometimes depending on where you are applying and the requirements for that specific visa. For your Ecuador visa application, you can follow the underlined process no matter where you are.

Table of Contents

Ecuador Visa Application Process

Except for a tourist visa for Ecuador, you can apply for any Ecuador visa either in Ecuador or in an Ecuador embassy in your home country.

1. Do You Need a Visa for Ecuador?

Before you apply for Ecuador visa, what you need to know is that whether or not you need a visa to visit Ecuador. Citizens of most countries from Europe, Americas and Asia don’t need a visa to enter Ecuador.

Right now there are 23 countries whose citizens need a visa to enter Ecuador. You can check if you need a visa to enter Ecuador on the official website of Ecuador’s foreign ministry.

Of course if the purpose of your visit to Ecuador is to work or retire or do business, you would need a visa.

2. Choose the Ecuador Visa Type

Since there are so many types of Ecuador visas, you need to understand the difference before you apply. Choose the Ecuador visa type you need for your purpose, and then only move forward with your application.

Here are some of the popular Ecuador visa types.

  • Ecuador retirement visa
  • Ecuador professional visa
  • Rentista visa for Ecuador
  • Ecuador amparo visa

3. Check the Ecuador Visa Requirements

No matter which Ecuador visa you apply, you would need to submit an original passport and photos. You would also need to submit the Ecuador visa application form  after filling and signing it.

How to get Ecuador visa and fill in the application form

That being said, Ecuador visa requirements can vary a lot depending on the visa type, where you are applying from, and other factors.

ALERT : Click here to join the Facebook group for more discussions on Ecuador and Colombia Visas

4. Get Your Documents Apostilled/ Translated and Notarized

Except for the tourist visa, almost every visa for Ecuador needs you to apostille and/or translate the document to Spanish and get them notarized. This is where many applicants make a mistake and come to Ecuador without apostilling their documents.

While researching how to get Ecuador visa, it is important to understand that only some documents need to be apostilled and some need to be apostilled, translated, and notarized.

A document such as a background check would only need to be apostilled, and not translated. However, documents such as diplomas, social security income letter would need to be apostilled, and then translated and notarized.

If you are planning to come to Ecuador and apply for the visa there, you must know the difference and plan accordingly.

What’s apostilling?

An apostille is nothing but a way of notarizing on an international level, agreed by many countries. You can only apostille documents in your home country or where the document has originated. Each country’s procedure for this is different.

What’s official translation/notarization?

A certified/official translation must be carried out by translators registered or accredited to embassies or government of the country whose visa you are applying.

After getting your document and the apostille translated, if required, they can be notarized through the embassy of the said country or through a notary in the country.

5. Submit Ecuador Visa Application Online

It is possible to submit your visa application for Ecuador online, through the official website of Ecuador’s external affairs ministry. You can fill in your details and upload the documents.

After you submit the application, you can choose the consulate that should process your application and everything will happen step by step.

But if for some reason you have any issues with the website, you can send in your documents through mail or in person, by getting an appointment.

Get Ecuador visa online

6. Get an Appointment for Your Visa

If you are applying for the visa in Ecuador, You can get the appointment for the Ecuador visa application on the  website  of Ecuador’s external ministry.

However, if you can’t get an appointment online or there is an issue with the website, you can call the migraciones office close to where you live or show up and get a date for your appointment.

You can also get an appointment by requesting one to the email [email protected] .

Once you get the appointment, you need to go to the required immigration office or migraciones Ecuador . Make sure to carry all the required documents in a file folder.

If you are applying through an Ecuadorian embassy, you can email or call them and set a date for your Ecuador visa appointment.

7. Attend the Visa Interview

While not everyone might be required to attend an interview for an Ecuador visa, you might be asked some questions during your interview. If you are in Ecuador, the interview will mostly be in Spanish. So make sure that you speak some Spanish or have someone who can translate for you.

8. Pay the Ecuador Visa Fees & Get the Electronic Visa

Once your visa application is approved, you would need to pay for the visa. The usual form of payment in Ecuador is in cash only.

From 2019, Ecuador has been issuing electronic visas that don’t need to be stamped on the passport. You will receive an email with the Ecuador visa PDF and you can take a printout of the same.

canada tourist visa ecuador

Do Visitors to the Ecuador Need to Purchase Health Insurance?

Having a travel health insurance is a must for anyone visiting or planning to live in Ecuador. Most of the Ecuadorian visas have it as a mandatory requirement. This means that you have to have the insurance at least when your application is under consideration.

A lot of expats choose to get a travel health insurance for 90 days or more when they apply for an Ecuador visa. You can use a reliable provider like Safety Wing that also covers COVID.

Ecuador Visa for US Citizens: Where to Apply?

US citizens can apply for an Ecuador visa in an Ecuador embassy in the USA. Ecuador has consulates in Washington DC, Miami, Minneapolis, Los Angeles, Pheonix, Houston, San Francisco, and other places.

On the other hand, an Ecuador visa for US citizens can also be obtained in Ecuador. This is a route that many US expats choose.

Valerie’s experience on getting Ecuador temporary visa as a US citizen .

How to Get Ecuador Visa from Canada?

Ecuador has a consulate in Toronto and a consular section in Ottawa, in addition to honorary consulates in Vancouver and Toronto. Canadian citizens can apply for the Ecuador visa in the consulate of Ecuador or in Ecuador.

Ecuador Visa for Indian Citizens : How to Apply?

Indian citizens need a visa to visit Ecuador. So if you are planning to work or do business in Ecuador or immigrate, you must get a visa from a consulate of Ecuador first. However, if you decide to go to Ecuador as a tourist, you can very well convert it to another visa such as a volunteer visa or professional visa .

Is It Possible to Convert or Extend an Ecuador Visa in Ecuador?

Yes, you can extend or convert one type of Ecuador visa to another type without leaving Ecuador.

Be part of the visa smart tribe

Up-to-date information on visas, and visa experiences from travelers, expats and immigrants.

Travel Visa Services

  • Docs Authentication
  • VisaHQ.co.uk
  • VisaHQ.com.eg

Owing to the technological progress, not all functions of our website might work properly under your browser. We recommend updating to the latest version or use different browser, such as Chrome or Firefox . Our apologies for the inconvenience.

  • › Ecuador Visa

canada tourist visa ecuador

Ecuador Visa

Ecuador tourist visa is not required for citizens of Canada for a stay up to 90 days.

  • Citizenship Canada
  • Traveling to Afghanistan Albania Algeria American Samoa Andorra Angola Anguilla Antigua and Barbuda Argentina Armenia Aruba Australia Austria Azerbaijan Bahamas Bahrain Bangladesh Barbados Belarus Belgium Belize Benin Bermuda Bhutan Bolivia Bosnia Herzegovina Botswana Brazil British Virgin Islands Brunei Darussalam Bulgaria Burkina Faso Burundi Cambodia Cameroon Canada Cape Verde Cayman Islands Central African Republic Chad Chile China Christmas Island Cocos Islands Colombia Comoros Democratic Republic of the Congo Congo Republic Cook Islands Costa Rica Croatia Cuba Cyprus Czech Republic Denmark Djibouti Dominica Dominican Republic Ecuador Egypt El Salvador Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Estonia Ethiopia Falkland Islands Faroe Islands Fiji Finland France French Guiana French Polynesia Gabon Gambia Georgia Germany Ghana Gibraltar Greece Greenland Grenada Guadeloupe Guam Guatemala Guinea Guinea Bissau Guyana Haiti Honduras Hong Kong Hungary Iceland India Indonesia Iran Iraq Ireland Israel Italy Ivory Coast (Côte d Ivoire) Jamaica Japan Jordan Kazakhstan Kenya Kiribati Kosovo Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Laos Latvia Lebanon Lesotho Liberia Libya Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Macau North Macedonia Madagascar Malawi Malaysia Maldives Mali Malta Marshall Islands Martinique Mauritania Mauritius Mayotte Mexico Micronesia Moldova Monaco Mongolia Montenegro Montserrat Morocco Mozambique Myanmar Namibia Nauru Nepal Netherlands Netherlands Antilles New Caledonia New Zealand Nicaragua Niger Nigeria Niue Norfolk Island North Korea Norway Oman Pakistan Palau Palestine Panama Papua New Guinea Paraguay Peru Philippines Pitcairn Island Poland Portugal Puerto Rico Qatar Reunion Romania Russia Rwanda Saint Helena Saint Kitts and Nevis Saint Lucia Saint Martin Saint Pierre Miquelon Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Samoa San Marino Sao Tome and Principe Saudi Arabia Senegal Serbia Seychelles Sierra Leone Singapore Slovak Republic Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia South Africa South Korea South Sudan Spain Sri Lanka Sudan Suriname Swaziland (Eswatini) Sweden Switzerland Syria Taiwan Tajikistan Tanzania Thailand Timor Leste Togo Tokelau Tonga Trinidad and Tobago Tunisia Turkey Turkmenistan Tuvalu Uganda Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom United States of America Uruguay US Virgin Islands Uzbekistan Vanuatu Vatican Venezuela Vietnam Wallis Futuna Islands Yemen Zambia Zimbabwe
  • First, check the current validity of your passport. We strongly recommend traveling with 6 months validity on your passport at all times. Citizens of Canada can refer to www.canada.ca for forms and instructions for Canadian passport renewals.
  • Second, make sure your passport has blank Visa pages. Most destinations, including Ecuador, require that you have adequate unused pages in your passport, allowing for any necessary stamps upon arrival and departure. We recommend that you have at least two free pages in Visas section of your passport before any international travel. Canadian citizens cannot add extra passport pages to their passports. Please refer to www.canada.ca for forms and instructions for Canadian passport renewals.
  • Finally, confirm if transit visa is required for any connections. Check with your airline in case you have connecting flights overseas as part of your journey to Ecuador. It may be the case that countries you pass through en route to your destination may require a separate transit visa. Please refer to visa requirements of the specific country.

canada tourist visa ecuador

1-800-715-2075

We use cookies to enhance your experience and to help us understand how to improve usability. By continuing to use this site, you agree to receive cookies. For more information about how we use cookies please read our privacy policy .

  • Integration API New
  • For Business
  • For Partners
  • VisaHQ Reviews
  • Terms of Service
  • Privacy Policy
  • our offices
  • Call 1-800-715-2075 1-800-715-2075

Canada bringing back visa requirements for Mexican nationals to curb asylum seekers

Quebec, u.s. governments have been calling for visas to be reinstated.

canada tourist visa ecuador

What Canada's new visa requirements mean for Mexican nationals

Social sharing.

The federal government is reimposing some visa requirements on Mexican nationals visiting Canada, senior government sources tell Radio-Canada and CBC News.

The new rules will take effect on 11:30 p.m. ET on Thursday.

Quebec Premier François Legault has been calling on the federal government to do more to slow the influx of asylum seekers into his province. Last week, he said Ottawa should bring back the visa requirement for Mexican travellers.

  • 'Breaking point': Quebec premier asks Trudeau to slow influx of asylum seekers
  • Federal minister 'sets the facts straight' after Quebec complains it isn't getting enough funding for asylum seekers

"The possibility of entering Canada from Mexico without a visa certainly explains part of the influx of asylum seekers," the premier wrote in a letter to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau .

More than 25,000 Mexicans applied for asylum in Canada last year, making Mexico the top source of asylum claims, according to statistics from the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada . The number of backlogged claims from Mexico currently filed with the board sits at more than 28,000.

The U.S. government also has been asking Ottawa to bring back the visa requirement to curb a sharp increase in illegal crossings from Canada into the United States.

  • Does the visa requirement affect you or your family? Share your story by emailing  [email protected] .

Mexicans currently don't need a visa to travel to Canada, but they do have to obtain visas to enter the U.S. American border officials say some Mexican nationals are using Canada's visa-free rule to fly into the country and then cross illegally into the United States.

The new visa requirement is expected to affect roughly 40 per cent of all Mexican travellers to Canada, a government source told Radio-Canada.

The Conservative government of Prime Minister Stephen Harper imposed a visa requirement on Mexico in 2009 to stem the flow of asylum claims. The Trudeau government relaxed it in 2016 .

canada tourist visa ecuador

Canada's new Mexico visa policies threaten refugees' rights, advocate says

The new rules won't amount to a complete return to the pre-2016 rules. Mexican nationals with certain types of U.S. visas and those coming to Canada on study or work permits won't have to obtain Canadian visas.

Mexican nationals who received valid visas under the previous system at any point within the last ten years won't have to reapply under the new requirements.

The new visas will apply for a ten-year period and will allow a traveller to enter Canada multiple times and stay for up to six months at a time. Customs officers will have discretionary power to limit the duration of the visa or the number of visits, one source said.

U.S. President Joe Biden, Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau speak at the conclusion of the North American Leaders' Summit in Mexico City, Mexico, January 10, 2023.  REUTERS/Kevin Lamarque     TPX IMAGES OF THE DAY

The government isn't expected to announce the new visa requirements until Thursday.

But on Wednesday, Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador accused Canada of attempting to act unilaterally on immigration measures.

"They are in negotiations to reach an agreement so that we can control migratory flows from Canada," he said in Spanish during a press conference.

"We have acted generously with them, with the government of Prime Minister Trudeau, but they were already on the verge of applying unilateral measures."

López Obrador also said he may not attend the next North American Leaders summit — set to take place in Canada — if he feels Canada and the U.S. aren't treating his country fairly.

"If there's no respectful treatment, I won't go," he said.

A source told Radio-Canada that in an effort to ease tensions with the Mexican government over the visa requirements, Ottawa has agreed to expand the number of sectors in which Mexican nationals can work in Canada. Negotiations are ongoing, the source said.

A close-up photo of François Legault.

Legault has said asylum seekers are putting heavy pressure on Quebec's social services and finances.

"Asylum seekers have trouble finding a place to live, which contributes to accentuating the housing crisis," the premier said in his letter to Trudeau. "Many end up in homeless shelters, which are overflowing."

He said organizations that help asylum seekers can't keep up with the demand. Legault said the children of asylum seekers are also straining the resources of schools already facing shortages of teachers and space.

Legault's letter said asylum seekers who are waiting for work permits receive financial assistance from Quebec. Last October, he said, roughly 43,200 asylum seekers received $33 million in aid from the province.

  • U.S. asks Canada to reimpose visa requirements for Mexico to stem surge of crossings at northern border
  • Analysis U.S. Republicans are now warning: Migration from Canada is a problem

Quebec Immigration Minister Christine Fréchette welcomed the news but said Ottawa must still do more.

"It's an important step forward, but it won't solve everything. The number of asylum seekers accepted by Quebec is far too high and our services are beyond capacity," she told reporters Thursday in French.

"The federal government must distribute the asylum seekers across Canada. Quebec bears a disproportionate share of the responsibility for receiving them."

One source told CBC News that domestic issues were the main motivation for the change in policy, but U.S. pressure also played a role. Many migrants were being transported by criminal cartels with the objective of getting them into the U.S., the source said.

A man in a dark suit and red tie answers a question during an interview.

U.S. officials have suggested that people who can't get into the U.S. lawfully have an incentive to travel to Canada to try entering illegally. Human smuggling networks are cashing in , moving people who are fleeing poverty and violence in Mexico and using Canada as a pitstop on the way to the U.S.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) data shows a spike in migrants entering the U.S. from Canada after Trudeau lifted the visa requirement in December 2016. There were 1,169 apprehensions of Mexicans the year before the requirements were lifted; the number nearly doubled to 2,245 in 2018, a year after the requirements were lifted.

Last year, the CBP recorded 4,868 apprehensions. Nearly 2,000 Mexicans have been apprehended at the Canada-U.S. border in the first four months of this fiscal year.

  • A glimpse inside the ongoing cross-border smuggling operations near Akwesasne
  • Canadian customs officers could soon be based in the U.S. for the first time

Those numbers are a tiny fraction of the number of apprehensions along the U.S.-Mexico border — nearly 580,000 last year. But the rise in apprehensions at the Canada-U.S. border was enough for U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas to raise the issue during his visit to Ottawa last spring .

"We talk about this issue and many issues that impact the migration of people," Mayorkas said in an interview with CBC News Network's Rosemary Barton Live at the time.

"I think that's a decision that the Canadian officials are going to make," Mayorkas told host Rosemary Barton when asked about the prospect of Ottawa reinstating the visa program.

With files from Philip Ling, Alexander Panetta and The Canadian Press

  • Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

Canada Restores Visa Requirement for Mexican Visitors

The immigration minister said Mexico had not done enough to address the surge of asylum seekers arriving in Canada.

canada tourist visa ecuador

By Vjosa Isai

Canada announced on Thursday that it would require visas for Mexican nationals to enter the country, a move that comes amid a surge in asylum requests from Mexicans arriving in Canada.

The rule follows months of discussions between the two countries over the rise in the number of Mexicans entering Canada, including repeated attempts by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to address the issue with Mexico’s president, Andrés Manuel López Obrador.

Some provincial officials say a surge of asylum seekers has strained their resources and their ability to provide social services.

“We needed to give Mexico, because of our friendship, the chance to rectify things,” Marc Miller, Canada’s immigration minister, said at a news conference.

“This clearly was not done,” he added, “so we had to take a decision.”

The visa mandate, which will go into effect Thursday night, had been lifted by Mr. Trudeau in 2016 to boost tourism and as a sign of the close ties between the two countries.

Since then the number of Mexican asylum claims has soared, to roughly 24,000 last year from 260 eight years ago. About 17 percent of all Canadian asylum claims last year were filed by Mexican nationals.

Most asylum claims from Mexico are rejected, withdrawn or abandoned, Mr. Miller said, clogging up an immigration system already facing difficulties trying to cope with a mounting backlog of refugee claims. “It has ripple effects,” he said.

For some Mexicans who can afford plane tickets, flying to Canada has become an alternate route to the United States, allowing them to avoid the smugglers who control the paths to the U.S. southern border.

U.S. immigration officials have recorded a large increase in the number of migrants, including Mexicans, crossing into the United States from Canada, though nowhere near the enormous numbers at the southern border.

“But they are significant,” Mr. Miller said. “And that’s something we have to manage as a partner with the U.S.”

Immigration has become a major issue in the United States ahead of the November election, and the Biden administration has made the tightening of the country’s borders a top political priority.

President Biden and Donald J. Trump, who is almost certain to be his Republican rival for the White House, were both scheduled to appear on Thursday in South Texas to discuss migration.

Mr. López Obrador told reporters on Thursday that his government respected Canada’s decision, but said that Canada could have sought “other alternatives,” without offering specifics.

He also issued a “small, respectful, fraternal reproach” to Mr. Trudeau, though he said that his government’s response would be “to act with prudence, with serenity.”

Not all Mexicans will be required to have a visa to travel to Canada. The rule excludes Mexicans who have had a Canadian visa within the past 10 years, or if they currently have a temporary U.S. visa. Travelers in this category need an electronic travel authorization, which is valid for up to five years.

Canada’s visa decision is the latest step in the country’s effort to address asylum claims made from regular ports of entry, like airports, and from unofficial border crossings.

Canadian officials in January also placed restrictions on foreign students , doubling the savings threshold new applicants must have to qualify for a study permit, after a surge raised concerns about pressures on housing.

After an agreement with the United States, Canada last year closed a popular land border crossing between New York State and Quebec, called Roxham Road , following a spike in migrants entering Canada there.

Some provincial leaders, including François Legault, the premier of Quebec, have criticized the federal government’s response and say it needs to provide more financial help to defray the costs of absorbing thousands of migrants.

About half of Canada’s 290,000 asylum seekers are in Quebec, the province’s immigration minister has said, and Quebec is asking the government for 1 billion Canadian dollars in assistance.

Emiliano Rodríguez Mega contributed reporting from Mexico City.

Vjosa Isai is a reporter and researcher for The Times based in Toronto, where she covers news from across Canada. More about Vjosa Isai

We've detected unusual activity from your computer network

To continue, please click the box below to let us know you're not a robot.

Why did this happen?

Please make sure your browser supports JavaScript and cookies and that you are not blocking them from loading. For more information you can review our Terms of Service and Cookie Policy .

For inquiries related to this message please contact our support team and provide the reference ID below.

IMAGES

  1. Como sacar visa Canadiense en Ecuador 2022

    canada tourist visa ecuador

  2. Conoce los requisitos para tramitar VISA Canadiense desde el Ecuador

    canada tourist visa ecuador

  3. REQUISITOS PARA VISA CANADIENSE EN ECUADOR

    canada tourist visa ecuador

  4. Canada tourist visa: Requirements and application procedure

    canada tourist visa ecuador

  5. Consulte los REQUISITOS PARA VISA CANADIENSE DE TURISTA EN ECUADOR

    canada tourist visa ecuador

  6. How Can I Apply For Canada Tourist Visa

    canada tourist visa ecuador

VIDEO

  1. canada tourist visa 2024 success 79732 61881 #visahubb

COMMENTS

  1. Find out if you need a visa to travel to Canada

    Visit Find out if you need a visa to travel to Canada Most people need a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to travel to Canada - not both. Some people may only need their valid passport. Answer a few questions to see what's right for you. See all entry requirements by country/territory Important note:

  2. Entry requirements by country or territory

    Entry requirements by country/territory. Visa-exempt (eTA eligible) travellers. The following travellers need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to board their flight to Canada. However, these travellers do not need an eTA if entering by land or sea - for instance driving from the U.S. or coming by bus, train, or boat, including cruise ship.

  3. Visitor visa

    Visitor visa A visitor visa (also called a temporary resident visa) is an official document that we stick in your passport. It shows that you meet the requirements needed to enter Canada. doesn't include the time you need to give biometrics. Fees Starting from: $CAN 100 Features Check if your representative is authorized

  4. Travel advice and advisories for Ecuador

    Canada.ca Travel Destinations Ecuador travel advice Exercise a high degree of caution (with regional advisories) Latest updates: Need help? - removed information on the temporary closure of the Honorary consul of Canada Last updated: February 21, 2024 09:20 ET On this page Risk levels Safety and security Entry and exit requirements Health

  5. How to apply for a visitor visa

    How to apply Venezuelan passport holders You may need to complete extra steps when you fill out your application. Prepare documents and apply The reason you're traveling to Canada determines the way you apply and the documents you need to submit with your visa application. Why are you applying for a visitor visa? To visit as a tourist

  6. Application for a Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa

    Apply online Apply on paper (in specific situations) Permanent residents of Canada We do not issue temporary resident visas (TRV) to permanent residents (PR). If you are outside Canada without a valid PR card, you must apply for a permanent resident travel document (PRTD) instead.

  7. Embassy of Canada to Ecuador, in Quito

    Address. Av. Amazonas N37-29 and Union Nacional de Periodistas, Eurocenter Building, 3rd Floor (one block north of the Supreme Court Building, near Amazonas and United Nations), Quito, Ecuador. Contact us. Day. Hours.

  8. Steps to apply for a visitor visa

    Step 1: Get the documents that show you meet the criteria for a visitor visa Check the list of documents based on your situation Step 2: Apply online 1. Create an account 2. Upload your documents 3. Pay your fees How to apply for a visitor visa Step 3: Give your fingerprints and photo (biometrics) Normally, you need to give biometrics.

  9. Canada and Ecuador

    Home Canada and the world Information by country and territory Canada and Ecuador Canada and Ecuador Services for Canadians if you're visiting, studying, working or doing business in Ecuador. Includes information about coming to Canada. Travel advice and advisories - Ecuador Exercise a high degree of caution (with regional advisories)

  10. Eligibility to apply for a visitor visa

    Who can get a visa. You must meet some basic requirements to get a visitor visa. You must: have a valid travel document, like a passport. be in good health. have no criminal or immigration-related convictions. convince an immigration officer that you have ties—such as a job, home, financial assets or family—that will take you back to your ...

  11. Updated travel information for Mexican citizens coming to Canada

    As of February 29, 2024, at 11:30 p.m. Eastern time, Mexican citizens who hold a valid US non-immigrant visa or have held a Canadian visa in the past 10 years and are travelling by air on a Mexican passport will be able to apply for an electronic travel authorization (eTA). With the high number of Mexican citizens currently holding US visas ...

  12. Canada tourist visa for Ecuadorian citizens in 2024

    Canada Visitor visa is required for Ecuadorian citizens. With this tourist visa stay is usually short with a period of 180 days and visa expires in 180 days. Applicant is required to be present when applying for Canada tourist visa. A total of 10 documents are required for applying Canada tourist visa. Apply for Canada Visa

  13. How to apply on paper for a visitor visa

    If you need a visitor visa to travel to Canada, you must apply online for one. Only online applications will be accepted and processed. However, you can apply on paper if: you can't apply online because of a disability, or. you're travelling with an identity or travel document that was issued to a refugee, a stateless person or a non-citizen.

  14. Visit Canada

    Apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) What an eTA is, eligibility and how to apply online Stay in Canada longer How to extend your stay in Canada Visitor visas for workers and students How to get a new visa from inside Canada Visit your children or grandchildren

  15. | vfsglobal

    Are you planning to travel to Canada from Ecuador? Find out how to apply for a visa at the visa application centre located in Quito. Visit vfsglobal.com to book an appointment, check the requirements and track your status.

  16. Traveling to Ecuador from Canada in 2024: Passport, Visa Requirements

    Canadian citizens do not need a tourist visa when travelling to Ecuador in 2024. Canadian passport holders can stay in Ecuador for a short period of time (for 90 days). Please, read all the information below to make your trip easy and safe. Don't rely on information from only one source. Please, check your visa requirements

  17. Ecuador Visa

    Ecuador Visa Complete guide to obtaining a visa for Ecuador, the application steps, required documents, visa policy, and FAQs VisaGuide / South America / Ecuador Visa In this article If you want to visit Ecuador, chances are you will not have to apply for a visa at all.

  18. A No-nonsense Guide on How to Get Ecuador Tourist Visa

    3. Pay the Fees & Get an Appointment. A consular officer will review your application and then you will be able to make the payment for the visa. Once the payment is done, you can upload the receipt. After this, you can get an appointment with the Ecuador consulate by phone or email.

  19. A No-nonsense Guide on How to Get Ecuador Tourist Visa for 90 Days

    1. Register for Ecuador Visa Application Online. If the Ecuadorian consulate asks you to apply online, then you need to register through the portal of Ecuador's foreign ministry. The browser works well in Firefox and Chrome. Note that the portal is down and flaky sometimes.

  20. Ecuador International Travel Information

    Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). See the State Department's travel website for the Worldwide Caution and Travel Advisories.

  21. Ecuador Visa: Visa Requirements And Application

    With the Ecuador Tourist Visa application, you must pay 2 fees: an application fee and an approval fee. If you are a senior citizen, you only have to pay 50% of the costs. The fees are as follows: Application fee: USD 50 (Excluding VAT) Visa approval (granting): USD 150 (Excluding VAT)

  22. Canada Visitor Visa for citizens of Ecuador

    Step 1: Provide your essential travel and contact info on our online application or iVisa app. Double-check all the details, and pay the visa fee online. Step 2: Complete the Canada Visitor Visa application form on our platform and upload the necessary documents.

  23. Ecuador Visa Application: How to Get Ecuador Visa?

    ECUADOR has an official website to facilITate online visa application. 6. Get an Appointment for Your Visa. If you are applying for the visa in Ecuador, You can get the appointment for the Ecuador visa application on the website of Ecuador's external ministry.

  24. Ecuador Visa

    Ecuador tourist visa is not required for citizens of Canada for a stay up to 90 days. Register your trip with the Canadian Embassy abroad! Be informed. Receive important information from the Embassy about safety conditions in your destination country, helping you make informed decisions about your travel plans. Be safe.

  25. Canada bringing back visa requirements for Mexican nationals to curb

    The new visa requirement is expected to affect roughly 40 per cent of all Mexican travellers to Canada, a government source told Radio-Canada. The Conservative government of Prime Minister Stephen ...

  26. Canada Restores Visa Requirement for Mexican Visitors

    Marc Miller, Canada's immigration minister, last month. The visa mandate, which will go into effect Thursday night, had been lifted by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in 2016 to boost tourism.

  27. Canada to Reimpose Visa Rules to Deter Mexican Asylum-Seekers

    Canada will bring back visa requirements for many travelers coming from Mexico to stem an influx of asylum seekers arriving at airports.. The measure will come into effect at 11:30 p.m. Ottawa ...