Ecuador - investment
Ecuador Investor VisaVisa de Residencia Temporal - Inversionista
Temporary residence for foreigners making a qualifying investment in real estate, company shares, bank deposits, or state contracts in Ecuador. Includes multiple entries and no maximum time outside the country.
Who this visa is for
- Real estate investors buying Ecuadorian property
- Foreign shareholders of Ecuadorian companies
- Investors placing bank deposits of 730+ days
- Counterparties of state investment contracts
- Legal representatives of investing entities
Requirements
- Bank deposit certificate (min. 730 days)
Minimum 100 SBU (~USD 48,200 at 2026 SBU of USD 482); issued by entity regulated by the Superintendencia de Bancos
- Real estate deed registered in the Registro de la Propiedad
Alternative; minimum 100 SBU
- Company shares or participations in an Ecuadorian entity
Alternative; minimum 100 SBU, registered with the Superintendencia de Companias
- Investment contract or administrative contract with the Ecuadorian State
Alternative qualifying option
- Passport valid at least 6 months
- Criminal background certificate (apostilled, valid 180 days)
- Proof of lawful means of subsistence (Ministerial Agreement No. 70)
- Color photo 5x5 cm
Fees
| Fee | Amount | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Application request | USD 50 | |
| Visa issuance | USD 270 | 50% discount for seniors 65+; 100% exemption for 30%+ disability |
Application steps
- Gather investment documentation
Notarized deed, bank certificate, or share registration
- Register on e-VISAS platform
Register on e-VISAS platform
- Submit 'New Visa' application as Inversionista
Submit 'New Visa' application as Inversionista
- Upload investment proof and personal documents
Upload investment proof and personal documents
- Pay fees the same day
Pay fees the same day
- Register visa and obtain cedula in Ecuador
Register visa and obtain cedula in Ecuador
Official government source
Always verify the current fees, requirements and forms at the official source before applying:
Ask about the Investor VisaVisa de Residencia Temporal - Inversionista
Grounded on this page. Answers are informational, not legal advice.
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum investment in USD?
100 SBU. Using the 2026 SBU of USD 482, that is approximately USD 48,200 in real estate, bank deposit, or shares.
Can I combine assets to meet the threshold?
No, the investment must be fulfilled through a single qualifying instrument under Ecuadorian rules.
Does the bank deposit have to be kept for the whole visa?
Yes, at least 730 days to preserve the investor status.
Can I leave Ecuador freely?
Yes. The investor visa places no maximum on time spent abroad and allows multiple entries.
What happens after 21 months?
You can apply for permanent residence if you maintained the investment and your temporary status.