Ecuador - retirement
Ecuador Rentista VisaVisa de Residencia Temporal - Rentista
Temporary residence for foreigners with stable passive income from abroad or within Ecuador, including pensions, rents, and investment income. Known for one of the lowest income thresholds in Latin America.
Who this visa is for
- Retirees with foreign pensions
- Landlords with verifiable rental income
- Holders of dividend, annuity, or trust income
- Applicants with additional dependents (+USD 250/month each)
- Individuals seeking a clear path to Ecuadorian permanent residence
Requirements
- Monthly passive income of at least 3 unified basic salaries (SBU)
At 2026 SBU of USD 482, threshold is approximately USD 1,446 per month; +USD 250 per additional dependent
- Passport valid at least 6 months
- Criminal background certificate
Apostilled/legalized, valid 180 days from issuance
- Health insurance covering Ecuador
National or international policy valid for the visa period
- Color photo
JPG, max 1MB, 5x5cm, white background, neutral expression
- Proof of passive income source
Rental contracts, dividend statements, annuity contracts, or trust distribution letters, plus matching bank records
- Proof of lawful means of living
Per Ministerial Agreement No. 70
Fees
| Fee | Amount | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Application request | USD 50 | |
| Visa issuance | USD 270 | 50% discount for seniors 65+; 100% exemption for 30%+ disability |
Application steps
- Register on e-VISAS platform
https://serviciosdigitales.cancilleria.gob.ec/
- Select 'New Procedure' then 'New Visa'
Choose Temporary Resident - Rentista
- Upload documentation
All mandatory and rentista-specific documents
- Pay fees the same day
Must complete by 23:55 Ecuador time or the file is auto-deleted
- Await 'Information Review' status resolution
Await 'Information Review' status resolution
- Register visa in Ecuador and obtain cedula
Register visa in Ecuador and obtain cedula
Official government source
Always verify the current fees, requirements and forms at the official source before applying:
Ask about the Rentista VisaVisa de Residencia Temporal - Rentista
Grounded on this page. Answers are informational, not legal advice.
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum income for 2026?
Three times the SBU. For 2026, that is approximately USD 1,446 per month (3 x USD 482), plus USD 250 for each additional dependent.
Does foreign rental income count?
Yes. Rental contracts, dividend statements, annuities, and trust distributions are all accepted when backed by matching bank records.
Can I work in Ecuador on this visa?
The rentista visa is for living off passive income. Local salaried work generally requires a different subcategory.
How long until permanent residence?
After 21 months of physical presence as a temporary resident, you may apply for Visa de Residencia Permanente.
Is application fully online?
Yes, the e-VISAS platform handles registration, document upload, and payment entirely online.