Waiting feels harmless. Logical, even. One more month. One more document. One more conversation. But in immigration, waiting is rarely neutral. More often, it quietly becomes the most expensive mistake of all.

Below is a clear look at the most accessible visas in Ecuador today, who they are designed for, and what real expat profiles typically qualify.

When expats begin researching residency in Ecuador, they often look for the fastest or “best” option—without fully understanding how temporary and permanent residency actually work. The result? Confusion, wrong assumptions, and avoidable delays. Understanding the difference between temporary and permanent residency is not just about choosing a visa—it’s about choosing the right strategy from the beginning.

January is more than the beginning of a new year. For many people in the United States and Canada, it is the moment when long-postponed decisions finally move into action.

Ecuador raised its 2026 minimum wage to USD 482. Learn how it impacts retirement, digital nomad, rentista, professional, and investment visas.