Ecuador Real Estate FAQ

Can foreigners own property legally in Ecuador?

Yes, it is legal for foreigners to own property in their own name in Ecuador.

Do you need special visas to buy a home in Ecuador?

You can enter Ecuador on a tourist visa and even purchase a home with that same visa.

Do you need to solicit your tourist visa before you get to Ecuador?

No, you do not need to solicit a tourist visa before you get to Ecuador. Upon arrival, you just show your passport and they stamp it, granting you from 60-90 days to stay in Ecuador as a tourist. (The duration of the visa depends on the mood the official is in.)

How can I get more time on my tourist visa?

One trick to get more time on your tourist visa is to ask for it when you arrive at the immigration control in the airport in Ecuador. Tell the official you plan on staying for 90 days and would like a visa for that long. I also think it helps if you are a guy to approach a female immigration officer, and if you are a girl, approach a male immigration officer.

How do I get a resident visa after I purchase a home?

Upon purchasing a home or land, you will be considered an investor in the country, and after completing the necessary paperwork with a local attorney, you will be granted a “resident visa.”

The exact requirements for a resident visa constantly vary, but not much more is needed than your passport, a medical exam and proof of purchase of property worth at least $25,000. Of course this process should be completed with a local attorney.

Be prepared for your closing costs to be around $1000 higher if you require a resident visa.

Is Ecuador safe for expat families with kids?

Ecuadorians as a whole are very tranquil, kind people. Many believe Ecuador to be safer than big cities in the US. It is easy to live here for years and experience no incidents whatsoever. This makes for a great atmosphere to raise children. Like anywhere, there are less affluent areas to be avoided in the big cities at night, but with common sense alone you will be fine.

The crime that is more prevalent in Ecuador (as with any developing nation) is burglary and petty theft. More measures should be taken to protect the integrity of your house and belongings in Ecuador from thieves than in the US.

Are there any prevalent tropical diseases?

No. There are no diseases that can’t be found in the US as well. No special shots or vaccinations are needed before coming to Ecuador. However, in the far eastern part of Ecuador the Amazon jungle begins. Before entering any jungle (including the one in Eastern Ecuador) you want to be sure you have your yellow fever vaccination and pills to protect you from malaria. However, on the coast you won’t need to take any special precautions.

How are Americans received?

In short, Americans are received very well. Many Ecuadorians have close family members working in the US, and thus feel a close tie to the US. People have mixed feelings about the American government and president, but towards the American people nothing but respect and acceptance.

What is the education like in Ecuador?

After interacting with many locals who have experience in both cultures (the US and Ecuadorian school systems), there seems to be a prevailing belief that many private high schools in Ecuador are better and more challenging than high schools in the US.

However, in my estimation, universities in Ecuador are way too high on “theory” and way too low on “practicality.” Universities in the US are understood to be the much better option. This could have to do with the fact that in Ecuador, many university professors have studied their subjects thoroughly but have never actually “done” them.

For more detailed information check out the guide here.