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EcuadorWork permitsLast checked October 30, 2026

Temporary residence visa for work under an employment contract

Official name: Concesión de visa de residencia temporal de trabajo por actividades laborales bajo relación de dependencia

Foreigners with a job in Ecuador (public or private employer) can apply online for a work temporary residence visa. The contract must be registered with the Ministry of Labour, and the employer must show it has no pending obligations with the tax authority (SRI), social security (IESS) and the Superintendency of Companies.

See requirements ↓
1 entry rule for Ecuador based on recent travel

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Life in Ecuador

Finance

3

Currency

US Dollar

USD

US Dollar

Cost of living

44

Price level · US = 100

World Bank price levels, 2025

Tax

5–37%

Income tax (national)

VAT (IVA) 15% · social security 9.45%

2026 table: taxable income up to USD 12,208 exempt; 37% above USD 109,956.

Official rates, 2026 · headline only

Living

1

Happiness

6.1

#57 of 145 countries

World Happiness Report 2025

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Who it’s for

Foreign employees hired by an Ecuadorian public or private employer.

Eligibility

  • Employment contract registered with the Ministry of Labour

    Provide a personnel action or employment contract from the employer, plus the Ministry of Labour contract registration certificate.

    • Employer can be public or private
    Official wording

    A personnel action or employment contract from the public or private employer, plus the contract registration certificate from the Ministry of Labour.

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  • Employer in good standingEmployer

    Show a certificate that the employer has no pending obligations with SRI, IESS and the Superintendencia de Compañías.

    • Covers three bodies: SRI, IESS, Superintendencia de Compañías
    Official wording

    Certificate that the employer has no pending obligations with SRI, IESS and the Superintendencia de Compañías.

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  • Lawful means of support

    Under Acuerdo Ministerial No. 70 of 28 June 2024.

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A sneak peek at what's inside

  • Document checklist
  • Fees
  • Steps to apply

The full requirements are for members

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  • 3 documents
  • 2 fees
  • 2 steps
  • Processing times and conditions

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Places to visit in Ecuador

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