GoEcuador Visa Requirements

Visa Notice

1. According to the "Agreement on Mutual Exemption of Visa Requirements for Ordinary Passport Holders between China and Ecuador" that came into effect on August 18, 2016, citizens of the People's Republic of China holding valid ordinary passports of the People's Republic of China who enter, exit or transit the Republic of Ecuador for tourism and related activities, or engage in other non-profit activities, are exempt from visa requirements if their cumulative stay does not exceed 90 days within one year from the date of their first entry to the date of their final departure. When entering the country, it is necessary to prepare a complete itinerary, hotel reservation, round-trip airfare and other materials in advance (if it is a solo trip, a complete travel plan in Spanish or English during the period in Ecuador should be provided) for inspection by immigration officials from Ecuador.

If you wish to stay in Ecuador for more than 90 days, or engage in news reporting, study, work, or any other profit-making activities within Ecuador, you should apply for a visa before entering Ecuador.

2. According to the Agreement between China and Ecuador on Mutual Exemption of Visa Requirements for Personnel Holding Diplomatic Passports, Official Passports, and Official Ordinary Passports, Chinese citizens holding diplomatic passports, official passports, and official ordinary passports are exempt from visa requirements if their cumulative stay does not exceed 30 days within one year from the date of their first entry until their final departure. The maximum duration of stay can be extended to 90 days per year.

3. Chinese citizens holding Hong Kong SAR and Macao SAR passports who enter Ecuador for tourism purposes are entitled to a cumulative stay of no more than 90 days within one year and are exempt from visa application.

4. According to the relevant regulations of Ecuador, foreigners with visas must go to the Foreign and Overseas Chinese Affairs Bureau of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ecuador with passports for visa registration within 30 days after entry.

5. The validity period and duration of stay for Ecuadorian visas are different from those for Chinese visas. Ecuadorian visas have the same validity period and duration of stay, and the expiration date of the visa is the deadline for the visa holder's entry and stay period. If you need to apply for visa extension or renewal after entering the country, you must apply to the relevant department in Ecuador within 30 days before the visa expires.

6. At present, the types of visas that the Embassy of Ecuador in China can issue are:

（1） Non immigrant visa:

D-I/II Permanent Diplomatic, Work Service, and Accompanying Family Visa

D-III Permanent Diplomat and Accompanying Family Visa

D-IV Short term Diplomatic Treatment Visa

12-IV Refugee Visa

12-V student and accompanying family visa

12-VI visa for staff and accompanying family members

12-VII Missionary, Volunteer, and Accompanying Family Visa

12-VIII Academic and Cultural Exchange Personnel and Accompanying Family Members Visa

12-IX Business Visa

12-X tourist visa

（2） Immigration Visa:

9-I Retirement Immigration Visa

9-II treasury bond property rights immigrant visa for corporate investment in Ecuador

9-III Business Investment Immigration Visa

9-IV Company Manager or above positions, holding long-term work contracts, religious personnel and other immigration visas

9-V Special Talent Immigration Visa

9-VI dependent visa

For specific real-time information on applying for various types of visas, please consult the Embassy of Ecuador in China or the Consulates General of Ecuador in Shanghai and Guangzhou.

Starting from January 28, 2019, the Ecuadorian government has issued electronic visas to foreign citizens who come to Ecuador for short-term or long-term stays, replacing traditional sticker visas. The Eritrean embassies and consulates abroad, as well as various liaison offices of the Eritrean Ministry of Foreign Affairs within its borders, will be responsible for the issuance of electronic visas. If the paper visa currently held by foreign citizens is still valid, the Eritrean Ministry of Foreign Affairs will notify them of the replacement process in a timely manner. The verification code on the electronic visa corresponds to the visa holder and is exclusive and confidential. The visa holder must keep the verification code information properly and not spread or disclose it recklessly.

Customs epidemic prevention and control

According to the latest regulations of the General Administration of Customs of Ecuador, the quantity or total price of common articles that foreign personnel can bring into Ecuador duty-free are as follows:

1. Perfume: 300ml/person, 600ml/family;

2. Television: not exceeding 32 inches, 1 unit/person;

3. Medications and dietary supplements: Medications must have a prescription, and dietary supplements should not exceed 4kg

4. Individuals aged 18 and above are allowed to carry no more than 3 liters of alcohol, 20 boxes of cigarettes (20 per box), 1 pound of tobacco, and 25 cigars;

5. Cash: not exceeding 9999 US dollars;

6. Clothing, jewelry, personal items, etc.: total price not exceeding $500;

7. Electronic products (laptops, tablets, mobile phones, etc.): 1 new and 1 old per person.

The complete list can be found at the following link:

https://www.aduana.gob.ec/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/LISTA-DE-BIENES-POR-V%C3%8DA -AEREA.pdf

Residency and Naturalization

The Ecuadorian nationality law does not recognize dual nationality for foreigners who have acquired Ecuadorian nationality. Normally, before obtaining a certificate of citizenship in Ecuador, it is necessary to complete the relevant procedures for renouncing one's original nationality. Ecuador has signed agreements with a few countries, including Spain, that allow for dual citizenship.

1. To apply for Eritrean citizenship, the following conditions must be met:

（1） Having legal capacity;

（2） Having legal property, industry, occupation or job in order to be able to live independently;

（3） Having resided continuously in Ecuador for more than three years from the date of obtaining the Ecuadorian ID card; If a foreigner marries an Ecuadorian, or is a widow of an Ecuadorian, or has more than one child born in Ecuador, his or her residence period can be reduced to two years;

（4） No adverse records during residence in Ecuador;

（5） Can speak and write Spanish;

（6） Have basic knowledge of Eritrean history, geography, and its constitution.

2. Nationality certificates shall not be issued to the following individuals:

（1） A party who has not yet been acquitted due to the ongoing trial of a criminal case or receiving a lawsuit awaiting judgment;

（2） Those who have no legitimate source of income to maintain their own and their family's livelihood;

（3） Patients with chronic or infectious diseases;

（4） Those who practice and spread anti-government, influence the political system of the republic, or endanger the territorial integrity of the country;

（5） Those whose living habits, behaviors, moral standards, and good habits are contrary to.

3. The naturalization certificate will be cancelled in the following circumstances:

（1） The situation of losing Ecuadorian nationality as stipulated in the political constitution of Ecuador;

（2） Using deceptive means or violating relevant regulations to naturalize;

（3） Naturalized individuals who are considered by the Ministry of the Interior to violate ethical standards and pose a threat to social and political stability.

The risk level in Ecuador is yellow (medium risk).                         

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reminds Chinese citizens in Ecuador to closely monitor the local security situation, be vigilant, strengthen prevention, and pay attention to safety. In case of emergency, please report to the police in a timely manner and contact the Chinese embassy or consulate in the local area.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and overseas embassies and consulates will continue to closely monitor changes in the overseas security situation, dynamically adjust relevant risk assessments, and release and update corresponding security reminders in real time on platforms such as the China Consular Service Network. Please continue to pay attention.

public security

The political situation in Ecuador is basically stable, but due to the sustained economic downturn in recent years, the employment situation is severe, the social security situation has deteriorated, and theft, robbery and other cases occur from time to time. Chinese citizens traveling to Ecuador should be vigilant and try to minimize nighttime outings. When going out, one should avoid traveling alone and avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuable items; Do not show off your wealth or show off your wealth, and do not answer or use your phone on the road unless there is an emergency; Pay attention to the environment and identify suspicious individuals disguised as security guards, food delivery drivers, etc; Avoid traveling alone or at night, and do not choose transportation such as roadside "black taxis".

If an unexpected case occurs, it should be reported to the nearby police station in a timely manner and relevant evidence should be provided. For those who are not familiar with the local situation or do not understand Spanish, they should carry their passport and other travel documents with them when going out (to prevent passport loss, it is recommended to carry a copy of the front page of the passport), as well as the contact information of relevant contacts in Ecuador or within the country. When entering and leaving public places, be careful to keep your valuables with you.

In economic interactions, it is important to understand the customer's reputation and economic strength, verify their various business licenses, avoid engaging in covert operations, and avoid the idea of taking advantage to avoid being deceived.

natural disaster

The mainland of Ecuador is mainly divided into three regions: the western coastal area, the central mountainous area, and the eastern Amazon rainforest. The central mountainous areas have a dry season from June to September each year, and a rainy season from October to May of the following year. The dry season is dry with little rainfall, while the rainy season is warm and humid; The western coastal areas have a tropical maritime climate; The eastern region has a tropical rainforest climate. Natural disasters mainly include volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, floods, landslides, and droughts.

Ecuador is located in the Pacific Ring of Fire and Earthquake Zone. In 2020, due to frequent volcanic activity within Ecuador, several earthquakes measuring 3.0 to 5.0 on the Richter scale occurred.

FDA

Malaria and cholera occasionally occur in some coastal areas of Ecuador. It is recommended to bring your own medication before coming to Ecuador. Pay attention to dietary hygiene and avoid eating raw and cold dishes such as salads. It is recommended to drink hot water or bottled mineral water.

National unified emergency hotline: 911.

Urgent Help

Fire alarm: 102.

National unified emergency hotline: 911.

air traffic

At present, there are no direct flights from China to Ecuador, and most flights to Ecuador are transiting through the Netherlands or the United States. KLM flights from Amsterdam to Quito do not require a transit visa if the layover does not leave the airport and the layover time does not exceed 24 hours; Flights transiting through the United States require a US transit visa.

The domestic air routes in Ecuador are mainly operated by TAME Airlines, which is under the jurisdiction of the Eritrean Air Force, and private airlines such as AVIANCA and LATAM. There are also air routes connecting major cities in Ecuador.

The main airports in Ecuador are Aeropuerto Internacional Mariscal Sucre and Aeropuerto Internacional Jos é Joaqu í n de Olmedo. Quito Airport was built and put into operation in 2012, and is located far from the city center. Normally, it takes about 50 minutes to drive to the airport.

Quito Airport offers taxi and vehicle rental services. It is recommended that passengers who wish to take a taxi to the city center choose reputable company services to ensure safety. The taxi fare from the airport to the city center is approximately $25.

Quito Airport inquiry hotline: 00593-2-3954200

Guayaquil Airport flight inquiry hotline: 00593-4-2169209

land transport

Ecuador has approximately 45000 kilometers of national highways, with two international highways running north-south. The Pan American Southern Highway runs from north to south along the Andes Mountains, while the other runs from the Colombian border along the coastline to the Peruvian border. In addition, there are three branch roads leading to the eastern and Amazon regions, forming a relatively complete road network.

The total length of the railway in Ecuador is 965 kilometers, but the facilities are relatively old.

In recent years, traffic accidents have occurred frequently in Ecuador, resulting in hundreds of casualties. It is recommended to strictly abide by Ecuador's traffic rules and choose safe transportation for travel.

Urban transportation

There are several rapid transit lines (Trolebus) in Quito, Ecuador that provide direct access to major attractions and areas within the city. The advantage is that it is fast, convenient, and not limited by traffic flow, and the ticket price is cheap, with a unified ticket price of 25 cents. The disadvantage is that the vehicles are old and the carriages are crowded.

There are many taxis in the city, which can be metered and negotiated. The taxi fare is relatively low, and the cost of commuting in the city is generally between 1-3 US dollars. However, tourists need to be extra careful when taking the taxi, pay attention to safety, choose vehicles with formal signs, and avoid taking unlicensed taxis.

The price of a bus ticket in Guayaquil city is 35 cents. The taxi starts at $2.

major city

Quito is the capital of Ecuador and the capital of Pichincha Province. Located in the canyon area at the southern foot of the Pichincha volcano south of the equator, it is about 55 kilometers long from north to south, 3-5 kilometers wide from east to west, with an altitude of 2818 meters and a population of about 2.6 million. It is the capital closest to the equator in the world. The climate is pleasant all year round, with four seasons like spring. It is one of the places with the smallest temperature difference in the world, with an average annual temperature of 13.5 degrees. The rainy season is from November to May of the following year, and the dry season is from June to October.

Guayaquil is the largest city in Ecuador. The population is 2.37 million, the climate is hot, and the average temperature is 25 degrees.

CUENCA is the third largest city in Ecuador. The city has a population of 420000 and an altitude of 2543 meters. It has been named a "cultural heritage of humanity" by the United Nations.

AMBATO has a population of 290000 and an altitude of 2577 meters. After a major earthquake in 1985, the city was rebuilt and is now rich in fruits and flowers. The Flower and Fruit Festival is held every February.

MACHALA, founded in 1573, has an elevation of 5 meters. The city is connected to the Bolivar port and is the main production and export area for Eritrean prawns and bananas.

Main attractions

Pichincha volcano

independence square

Kongpania Church

Monastery of San Francisco

Sugar Loaf

Guayasamin Museum

Commodity prices

The main products in Ecuador include potatoes, corn, rice, cocoa, bananas, coffee, etc. The local currency is the US dollar. Some restaurants and larger shops can use credit cards.

The local price level is relatively high, and the vast majority of daily necessities are more expensive than in China. But generally, the supply is sufficient and the necessary items can be purchased in the market or supermarket.

Insurance Medical

Except for major cities such as Quito, Guayaquil, and Cuenca, the medical conditions in Ecuador are relatively backward. Most of the drugs in Ecuador are imported and expensive. Hospitals only prescribe prescriptions for general patients and do not sell drugs, which must be purchased separately from pharmacies.

Common diseases in Ecuador include dengue fever, pneumonia, yellow fever, etc. At present, Chinese citizens need to receive three types of vaccines before traveling to Ecuador: yellow fever, cholera, and hepatitis A.

Applying for medical insurance locally is not complicated, generally requiring the presentation of personal identification documents and payment of a certain amount of insurance premiums. Generally, insurance companies require policyholders to have internationally recognized credit cards or deposits in local banks. The policyholder must seek medical treatment at the designated hospital of the insurance company after falling ill.

Customs taboos

The vast majority of residents in Ecuador believe in Catholicism, and apart from the general customs and habits of Catholicism, there are no other customs or habits that require special attention.

Communications Power

The plug type used in Ecuador is two flat round heads, using 110 volt AC.

The main mobile network operators in Ecuador are CLARO, which belongs to Mexico's Inter American Telecommunications, and MOVISTAR, which belongs to Spain's Telefonica. They mainly use CDMA networks and the GSM frequency band is GSM-850. At present, domestic mobile phones are roaming in Ecuador, and those using CDMA networks are more normal. Some mobile phones using GSM networks may experience no service.

To make a landline call from China to Ecuador, you need to dial 00593+area code+number (Quito area code 02, Guayaquil area code 04), and dial 00593+the last nine digits of the mobile phone number.

contact information