Ecuador – Buying Property

Can foreign nationals legally buy and own property in Ecuador?

In contrast to some other countries in the region, Ecuador grants foreign citizens identical property ownership rights to those held by its own nationals, a principle embedded in the constitution that covers outright ownership of land, houses, and condominiums. There is no need for local proxies, bank trusts, or restrictive lease arrangements — a meaningful distinction from markets like Mexico, where foreigners purchasing in coastal zones have historically been required to hold property via a bank trust known as a fideicomiso.

The primary legal basis for foreign ownership is Ecuador’s Constitution, which permits overseas nationals to hold property with precisely the same entitlements as Ecuadorian citizens, encompassing both rural and urban real estate. Ecuador has also concluded bilateral agreements designed to encourage foreign investment, frequently including provisions that safeguard the property rights and investments of overseas parties.

The principal geographic restriction is that acquiring land within 50 kilometres (31 miles) of Ecuador’s international borders requires special governmental authorisation under national security legislation — though this seldom affects buyers in practice, as the vast majority of popular destinations lie well outside these zones.

An additional significant constraint applies to agricultural holdings: foreigners are generally barred from acquiring agricultural land exceeding five hectares unless specific conditions are satisfied. Applicants may be required to demonstrate a genuine commitment to agricultural activity or to show that their investment will produce tangible benefits for surrounding communities, in order to preserve Ecuador’s agricultural sector.

The Galápagos Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are governed by far stricter protocols. Property acquisition there is heavily restricted even for Ecuadorian nationals; foreign buyers should consider this destination effectively inaccessible for purchase purposes without specialist legal guidance.

Notably, resident visas are automatically made available to foreigners who acquire a property valued at $25,000 USD or more — a compelling benefit for those planning to relocate to Ecuador. The current threshold should be verified with the Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores y Movilidad Humana. The authority responsible for property registration is the Registro de la Propiedad, and property rights are additionally governed by the Organic Law on Land Mobilisation and Urban Development.

What are average property prices in Ecuador, and how do they vary by region?

The cost of mid-market real estate in Ecuador is considerably lower than in most other Latin American countries. This positions it as one of the most accessible property markets in the region, and highly competitive when compared with Western Europe or North America.

Based on recent listings data, the median sale price for a property in Ecuador stands at approximately $159,226, with the median price per square metre around $1,365. One-bedroom homes average roughly $116,663, two-bedroom properties around $166,927, and three-bedroom homes approximately $184,738. These figures are indicative; always consult current listings on portals such as Plusvalia.com or BienesOnline.com for up-to-date prices.

Ecuador’s real estate market is marked by notable regional variation, shaped by geography, climate, and the availability of amenities, catering to a broad range of budgets with pronounced price differences between major urban centres like Quito and Guayaquil and smaller towns such as Otavalo and Loja.

Quito, the capital, combines modern infrastructure with a rich cultural environment, with the average property price per square metre around $1,330 — competitive relative to other South American capitals. Cuenca, a striking colonial city set high in the Andean mountains and Ecuador’s premier retirement destination, records some of the country’s highest residential prices.

Coastal towns such as Manta and Canoa draw strong demand for beachfront property, with prices typically falling between $800 and $1,200 per square metre — an appealing prospect for those seeking holiday homes or rental income potential. Land earmarked for development with ocean views generally sells for $50–$100/m² depending on access and elevation, while coastal homes below $75,000 remain available in less premium locations (as of 2024).

Rural and Amazon-region properties can be found at considerably lower price points, while prestige neighbourhoods in Quito — including Cumbayá and Quito Tenis — attract a significant premium. Prices can shift considerably between years, so always confirm current figures with up-to-date listings and local agents before making any decisions.

Where are the most popular locations to buy property in Ecuador?

Ecuador offers a varied real estate landscape, with Cuenca, Quito, and Guayaquil consistently topping the list of sought-after destinations. Cuenca appeals to retirees through its colonial character, affordable cost of living, and agreeable climate. Quito draws professionals and families looking for a dynamic urban environment, while Guayaquil — the country’s commercial engine — offers a contemporary atmosphere with a vibrant social scene.

Cuenca holds its position as Ecuador’s most popular retirement destination and is home to a large, well-established international community. Its UNESCO-listed historic centre, a year-round temperate climate at an elevation of 2,560 metres, excellent private medical facilities, and a comparatively low cost of living make it an obvious draw. The property stock ranges from beautifully restored colonial townhouses to contemporary condominiums within gated developments.

Quito, as Ecuador’s political and administrative capital, attracts embassy personnel, international business figures, and families. The northern suburbs — particularly Cumbayá, Tumbaco, and the Valle de los Chillos — offer more generous plot sizes, reputable international schools, and a suburban character. Central Quito, meanwhile, offers easy access to cultural institutions and government offices.

Guayaquil, situated on the Pacific coast, is Ecuador’s largest city and its commercial nucleus. The regenerated Malecón 2000 waterfront district and the upscale Samborondón neighbourhood have both attracted sustained interest from domestic and international buyers seeking a warmer, more cosmopolitan urban lifestyle.

Other appealing destinations include Otavalo, celebrated for its vibrant indigenous market, and Salinas, a beach town that draws water sports enthusiasts. Manta, on the Manabí coast, hosts a substantial expat population and benefits from good air connections, making it one of the most accessible coastal cities for property buyers from abroad.

Are there any emerging or up-and-coming areas worth considering in Ecuador?

Beyond the established hotspots, a number of areas are drawing growing buyer interest, driven by improved infrastructure, relative affordability, and a compelling lifestyle offer.

Vilcabamba, in Loja province, has long attracted health-focused buyers drawn to its celebrated reputation as a “Valley of Longevity.” It remains more affordable than Cuenca, with rural properties and small farms available at accessible price points. It holds particular appeal for those seeking a quieter, nature-centred way of life.

Puerto López, on the southern Manabí coast, is gaining momentum as an alternative to Salinas and Manta. With its whale-watching tourism, relaxed atmosphere, and prices still well below those of more established coastal towns, it is attracting buyers interested in tourism-driven rental income and beachside living.

Bahía de Caráquez, once promoted as Ecuador’s first “eco-city,” is experiencing renewed interest following infrastructure upgrades. Its sheltered bay setting, relative affordability compared to Salinas, and improving road connections have made it popular with both retirees and location-independent workers.

Canoa, further north along the Manabí coast, appeals to younger buyers and surfers. It offers a more bohemian character and lower entry prices than Manta, though it remains less developed in terms of amenities and services.

Yunguilla Valley, located south of Cuenca, offers a warmer microclimate than the city itself, with rural properties and small fincas at prices considerably below those of Cuenca proper. Its proximity to the city — roughly an hour’s drive — combined with its agricultural charm makes it attractive for buyers seeking more land and space.

What are the current trends in the property market in Ecuador?

Ecuador’s real estate market is undergoing meaningful expansion and development. Buyers are increasingly prioritising well-located and competitively priced properties, with rising demand for housing that combines convenience, accessibility, and value — many purchasers specifically seeking proximity to schools, healthcare facilities, and commercial centres.

A prominent trend is the ongoing shift towards urban living, as growing numbers of people move to cities in pursuit of employment opportunities and improved living standards. This movement has generated increased demand for apartments and condominiums in urban centres, with developers responding by expanding high-rise and mixed-use construction activity.

Demand for beachfront property is also surging, fuelled by Ecuador’s spectacular Pacific coastline and its comparatively low price points. This coastal appetite has been partly stoked by the expansion of short-term rental platforms, particularly in tourism-active areas such as Manta, Salinas, and Montañita.

The growth of remote working has had a discernible influence on the market. International buyers and location-independent professionals are increasingly targeting mid-sized cities and coastal communities that offer a high quality of life at a fraction of the cost of major Western cities. This trend has maintained demand in Cuenca and coastal areas even as some conventional tourism markets have fluctuated.

Eco-conscious construction and sustainability are increasingly influential considerations, particularly in the Andean highlands and cloud forest zones. Buyers are showing growing interest in properties with access to natural land, renewable energy systems, and environmentally sympathetic building methods. This remains a relatively early-stage trend in Ecuador compared with markets such as Costa Rica, but momentum is building. For the most current market data, consult the Banco Central del Ecuador and reputable portals such as Plusvalia.com.

Is buying property in Ecuador a good investment?

Ecuador has emerged as an increasingly compelling destination for foreign real estate investment, underpinned by a welcoming legal framework and varied opportunities across its distinct geographical regions. That said, as with any property investment, outcomes depend heavily on location, property type, timing, and individual circumstances.

Ecuador’s diverse landscape, stable currency (the US Dollar), and expanding tourism appeal make it a well-suited market for holiday homes and short-term rentals. Because Ecuador uses the US Dollar as its official currency, buyers whose savings or income are denominated in dollars are completely shielded from exchange rate risk — a meaningful advantage compared with markets such as Turkey, Colombia, or Mexico, where currency fluctuations can materially erode investment returns.

Analysis of Latin American real estate prices has identified Quito and Cuenca as among the strongest candidates for growth through 2023 and 2024. Ecuador’s mid-market property prices sit substantially below the regional average — while Buenos Aires’ Puerto Madero district averaged $5,291 per square metre, Cuenca’s San Sebastian neighbourhood was among the most affordable in the region at $1,087. This relative value represents both an entry opportunity and a potential ceiling on rapid capital appreciation.

Rental yields in prominent expat and tourist areas can be competitive, particularly for well-positioned apartments in Cuenca and Quito or beachfront units in coastal resorts. Short-term rental demand via platforms such as Airbnb is growing in tourist-frequented areas, though rental income is subject to Ecuadorian income tax and must be reported to the Servicio de Rentas Internas (SRI).

Risks include political and economic uncertainty, limited mortgage availability (most transactions are cash-based), potential title defects (see the pitfalls section below), and challenges in reselling properties in less liquid markets. Property investment invariably carries risk, and independent financial and legal advice tailored to your specific circumstances is strongly recommended before committing.

What types of property are commonly available to buy in Ecuador?

Ecuador’s property market encompasses a wide range of options, from Pacific beachfront condominiums to Amazonian jungle land. The market accommodates a broad spectrum of budgets, lifestyles, and investment goals.

• Apartments and condominiums: The most prevalent property type in cities such as Quito, Guayaquil, and Cuenca. Urban apartments span compact studio units through to large luxury penthouses in gated complexes with pools and round-the-clock security. New-build condominiums in Quito’s northern valleys and Guayaquil’s Samborondón district represent some of the most premium stock currently available.
• Colonial townhouses and heritage homes: Found predominantly in Cuenca’s historic centre (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and Quito’s Centro Histórico. These properties offer considerable architectural character but may demand substantial renovation and must comply with heritage conservation regulations.
• Detached houses and villas: Common in suburban and coastal settings. Gated communities (urbanizaciones) offering shared facilities such as pools, gyms, and 24-hour security are widespread across Quito’s valleys and the Santa Elena peninsula.
• Beachfront and coastal properties: Available along the Pacific coastline, ranging from modest beach bungalows to larger oceanfront villas. Entry-level coastal homes can be found below $75,000, while premium oceanfront properties command significantly higher prices.
• Fincas and rural properties: Farm properties and rural smallholdings are available throughout the Andean highlands, cloud forest regions, and the Amazon basin. These are subject to the agricultural land restrictions outlined above for plots exceeding five hectares.
• Land plots: Undeveloped land for self-build projects is widely available, particularly on the coast and in rural areas. Constructing a home on purchased land is relatively common and can offer better value than buying completed property, though managing construction from abroad requires careful oversight.

What is the typical step-by-step process for buying property in Ecuador?

Most buyers find that acquiring property in Ecuador is less complicated than in their home country. However, this relative simplicity places the responsibility for thorough due diligence firmly on the buyer to confirm clean title and properly executed documentation. The complete process, from accepting an offer to completing registration, can take as little as four to eight weeks when all paperwork is in order.

1. Find a property and carry out initial due diligence. Identify suitable properties through a reputable agent or online portals such as Plusvalia.com. Before proceeding, instruct your lawyer to undertake a preliminary title search at the local Registro de la Propiedad to confirm that the seller holds clean, unencumbered title and that no liens or debts are attached to the property.
2. Make an offer and agree terms. Offers are typically made verbally or in writing directly to the seller or their agent. Ecuador does not operate a formal sealed-bid or chain-based system as found in the UK; once a price is agreed, the process advances swiftly to a binding preliminary contract.
3. Sign the Promesa de Compraventa (preliminary purchase agreement). Once agreement is reached but the buyer is not yet ready to transfer the full purchase price, the buyer’s attorney prepares a Promesa de Compraventa (a promise to buy). This document carries greater formal weight and binding force than a typical North American sales contract. It is customary for the buyer to pay 5%–10% of the purchase price upon signing, with the document setting out the agreed price, the target closing date, and penalties for default. There are fewer exit routes compared with contracts in some other markets, making recovery of the deposit upon withdrawal more difficult.
4. Carry out comprehensive due diligence. The buyer’s attorney is responsible for investigating the property’s title and administering tax payments from funds provided by the buyer. This encompasses verifying planning status, checking for any outstanding municipal taxes, reviewing the cadastral valuation, and confirming the absence of easements or encumbrances. Ecuador lacks a standardised structural survey profession equivalent to those in many European markets, but independent structural inspections are advisable for older or coastal properties.
5. Sign the Escritura Pública (public deed of sale) before a notary. The Escritura Pública is the formal legal instrument by which ownership is transferred. Both seller and buyer sign it before a notary public (notario público), who verifies the legality of the transaction, confirms the identities of all parties, and witnesses signatures — and at which point final payment is confirmed or made. In Ecuador, as across much of Latin America, a notary is a qualified attorney with specialist advanced training.
6. Register the property at the Registro de la Propiedad. Following signature of the public deed, the buyer’s attorney lodges the new ownership at the Real Estate Property Register — the essential final step through which the buyer formally acquires legal title. The attorney submits two notarised copies of the deed to the Land Registry: one is retained there, and the other is returned to the buyer as the title deed.
7. Pay all applicable taxes and fees. Closing costs generally amount to 2%–4% of the property’s value, encompassing legal documentation, notarial services, and government registration. Key costs (as of 2025 — verify with official sources) include: the Alcabala transfer tax of approximately 1% of the contract or cadastral value; notary fees of approximately 0.10%–0.15% of the property value; and registration fees of approximately 0.10% of the property value, subject to a maximum cap of around $500 plus VAT. Always confirm current rates with your lawyer and the SRI.
8. If you cannot attend in person, grant a Power of Attorney. Buyers unable to be present in Ecuador at the time of signing may grant Power of Attorney to an attorney or appointed representative. This document must be notarised and, if executed outside Ecuador, typically apostilled before it will be recognised by Ecuadorian authorities.

Do I need a lawyer to buy property in Ecuador, and how do I find a reputable one?

Engaging a trustworthy real estate lawyer is fundamental to a smooth purchase. While Ecuadorian law does not strictly require a buyer to retain an attorney — the notary fulfils certain oversight functions — in practice it is strongly advisable, particularly for foreign buyers unfamiliar with the local legal framework, Spanish-language documentation, and municipal regulations that vary by location.

It is highly recommended to retain a reputable, bilingual Ecuadorian attorney with a demonstrable track record in real estate transactions involving overseas buyers. They will conduct a thorough title search and due diligence exercise, draft and review the Promesa de Compraventa and the final Escritura Pública, ensure all documentation complies with Ecuadorian law, represent your interests at the notary and Property Registry, and advise on applicable tax obligations.

Attorney fees in Ecuador are negotiated directly between lawyer and client rather than governed by a fixed statutory scale. Notarial charges start from 0.15% of the Unified Basic Salary upwards, calculated on the property price, plus 12% VAT, while attorney fees are freely agreed. For a mid-range property transaction, legal fees typically fall in the range of approximately $500–$2,000 or more depending on complexity — confirm current rates directly with prospective lawyers.

Ecuadorian lawyers must be registered with the Foro de Abogados del Ecuador (the Bar Association) and hold a valid professional licence. The national regulatory body overseeing legal practice is the Consejo de la Judicatura (Judicial Council of Ecuador), which maintains records of licensed attorneys. Request a lawyer’s registration number and verify it before instructing them. Recommendations from established expat communities in Cuenca, Quito, or coastal areas can also be a valuable starting point for identifying practitioners with relevant experience.

What are the most common pitfalls and problems expats encounter when buying property in Ecuador?

Ecuador’s property market is generally accessible and reasonably well regulated, but foreign buyers do encounter particular difficulties. Awareness of the most common ones in advance is the most effective form of protection.

• Title defects and uncertain ownership: Thorough due diligence before signing the escritura is essential, including confirming the property’s legal standing and identifying any outstanding debts attached to it. Title chains can be complex, particularly for rural properties or older stock. Always instruct your lawyer to carry out a full title search at the Registro de la Propiedad before signing any document.
• Undisclosed debts and encumbrances: Properties in Ecuador may carry unpaid municipal taxes, mortgage debt, or improvement levies. These must be fully discharged before transfer of ownership. Your lawyer should obtain a certificado de gravámenes (certificate of encumbrances) from the registry as a standard step.
• Off-plan purchase risks: Purchasing property under construction (preventa) carries the risk of developer insolvency, project delays, or delivery of a finished property that does not match the agreed specifications. Only buy off-plan from developers with a verifiable track record, and ensure the contract includes clear completion deadlines and meaningful penalty clauses.
• Unlicensed agents: Ecuador does not operate a centralised MLS system as in the United States, making it necessary to engage multiple agents for broader market coverage. There is also no mandatory national licensing regime for real estate agents. Verify any agent’s credentials, seek references, and never transfer large sums to an agent without independent legal verification of the transaction.
• Language and legal comprehension barriers: Many buyers struggle to negotiate terms and comprehend documentation due to language differences. Working with an experienced translator or a bilingual real estate agent is essential. Ecuadorian law also requires that all parties to a property transaction genuinely understand its terms.
• Border zone and agricultural land restrictions: Failing to establish whether a property falls within the 50 km border restriction zone, or whether agricultural land exceeds the five-hectare ceiling for foreign buyers, can create serious legal complications after the purchase has completed. Always verify applicable location restrictions with your lawyer before signing any agreement.
• Inflated prices targeting foreign buyers: In some popular expat destinations, properties are listed at prices that reflect what sellers believe overseas buyers will pay, rather than true market value. Research comparable sales in the area and consult a local agent or independent appraiser before making an offer.
• Tax compliance in your home country: Holding property abroad can trigger reporting obligations in your country of residence or citizenship — including declarations of foreign assets and capital gains reporting on eventual disposal. Always seek independent tax advice in both Ecuador and your home country.

Can I buy property in Ecuador through a company, and is it worth doing?

Ecuador’s legal framework permits foreign entities to hold property, subject to certain regulations designed to ensure compliance with national interests. Acquiring property through a corporate structure is a legally recognised option used by some overseas investors, though it is by no means necessary for a straightforward residential purchase.

The most frequently used corporate vehicles are a Sociedad Anónima (S.A., broadly equivalent to a limited company) or a Compañía de Responsabilidad Limitada (Cía. Ltda., similar to a limited liability company). Both must be registered with the Superintendencia de Compañías, Valores y Seguros (Ecuador’s company regulator). Incorporating a company typically involves notarial charges, registration costs, and ongoing compliance obligations including annual accounts and declarations to the SRI.

Potential advantages of holding property through a corporate structure include estate planning benefits — shares can be transferred more readily than real property — possible separation of personal and investment liability, and in certain circumstances the ability to offset specific costs against corporate income. However, the additional administrative complexity, annual compliance costs, and accounting fees can easily outweigh these benefits for buyers of a single residential property.

Corporate ownership does not eliminate the obligation to pay annual property tax or transfer taxes, and corporate profits — including rental income — are subject to Ecuadorian corporation tax. This is a nuanced area, and independent legal and tax advice from a qualified Ecuadorian professional is essential before pursuing a corporate structure.

What taxes and ongoing costs should I budget for when owning property in Ecuador?

Ecuador’s property tax regime is notably modest compared with most European and North American markets — a factor that makes ownership particularly attractive to foreign buyers. All figures below are as of 2025; always verify current rates with the Servicio de Rentas Internas (SRI) and your local municipality.

The annual property tax (Impuesto Predial) is a universal obligation for all property owners — domestic and foreign alike — and the precise amount varies by location, typically ranging from 0.025% to 0.5% of the property’s commercial or cadastral value as determined by the local government’s assessment. Property taxes in Ecuador are strikingly low by international standards, commonly falling below $300 per year.

The standard IVA (VAT) rate in Ecuador is 15%, a level that was temporarily raised in 2024 in response to the country’s internal armed conflict. This applies to professional services consumed during the purchase process. The direct acquisition of residential property is generally not subject to IVA in the same manner as services. Always verify the current rate with your lawyer or the SRI.

Municipal improvement charges — levied when new infrastructure such as roads or sewage systems enhances a property’s value — may also be applied and fall to the owner to meet; these costs cannot be passed directly on to tenants.

What are the official sources I should consult when buying property in Ecuador?

When conducting due diligence or verifying information in this article, always consult official sources directly. The key bodies are:

• Registro de la Propiedad (Property Registry): www.registrodelapropiedad.gob.ec — for title searches, certificates of encumbrances, and ownership verification. The Real Estate Property Register is a public record; any individual or legal entity may obtain a certificate identifying the registered owner of a specific property.
• Servicio de Rentas Internas (SRI — Internal Revenue Service): www.sri.gob.ec — for current tax rates, income tax declarations, IVA obligations, and property transfer tax rules.
• Superintendencia de Compañías, Valores y Seguros: www.supercias.gob.ec — for company formation and corporate structure matters.
• Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores y Movilidad Humana: www.cancilleria.gob.ec — for visa and residency information, including the property investor visa threshold.
• Banco Central del Ecuador: www.bce.fin.ec — for economic data, housing market statistics, and macroeconomic indicators.
• Consejo de la Judicatura (Judicial Council): www.funcionjudicial.gob.ec — for verifying the registration status of lawyers and notaries.
• Ministerio de Agricultura y Ganadería: www.agricultura.gob.ec — for rules governing agricultural land acquisition and restrictions applicable to foreign buyers.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to be a resident or have a visa to buy property in Ecuador?

No. Foreign nationals are not required to hold residency or a visa in order to purchase property in Ecuador. You may buy as a tourist. However, resident visas are automatically made available to foreigners who acquire a property valued at $25,000 USD or more, meaning property purchase can itself serve as a pathway to residency. Verify the current visa threshold with the Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores before relying on this route.

Can I buy property in Ecuador without visiting the country in person?

Yes. Buyers who are unable to be present in Ecuador at the time of document signing may grant Power of Attorney to a lawyer or appointed representative — and many buyers find this considerably more straightforward than travelling to an Ecuadorian consulate abroad. The Power of Attorney must be notarised and, if prepared outside Ecuador, typically apostilled before it will be accepted by Ecuadorian authorities. Remote purchases are common but require complete confidence in your chosen legal representative.

What is the Alcabala and who pays it?

The Alcabala is a property transfer tax of approximately 1% on the contract or cadastral appraisal value (as of 2025 — verify with the SRI). It is ordinarily paid by the buyer as part of the closing costs, though responsibility can sometimes be negotiated between the parties. It must be settled before the deed is registered.

Can I get a mortgage in Ecuador as a foreign buyer?

In practice, securing a conventional bank loan in Ecuador can be difficult for foreigners who lack local income, an Ecuadorian credit history, or legal residency status. As a result, many international buyers opt for cash purchases or explore specialised financing options offered by private or expat-focused lenders. Interest rates on Ecuadorian loans average around 9%, which is a further reason many overseas buyers favour outright cash transactions.

Is Ecuador’s property register public, and can I check who owns a property?

Yes. Any individual or legal entity may obtain a certificate from the Real Estate Property Register identifying the registered owner of a given property. The register is publicly accessible, providing an important layer of transparency and protection for buyers undertaking due diligence.

What happens if I want to sell my Ecuadorian property later?

Income tax of up to 10% of the profit realised on the sale is payable in Ecuador on capital gains (as of 2025 — confirm current rates with the SRI or a local tax adviser). The sale process mirrors the purchase process: a public deed must be signed before a notary and the ownership transfer formally registered. Depending on your country of tax residence, you may also face reporting obligations at home.

Are there any restrictions on renting out my Ecuadorian property?

Foreign owners are permitted to let their property on either a long-term or short-term basis. Rental income must be declared to the SRI and is taxed according to Ecuador’s income tax schedule. Costs directly related to the property can generally be deducted. For short-term lets on platforms such as Airbnb, registration with local municipal authorities may also be required. Check the current requirements with the SRI and your local municipality.

Does buying property in Ecuador give me the right to live there permanently?

Property ownership alone does not automatically confer permanent residency, but it is one of the recognised qualifying routes for a residency visa. Resident visas are automatically made available to foreigners who purchase a property valued at $25,000 USD or more (as of 2025 — verify the current threshold). This constitutes a temporary residence visa; permanent residency involves additional requirements and a minimum period of residence. Consult the Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores y Movilidad Humana for the latest immigration rules.