Your life in Ecuador starts here
Make your move to Ecuador
The Andes, Amazon and Pacific coast all sit within one small, very affordable country. A path for the financially independent offers a way in, permanent residency follows in good time, and dual citizenship is allowed.
Photo: April Beasley / Pexels
At a glance
Ecuador, in brief.
How Ecuador compares with the 80+ destinations we cover. Ecuador ranks among the best for visa ease (6th of 81) and property affordability (14th of 75) and cost of living (17th of 77).
Compare destinations- Cost of living
- Very low
- Property
- Very affordable
- Healthcare
- Basic
- Safety
- Higher risk
- Climate
- Mild (~15°C)
- English
- Limited
- Expat community
- Moderate
Rentista $1,446/mo, ~21mo to PR, dual
Worldwide, 37% top, temporary-residency regime
Life in Ecuador
When you ask who I am, the answer always includes my wife. We’re from Ottawa, Canada. We’re both 55.I am the former head of marketing at a major…
Health insurance in Ecuador
Covered from day one.
The dream is the easy part. Compare tailored expat health insurance quotes from trusted international insurers, in minutes and with no obligation.
Get health insurance quotesMoving your belongings too? Get up to five free quotes from international moversSending money abroad? Use a currency specialist
Your move plan
Ecuador, one step at a time.
Thirteen steps, in the order most people tackle them. Each one links to the guide that walks you through it.
- 01Check which visa fits your moveRead the guide : Check which visa fits your move
- 02Work out your monthly budgetRead the guide : Work out your monthly budget
- 03Arrange health cover for your moveRead the guide : Arrange health cover for your move
- 04Understand how the health system worksRead the guide : Understand how the health system works
- 05Bring your pet, if you have oneRead the guide : Bring your pet, if you have one
- 06Find somewhere to rentRead the guide : Find somewhere to rent
- 07Open a local bank accountRead the guide : Open a local bank account
- 08Know your residency steps after you arriveRead the guide : Know your residency steps after you arrive
- 09Find a doctorRead the guide : Find a doctor
- 10Understand your tax positionRead the guide : Understand your tax position
- 11Sort out your driving licenceRead the guide : Sort out your driving licence
- 12Set up a phone and internetRead the guide : Set up a phone and internet
- 13Plan schools, if you're moving with childrenRead the guide : Plan schools, if you're moving with children
Plan your move
Answers for your move.
Free tools that turn big questions about Ecuador into clear answers.
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- Compare cost of livingWhat your money is worth in Ecuador.01
- Check retirement affordabilityWhere your pension clears the requirement.02
- Find visa optionsEvery route you could qualify for.03
- Get moving quotesUp to five free quotes from international movers.04
- Move money abroadTransfers with a currency specialist.05
The complete picture
The Ecuador moving guide.
55 guides, from your visa to finding a vet. Start with the three most people need first.
- Start here · 01
Visas
Which visa fits your move, and how to apply.
- Start here · 02
Residency
Your residence permit, from first stay to long term.
- Start here · 03
Banking
Opening an account and moving money.
Visas, residency and work
6
Healthcare
7
Buying property
5
Health and wellbeing
8
Travel and transport
5
Driving and cars
5
You won't be the first
Real people who made the move.
People who built a life in Ecuador share what surprised them, what helped and what they'd do again. All Ecuador stories
- Quito
Jessica Fay
Hello! My name is Jessica Fay and my family and I left our home in Texas to explore the world! We are…
- Quito
Luca Lamanna
My name is Luca Lamanna, I'm a 25-year-old Canadian living in South America.I teach English and I do hobby photography.Where, when and…
- Cuenca
Elliott Segelbaum
My name is Elliott Segelbaum.I’m 46 years old, and I retired at 40 from computer programming because my wife, Stephanie, and I…
Fresh from Ecuador
Latest articles.
Secret Tips for Spending your Money Wisely in Ecuador
Ecuador, known for its diverse geography, rich culture, and warm hospitality, is a popular destination for tourists and expats alike. Living or traveling in…
How To Open A Bank Account In Ecuador
Making plans to move abroad can be time-consuming. After all, each country has its own rules, its own regulations and its own processes—including with…
How To Learn The Language In Ecuador
If you are intending to live and work in Ecuador, one of your first questions will be regarding your ease of communication. Which languages…
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