How to Extend Your Ecuador Tourist Visa: Step-by-Step Checklist (No Panic)
If you’re loving your time in Ecuador but your tourist visa days are running out, take a breath — extending your stay is much easier than the internet makes it sound.
I recently went through the Ecuador tourist visa extension process in Cuenca, and after reading far too much confusing or outdated information online, I was pleasantly surprised by how straightforward it actually was. This guide walks you step-by-step through the process, so you know exactly what to expect (I also made a video).
How the Ecuador Tourist Visa Extension Works
Citizens of most countries receive 90 days in Ecuador on arrival. Before those 90 days expire, you can apply for a one-time extension of another 90 days, allowing you to stay up to 180 days total within a 12-month period starting from your first entry date.
⚠️ Important: You must apply before your original 90 days expire. I recommend going between days 80 – 80 to avoid any stress. Do NOT wait until day 91 — that was the pre-2025 rule.
✅Step 1: Gather Your Documents
You’ll need four items:
Bring with you:
1. Your passport (know in advance which page has your most recent Ecuador entry stamp)
2. A color copy of your passport ID page
You’ll receive during the process:
3. The visa extension application form
If you have access to a printer, you can download the form from the official Government of Ecuador site. It’s only one page and will be provided at the migration office when you go.
4. A payment receipt from the bank
📍Step 2: Visit the Migración Office
You must visit a Migración office (not an immigration office). There are offices in the cities listed below (and maybe a few others I don’t know about):
- Cuenca
- Guayaquil
- La Libertad
- Manta
- Quito
Cuenca Location:
The Migración office is located inside the airport. Enter through the main entrance, go up the escalator, and it will be directly behind you.
At this visit, they’ll:
- Check your passport and verify your eligibility for an extension
- Give you the application form (if you didn’t already print it)
- Issue a payment ticket for the ban
💰Step 3: Pay the Visa Extension Fee
You’ll pay the fee at Banco del Pacífico, not at the Migración office.
💲Bring cash. (There’s usually an ATM outside the bank if needed.) Also, you may be charged a small transaction fee.
Cost: One-third of Ecuador’s minimum wage. That’s currently $156.67 USD but may be different when you apply
Once paid, you’ll receive a small receipt. Double-check that your passport number is correct, then put it somewhere safe. You’ll need it for the next step.
🔁Step 4: Return to Migración…Again
Take all your documents, including the bank receipt, back to the Migración office.
They’ll process your extension and give you a small slip of paper (Comprobante de Prórroga) showing your extension date. You will need to keep this paper with your passport.
📌 Pro tip: Take a photo of the paper as backup. It’s your only proof of the extension.
✨Final Thoughts and Tips
This guide is based on my experience in Cuenca, but the process in other Ecuadorian cities should be similar.
From start to finish, the entire process took me less than four hours, including travel time. I hope this guide will make the process as seamless for you.
My Advice?
- Don’t wait until the last minute to apply
- Travel with at least 5 color copies of your passport photo page (I’ve needed them several times)
- If your Spanish is limited, consider hiring a facilitator or use a translation app. Some officers speak English, but there’s no guarantee you will be called to their window.
- BE PATIENT and nice
Helpful Resources
- Free Printable: Ecuador Tourist Visa Extension Checklist: [ link ]
A printer-friendly, step-by-step checklist based on my experience in Cuenca, designed to make the visa extension process feel far less stressful. - Ecuador tourist visa extension form: [ link ]
Scroll down to the “Formatos y anexos” section and click “Formulario de Solicitud de Visa” - Watch the full step-by-step video on YouTube: [ link ]
📝 If you found this guide helpful, feel free to leave a comment or share your visa extension experience. Bureaucracy is always better with company.
