The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Human Mobility has implemented several changes for the stay and work rights of foreign nationals. Firstly, Mercosur nationals can now renew their Temporary Mercosur Visa for an additional two years, whereas previously Mercosur Visa holders were required to seek permanent residence or another type of visa after two years to remain in the country. Additionally, the Ministry has decreased the maximum period of stay in Ecuador for Short-Term Visa holders (Visa de Excepción de Corta Duracion) to 180 consecutive days from the date of issuance of the visa. Previously, the maximum allowable stay for Short-Term Visa holders was 180 consecutive or cumulative days in a 12-month period from the date of visa issuance. Lastly, Short-Term Visa applicants must now submit an apostilled/legalized police clearance certificate from the countries of residence in the past five years in support of their application, which was previously not required.
This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen or send an email to [email protected].
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