Ecuador citizenship by naturalization allows long-term residents to secure full rights and benefits as Ecuadorian nationals without giving up their original nationality.
With Ecuador’s low cost of living, political stability, and natural beauty, the country has become an attractive destination for retirees, expats, and global citizens alike.
Here’s what this guide covers:
- How to gain citizenship in Ecuador
- How long do you have to live in Ecuador to become a citizen?
- Is dual citizenship allowed in Ecuador?
- What are the benefits of Ecuadorian citizenship?
- What is the strength of Ecuador passport?
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La información contenida en este artículo es meramente orientativa. No constituye asesoramiento financiero, jurídico o fiscal, ni una recomendación o solicitud de inversión. Algunos hechos pueden haber cambiado desde el momento de su redacción.
How to Naturalize in Ecuador
Naturalization in Ecuador is the legal process through which a foreigner becomes an Ecuadorian citizen after meeting specific residency and integration requirements.
Unlike citizenship by birth or descent, this pathway is available to those who have legally settled in the country and wish to enjoy full civil and political rights.
To naturalize in Ecuador, applicants must complete the following steps:
1. Maintain Legal and Continuous Residence
Applicants must reside in Ecuador legally and continuously for the required period typically three years, or two years for recognized refugees or stateless individuals.
During this time, they must not be absent from Ecuador for more than 180 days per year, counted from the date the permanent residence visa was issued.
2. Meet Age and Legal Capacity Criteria
Applicants must be at least 18 years old at the time of application. For minors under 18, parental or legal guardian consent is required, and the child’s opinion must also be taken into account in accordance with Ecuadorian law.
3. Prepare the Application Package
The application must be submitted at the Zonal Coordination Office corresponding to the applicant’s residence and should include:
- Proof of permanent legal residence (e.g. cédula or residency visa)
- Birth certificate, duly apostilled or legalized and translated into Spanish
- Criminal background checks from both Ecuador and the applicant’s country of residence over the past five years, all properly apostilled or legalized and translated if needed
- Proof of lawful income or financial support in Ecuador
- Migration Movement Certificate showing travel history up to the application date
- Basic knowledge of Ecuador’s national symbols and foundational civic concepts
- In certain cases, additional documents may be requested to verify identity or birth details
4. Book and Attend a Naturalization Appointment
Applicants must schedule an appointment through the official online portal:
https://serviciows.cancilleria.gob.ec:444/TurnosCancilleria/
5. Interview and Evaluation
As part of the evaluation process, applicants are required to attend an interview to explain their motivation for acquiring Ecuadorian nationality and demonstrate general understanding of the country’s culture, values, and history. Spanish language proficiency is expected, though there is no standardized language test.
6. Oath of Allegiance
Once approved, the applicant must take an Oath of Allegiance to the Constitution of Ecuador. After this step is completed, the naturalization certificate is issued and full citizenship is granted.
How Long Does It Take to Get Ecuadorian Citizenship?
- Total Timeline: 3 Years of Residency + 6–12 Months Processing
After meeting the residency threshold, the naturalization application typically takes an additional 6 to 12 months to be reviewed and approved by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Human Mobility. - Delays May Occur
Processing times can vary depending on the applicant’s documentation, local administrative capacity, and whether supplementary information or translations are required. Delays often stem from:- Incomplete or inconsistent paperwork
- Background checks or document authentication
- Court backlogs in case of legal name changes or corrections
Applicants who plan and prepare their documents in advance can minimize delays and navigate the process more efficiently.
Does Ecuador Do Dual Citizenship?
Yes, Ecuador permits dual citizenship, making it possible for naturalized individuals to retain their original nationality while gaining the full rights of Ecuadorian citizenship.
- Dual Nationality Is Legally Recognized
Ecuadorian law explicitly allows dual or multiple citizenships. Applicants are not required to give up their original nationality during the naturalization process. - No Renunciation Required Unless Your Home Country Requires It
While Ecuador imposes no restrictions, applicants should check the dual citizenship policies of their country of origin. Some countries either discourage or disallow dual nationality, which could affect your ability to retain both passports. - Full Rights for Dual Citizens
Dual nationals in Ecuador are granted the same legal rights and responsibilities as those born in the country. This includes voting rights, access to public services, and freedom to reside or work without any restrictions.
Can I Give Up My Ecuadorian Citizenship?
Yes, Ecuadorian law allows citizens to voluntarily renounce their nationality through a formal legal process.
- Renunciation Is Permitted but Must Be Official
Ecuador permits citizens to give up their citizenship if they no longer wish to hold it; typically for reasons such as acquiring citizenship in a country that does not allow dual nationality. - Process Usually Handled Through Consulates
Renunciation is generally carried out at an Ecuadorian consulate abroad or through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Human Mobility within the country. Applicants must submit a formal declaration of intent along with required documents. - Valid Justification and Documentation Required
Individuals must provide a legitimate reason for renunciation, such as naturalization in another country, and include supporting documentation (e.g., proof of new nationality or pending application). The process may also include verification of any outstanding legal obligations in Ecuador.
Benefits of Ecuadorian Citizenship
- No More Visa Renewals or Residency Permits
Citizenship eliminates the need to maintain or renew visas or residency permits, providing permanent legal status in Ecuador. - Access to Public Services
Citizens are entitled to Ecuador’s public healthcare, free or subsidized education, and social welfare programs without limitations. - Citizenship Transmission to Children
Ecuadorian citizens can pass their nationality to children born abroad, ensuring continuity of citizenship across generations. - Regional Mobility Through MERCOSUR
Ecuador’s membership in MERCOSUR facilitates simplified travel, residence, and work rights across participating South American countries like Argentina, Brazil, and Uruguay.
Ecuador Passport Ranking
As of 2025, the Ecuadorian passport ranks around 48th globally on major passport indexes such as the Arton Passport Index, offering moderate international mobility.
- Visa-Free or Visa-on-Arrival to 105 Countries
Ecuadorian citizens can travel freely to most of South America, much of Central America, and select countries in Asia, Europe, and Africa without a visa or with visa-on-arrival access. - Key Destinations
Included on the visa-free list are countries such as Russia, South Korea, Turkey, and members of the Andean Community. - Improving Strength
While not among the top-ranked passports globally, Ecuador’s passport has seen gradual enhancement thanks to expanding bilateral and regional agreements, including those related to MERCOSUR and UNASUR.
Conclusión
Ecuador citizenship by naturalization is one of the more accessible pathways in South America, especially for long-term residents, spouses of Ecuadorians, and parents of Ecuadorian-born children.
With dual citizenship permitted, no strict language requirement, and a relatively short residency period, Ecuador appeals to those seeking regional mobility, legal stability, and access to the rights and protections afforded by a full citizen.
For expats already settled in the country, the naturalization process is a practical next step toward deeper integration.
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