National Assembly Approves Immigration Reform Bill

Key Points

• The National Assembly has approved a comprehensive immigration reform bill
• The bill replaces the Visa de Excepcion de Corta Duracion with an Acts of Commerce Visa
• The UNASUR Temporary Visa is removed
• Travel restrictions are eliminated for temporary residents
• Stricter eligibility rules apply for permanent residents
• Additional details will be provided in the next 90 days when the Official Registry publishes accompanying immigration regulations

Overview

Ecuador's National Assembly has approved a comprehensive immigration reform bill.

What are the Changes?

The reform bill replaces the Visa de Excepcion de Corta Duracion with an Acts of Commerce Visa that allows foreign nationals to conduct technical and business activities in Ecuador for up to 180 days. The reform bill also eliminates the UNASUR Temporary Visa and modifies requirements for temporary and permanent residents.