antialiased
American expat in Ecuador
Forum posts
136
Contacts
10
About me
American
Lives in Malacatus, Loja
Speaks English, Spanish (functional)
Registration: 04 February 2018
Taxes for expats in Ecuador by Cheryl
Hello everyone, When settling in and living in Ecuador, you will also need to navigate the local tax system. In order to help newcomers and expats ease their tax-related experience, we would like to invite you to share your experience. What ...
AFAIK (not a licensed lawyer in EC and won't be licensed here for at least a few more months)...General Overview-------------------------Ecuador’s tax agency is the Servicio de Rentas Internas (SRI). All taxes are derived from the ... Read More
Opening phone account with local carrier as foreign tourist by yemyssmusic
As a Canadian arriving in Ecuador on a tourist visa, will I be able to open an account with a local phone provider upon arrival and add a sim or esim to a new phone that I will purchase there? Or will I be able to use a new local # with a ...
When I moved here it was impossible without a cedula (or "borrowing" someone else's). Now it seems more feasible and apparently Claro can do it in a couple hours: ... Read More
Poverty, Wealth and Expats by antialiased
This topic has come up a number of times yet I (usually) only rely on personal observations to make the case that the vast majority of N. American expats would be considered wealthy. However, today I decided to actually collect statistics/data. ...
2025 update:----------------------------Median Ecuadorian lives on less than $220/month as of April 2025¹Average Quiteño lives on less than $200/month²46% of rural Ecuadorians live on less than $90/month³Wealthy / "upper class" ... Read More
Fixed Deposit Interest Rates by xuewenzpc
Does anyone know which banks or financial institutions in Ecuador offer higher fixed deposit interest rates? Please leave a comment to let me know. Thank you very much!
What do cooperativas required in terms of identification for procuring 2 yr CDS please? I guess JEP requirements would be useful too. Honestly the big question is: to take advantage of these great CD rates do I need to live in Ecuador? I am looking ... Read More
Fixed Deposit Interest Rates by xuewenzpc
Does anyone know which banks or financial institutions in Ecuador offer higher fixed deposit interest rates? Please leave a comment to let me know. Thank you very much!
Not sure about FD accounts since I haven't noticed any here. However, for CDs the best rates are with the cooperatives (CPN was around 10% for a 2yr+ CD last I checked and JEP was around 8% for 1yr+ for max insured amount of $32k). If anyone ... Read More
A couple of questions by ddw2945
Hello.Is there a way to verify if a person is a licensed attorney? Can someone give me a ballpark figure for the cost of utilities for a two-bedroom apartment? I am especially curious about electricity and the internet. Thanks in advance.
As for internet, will depend on area and for electricity it will depend on your usage. However, here's mine: Electric has run from $20-60/month for two houses, one person in each (both with desktop computers, led lighting and full size ... Read More
Cost of living in Ecuador in 2025 by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Every year, we invite you to share your experiences with the cost of living in in Ecuador, especially in the region or city you live in. Your insights will greatly help members planning their move to Ecuador or already living ...
Introductory notePrices have largely remained the same with some notable increases. The average (median) person is still living on ~$200-250/month and 29% live on less than $3/day. Me and my 24 year old daughter each live on ~$200-225/month.The ... Read More
Moving with my dogs by Regitze33373
Has anyone moved to Cuenca with their dogs from outside of Ecuador?Does anyone have any suggestions regarding airlines which will transport large dogs in Cargo?Gracias
Since no one has mentioned it: You'll likely need to get a taxi from Guayaquil or Quito (the two int'l airports in Ecuador) to Cuenca since the local airline (aeroregional) does not allow large dogs (over 8kg iirc) to fly and, afaik, Cuenca doesn't ... Read More
Immigration question, please help by kk054866
American, every year I visit Quito for 5 days end of Jan and leave beg of February, never had trouble before, in 2024 I arrived Quito 1/29/24, left 2/4/24, now in 2025 I arrived last week 1/30/25 and left yesterday 2/3/25 and at airport immigration ...
(Note: I'm not authorized to practice law in Ecuador so this is not legal advice, merely my lay opinion)Assuming your description is accurate, it would appear there's a mixup where the immigration official(s) believe you did not leave the country ... Read More
Questions About Living At the Ocean -Bahia de Caraquez by wanderingbears
Who wants to find out about Bahia de Caraquez? A small town on the Ocean here in Ecuador. North Central Coast. Calm relaxing town with everything you need to live and enjoy your life! Anyone want to know more?
... a few hours a day is acceptable. - @Padrino Yeah, might be more than a few... It was 14 hours a day last week of October. We're currently down to "only" 10 hours a day without power. And they're forecasting no new generation facilities online ... Read More
Requirements to visit Ecuador by HENRY L. BEE JR
Hello 👋 I'm Henry, from Liberia.I wanna visit Ecuador 🇪🇨 anytime soon, but I wanna know the requirement.?Thanks
"You do not need a visa for visits of up to 90 days"I do not believe this is accurate information unless you are traveling on one of a number of select passports. Best bet is to contact the Ecuadorian embassy in your country as people here are ... Read More
Farming near the Andes by sebastian9211
Hi folks looking at moving to area close to the mountains (Andes) does anyone have contact with farmers in the area? Im looking for (summer) rainfall if possible. I heard there are less bugs because of the altitude.Also any tips for purchasing ...
There are many climates throughout the sierra, so it really depends on what sort of farm you want at what sort of temperature/elevation. The rainy season (for me Nov - Apr/May) is during the "summer" for most of the country, but that is because the ... Read More
What is the easiest path to residency? by Bunny73
Hi, I’m a Canadian national with US citizenship who is looking to move permanently to Ecuador. What is the easiest path to residency? I have a bachelor’s degree.
When I applied, the easiest path for me was the professional visa. At the time, all you needed was to show basic income and have your degree (BA/BS or higher) registered with SENESCYT. Unlike the investment visa, you didn't need money ... Read More
Navigating administrative procedures in Ecuador by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Navigating through the administration in Ecuador can be quite a challenge. With the variety of procedures, their complexity, and the local specifics, many factors need to be considered. Here are some questions worth ...
Bureaucracy is strong here and each individual bureaucrat can (and does) interperet rules/requirements in their own way. Biggest piece of advice: when you can, accept the craziness and do your best to appease the bureaucrat in question. ... Read More
A Question About Those We Do Not Speak Of: Roaches At Elevation by AmericanoNorte
So, my first topic of great importance!I have searched the web long and hard on this topic. Google spits out results, repeated everywhere, that roaches do not live above 2000m (6,500 ft). I searched a lot of English speaking sites and this info is ...
@AmericanoNorte Yeah, mosquito situation here isn't anywhere near as bad as when I used to live in Vermont and I do have screens. But you heard right: because theres no need for heating, AC or insulation in this area, construction standards are ... Read More
A Question About Those We Do Not Speak Of: Roaches At Elevation by AmericanoNorte
So, my first topic of great importance!I have searched the web long and hard on this topic. Google spits out results, repeated everywhere, that roaches do not live above 2000m (6,500 ft). I searched a lot of English speaking sites and this info is ...
Anyone have experience with Loja, Malacatos or Vilcabamba? Those look at bit lower in altitude and right at the borderline.I'm really curious about Loja. Looks good on paper and google map street view looks like a nice enough town but ... Read More
Swimming group or pool for practice in Loja by victorcortez
Hey guysI'm actually not living in Loja but I'm coming for staying for a month to visit my girlfriend's family :)Is there any swimming group/pool for practice/training?!Also I usually go for runs around Parque Lineal (last time I came to Loja)... so ...
I haven't actually gone there, but afaik there's still a public pool by Jipiro Park. Seems from this notice (https://www.loja.gob.ec/noticia/2023-05/piscina-de-jipiro-recibira-mantenimiento) that they are open from 8-6 Tuesday-Friday & 10-6 ... Read More
Home invasions in Vilcabamba: The U.S. State Department takes notice by cccmedia
Following the latest home invasion in Vilcabamba --which claimed the life of a Colorado native namedFrancesca Williams and left two other adults in herhousehold injured -- the U.S. Consulate of Ecuadorhas guidance for other Expats.The Consulate has ...
@Kaceschi Home invasions have been more common in this region anyway, but the difference is that now they often result in injuries and hospitalizations. Can't tell you a count because I don't keep track, but they show up on the Vilca expat ... Read More
Your first days in your home in Ecuador by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Do you remember the first time you set foot in Ecuador? One of your main concerns must have been the settling down process in your new home. Share your experience and tell us what it was like to find your new home in Ecuador ...
Growing up poor and, occasionally homeless, I have an intense fear of ending up without a place to stay. As such, I came with a month long reservation at a hotel (~$600 at the time). We found an apartment within a week for $250/month, so I ended up ... Read More
Lemon Juice by albertwalles
I was looking at a couple of recipes that require lemon zest or juice. Then I thought I haven't seen lemons or lemon juice at Coral or Supermaxi. Am I missing it or do they not have it?If you know where I can get them, please let me know.
I have a couple lemon trees on my property, so they do exist here... I'd check at a market (I presume they have an open-air market, or "farmer's market" for lack of a better term, somewhere near you). Here, there's a weekly one in most big towns ... Read More
Documents to get residency with a university degree by PaulSmith310784
I am trying to get a residency in Ecuador with a degree from my university in the UK. What documents should I bring from the UK?
@Mark Putze Is your university listed with SENESCYT? Because in the past the transcripts/etc were only required for unlisted (not yet approved) universities. Read More
Documents to get residency with a university degree by PaulSmith310784
I am trying to get a residency in Ecuador with a degree from my university in the UK. What documents should I bring from the UK?
@PaulSmith310784 Not a lawyer here in Ecuador, but when I got my professional visa I needed the apostilled diploma and then was able to have a translation made and notarized here in Ecuador... Can't remember what other documents they might have ... Read More
Loja vs Cuenca by hughespmichael6289
I spent two months in Loja, a month in Vilcabamba and now am in Cuenca. The three places all have attractions but Loja impresses me most. I'm about to start the professional visa process. I would like to hear the cons of retiring in Loja or a ...
Vilca Cons....[...]cccmedia -@cccmediaDon't forget that Vilca, at least from my observations, has to have the highest incidence of mental illness of anyplace in Ecuador. Can't tell you how many times I see someone yelling at imaginary people in the ... Read More
Online Shopping & Delivery by rkg695
Has anyone used an online product ordering service in Ecuador? What were your experiences…Good or bad? Any recommendations?I’ve looked at sites like TiendaMia and UBuy, seem legit but not sure… most products are imported from the ...
Amazon has been shipping things to Ecuador for a lot longer than "recently", although I haven't followed it closely . . .Just for fun, I put a flash drive costing $7 in my cart with my Cuenca address to see how much they would charge me for shipping ... Read More
Online Shopping & Delivery by rkg695
Has anyone used an online product ordering service in Ecuador? What were your experiences…Good or bad? Any recommendations?I’ve looked at sites like TiendaMia and UBuy, seem legit but not sure… most products are imported from the ...
Amazon has recently started offering shipment and customs clearance to Ecuador. Since my desktop died recently, I ordered new components (unavailable here in EC) through Amazon to test out the service. They estimated delivery in ~4 weeks. Items ... Read More
Co-Op Offers 14% Interest -- Too Good to Be True? by cccmedia
"Mr. Second Passport" -- a USA Expat, entrepreneur and YouTuber named Domenick Buonamici -- is out with cautionary advice to Expats seeking to qualify for an Ecuador investment visa. He was ready to invest in a co-operative (not named by ...
Just to make it clear for anyone who may be confused: You don't need a bank and a co-op account in order to have two insured CDs in Ecuador. You can have multiple insured CDs as long as each is with a different institution - all of which could be ... Read More
Cost of living in Ecuador in 2022 by Cheryl
Hi everyone, Two years after the start of the pandemic, it is time to take stock of the evolution of the cost of living in Ecuador or more specifically, in the region where you live. The idea is to help people get ready for their expatriation to ...
2022 Cost of living in Loja (Malacatos) countryside----------------------------------------------------------------------Groceries: $50-80pp/month (Flour, meats, peppers, potatoes, tomatoes, eggs and other groceries have increased in price. ... Read More
The driving force of your expatriation in Ecuador by Diksha
Hello everybody, Moving abroad, to a destination such as Ecuador, is often the result of careful consideration. It is a major life decision and one that should not be taken lightly as the implications are so diverse. We would like to know what ...
There was one main factor, broken into four parts: Cheapest living. See, I had essentially quit my job (dissolved a corporation) over a dispute with my state government (I was majority owner and president of the corporation). I needed to find a ... Read More
Dual-Passport Expats Can Qualify For 25-Year Fixed Mortgages by cccmedia
Expats who obtain Ecuadorian citizenship are being offered 4.8 percent mortgages by Mutualista Pichincha (and other banking institutions) to buy a home in Ecuador. Mutualista Pichincha says its Crédito VIP program will loan up to $70,000 or ...
From other information I found online, this looks like a first-time homebuyer program. (info about the program from Mutualista Azuay ... Read More
Co-Op Offers 14% Interest -- Too Good to Be True? by cccmedia
"Mr. Second Passport" -- a USA Expat, entrepreneur and YouTuber named Domenick Buonamici -- is out with cautionary advice to Expats seeking to qualify for an Ecuador investment visa. He was ready to invest in a co-operative (not named by ...
Update: Finally have a CPN CD (certificado de depósito a plazo fijo). Was more difficult because my CI was not in their system so it took some finagling to get my info entered into their database presumably because I am not a citizen ... Read More
Obtaining an Ecuador Visa (2022) by cccmedia
The longtime immigration attorney Andrés Córdova has just updated his interpretation of the Ecuador visa rules and has concluded that it's currently easier than ever for an Expat to obtain a visa to live in Ecuador. The following ...
. . . Opinions seem to vary as to whether one can deposit 32K with Co-op A and 32K with Co-op B .. and be insured for the full amounts at both banks. . . .According to COSEDE (the authority), it is per institution (feel free to take their classes at ... Read More
Co-Op Offers 14% Interest -- Too Good to Be True? by cccmedia
"Mr. Second Passport" -- a USA Expat, entrepreneur and YouTuber named Domenick Buonamici -- is out with cautionary advice to Expats seeking to qualify for an Ecuador investment visa. He was ready to invest in a co-operative (not named by ...
. . . It's a general requirement for anyone opening a savings account at a financial institution in Ecuador: You need a cédula, which in my case was issued six years ago when I obtained my investment visa. The Spanish-language citation you ... Read More
Co-Op Offers 14% Interest -- Too Good to Be True? by cccmedia
"Mr. Second Passport" -- a USA Expat, entrepreneur and YouTuber named Domenick Buonamici -- is out with cautionary advice to Expats seeking to qualify for an Ecuador investment visa. He was ready to invest in a co-operative (not named by ...
. . . I decided to move ahead with investing a substantial sum with this cooperativa and today visited the CPN building on Diez de Agosto y Mariana de Jesús (Mariana de Jesús trole stop). They signed me up, took $20 in deposits and issued ... Read More
Co-Op Offers 14% Interest -- Too Good to Be True? by cccmedia
"Mr. Second Passport" -- a USA Expat, entrepreneur and YouTuber named Domenick Buonamici -- is out with cautionary advice to Expats seeking to qualify for an Ecuador investment visa. He was ready to invest in a co-operative (not named by ...
Is that $32,000 for each investor per institution? Or $32,000 at all institutions combined?It is per institution. However, the 32,000 only applies generally to banks and mutualistas. Cooperativas are variously insured from 1 to 32 thousand. You ... Read More
What are you missing in Ecuador? by Diksha
Hi everyone, Living in Ecuador, on the long or short run, it is completely normal to feel homesick sometimes. We would like to know what you are missing the most about your home country in Ecuador. Do you miss any aspects of your home culture? ...
Daughter misses "real" (sharp) cheddar cheese. Me, I wish only for a local source of soup base... All the local stock mixes available are the powdered crap and include garlic, which doesn't belong in a corn chowder, vichyssoise or ... Read More
Covid in Ecuador by havenacres1999
My husband and I had planned on moving to Ecuador and everything has been delayed due to covid. Living in Canada has become unbearable for us due to the loss of our personal freedoms. We are undergoing censorship now to cap it off. Doctors are not ...
Second what user159 said. Have family in the US that was complaining that they had to wear masks to enter stores (it wasn't even required by the government). There were a few months when this started where I couldn't even go the the ... Read More
How to be happy as an expat in Ecuador by Cheryl
Hi everyone, Being happy is surely our common goal, whether we are living in Ecuador as an expat or somewhere else. We would love to know your tips and tricks to be fully fulfilled and happy as an expat in your host country. New environment ...
Don't want to argue too much, since I'm guessing we would end up agreeing. The phenomenon was termed the "hedonic treadmill" 50 years ago and, if you're at least as old as me, you remember it from the 1978 finding that, within ... Read More
How to be happy as an expat in Ecuador by Cheryl
Hi everyone, Being happy is surely our common goal, whether we are living in Ecuador as an expat or somewhere else. We would love to know your tips and tricks to be fully fulfilled and happy as an expat in your host country. New environment ...
Hate to be a "Debbie Downer" - ironic considering I'm generally happy - but most studies show that happiness/satisfaction are relatively constant over a person's life... Which means, if you're unhappy where you are, moving here ... Read More
Why Are Meats So Costly in Ecuador? by antialiased
So, for background: In the USA, before I moved here to Loja, Ecuador, I never paid more than $1/lb for bone-in chicken legs/thighs/wings and never more than $2/lb for stewing/roasting beef. Here, I'm lucky if I can find meats for double that ...
I thought that was possible, but the prices the farmers/ranchers get here for cattle (live beef) is much less per pound than in the US. The extra money appears to go to either the slaughterhouse/meat-packing industry or to the retailers. Read More
Why Are Meats So Costly in Ecuador? by antialiased
So, for background: In the USA, before I moved here to Loja, Ecuador, I never paid more than $1/lb for bone-in chicken legs/thighs/wings and never more than $2/lb for stewing/roasting beef. Here, I'm lucky if I can find meats for double that ...
Maybe it was the area, but I'm guessing it's just the difference between rural and urban prices. Just checked to make sure... Where I used to live, chicken (whole/quarters) were $0.79/lb a year ago and currently are only up to $0.99/lb ... Read More
Why Are Meats So Costly in Ecuador? by antialiased
So, for background: In the USA, before I moved here to Loja, Ecuador, I never paid more than $1/lb for bone-in chicken legs/thighs/wings and never more than $2/lb for stewing/roasting beef. Here, I'm lucky if I can find meats for double that ...
Nice. Here chicken legs are $2/lb or more. And ditto on pork... Haven't bought any pork since I moved here. Almost forgot it was a meat after 3 years without it. Read More
Why Are Meats So Costly in Ecuador? by antialiased
So, for background: In the USA, before I moved here to Loja, Ecuador, I never paid more than $1/lb for bone-in chicken legs/thighs/wings and never more than $2/lb for stewing/roasting beef. Here, I'm lucky if I can find meats for double that ...
Fair enough and I thought I might be wrong on this, but I looked it up... When I was last in the US, the live cattle price was between $1 and $1.25 and I was still able to buy chuck roast, round, etc., for $2/lb so there is definitely still a huge ... Read More
Why Are Meats So Costly in Ecuador? by antialiased
So, for background: In the USA, before I moved here to Loja, Ecuador, I never paid more than $1/lb for bone-in chicken legs/thighs/wings and never more than $2/lb for stewing/roasting beef. Here, I'm lucky if I can find meats for double that ...
True. Was just thinking of the actual "ranch" land. Granted, where I'm located most cattle is "free range" so it's about 1 hectare per animal... Was just meaning that in a factory farm, the land cost, if significant, ... Read More
Why Are Meats So Costly in Ecuador? by antialiased
So, for background: In the USA, before I moved here to Loja, Ecuador, I never paid more than $1/lb for bone-in chicken legs/thighs/wings and never more than $2/lb for stewing/roasting beef. Here, I'm lucky if I can find meats for double that ...
Sorry I missed all that... I moved here back in 2017, so I'm not talking about covid-19 (except that it reminded me of the discrepancy in meat prices). I originally thought that meat prices would be cheaper at the Sunday markets, but after ... Read More
Why Are Meats So Costly in Ecuador?
So, for background: In the USA, before I moved here to Loja, Ecuador, I never paid more than $1/lb for bone-in chicken legs/thighs/wings and never more than $2/lb for stewing/roasting beef. Here, I'm lucky if I can find meats for double that ... Read More
Cost of Living in Ecuador in 2020 by Loïc
Hi everyone, Every year, we invite expats who are living in Ecuador to share their experience and tell us more about the average price of products and services in their town, city or area, so that we can help future expats planning to settle in ...
Our location isn't in the post itself, but is displayed for all the people actually providing info on the cost of living For example, if you look near my username, you'll see "Malacatus, Loja"(pretty sure it's officially ... Read More
Coronavirus in Ecuador by cccmedia
"Ecuador Declares National Health Emergency, Private Insurance Does Not Cover Coronavirus..." So reads a headline dated today -- March 12, 2020 -- on the Cuenca Highlife website. The article states that 17 cases of Coronavirus have ...
Just to clarify for those that don't know: Approximately 250 people die each week in Guayaquil. The "piling up bodies" weren't from the virus, but from the government response (if the hearse can only pick up bodies one day a week ... Read More
Medication in Ecuador by Loïc
Good morning everyone, Whether it's a simple cold or a chronic illness, medication and medicine use vary from country to country and culture to culture. When you are used to certain brands or types of drugs, being in a country like Ecuador ...
I've been here three years and thus far there are only two drugs I've needed that I haven't been able to find: 1. Calcium carbonate antacid (same active ingredient as TUMS). Matter of fact, I have not been able to find an antacid here ... Read More
Planning a short trip to Ecuador - questions by EveeZee
I am planning a short trip to Ecuador in the near future. I am a procrastinator, so it might take a few months before I actually make up my mind.... I would like to know how does it work with vaccination. What is mandatory and what is advisable if ...
You have to start with a date, but google has both a chart and graph view where you can see when the prices are lower/higher. Read More
Planning a short trip to Ecuador - questions by EveeZee
I am planning a short trip to Ecuador in the near future. I am a procrastinator, so it might take a few months before I actually make up my mind.... I would like to know how does it work with vaccination. What is mandatory and what is advisable if ...
As for tickets, I'd also keep a google flights search open... Many smaller airports aren't even listed on Skyscanner (but they are on Google). Or even when they are on Skyscanner, it doesn't have any prices listed. I saved $300 / 8 ... Read More
Cost of Living in Ecuador in 2020 by Loïc
Hi everyone, Every year, we invite expats who are living in Ecuador to share their experience and tell us more about the average price of products and services in their town, city or area, so that we can help future expats planning to settle in ...
Property (purchased three years ago): 1 hectare w/ 3 single bedroom brick houses=$130k Car/SUV takes ~$20 per half tank and do that once a month. Rice: $1/kg Flour: $7/9 kg Milk: $0.80/L Butter: $8/kg Potatoes: 4 lbs/$ Onions: 4 lbs/$ Tomatoes: 4 ... Read More
Adopting a pet in Ecuador by Loïc
Hello, Are you a dog or a cat person? A pet can add life to a home and make an ideal travel companion during your expatriation in Ecuador. However, formalities or regulations might put you off traveling with your pet making adoption a better ...
In the Loja region, the municipio does adoption events some/many Sundays at Parque Lineal la Tebaida. The nice part of that is that the dogs they have up for adoption are still strays, but they have been "fixed". Still free, though there ... Read More
Looking for help - Immigration related !! by sun.surfering
Hello Friends, I'm considering of starting a new life at Ecuador and I need some help/advice on the immigration process. I'm in my early 40s and a working professional. I'm exploring the possibility of starting a new life at Ecuador and ...
Sorry... Funniest question ever. I thought I understood bureaucracy coming from the USA. I didn't. Let me tell you a story... I made the 7 hour (each way) trip from my house to Azogues to apply for permanent residency for my daughter and ... Read More
Secure Banking Options In Loja Ecuador by ecualibrium
Hello friends, first post here. My wife and little one, along with my retiree parents recently visited the Loja/Vilcabamba area and purchased some land to start a new Ecuadorian life on. We will be applying for Investment Visas. My question is: Is ...
All accounts are insured to $30k right now (not that if the entire banking system collapses it will mean much of anything). JEP is one of the biggest (and hence I'd consider it one of the "safest") co-ops with local atms/branches. ... Read More
Best cities for retirement in Ecuador by Bhavna
Hello everyone, An increasing amount of people want to spend their retirement abroad. Would you consider giving a few tips to those looking into Ecuador for their retirement? What are the most attractive cities for retirees in Ecuador? Why ...
No language "schools" of which I'm aware. There are people offering classes in Vilcabamba (about 15 minutes south of Malacatos). Though all the classes I've seen are at "gringo" prices. Read More
Cost of living 2019 in Ecuador by Priscilla
Hello everyone, As we usually do each year, we invite you to share your experiences and tell us more about the average prices of products and services in your town/city/area, so that we have updated information regarding cost of living and ...
Agree on the "living like a king" thing as it is generally used in a figurative sense to connote living in a manner one cannot imagine... I suspect it has a lot to do with one's age and childhood circumstances. For me, the idea of ... Read More
Payment methods in Ecuador by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Once youre settled in Ecuador, you will need to make some basic purchases, like groceries or pay bills. Hence, it is essential to know the payment methods available in your host country. Which are the most common payment ...
Small local fixed wireless broadband provider (since there aren't phone or cable lines in my area, it's the only option). Read More
Payment methods in Ecuador by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Once youre settled in Ecuador, you will need to make some basic purchases, like groceries or pay bills. Hence, it is essential to know the payment methods available in your host country. Which are the most common payment ...
Only one I can is my internet, which they let me pay a year in advance. Really seems odd none of the rest will let me give them more money than they're asking for... Read More
Payment methods in Ecuador by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Once youre settled in Ecuador, you will need to make some basic purchases, like groceries or pay bills. Hence, it is essential to know the payment methods available in your host country. Which are the most common payment ...
Paying for **** is a huge pain in the *** here, at least where I live. The government has stopped accepting cash in most if not all places (you need to deposit money in their bank account and bring the receipt to the gov't official). In ... Read More
Ecuadorian Drug Laws by roybo
Hi! Been trying to find information on what substances are controlled here in Ecuador without any success. Is there a list of controlled substances to find anywhere online? I wouldn't wanna break the law. The traditional San Pedro cactus for ...
You'll notice the first link is directly from the government, so it is the official criminal code. The second link is an official government document, but isn't being hosted on a gov't site. The third (which apparently is still under ... Read More
Ecuadorian Drug Laws by roybo
Hi! Been trying to find information on what substances are controlled here in Ecuador without any success. Is there a list of controlled substances to find anywhere online? I wouldn't wanna break the law. The traditional San Pedro cactus for ...
*Can't edit above post, but it's very important to note that the last link appears to be a legal opinion - I haven't found any law or court ruling that confirms the analysis there is accurate. Read More
Ecuadorian Drug Laws by roybo
Hi! Been trying to find information on what substances are controlled here in Ecuador without any success. Is there a list of controlled substances to find anywhere online? I wouldn't wanna break the law. The traditional San Pedro cactus for ...
Actual law text here: https://www.defensa.gob.ec/wp-content/uploads/downloads/2018/03/COIP_feb2018.pdf (relevant section starts at Art. 219, p.76) Also, most recent scale tables referenced in the above code are here: ... Read More
Best cities for retirement in Ecuador by Bhavna
Hello everyone, An increasing amount of people want to spend their retirement abroad. Would you consider giving a few tips to those looking into Ecuador for their retirement? What are the most attractive cities for retirees in Ecuador? Why ...
Somewhat off topic, but I'd rather know the best towns/villages for retirement... I suppose most retirees are much older and want to be closer to hospitals and such, want to speak English, want an expat community and want more conveniences. I ... Read More
Does Ecuador screen for mental illness? by cre8onlyluv
I have been diagnosed with Bipolar Type II. In type II the only mania is a very low-grade one - i.e. I feel happier and talk a little faster than usual but still within the normal behavior range. I do take my medicine regularly so generally no ...
No screening, but I'd check on the specific drugs (some psychiatric medications are much tougher to find). They may be available, but if so you'd probably or at least possibly need a prescription. Read More
Ecuadorian Craft Beer by vsimple
Beer drinkers in Ecuador probably know the industrial variety of beers that are locally sold including the two most popular brands, Pilsener and Club. This thread is to share information about Ecuadorian craft beer. The main difference between ...
There's some blended american whiskey (black owl) made here that runs $13.18 pvp / ~$10-12 at the supermaxi. Read More
Ecuadorian Craft Beer by vsimple
Beer drinkers in Ecuador probably know the industrial variety of beers that are locally sold including the two most popular brands, Pilsener and Club. This thread is to share information about Ecuadorian craft beer. The main difference between ...
Also love bourbon... And, yeah, it isn't actually (legally) available that I've seen. My best option was importing a still and some oak (also nearly impossible to find here, at least in my region). Read More
moving to Ecuador by corestano
We've decided to move to Ecuador,: Hello my name is Charlie and Wife Alla. I am retiring soon and planning to move to somewhere in Ecuador but have not decide just where. I spent some time traveling and have a basic feel for the country and ...
I'm not sure, but I think I read that the investment amount was being increased (quite a bit, iirc). If one or both of you have college degrees (think BS/BA minimum), I'd go the professional visa route. It may be an extra step, but ... Read More
IESS and Permentant Resident Visa by BailCedeno
I am coming to Ecuador on a tourist visa on May 1st. I am getting married and applying for my visa and cedula around the beginning of June. Can I obtain health insurance through the IESS before I get my visa, or should I apply for a travel insurance ...
Actually, the cheapest I've found is through BMI Seguros (for 2 people is ~$28/month) (Edit: no idea on the cost for only one person) --> https://i.imgur.com/7iH2O7F.png Read More
Proof of income for Professional Visa by Gelor
I'm getting mixed info on weather or not you need a proof of income for Professional Visa. Correct me if I'm wrong, this is the official info on required for this type of ...
I've been here 21 months (technically 2 years, but 21 months on my professional temp. res. visa) so it's time to apply for permanent residency. Edit: but yeah, all that really matters is the immigracion official said so. Read More
Proof of income for Professional Visa by Gelor
I'm getting mixed info on weather or not you need a proof of income for Professional Visa. Correct me if I'm wrong, this is the official info on required for this type of ...
Clarification: Proof of income is required for all resident visas. At least one person in the Cuenca/Azogues office is now requiring not only 3 months of bank statements, but also proof of the source of the deposits. For me, it's real ... Read More
Professional Visa by Durchinusa
I am quite confused about the nature of professional visa as among the pathways to secure a residency in Ecuador. The law appears to be as simple as it may seem: if an applicant possess the required 4-year degree from an approved institution , ...
Almost nothing in Ecuador can be done online... except, occasionally, paying (if you have an Ecuadorian bank account). Little story: This Monday I went to the immigration office to submit my permanent residency application. Turned out they ... Read More
Professional Visa by Durchinusa
I am quite confused about the nature of professional visa as among the pathways to secure a residency in Ecuador. The law appears to be as simple as it may seem: if an applicant possess the required 4-year degree from an approved institution , ...
Took me quite a while (about six months total), though I started the process from outside Ecuador. First step is getting your degree/diploma registered with Senescyt. If your institution isn't in their database, that can be quite a process. ... Read More
Non-financial reasons to move to Ecuador by IT1
Some people, like me, have thought of moving to Ecuador for financial reasons. Once I "normalized" or compared what I would have in the US, if I lived an Ecuadorian lifestyle in the US, it didn't really seem cheaper to move there. In ...
Maybe better (personal preference) temperature wise, but Vilca has tons of holidays/fireworks. That's the town I lived in before I bought my property which had an insane amount of festivals/fireworks. There are plenty of other towns around ... Read More
Non-financial reasons to move to Ecuador by IT1
Some people, like me, have thought of moving to Ecuador for financial reasons. Once I "normalized" or compared what I would have in the US, if I lived an Ecuadorian lifestyle in the US, it didn't really seem cheaper to move there. In ...
True. However it should be noted that holidays (at least where I am) seem to be every other week (and often seem to last a week). When I lived in town, I swear there were months where it felt like living in a war zone (almost constant ... Read More
Non-financial reasons to move to Ecuador by IT1
Some people, like me, have thought of moving to Ecuador for financial reasons. Once I "normalized" or compared what I would have in the US, if I lived an Ecuadorian lifestyle in the US, it didn't really seem cheaper to move there. In ...
It really depends on where in Ecuador and where you are comparing it to. For me, most consumption costs (other than vegetables and fruits) are the same as they were where I moved from. However, . . . 1. Where I live, there is no need for heating ... Read More
All you need to know about firearms in Ecuador by 3lckr
You CANNOT legally bring your weapons to Ecuador. Why did I put legally? I wouldn't know any illegal way to do it... Anyway, firearm imports are closed indefinitely by our "beloved" Correa, and import of any other type of weaponry is complicated and ...
I'm sure it depends on where you are (city/country). Out in the country, it really is a combination of factors. Almost everyone owns a dog (not an inside "pet"). You generally don't invite strangers onto your property and ... Read More
thinking of buying a house with a piece of land around it by Khaledamr
Hello I am Khaled Amr from Jerusalem currently living and working in Amman Jordan. I have been thinking about retiring in Loja Ecuador. I don't really want to completely retire though. I want to do something like raise sheep. I am thinking of ...
Depending on the amount of land, this could be a challenge (unless you are looking for something approaching a mansion, which are available). A lot of the larger properties have rather simple structures (no electricity, etc.). I moved to the Loja ... Read More
Poverty, Wealth and Expats by antialiased
This topic has come up a number of times yet I (usually) only rely on personal observations to make the case that the vast majority of N. American expats would be considered wealthy. However, today I decided to actually collect statistics/data. ...
I'm not oblivious to the wealthy class. You're in it. I'm not. Have a good evening. Read More
Poverty, Wealth and Expats by antialiased
This topic has come up a number of times yet I (usually) only rely on personal observations to make the case that the vast majority of N. American expats would be considered wealthy. However, today I decided to actually collect statistics/data. ...
Ok, I understand. The middle class is whatever you say it is and the wealthy class are whatever you say they are and you can't or don't want to specifically define either group. In other words, it's all your feelings, and so ... Read More
Poverty, Wealth and Expats by antialiased
This topic has come up a number of times yet I (usually) only rely on personal observations to make the case that the vast majority of N. American expats would be considered wealthy. However, today I decided to actually collect statistics/data. ...
Vsimple: Ok, so since you haven't answered my question yet, I'll ask again: Is there any evidence that would convince you or is it simply a matter of feelings/faith? Because if it's faith/feelings as opposed to logic, I should stop ... Read More
Poverty, Wealth and Expats by antialiased
This topic has come up a number of times yet I (usually) only rely on personal observations to make the case that the vast majority of N. American expats would be considered wealthy. However, today I decided to actually collect statistics/data. ...
Not sure if you know, but income for any business (which would include owner-operator taxis) is revenues - expenses. So first you would need to subtract gas and vehicle maintenance then the cost of any licensing/memberships and/or loans. Since I ... Read More
Poverty, Wealth and Expats by antialiased
This topic has come up a number of times yet I (usually) only rely on personal observations to make the case that the vast majority of N. American expats would be considered wealthy. However, today I decided to actually collect statistics/data. ...
Not sure if you know, but income for any business (which would include owner-operator taxis) is revenues - expenses. So first you would need to subtract gas and vehicle maintenance then the cost of any licensing/memberships and/or loans. Since I ... Read More
Poverty, Wealth and Expats by antialiased
This topic has come up a number of times yet I (usually) only rely on personal observations to make the case that the vast majority of N. American expats would be considered wealthy. However, today I decided to actually collect statistics/data. ...
Fair enough, and I got frustrated and made it personal and I apologize. It seemed that I'd provided data on end that show N. American expats are generally not "middle class" by any definition I've seen and it started to seem as ... Read More
Poverty, Wealth and Expats by antialiased
This topic has come up a number of times yet I (usually) only rely on personal observations to make the case that the vast majority of N. American expats would be considered wealthy. However, today I decided to actually collect statistics/data. ...
Again, if the taxi drivers are in the top 1% of all people in this country then yes, they are wealthy... for the bazillionth time. If you're in a room of 100 random people and you earn more than anyone else in the room (literal definition of ... Read More
Poverty, Wealth and Expats by antialiased
This topic has come up a number of times yet I (usually) only rely on personal observations to make the case that the vast majority of N. American expats would be considered wealthy. However, today I decided to actually collect statistics/data. ...
Yes, I'd claim that anyone in the top 1% is wealthy. If you are living on more than ten times what the average Ecuadorian lives on, that sounds pretty wealthy to me. This whole argument seems like guilt over being wealthy and you not feeling ... Read More
Poverty, Wealth and Expats by antialiased
This topic has come up a number of times yet I (usually) only rely on personal observations to make the case that the vast majority of N. American expats would be considered wealthy. However, today I decided to actually collect statistics/data. ...
And I'd grant that everyone in the top 0.1% is really making 200 times what they report.... They are still the top 0.1%. That's the way math works. There are only two ways they aren't in the top 0.1%: One is if they are earning less ... Read More
Poverty, Wealth and Expats by antialiased
This topic has come up a number of times yet I (usually) only rely on personal observations to make the case that the vast majority of N. American expats would be considered wealthy. However, today I decided to actually collect statistics/data. ...
Additional data found: Was just looking around and found a study from 2017 showing that for North American and European expats in Cuenca, the average income is $2,346 (for households of one person). Statistical breakdown was as follows: Income ... Read More
Poverty, Wealth and Expats by antialiased
This topic has come up a number of times yet I (usually) only rely on personal observations to make the case that the vast majority of N. American expats would be considered wealthy. However, today I decided to actually collect statistics/data. ...
Agreed, and it is the same in every country and does probably skew the numbers in the top 0.1% or even top 1%. However, I doubt many people living on $4 a day are managing their million dollar portfolios in their free time. Those people account ... Read More
Poverty, Wealth and Expats by antialiased
This topic has come up a number of times yet I (usually) only rely on personal observations to make the case that the vast majority of N. American expats would be considered wealthy. However, today I decided to actually collect statistics/data. ...
Lebowski: You're quite welcome. I think the issue is that a large portion of expats move to cities (which are already more wealthy), and then they move to the upper class neighborhoods (because they wouldn't dare live in the middle class ... Read More
Poverty, Wealth and Expats
This topic has come up a number of times yet I (usually) only rely on personal observations to make the case that the vast majority of N. American expats would be considered wealthy. However, today I decided to actually collect statistics/data. ... Read More
How to bring your car to Ecuador by Bhavna
Hello everybody, If you exported your car to Ecuador, were there any formalities that needed to be completed beforehand? What were they? What is the best way to export your car? Is there a limit on the number of vehicles, or perhaps the age of ...
You can buy, but a foreign/international driver's license is only technically valid here for a limited time (if I remember correctly, 6 months, but don't quote me). However, it took a while after mine was no longer valid for me to get my ... Read More
What is the type of Visa required ? Is this feasible ? by aeonsleo
Hi, I like Ecuadorian culture, the mountains, and the weather. I am an Indian Software professional. I would like to move to Ecuador with my wife. I can invest up to $30,000. Initially, I would like to work remotely for my foreign clients (mostly ...
You can still get the professional visa, but Brad is right. For non-listed schools they require much more paperwork (transcripts, course descriptions, I think also a letter attesting to in-person instruction). If it's a 4 year (or more) degree ... Read More
What is the type of Visa required ? Is this feasible ? by aeonsleo
Hi, I like Ecuadorian culture, the mountains, and the weather. I am an Indian Software professional. I would like to move to Ecuador with my wife. I can invest up to $30,000. Initially, I would like to work remotely for my foreign clients (mostly ...
Shouldn't be a problem for you as you easily meet the investment and income requirements (investor visa). It may not work for you, but another method that a lot of migrants here forget is the professional visa (if you have a university ... Read More
High Interest of banks and cooperatives deposits. What are the risks? by Veleslav
Greetings to all! My friend moved to Ecuador for a residence permanent and told about bank deposits. In some banks 8% per annum, and for example in a cooperativos - JEP Cooperariva 8,5%, in a Policía Nacional 9.25%. I was very surprised by ...
Depends on the bank and ATM. Before I moved here I had the withdrawal limit raised (anticipated buying a house and car). Using a Banco del Austro ATM I can withdraw up to my daily limit, but they only allow $300 per transaction, but you can take ... Read More
Festivals in Ecuador by Priscilla
Hello everyone, What are the main festivals in Ecuador? Are there art, food, music, film, or other festivals expats can attend and participate in? When do the festivals take place? How long does each festival usually last? What activities ...
Given the thread bump, figured I'd add to the list. For those that like the arts the int'l living arts festival (Festival Internacional de Artes Vivas) in Loja happens every November and is always a blast. Includes street performances, ... Read More
High Interest of banks and cooperatives deposits. What are the risks? by Veleslav
Greetings to all! My friend moved to Ecuador for a residence permanent and told about bank deposits. In some banks 8% per annum, and for example in a cooperativos - JEP Cooperariva 8,5%, in a Policía Nacional 9.25%. I was very surprised by ...
Agree with above comment, but it may be worth it to some. For example, 30k@8.5% = a little more than $200 a month. That basically covers my monthly living expenses (unless JEP and/or the government fails dramatically) without depleting my savings. ... Read More
Permanent Residence
Stay for 21 months on a temporary residence visa. After that you can apply for permanent residence. Read More
loja ecuador - Spanish class by njnjnj
Hello , I appreciate if anybody in Loja can suggest a good reasonably cheap Spanish class . I know a bit Spanish but never studied properly thru any course . Is there any course provided by their universities for expats ? I will be staying in Loja ...
No info to add, but keeping track of this thread as I live near Loja and, while I've been here a year and a half, out in the country I don't get many chances to practice or improve my Spanish. Read More
Best bargains in Ecuador by vsimple
1. The absolutely delicious chicken empanada that my neighborhood store sells for a dollar. Aside from being absolutely delicious, it meets my breakfast dietary needs - gets me going. That and a cup of Sweet & Coffee house mix Loja coffee, hits ...
Occasionally you'll see some come through, but I think your best bet for fish is the market in downtown Loja. Not sure if he's still in Vilca (I live in Malacatos now), but you might want to check with the guy who runs Akemi Sushi... If ... Read More