Moving To Ecuador

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Ecuador is a country located in South America, known for its diverse ecosystems, including the Galapagos Islands, Amazon rainforest, and Andes mountains. The country is home to many unique species of flora and fauna, and its capital, Quito, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its well-preserved colonial architecture. Ecuador is also known for its rich cultural heritage, including indigenous languages and traditions.

Moving to Ecuador from the USA can be an exciting adventure given the stunning beauty of this South American nation. However, without proper planning, the move may appear hectic. Hence, we are here to guide you on your move to Ecuador from the USA.

The International Sea & Air Shipping Advantages

At International Sea & Air Shipping we have years of experience in handling high quality international relocation services across the globe. When you are moving to Ecuador from the USA it is always better to engage our moving professionals for your relocation services. We offer customized moving services that will cover A-to-Z for your international relocation to Ecuador from the USA.

Our team of professionals will ensure that all essential moving services like packing of your household goods, choosing the right container and freight services are done properly. Additionally, our team will also provide valuable advice on the cost of relocation with our free moving quotations.

When you hire International Sea & Air Shipping for your international move the added advantage is that you get high-quality international relocation services at an affordable rate. This will further reduce your challenges of moving to Ecuador from the USA.

An international relocation comes with lots of challenges. There are the visa and residency permits that you need to obtain. You have to move your household goods and other belongings and there are a lot of other associated challenges involved in the entire process. That is why hiring us will reduce all the burdens of the move and you can focus on your post move transitions.

About Ecuador

Located on the southwestern side of the continent of South America, the territory of Ecuador includes the mainland along the Pacific Ocean and the Galápagos Islands in the South Pacific, which is made up of 18 main islands, 3 smaller islands and 107 other rocks and islets.

While 94 percent of the population speaks the official language – Spanish – thirteen other languages indigenous to the area are also common.

In addition to a wide range of biodiversity – Ecuador is rated one of the most “megadiverse” in the world – the area is also widely regarded for having the best preserved (least altered) historical center in all of Latin America, located in the capitol city of Quito.

Considered a middle-income country who largest export is crude oil, Ecuador has the eight largest economy in Latin America and recently started using the USD as currency.

Can’t wait to get started with your overseas relocation to Ecuador? First, find out what you’ll need to clear Customs.

Customs Regulations for Ecuador

Passport (needs to be notarized for all family members, notary’s address must be included for verification purposes)
Migration Certificate (issued by Migration Police once Customer arrives at destination)
Work visa or temporary work visa (valid for six months only)
Work contract (notarized, approved by the Public Ministry of Labor)
Bill of Lading (original) or Air Waybill (passport number included)
Inventory list and packing list (in Spanish, must contain contents of all boxes in shipment and be notarized in Customer’s country of origin)
Transportation Insurance Policy

All Customers must be present at the time of Customs clearance in Ecuador to sign all necessary documentation
All shipments subject to inspection upon arrival
Customer should be in Ecuador at least two weeks prior to the arrival of their shipment
- Shipments that arrive before a Customer are subject to duties and taxes
- Shipments must arrive within 60 days after Customer’s arrival
Non-declared items located during inspection will be deemed illegal and the Customer subject to arrest
All household goods and personal effects must be inspected in the Customer’s country of original before departing for Ecuador
- Shipments that do not comply with this order before departure are subject to re-embarkation and will be returned to their country of origin

In Ecuador, some articles may not be imported in a Customer’s baggage whatsoever. These items include, but may not be limited to:

Controlled substances and narcotics
Alcohol, cigarettes and cigars
Pornography, including obscene publications, video and software
Weapons, swords, firearms (including air guns) and ammunition
Food, spices and live plants
Rugs
Appliances that use R12-R15 and R502 refrigerants
All cleaning products
Creams, cologne, perfume and cosmetics

Some articles may have restricted quantities or require special authorization/ payments of duties and taxes to clear customs in Ecuador. These items include, but are not limited to:

Electrical items and appliances
Art, antiques, religious materials, icons

In Ecuador, the following rules apply to importing motor vehicles:

Foreign citizens with non-immigrant visas are prohibited from importing vehicles into Ecuador
Returning citizens may import vehicles (limited to one duty free import) if they have been abroad for at least three years
- Vehicle cannot be more than four-years-old
- Must be shipped in household goods container
Diplomats can import used or new vehicles after approval from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs

For importation, you will need the following documents:

Passport
Vehicle title (original)
Vehicle registration (original)
Import permit (approved in Ecuador before shipment)
Purchase invoice (original, notarized by Ecuadorian Consulate in country of origin before arrival)
Bill of Lading (original)
Circulation Permit

When importing a pet to Ecuador, up to three pets are permitted, including dogs, cats and birds with the accompanying:

Certificate of vaccination informing Customs that animal has had all vaccinations (including rabies) at least 30 days before arrival
Health certificate (signed and dated by a veterinarian no more than 10 days before landing in Ecuador)
When traveling with Customer, pets must be cleared at Customs as baggage
- Must be presented with an International Health Certificate at Customs
- Pets arriving as baggage must spend one night in Customs before clearance is permitted

Shipments imported by foreigners and immigrants are duty free if Customer has Non-Immigrant Work Visa (valid for at least one year) or an Immigrant Visa
Only one shipment per customer is allowed to be imported duty free, all other shipments are subject to import taxes and duties
One of each item is allowed to be imported (including appliances), all other items subject to tax and duty
Each family member is allowed to transport 200 kilos of clothing, shoes and personal accessories (any amount over is considered dutiable)
New items past a certain valuation are subject to duties

NOTE – Customs regulations are subject to change at any time. The proceeding information is a brief summary of customs regulations applicable to household goods shipments to this destination and is being provided for general guidance to assist our Agents and Customers. Since such regulations are subject to change without notice, International sea & air shipping cannot be held liable for any costs, damage, delays, or other detrimental events resulting from non-compliance. Always double check with your local embassy or consulate.

Call our International Moving Specialists @ 1 (866) 315-4170

Moving to Ecuador, things you need to know

When moving to Ecuador from the USA, there are several factors that you need to consider. First, you will need to obtain a visa or residency permit, which can be obtained through the Ecuadorian embassy or consulate in the US.

You will also need to make arrangements for transportation and storage of your belongings, and research about housing options in Ecuador. Additionally, you may need to get health insurance in Ecuador, and make sure you have all necessary vaccinations before your move.

Let us discuss some of the major information you need to make a successful move to Ecuador from the USA and get a smooth transition to the new life.

Visa for moving to Ecuador from the USA

Moving to Ecuador can be easier when you obtain the proper visa to justify your legal entrance into the country and stay there. There are different types of visas that are available. Let us discuss a few –

Work visa

When you move to Ecuador from the USA for employment purposes you must obtain a work visa. You have to secure a job with an Ecuadorian employer and the employer will apply for the work visa on your behalf. The work visa is valid for 2 years post which you have the option to renew it if you want to stay in this South American country for more than 2 years.

Study visa

To obtain a study visa you have to get admission in an Ecuadorian institution first. Once your application is approved and you get admission, then you can apply for a study visa to move to Ecuador from the USA.

Retirement visa

Ecuador has a Jubilado visa or the retirement visa. You can move to Ecuador from the USA to retire and stay in this stunning South American country if you have the right financial means. If you meet the eligibility criteria then you get this visa with a 2 years validity period. Post this time you can apply for a residency permit.

Residency Permit

A residency permit in Ecuador can be obtained through various means, including investment in real estate, business, or public health services. The process typically involves applying for a “Residencia” visa through the Ecuadorian embassy or consulate in your home country, and then obtaining a ” Tarjeta de Residencia” upon arrival in Ecuador. This permit allows for flexibility in terms of work, travel, and property ownership, as well as access to certain benefits and discounts within the country.

Top reasons to move to Ecuador from the USA

Ecuador is a stunning country in South America. The country offers more than a singular reason to move and live there. Here are a few top reasons that support your decision to move to Ecuador from the USA.

Low cost of living

Ecuador offers a very affordable lifestyle compared to many other countries in South America.

Beautiful weather

Ecuador has a subtropical climate with mild temperatures and pleasant weather year-round.

Rich culture

Ecuador is home to a diverse and vibrant culture, with influences from both indigenous and Spanish heritage.

Volunteer opportunities

Ecuador offers many volunteer opportunities, particularly in healthcare and education.

Adventure activities

From hiking to surfing, Ecuador has plenty of opportunities for out

Amazing cuisine

Ecuador also offers various gastronomic delights at pocket-friendly prices. The thriving food scene is something to be explored for sure.

Top places to move to Ecuador from the USA

When you are moving to a new place you will have to secure housing. In Ecuador housing prices are affordable. However, you will have to choose a proper place as per your requirements.

Ecuador offers a diverse range of places to live, each with its own unique culture, climate, and quality of life.

Quito, the capital city, is known for its historic center, vibrant nightlife, and easy access to outdoor activities.

Cuenca, located in the southern part of the country, is famous for its colonial architecture, mild climate, and active expat community.

The coastal cities of Guayaquil and Canoa offer a relaxed beach lifestyle.

Esmeraldas and Sucumbíos offer the chance to experience authentic indigenous cultures and stunning natural beauty.

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