Ecuador•South AmericaRefugee / Asylum Visa (Visa de Asilo y Refugio 12-IV)
At a Glance
Processing Time
Varies
Application Fee
Free
Stay Duration
2 years
Renewable
Yes
Job Offer
Not Required
Dependents
Allowed
PR Pathway
Available
This visa can lead to permanent residency — the right to live and work here indefinitely without renewing your visa.Remote Work
Not Required
Overview
Visa for persons granted asylum or refugee status in Ecuador. Provides protection and legal residency status.
Ecuador grants asylum and refugee status to individuals fleeing persecution based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a social group. The process is administered through UNHCR and Ecuadorian immigration authorities. Recognized refugees and asylum seekers receive full legal protection and work authorization.
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Requirements
Documentation
Applicant Documents
Valid passport or travel document
If available
OptionalIdentity document
Any form of ID if available
OptionalPersonal statement
Explanation of asylum claim and basis for protection
Supporting evidence
Documents supporting fear of persecution
OptionalTrack your documents or upload them for AI-powered review
Advantages
- No cost for visa
- Full legal protection
- Work authorization
- Family can be included
- Renewable status
- Path to permanent residency
Considerations
- Complex determination process
- Long processing time
- Must maintain protection eligibility
- Travel restrictions outside Ecuador
- May require periodic status review
Application Process
Enter Ecuador
Arrive in Ecuador and seek immediate protection if needed
File asylum/refugee claim
Submit application through UNHCR or immigration authorities
Complete interview
Participate in asylum eligibility interview
Background check
Security and criminal record review
Decision
Receive asylum grant, refugee status, or rejection
Receive visa
Issued 12-IV international protection visa
Application Forms
Asylum application form
Ready to Apply?
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