Laws in Ecuador (That EVERY Expat Should Know)

[@deerivera995]

My future destination, I do visit every year, was a resident for 5 but came back to the states , Love Ecuador 🇪🇨

[@willcabamba8262]

I live in vill cabamba and I had a temporary visa and I was put in touch with an English speaking cab driver named Franklin. He charged me $10.00 per hour and took me to Augogas for my permanent visa ,he knew everything that I had to do and where to go . I had NO problems. The total cost for Franklin was $ 30.00 ( But I had all my paper work in order )

[@sshetty9683]

Please share his details in case go will seek his help

[@rafaelcabrera2607]

How about me, I do speak English and Spanish and since I'm from PR, would be easier to engage in the Ecuadorian way of life??

[@pdr_127]

Im from Ecuador and I feel you guys know more about my country than I do

[@SeaJay_Oceans]

Thank you GringoVisas - it is always important to stay legal and follow the laws for a happy stay - in most any country ! :-)

[@dugfriendly]

in 6 years I'll be 62 - so glad I found your channel! A world of possibilities has opened up 😀

[@georgeconnors3632]

I simply love your videos! They are always so fun and informative. I’m 59 and would love for my next life chapter to be as an expat in Portugal or Ecuador. You are the ones that got me excited about life in Ecuador! The U.S is not exactly that thrilling anymore. Unfortunately, my wife is not onboard with the adventure. She does not want to be too far apart from her family or our grown children. I love the joy you share with us and each other in discovering a whole new world together. I still hope for the best. Until then, I live vicariously through you two. Take care and stay well!

[@JM-wp7te]

Oh I completely understand you. My husband feels the same way as you wife. But i told him the kids will have a place to vacation in summer with us, they will love going to a different country go to the beach and mountain with us, eating different food and we can come for Christmas and stay with them we can travel anywhere anytime we want, and now he’s taking that in consideration.

[@bigdstag]

Tell your wife you'll miss her and visit often

[@williamwarren5269]

You guys are awesome to me! I have a flight to Equador in August, to begin my journey. You have made my transition in life much easier. Would love to buy you dinner, or lunch.

[@thaiscampos420]

Thank you for doing these very educational videos. We are planning to move to Cuenca next year and we are always excited to watch new videos from you. We are going in November to check it out, but I am already sold to move there with everything we found and read about the city.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Great! Keep us posted!

[@RaFiStudiozOfficial]

I’m Ecuadorian and even I didn’t know this stuff

[@kajallison8896]

lol, just forget all of it.

[@sabrinamerrick1271]

I am binge watching your videos. Also eating Ecudorian style shrimp fried rice, that my significant other prepared.

[@jamescalifornia2964]

- I understand rice is very popular in Ecuador 🍚👌

[@darrellblair5818]

I am 70 yrs old and love your videos. I doubt I will ever leave US, but Ecuador is definitely interesting to me. Your videos are great. THIS has been the BEST country I have seen to live in. I am so disappointed with the US and it's future. I am very conservative and the political correctness is killing me.

[@estebanb7166]

Which part, in particular?

[@darrellblair5818]

@@estebanb7166 Both places you lived in. Your current location seems the best. Just wishing.

[@MTHealtandWellnessCoaching]

Good information like always! ❤️ the value provided in each one of your videos is very helpful. Thank you for taking the time to answer questions. I learned so much in each video.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Thanks!

[@bj45996]

I’m so grateful for the last question.

[@wendyannh]

Most of that is exactly the same as here. It’s still important to know!

[@k_and_m8745]

A whole lot of similarities to Canadian Law depending on province your are in. Heading to Cuenca in 2021, I know it sounds far away but it really isn't. Our trip is to get the feel of what we think, see if the altitude is agreeable with the hubby. Cannot wait. Once again thank you for doing your investigating into living there. Buy you lunch if we meet up when we are there.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Great! Keep us posted! You'll be here before you know it!

[@emiclavijo6432]

You will love my beautiful city Cuenca you will enjoy a lot

[@laurasweeney2546]

It's a pleasure to watch your videos! Best wishes!

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Thank you! You too!

[@wwk68tig]

will mark this video for reference. excellent topic.

[@SpeedyCotton55]

And yet, another great video. Thank you so very much.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Our pleasure!

[@titanup3556]

Great interview and great questions!!! Very informative as always. Thank you guys!

[@JM-wp7te]

You guys are really nice people. Thank You for making this video.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Thanks for watching!

[@andrescoronel6193]

In regard the guns, you must first apply for a special permit called "salvo conducto" it's a process that takes time, do not even think on bringing them to equador, since that's considered a serious crime, punishible even with 6 years of imprisonment I think, You could carry a conceiled knife in your sheen, just in case, which is illegal as well but I've done that before, the cops frisk the thugs not "greengos" but in case they talk to you, you can explain it to them, tell them you don't feel so safe, the crime rate is high in chicago, tell them, they will understand, the law is breakable and negotioable only if it's for life saving porpuses, I break the law all the time, I carry a knife when I go to get some beer on foot, walking next to the shore is not what a man should do, nevertheless I do it sometimes, but I am ready, in addition it's good to be trained mentally and physically, knowing your surroundings, using the poles and the tress as shields, even a stop sign could be useful to block any attack from a thug, the trash can could work as a hurdle between you and the agresor, rocks could work as well, why not, a piece of brench, many things could be used in your defense, the high niveux thieves who are armed usually robb banks or agencies, that happens mostly in guayaquil or Quito, Cuenca is not that violent.

[@drhoy15]

Useful info for expats or those wishing to move to Ecuador

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Thanks!

[@rosalache4581]

Very educational. Thank you

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Glad it was helpful!

[@jacksmeditation7584]

Hi guys. Very good info to know when living abroad. These Ecudorean laws are similar to Chilean laws as well. See you in four weeks and a few days.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Muchas gracias! Nos vemos pronto!

[@charlesdavis7461]

Love the new hair style and I don't mean yours JP.

[@gwilliammaggs]

How about the red dress ! She makes that look really great 👍👍👍

[@CarlKem]

I'll have to start contributing, as I have a few questions that were not asked....

[@gaylewilliams4805]

Very valuable information!

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Glad you think so!

[@JohnSmith-SdTkt]

See you in November with my friend William - he is looking at a possible move permanently - I'm still looking seasonal Thanks for the video

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Great! 👍😊

[@philhuber7493]

While it’s very true that he has learned English very well, it is still necessary to have the camera on him when he is talking. Seeing the talking while it’s occurring helps in understanding.

[@fayskelley]

Thank you

[@chinnumol]

Thanks for sharing always good information

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Thanks!

[@douglasbennett5667]

How about taxes- if you have a CD within Ecuador, what is your tax liabilities to Ecuador. You would need to pay taxes in the USA for any interest you received. International Living had an article from an expat that was living off his interest on several CDs he had in Ecuador- some up to 9 3/4 % interest per year and they paid him monthly but he did not say what his tax liability was to Ecuador.

[@terrychretien8921]

Great, helpful info as usual. We will certainly be looking for a good lawyer to help with the contracts when we find the right place, and we'll put Francisco on the top of our list as one to contact. Gracias!

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Great! Thanks!

[@ecuadorexpat8558]

+Terry Chretien Please also join facebook.com/ecuadorexpats awesome site and chock full of Information about everything EC

[@terrychretien8921]

@@ecuadorexpat8558 I joined that FB group months ago, and you're right, there is a ton of great information there too..

[@ecuadorexpat8558]

@@terrychretien8921 Yes indeed the most informative site.. I made manyh freinds there whom I will meet in person next Year.. I am leaving in Jan 2020.. will be headed for a short stint in Cuenca for visa and all that Jazz.. as soon as I have my visa I am going to head out into the Azuay near SigSig or Azogues.. love it there.. But I also have Kichwa friends in the Amazon and THAT will be my biggest adventure !!!!! Stay in touch: facebook.com/bluesenigmaband

[@gator448]

This channel is so informative...thanks so much

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Thanks!

[@gustavobarajas6155]

Most Latin America follow Roman Law and Canada/USA follow the commonwealth system of laws.

[@jeffreypickett8702]

Such great info all around! Good to know about renters rights, liability regarding hired workers, guns & gay marriage! (Not that I am married but I was very curious about LGBT rights in Ecuador) Thank you again!

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Thanks!

[@trueshy]

@@AmeliaAndJP I've been watching your videos over the past couple months (there are so many to pick from!). It was nice of you to touch on BGLT rights in the nation. It shows how nice you both are as individuals & as a couple. Do you know any BGLT ex pats that you could interview for a future segment? I'm curious what they would consider as their top issues in the country (& if they differ much from yours that you put into a video).

[@joshgarcia7148]

So helpful. Thank you!

[@AhmedTesjeel]

Thanks you for the video I thought i will see u both at the festival today

[@AmeliaAndJP]

De nada! :)

[@vickitrevino4544]

Hi Amelia and JP. Very interesting! Can we get a list of documents necessary to start the temporary visa process? We will be visiting soon and would like to use Gringo Visas services. A list of documents would be helpful. Thank you.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

You need to contact Gringo Visas for the current list of document requirements. It changes all the time and we're not the experts.

[@michelegill5626]

Great info, thanks so much!

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Thanks!

[@gringoviejo1935]

based on the portrayal of contracts, i'd say a gram of prevention is worth a kilo of cure!

[@maximizemoney5694]

So much conflicting information on dividend taxation in ecuador... anyone know how dividends from a US company/ETF are taxed there?

[@mvs3553]

Was trying to do Gringo Visas but very expensive for me.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

All the visa agents charge roughly the same amount. Some quote less but then end up costing more.

[@mvs3553]

@@AmeliaAndJP Thanks, yeah thats what I was thinking. I did it for czech republic on my own, going to try do it on my own for Ecuador.

[@davidsherwood7935]

Thank you for your reply regarding income. My next inquiry, as to whom you can refer me to, on obtaining a small residential mortgage in Ecuador. David

[@sarada3162]

Can these lovely lawyers please put the record straight with regards to an English person who has been irregular for 6 years , do they now have automatic residency?? What paperwork do they need to make themselves able to go college or do a driving test gracias

[@enjoylearningenglishEC]

Then you need to pay a fine around $800

[@julianalva8278]

florida state just cuban people everybody speaking Spanish 😍😎😎

[@sabrinamerrick1271]

Sabor Cubano!

[@mars54mars54]

EXCELLENT information!!! Would like to have heard more about fees for legal services.

[@SUPREMMO1320]

NIIIIIICEEEE!!!!

[@Vader1985]

What age do you have to be to qualify for a residency visa? I'm 38 years old with SS Disability.

[@thehalographicmind3976]

How much do they charge an hour ?

[@janethamilton7583]

Would these lawyers work on getting us visas for living in Ecuador?

[@AmeliaAndJP]

There are several visa agents that can help you including the folks in this video.

[@robertmaddelena7890]

He was pretty sharp.He is up on everything. There court system must be decent there.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

We were very impressed with Francisco 👍

[@CatalinaKirsch]

Does GringoVisas have an office in Quito?

[@AmeliaAndJP]

They provide services throughout Ecuador.

[@dougdevine27]

Well, that got dark towards the end: guns and assisted suicide.

[@mrfoxcat2]

Are the Attorney fees more reasonable than in the States? Thanks

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Yes

[@donnawoodford6641]

TY, Vegringos. I read that hiring a maid of a friend could get you in jail. How can one avoid that? Nos vemos en pocas semanas.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

We haven't heard anything like that. Probably more fear mongering from expats who want to scare people away from moving here.

[@sammieadams5163]

please advise me who to contact to bring my 2 small dogs when I move to Ecuador. % pounds each. Sammie in Greenwood, La.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

We have all the info about bringing pets to Ecuador on our website: ameliaandjp.com/bringing-pets-to-ecuador/

[@akams3]

What?? 😳 The beautiful & lovely Maite Duran didn't speak until the 19:29 min mark? What a travesty!

[@patrickperron3388]

HI guys, love your channel and what you do but in this particular vlog I have a hard time with your viewers' questions sounding so typically AMERICAN and AMERICAN MINDED !!! (Me, myself and I, My gun, YOUR responsability, I'll will sew anyone for anything !) Come on ! What is that attitude ? If you wish to establish yourself somewhere else, please adapt to this particular place. As the saying goes: When in Rome, do as the Romans ! You just have to ASSUME your decisions and be responsible for yourself.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Glad you enjoyed our other vlogs, but these were all valid questions and it's important to understand that there are differences between the laws here and in the states. This is not a sue happy country so Americans need to understand that most things are handled outside the courts. They also need to understand that most drivers don't have insurance so if you get into an accident, you will likely have to cover the costs even if it's not your fault. The gun question was more about the strict gun laws here to illustrate how other countries handle them. Gun violence is very low here because they have sensible gun laws with strict requirements for having them. Have you lived abroad before?

[@glorfac]

I wanted him to explain the process for obtaining a firearm and the licenses, what all do you have to do?

[@AmeliaAndJP]

It's not an easy process. You will need to talk to Francisco or another attorney to get all the requirements.

[@myavabuchanan5556]

I need English subtitles

[@AmeliaAndJP]

We hope to add English and Spanish subtitles to our videos eventually, but we can't afford to pay for those now and we don't have time to do the English version and our Spanish isn't nearly good enough.

[@genet8397]

Interesting. How are Ecuador jails?

[@julianalva8278]

Francisto u be 👍👍👍👍👍

[@thordisfynehair9442]

I was wondering...what if someone dies by accident, health cause or old age? Is it possible to buy a cemetery plot for burial there?

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Great question! I'm not sure about that. I'll add that to our list for a future Q&A video and we'll try to get an answer.

[@nurulamin7591]

Hi how are you I'm from Bangladesh how can I process a visa for Ecuador

[@thordisfynehair9442]

@@JuanJohn013 Thsnks for replying! Do you have any idea abt costs? Ball park figures? Are there any special permits or permissions needed? Who would I contact for answers?

[@enjoylearningenglishEC]

@@thordisfynehair9442 then you only need to buy a space in graveyard that's permanent by around $5000 of course here in Ecuador Guayaquil. Or also rent a place in the graveyard for 5 years by getting a insurance with the minimal amount of $50 per month

[@gustavobarajas6155]

"Gringo" a Mexican word to refer to a person of Anglo identity.

[@williamdelgado1184]

Jp i would like to get contact information for this lawyer that you interviewed .can you please send me the inf like phone or his website something that i can get in touch with him. I am buy home in ecuador n i want to make i don't mess up. Obviously i live in the state so i need help legal wise. Thanks for you help

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Sure! Just fill out the following form, and we'll send you the contact soon! liveabroadnow.com/referrals/

[@luisroca9947]

Maite talks too much lol

[@sammieadams5163]

sorry 5 pounds

[@ChristopherHaslettPhotography]

"Gringo" Visas? What do they say about you behind your backs I wonder.

[@ranz2355]

Gringo is not a derogatory term, many people are just looking for a reason to be a victim. 'They're racists!" No they aren't.

[@Karen-dk1ec]

The word, GRINGO to describe Caucasians is derogatory, or what some people would call "racist.". I know because I grew-up in a Mexican area of California. That word is always demeaning, but many Caucasians do not know. Now, if a Caucasian person called a Mexican a "beaner' they would be called a racist. The term "beaner" was a derogatory word t refer to Mexicans. It doesn't matter that his video is in Ecuador since the same principle applies. Please educate your realtors!! I would not hire them based on that word alone.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

It’s not a derogatory word in Ecuador. It’s a term of endearment here. I suggest visiting Ecuador before telling Ecuadorians what the words they use mean, Karen 😉

[@Karen-dk1ec]

@@AmeliaAndJP Thank-you for your reply. It's interesting that "Gringo" is not a derogatory term in Ecuador. How is it a term of endearment? Please understand in Calif. and NY the term, Gringo is derogatory. I am not doubting what you are saying since you live in Ecuador. These are not the times to tell someone to travel to a particular country. I certainly do not tell natives of a country what to say. I would ask what the word means to them. Open-ended questions are better.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

The Spanish word for foreigner is “extranjero” which also means stranger. Ecuadorians are very warm and welcoming. They sort of have the mindset that no one is a stranger so I can see why they wouldn’t like to use that word. I’m not sure why they chose to use gringo instead of a different word, but everyone we asked about it said it’s used in place of foreigner and is not derogatory. No one we asked knew it was a derogatory term in other places. In Mexico, the ok hand gesture means the same thing as the middle finger in the US. Does that mean the ok sign should be considered derogatory everywhere? Or maybe we should just avoid using it in Mexico. The world is a complicated place and different cultures have different meanings for the same things.

[@Karen-dk1ec]

@enrique perez Regardless of the exact translation, the word "Gringo" is ALWAYS used in a derogatory manner to refer to Caucasian Americans. I am probably older than you. I have lived in Calif my whole life, and I knw what I am talking about. A large sector of Mexicans in Calif do not consider themselves as Mexican-Americans, but Mexicans living in the USA. This is one reason that a large sector of Mexicans do not learn English or a few words. They resent that Calif is no longer part of Mexico. I am NOT saying all Mexicans. Does the La Raza movement ring a bell? I live somewhere else with a different Latin group. It is shocking how young people are not interested in learning English to better themselves. Other ethnic groups learned English when they immigrated t this country, which is historical fact and custom. Maybe the word Gringo is not used in a derogatory manner everywhere, but it is in the West & Southwest of the US. I am sure Mexicans would not like to be called "Beaners" which was a derogatory term used in the 1970s. I am sure I will receive hateful responses rather than people responding with objectivity.

[@Karen-dk1ec]

@enrique perez What do you think derogatory means? it implies the same meaning as pejorative. Are you going to debate about minor semantics? This issue goes beyond Calif. I said I don't live in Calif anymore. Sorry if the truth hurts, but the word Gringo is offensive.

[@rapidresponserepairllc.man9552]

How much