Ecuador Ends Visa-Free Transit — 45 Countries Now Need a Visa for Layovers

Ecuador has enacted a significant change to its immigration policy, impacting international travellers from 45 countries. Effective immediately, anyone holding a passport from these countries must secure a Transit Visa, known locally as the Visa de Transeúnte, to transit through Ecuadorian airports, even if Ecuador is not their final destination.

Why the Change?

Previously, travellers from visa-required countries could transit through Ecuador without a visa, provided they stayed within the international transit area and did not pass through immigration or customs. This exemption has now been revoked.

The government’s goal is to strengthen border security and curb illegal migration and human trafficking, aligning with broader efforts to combat transnational organised crime.

Who’s Affected by the New Transit Policy?

If you’re from a country that previously needed a visa to enter Ecuador but could transit without one, this rule change applies to you. Effective immediately, you must now apply for a transit visa before boarding a flight that connects through an Ecuadorian airport.

Countries Now Required to Obtain a Transit Visa for Ecuador:

1. Afghanistan
2. Angola
3. Bangladesh
4. Cameroon
5. Cuba
6. Egypt
7. Eritrea
8. Ethiopia
9. Philippines
10. Gambia
11. Ghana
12. Guinea
13. Kenya
14. India
15. Iraq
16. Iran
17. Libya
18. Nigeria
19. Pakistan
20. Nepal
21. DR Congo
22. North Korea
23. Senegal
24. Syria
25. Sri Lanka
26. Somalia
27. Venezuela
28. Vietnam
29. Yemen
30. Haiti
31. Republic of Congo
32. Mali
33. Côte d’Ivoire
34. Myanmar
35. Uzbekistan
36. Tajikistan
37. Albania
38. Chad
39. Guinea-Bissau
40. Kyrgyzstan
41. Mauritania
42. Sierra Leone
43. Sudan
44. South Sudan
45. People’s Republic of China

If your passport is from one of the countries listed above, be sure to check with the nearest Ecuadorian consulate before booking travel through Ecuador.

What Is a Visa de Transeúnte?

The Visa de Transeúnte is Ecuador’s official transit visa, designed for travellers who are simply passing through the country without entering.

Key Features:

• Purpose: Allows short-term airport layovers.
• Duration: Typically valid for 24 to 72 hours, just enough to complete your connecting flight.
• Use Case: Required even if you’re not leaving the airport terminal or clearing customs.

While Ecuador previously allowed nationals of visa-required countries to transit without needing one, this transit exemption has now been cancelled.

How to Apply for the Ecuador Transit Visa

If you’re from a country that now requires a Transit Visa (Visa de Transeúnte) to pass through Ecuador, follow these simplified steps:

✅ Step 1: Confirm If You Need a Transit Visa

Check if your nationality is on Ecuador’s visa-required list for airport transit.

✅ Step 2: Find the Nearest Ecuadorian Consulate

Locate and contact the Ecuadorian embassy or consulate in your country.

✅ Step 3: Gather Required Documents

Typical documents include:

• Valid passport (6+ months validity)
• Completed visa application form
• Passport-sized photos
• Proof of onward travel (e.g., flight ticket)
• Proof of sufficient funds

✅ Step 4: Submit Application

Submit your application and documents to the consulate—online or in person, depending on local procedures.

✅ Step 5: Pay the Visa Fee

Visa fees may vary by country; confirm with your consulate before applying.

✅ Step 6: Attend Interview (If Required) & Wait for Processing

Some applicants may be asked to attend an interview. Once reviewed, your visa will be issued if approved.

What Travellers Should Do Now

If you’re from one of the countries listed:

• Do not risk transiting through Ecuador without a visa
• Immediately check with your airline and the Ecuadorian consulate
• Explore alternative routes through countries that allow visa-free or easier airport transits

Travellers who fail to meet the new transit visa requirements could be denied boarding at their departure airport or refused entry by Ecuadorian immigration.

Why the Change?

Though no official reason has been given, the new rules likely aim to tighten border controls and manage irregular migration through transit routes. Ecuador, like many countries in the region, is adjusting its immigration policies in response to global trends and regional security concerns.

Final Thoughts

The introduction of the Visa de Transeúnte as a mandatory requirement marks a significant policy shift for Ecuador. It’s now more important than ever for travellers from visa-required countries to plan ahead, check updated visa rules, and avoid last-minute surprises during international layovers.

As new details emerge, we will continue to update travellers with the latest guidance from Ecuador’s foreign ministry.