Ecuadorian Citizens in Argentina: Complete Immigration Guide
Ecuadorians enjoy preferential immigration access as Mercosur associates. 2-year renewable residency with work authorization and opportunities across sectors.
Special Agreement
Mercosur Associate Membership
Ecuador joined Mercosur as an associate member, granting Ecuadorians 2-year renewable residency with work rights in Argentina and a pathway to citizenship in 2 years.
- 2-year renewable residency
- Full work authorization
- No entry visa required
- Path to citizenship in 2 years
- Can work immediately upon application
- Family reunification available
Visa Options
Tourist Entry
No visa requiredEcuadorians enter visa-free with valid passport
Digital Nomad Visa
RecommendedAvailable but Mercosur associate is better
Work Visa
SimplifiedWork authorization with Mercosur associate residency
Mercosur Visa
Best OptionEcuador is a Mercosur associate member
Required Documents
Passport Validity
Valid at entry
Criminal Record Check
Required (with apostille)
Certificado de Antecedentes Penales from Ecuador
Birth Certificate
Required (with apostille)
Additional Documents
- • Proof of address in Argentina
- • Proof of means of support
Path to Residency
Easiest Route
Mercosur Associate Residency
Timeline
30-60 days for card. Citizenship in 2 years.
Steps:
- 1Enter Argentina (90 days visa-free)
- 2Gather apostilled documents from Ecuador
- 3Apply for Mercosur associate residency
- 4Receive precaria (can work immediately)
- 5Pick up card in 30-60 days
- 6Apply for citizenship after 2 years
Tips:
- •Get documents apostilled in Ecuador before traveling
- •Ecuadorian accent is understood - similar vocabulary
- •Growing community provides support network
- •Many work in services, construction, and hospitality
- •Andean cultural connections with Argentine northwest
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Ecuadorians need a visa for Argentina?
No visa needed for 90 days. For longer stays, Mercosur associate residency provides 2 years with work rights.
How big is the Ecuadorian community?
Growing rapidly - approximately 30,000-50,000 Ecuadorians in Argentina, concentrated in Buenos Aires.
Can I work immediately with Mercosur residency?
Yes! Once you apply, you receive precaria allowing immediate work authorization while your card is processed.