Ecuador's Working Holiday Visa Guide

Have you been eager to embark on the adventure of a lifetime with a working holiday trip to Ecuador? Officially known as the Republic of Ecuador, this country offers affordable living, rich culture, and breathtaking landscapes. It’s the perfect destination for anyone seeking a travel experience that will stand the test of time.

With a valid Working Holiday Visa in hand, turning your dream of exploring Ecuador into reality is easier than ever—from the Galápagos Islands to the stunning architecture of Quito.

In this guide, we provide all the essential information about the Working Holiday Visa for Ecuador and what you can expect when working in this incredible country.

Imagine this:

Traversing the Galápagos Archipelago and experiencing a natural sanctuary brimming with local wildlife unique to this area.
Exploring the Avenue of Volcanoes to discover how nature truly is the ultimate architect.
Going on a bird-watching tour at Chocó Andino with its abundant wildlife.

A Quick Overview of The Working Holiday Visa

A Working Holiday Visa from Ecuador is based on bilateral accords established between specific countries. These agreements allow young workers to actively be part of the Ecuador workforce for a short time, allowing them to experience the country both as active members of society and as avid travellers who can entrench themselves in the rich landscape of this region.

An important fact to remember is that the Visa is only valid for 12 months, and it cannot be renewed. Therefore, if you have been approved for the Visa in the past, you cannot reapply for it.

Eligibility Requirements

Since its establishment in 2022, the Word Holiday Visa program in Ecuador has allowed citizens from both Australia and France to apply.

That being said, it is important to keep the following restrictions in mind:

Age limits: On application, individuals must be between 18 and 30 years old, and they must be non-Ecuador residents.
Proven sufficient funds: Should you be eyeing a Working Holiday Visa for Ecuador, you will need concrete evidence of having enough money to support yourself, and either have or can buy a return ticket to your country of origin when your visa has expired. Typically, this amount will be around €2500.
Insurance: A good example of insurance for Work Holiday Visa purposes is our Travel & medical insurance designed for Global Travellers.
Proof of good health: You will need a medical certificate to verify this information.
A clean police record: A police certificate may be required in some cases.
No dependents are allowed: The Working Holiday Visa does not apply to families – only single travellers are allowed.

Required Documents and Preparations

Ensuring that you have all relevant information at hand is key for a smooth application for your planned working holiday.

Valid Passport with 6 months validity from your return date.
Passport pictures that adhere to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)’s standards for easy recognition.
Proof of enough available funds to sustain you during your trip (such as your bank statements).
Proof of the return flight ticket that you have booked, or confirmation that you have sufficient funds to purchase your travel means.
Proof that you have travel health insurance (as mentioned, we have an option available that you can review to make the process easier).
A police clearance certificate stating a clean record.
A medical certificate filled out by a reputable health practitioner.

Top Tip:

Keep in mind that the application fee for Australians for the Working Holiday Visa in Ecuador will be US$50. For French citizens, there is no fee.

Application Process

Before you begin the application process, keep in mind that French and Australian candidates must submit their applications through separate channels.

Australian citizens are required to submit their complete applications to the Embassy of Ecuador in Canberra. On the other hand, French citizens should hand their applications in at the Embassy of Ecuador in Paris.

Next, you will need to wait while your application is processed, which can take between one and three months. If approved, you can then proceed to pick up your visa.

Keep in mind: There is a cap on the number of Working Holiday Visas issued each year, which currently stands at 300. To avoid disappointment and increase your chances of a successful application, discuss this with a representative at your embassy in advance. Additionally, ensure that you have all your important documents (and copies) ready when submitting your application.

What to do once your application is approved

If you haven’t done so already, ensure that you book your plane ticket once your visa has been approved.
Consider booking temporary accommodation, such as at an Airbnb, which will allow you to find something more permanent once you have settled in.
Check that all your personal documents are up to date.
If you need to do any medical check-ups before leaving for Ecuador, have them done if possible while you are still in your country of origin.
Start brushing up on your Spanish – this is the official language of Ecuador, and it will be worth it to learn key phrases and words to make your transition to this country easier.

Arriving in Ecuador

A crucial step when arriving in Ecuador is to secure your legal status to reside and work in Ecuador. This means visiting an immigration office, which you will usually be able to find at the airport, or alternatively in major cities. This registration is essential, as it will make it easier to open a local bank account, for instance.

Popular Jobs Under The Working Holiday Visa

There certainly is no shortage of available work opportunities for temporary workers in Ecuador.

For instance, you can consider teaching English if you have a TEFL qualification, which could allow you to work at schools and universities.

If you are looking for something more hands-on, you could consider plantation work, or volunteer to work with charities. The latter can certainly prove worthwhile and allow you to contribute to the community through work that has so much value for those who need it most.

Hot Spots to Visit in Ecuador

Your working holiday will, of course, not be complete without visiting some key destinations.

Here are some of our top picks that are a must for your itinerary:

Embrace your inner explorer with a visit to the Amazon Rainforest: This almost legendary nature escape offers a first-hand experience of local wildlife. We recommend making the most of local tours to get the most out of your trip to this destination.
Go on an adventure in Baños: Situated in the Tungurahua province, Baños offers several outdoor activities to enjoy, including cycling and rafting.
See beautiful architecture backed by UNESCO in Cuenca: Marvel at beautiful local buildings in the Southern Highlands, and don’t forget to add the Cajas National Park and the Ingapirca Ruins to your travel list when you are in the area.
Visit Guayaquil for a true taste of Ecuador’s culture: Whether you are interested in local art, delicious cuisine, or the brimming nightlife in the area, this setting is sure to make you feel like a local.
Explore beautiful beaches: Consider daytime visits to some of the best beaches in Ecuador, such as Los Frailes and Playa Rosada.

How to Best Get Around Ecuador

There are several options for transport that you can consider during your time in Ecuador. One of the most popular is without a doubt bus travel, which is affordable and reliable. Do remember that buses can get full quickly, so if you need transport to work you need to plan your trip accordingly to ensure that you will not be late when your shift starts.

Although some might prefer hiring their own car when compared with bus travel, a taxi might be a better option – especially if you do not know the area or want to avoid the stress of roads that might not be as safe as those within main city centres. Important: Only use yellow registered taxis.

If you are in Quito or Guayaquil, it is possible to also book an Uber.

Your options to get around Ecuador don’t stop there. For more leisurely travel, you can rent a bike, hop onto a train or even do a boat ride to destinations such as the Galapagos Islands.

Sure! Here’s a more natural, engaging, and well-rounded rewrite with a bit more depth:

Ecuador’s social life is deeply rooted in family and tradition, with religious gatherings and family events playing a central role in everyday life. But beyond these, the country thrives on lively festivals, colorful parades, and celebrations of its rich culinary heritage. From street fairs showcasing local delicacies to national holidays filled with music and dance, there’s always something happening.

Ecuadorians are passionate about soccer and salsa, two things that bring people together regardless of background. Whether you're cheering at a local fútbol match or dancing the night away at a salsa club, you’ll quickly see how social and welcoming the culture is. Expats often find themselves embraced by the warm and friendly nature of the locals, making it easy to feel at home.

And if nightlife is your thing, Ecuador won’t disappoint. Cities like Quito and Guayaquil come alive after dark with buzzing bars, live music, and late-night street food. Whether you prefer a relaxed evening with friends or a high-energy night of dancing, there’s a scene for everyone.

Final Thoughts

Living and working in Ecuador can be one of the most rewarding experiences for travellers. Together with the exceptional cultural landscape, the cost of living in Ecuador is low and it can be easy to find pocket-friendly accommodation.

Added to this, Ecuador offers the opportunity for travellers to choose from a variety of temporary jobs, such as those in the tourism industry, hospitality and agriculture.

This is more than enough reason to explore your opportunities in Ecuador – lasting memories are yours for the taking with careful planning and a mindset that is ready to take globetrotting to one of the most vibrant regions in the world!

Need more advice for Working Holiday Visas? Follow this link to find all the information you need on our social app – we’ve got you covered with all the information you need!

Frequently Asked Questions

Need more information about the Working Holiday Visa in Ecuador? Have a look below:

Which nationalities can apply for the Working Holiday Visa in Ecuador?

At the moment, citizens from France and Australia are allowed to apply, using the dedicated channels per country as mentioned in this guide.

Does the Visa cover my spouse and children as well?

No, the visa is only valid for one traveller and no dependents are allowed.

What are the most important documents to include in the Working Holiday Visa in Ecuador application?

Key documents for your application include your valid passport, as well as documents that provide proof of acquired travel and medical insurance, proof of a clean criminal record and proof of sufficient funds that will sustain you during your stay in Ecuador.

How long will my visa be valid?

Should your visa be approved, it will be valid for 12 months.

Will I need to pay an application fee for my visa?

Although French citizens will not need to pay a fee, Australian citizens are required to pay a fee of US$50.

Where can I buy travel and medical insurance?

You are welcome to reach out to us regarding our Travel & medical insurance designed for Global Travelers which offers several benefits for both travel and medical expenses.

Should I secure accommodation before arriving in Ecuador?

Temporary housing, such as Airbnb, can help you get settled in Ecuador and allow you more time to find more permanent housing solutions once you have gotten a good idea of the area you will be living in or that will be closest to the place where you will be working.

Are there any quotas for the number of Work Holiday Vises that are issued every year?

There are currently quotas in place - do check during your application process if any changes have been made to these numbers and what you need to keep in mind should the threshold be reached.

If you want to learn about the working holiday visa’s for other countries, we have extensive guides for countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, United Kingdom, Germany, Spain, Italy, Ireland, Korea, Taiwan, Argentina, Chile, Hong Kong and more coming.