Veterans in Ecuador
Uses the U.S. dollar, a low jubilado income bar, and a large expat base in Cuenca.
Entering Ecuador
90 days in any 12-month period, extendable with a visa.
Long-stay and retirement visas
- Temporary Resident Jubilado: a foreign pension of at least 3 times Ecuador's basic wage (about USD 1,446/month in 2026). Military retired pay qualifies. Some practitioners report VA disability qualifying when certified as lifetime income.
VA care and benefits in Ecuador
No VA facilities. Foreign Medical Program reimbursement. Ecuador is on VA's international direct deposit list.
Healthcare
Good private hospitals in Cuenca (Hospital del Río, Monte Sinaí), Quito and Guayaquil. Residents can join IESS voluntarily.
Where veterans live
- Cuenca: Large expat base, spring climate, at 2,500 m altitude.
- Cotacachi: Small Andean town.
- Vilcabamba: Rural valley.
- Quito: Capital, U.S. Embassy.
Cost of living
Roughly USD 1,200–1,800 a month. Costs vary a lot by city and lifestyle. Health insurance is not included.
Money, language and time
U.S. dollar · Spanish · UTC-5
Buying property
Ownership allowed. Border and coastal security zones need approval.
Watch out for
Gang violence rose sharply from 2024 to 2026, especially on the coast (Guayaquil, Esmeraldas). Check the advisory before choosing a city.
Veteran organizations
American Legion Department of Latin America lists posts in Ecuador. See veteran organizations abroad.
Common questions
Does Ecuador accept military pensions for residency?
Yes. The jubilado visa accepts foreign pensions of at least 3 times the basic wage, about USD 1,446 a month in 2026.
Last reviewed November 2026. See something out of date? Tell us.