Censo for Residents of Ecuador

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The “Censo” or “Certificado de Empadronamiento” is a document that needs to be renewed each year for residents of Ecuador. Your first experience with the “Censo” will most likely be associated with your resident visa process because this document is a requirement for the “Cedula” (national I.D. card).

The Censo expires one year from its issue date. If you are not in Ecuador when the document expires you are free to apply for renewal upon your return. I just entered Ecuador with an expired Censo and received a renewal without a hassle.

You should apply for the Censo at the “Migracion” department of the national police in the capital of your province.


Censo renewal requirements are very simple:

-Passport
-Copy of passport first page and visa page
-Current Censo
-Cedula
-Copy of Cedula (front & back)
-One photo
-Utility bill or lease agreement to prove place of residence
-$5

Don't worry about making copies in Ecuador. Copy machines are very easy to find.

It's a good idea to visit government offices early in the week and between 11:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M. Early morning is typically busy until people need to return home to prepare lunch, the most important meal in Ecuador.

Here I am at 11:00 A.M. Monday morning waiting for my Censo.

Even if you do not become a resident of Ecuador you may find yourself spending some time in government offices. Just be patient and bring a good book. I had a book ready and never got to read it, too bad!