Ecuadorian consulates draw up general and special powers of attorney for use in Ecuador, and the practical difference between them matters: a general power covers a broad range of legal and financial acts, while a special power authorises one defined transaction.
Quick facts
You are expected to bring the text of the power with you, and consulates accept it in digital or printed form. The wording should come from the lawyer or notary in Ecuador who will use it.
Fees breakdown
| Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| General power of attorney | Consular tariff | Broad authority |
| Special power of attorney | Consular tariff | One defined transaction |
| Signature certification | Consular tariff | Per signature |
| Registration in Ecuador | Charged there | For property transactions |
| Courier to Ecuador | Carrier’s charge | The original must travel |
Payment methods differ between posts, so confirm when you book rather than at the window.
How to apply
- Ask the lawyer or notary in Ecuador for the exact text, and say whether the matter needs a general or a special power.
- Gather the supporting documents: a purchase contract for a property transaction, account details for a banking matter.
- Book the appointment on the official portal, specifying the type of power.
- Attend with your identity card or passport and the text of the power.
- Sign before the consular officer, who authorises the document.
- Send the original to Ecuador and register it where the transaction requires.
Required documents
- Valid Ecuadorian identity card or passport.
- The text of the power, digital or printed.
- Supporting documents for the transaction.
- Full details of the person receiving the power.
- Evidence that electoral obligations are up to date.
- Appointment confirmation and payment.
Where to apply
At the consulate covering your address. Notarial appointments are released through the same portal as passports.
General Consulate of Ecuador in Atlanta
View details →ChicagoConsulado General del Ecuador/Consulate General of Ecuador
View details →HoustonConsulado del Ecuador en Houston
View details →Long Island CityEcuadorian Embassy
View details →Los AngelesConsulado del Ecuador en Los Angeles
View details →ManhattanConsulate General of Ecuador
View details →MiamiGeneral Consulate of Ecuador
View details →NewarkConsulate General of Ecuador
View details →PhoenixConsulate General Of Ecuador
View details →WashingtonEmbassy of Ecuador
View details →Additional notes
General or special
A special power is easier to have accepted because it says exactly what the agent may do. A general power is convenient but is scrutinised harder by banks and registries.
Property transactions
Powers used to buy or sell real estate normally have to be registered in Ecuador before the transaction can complete.
Bring the text
Consulates authorise what you present. Arriving without the wording means the appointment cannot be used.
Revocation
Revoking a power requires a further instrument executed the same way, with notice to whoever holds the original.