How to get a visa to the country of Ecuador?

If I go to Ecuador on a visitor visa, can I convert it to a work visa while still in the country?

• I am getting my TESL/TEFL (teach English as a second language) certification in December and want to move down to Ecuador in January. The business I am going through to get the certification helps it's graduates find employers that will sponsor them to get a work visa but I am not sure if the company will be able to find me a job that I am happy with before we want to move there in January. My question to you is, if I go to Ecuador on a visitor visa can I convert to a work visa while I am still in the country or do I have to leave the country, go back to America, get a work visa and then come back? Or can I go to Ecuador on a visitor visa, find a job and convert it to a work visa while still in Ecuador? My end goal is to work there long enough to get permanent residency. Thanks in advance!

• Answer:

  If you get the 6 month visa (visa 12-IX)...not the 90 day tourist visa automatically given out on arrival...you can convert to a work visa. Just make sure to apply for the work visa at least 30 days before your six months is up; I actually recommend starting the process a good 3 months before. You can apply for the 6 month visa at any Ecuadorian Consulate or Embassy.