Feb 24 • 15:16 UTC 🇪🇨 Ecuador El Universo (ES)

4 out of 10 Ecuadorians were denied a U.S. visa in 2025: here are the main rejection criteria

In 2025, 42.24% of Ecuadorians applying for U.S. type B visas were denied, illustrating a significant rise in rejection rates compared to previous years.

The visa rejection rate for Ecuadorians seeking U.S. type B visas has seen a concerning rise, reaching 42.24% by the end of 2025, according to a report from the U.S. Department of State. This figure indicates that nearly four out of ten applicants faced denial for their visa requests, aimed at those traveling for tourism, business, or both. Compared to other countries in the region, Ecuador's rate is notably higher than Colombia's 32.84% and significantly lower than Venezuela's 48.22%.

Historically, the trend in visa rejections for Ecuadorians has increased over the years. In 2019, the rejection rate was 34.05%, with a gradual increase noticed in the following years. After shifting to the lowest rate of 15.68% in 2021, the numbers have climbed steadily, reflecting growing challenges faced by applicants. The figures reveal escalating difficulties for Ecuadorians in obtaining the necessary documentation to travel to the U.S., which may stem from various factors, including economic conditions, policy shifts, and security evaluations by U.S. authorities.

This increase in visa denial rates raises questions about the implications for Ecuadorians who rely on travel to the U.S. for various purposes, including family reunification, tourism, and business engagements. The 2025 statistics suggest that prospective travelers may need to navigate increasingly stringent visa requirements, which could perhaps influence their travel plans and affect the broader economic interactions between Ecuador and the United States. The ongoing scrutiny and tightening of visa issuance also reflect changing geopolitical relations and the U.S. government's focus on national security concerns over immigration issues, indicating a need for Ecuadorians to be more prepared and informed regarding their visa applications.

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