Job Discussion Forums

marg252 · Joined: 25 Mar 2007 Posts: 55

I'm arriving in Ecuador shortly, and only for about 4 months. I'd like to pick up part-time work during that time to have something productive on my resume for this time, but that is pretty much the only reason. I'm really going to study Spanish and work on my writing. However, I already have dead time from traveling on my CV, and really don't want more.

Here's the question: Do I really need to get the appropriate visa (9-V) or can I just pick up part-time illegal work?

Part of the reason that I ask is that I highly doubt I will make back the $230 plus enough to matter, financially, that I worked. The other reason is that I'm supposed to go up to DC in a day and the city is shut down with snow and expecting more. And, I leave next monday.

Thanks.

Justin Trullinger · Posted: Mon Feb 08, 2010 10:57 pm Post subject:

A couple of answers-

Many people work illegally. It is illegal, but...problems as a result of this are rare. It does mean that you'll struggle to get work in a good center, but of course with only 4 months to commit, you wouldn't anyway.

Have you been in contact with the consul? Usually, getting a visa involves sponsorship by your employer- not sure how this would work before you ahve one. MAybe consider a 12-9...

Another advantage to getting a visa before arrival- if you're staying for 4 months...a tourist visa is 3 months, stamped at the border. You might be able to extend that in country, but the law, at teh moment, says otherwise, so no guarantees...

Best,
Justin

naturegirl321 · Joined: 04 May 2003 Posts: 9041 Location: home sweet home

I-d say work under tha table. In the time it-ll take you to process your work visa, you-ll probably be on your way out.

Justin, what happens if you overstay? is iit like Peru, where you just pay a dollar a day?

Justin Trullinger · Posted: Tue Feb 09, 2010 2:06 pm Post subject:

Last I knew, which isn't recent, the fine for overstaying was a flat $250.

Letter of the law says "not over $1800." So while as far as I know, nobody has been fined that much for overstaying a tourist visa, there's nothing preventing the fine from going up... And you're NOT in a good position to bargain when you're trying to leave a country. Legally, they can hold you until you meet whatever conditions they impose.

Best,
Justin

naturegirl321 · Joined: 04 May 2003 Posts: 9041 Location: home sweet home

another reason why Ecuador is ahead of Peru. In Peru, they-re happy for you to pay the fine.

AjarnIam · Joined: 31 Jan 2010 Posts: 95 Location: Thailand

Justin, how do you like Quito? I traveled there many years ago..wonderful city, such a difference from Guayaquil. (can't remember spelling) Whats the jobs like...what would a MA with 5yrs land you? I was also in Peru (Cusco)...a little gem as well, but more touristy...Maybe I need a change from Asia...

marg252 · Joined: 25 Mar 2007 Posts: 55

Thanks a lot for the replies. I would never even consider working illegally under normal conditions. But, right now DC is under 3 feet of snow and I'll be in Quito on Monday night. There isn't anything I can do at this point.

Again, I appreciate it. Maybe I'll see some of you down there Smile