Ecuador has moved to suspend its visa waiver agreement with China, citing a concerning rise in irregular migration from Chinese nationals entering the country, according to the US News.

Ecuador's Foreign Ministry announced the decision, which takes effect July 1 and marks a temporary halt to the visa-free travel arrangement. Authorities expressed concern that approximately half of Chinese arrivals did not adhere to exit protocols within the allotted 90 days stipulated under the agreement.

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Ecuador's New Visa Rules for Chinese Nationals

Implementing visa waiver suspension means Ecuador will require Chinese citizens to obtain visas for travel to Ecuador, although the ministry did not disclose specific implementation details. 

In Ecuador's defense, managing an influx of irregular migrants strains government resources, including those related to border control, law enforcement, and social services. This can impact the ability of authorities to manage and regulate immigration flows effectively.

What's worse, irregular migration can also raise security concerns as it becomes harder to track the movement and activities of individuals entering the country.

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