Ecuador Civil Registry Adds Saturday Hours to Boost Public Access

The Civil Registry of Ecuador is expanding its services to include permanent Saturday operations, a move designed to increase accessibility for citizens. Beginning June 20, 2026, 14 selected agencies in 11 provinces will open their doors from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM every Saturday. This initiative directly addresses requests from individuals who find it difficult to complete civil registry procedures during the standard Monday-to-Friday work week.

During these special Saturday hours, the 14 participating agencies will offer the institution's usual range of services. This includes processing applications for national identity cards (cédulas), passports, marriage registrations, various certificates, and initial registrations for births and deaths. While all agencies nationwide will maintain their regular weekday hours, the Saturday service is initially limited to these 14 locations as part of a phased rollout.

Notably, services for obtaining identity cards and passports will not require prior appointments. Applicants can make payments directly at the agencies and proceed with their procedures on the same day. Civil Registry Director General Ottón Rivadeneira stated that the decision aligns with President Daniel Noboa's directive to bring public services closer to the people. He acknowledged hearing frequent requests for extended service hours during provincial visits, emphasizing the agency's commitment to responding with concrete actions.

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Many people work throughout the week or have difficulty visiting our agencies during traditional hours. Today, we respond to that request with concrete actions.