Planning a trip to El Salvador involves more than booking flights and hotels. In this guide, you’ll discover exactly who requires a visa, how to apply (including the new Special Entry Permit), key fees, extension options, transit rules under the CA-4 Agreement, health requirements and safety advice—so you can focus on enjoying the beaches, volcanoes and vibrant culture.
Who Requires a Tourist Visa and How the CA-4 Agreement Works
El Salvador divides visitors into three groups:
– Nationals exempt from a visa.
– Nationals who must obtain a consular visa before arrival.
– Nationals eligible for a consulted visa or online permit.
All travelers, however, must hold a passport valid for the duration of their stay (and it’s wise to have at least six months’ validity beyond your planned departure date per Embassy of El Salvador in Washington entry requirements).
The CA-4 Border Control Agreement
El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua participate in the CA-4 Agreement, which means:
– You may travel by land or air among these four countries for up to 90 days using a single visa or exempt status.
– Days spent in any CA-4 country count toward your 90-day limit for the entire region according to Wikipedia’s Central America-4 Border Control Agreement article.
This arrangement is especially handy if you plan an overland itinerary through Central America.
Navigating the Application Process
Whether you require a traditional visa or the newer Special Entry Permit (Permiso de Entrada Especial, PEI), these steps apply:
- Choose the correct visa type based on nationality.
- Gather supporting documents.
- Apply through a Salvadoran consulate or online (for the PEI).
- Pay applicable fees.
- Receive your visa or permit electronically or at the embassy.
Special Entry Permit (PEI)
Citizens of countries that normally must get a consular visa can instead apply online for a PEI. This streamlines processing, lets you apply from anywhere, and often cuts wait times to under a week according to the El Salvador government visa procedures page.
Required Documents
– Completed application form
– Passport-style photograph
– Valid passport
– Proof of onward travel
– Evidence of sufficient funds
– Hotel reservations or host invitation
Fees, Staying Periods and Extensions
The basic tourist visa (or PEI) allows a stay of up to 90 days in El Salvador (and within the CA-4 zone).
- Visa or PEI application fee: varies by nationality (typically US $30–$45)
- Tourist card (for all visa-exempt arrivals): US $12, payable on arrival as detailed by the El Salvador Tourism Board’s entry requirements
- Visa extension fee: approximately US $36 per 30-day extension according to VisaHQ’s El Salvador tourist visa requirements
Extending Your Stay
If you wish to remain beyond your 90-day allowance, you can apply for an extension at the Directorate General of Migration and Aliens (DGME) in San Salvador. Extensions are granted in 30-day increments but require a local sponsor or proof of funds for each additional month.
Transit Rules and Onward Travel
Even if you’re only passing through El Salvador, these points matter:
- Transit without visa: Certain nationals can stay in the international transit area without a visa if they hold confirmed onward tickets, per the DGME’s transit visa policy.
- CA-4 counting: Any days in El Salvador during a multi-country trip under CA-4 count toward your total 90 days.
Health Precautions and Personal Safety
El Salvador is a dynamic destination, but you should be prepared:
- Vaccinations: If you arrive from a country with yellow fever risk, you must present a valid vaccination certificate as specified in the CDC’s yellow fever vaccine requirements.
- Crime: Street crime and gang activity can occur. Avoid isolated areas, don’t walk alone after dark and keep valuables secure, in line with the U.S. Department of State’s El Salvador travel advisory.
- Entry denial: Authorities may refuse entry for reasons beyond visa status, such as prior deportations or security concerns.
Ready to Explore
With visas and permits in hand, fees sorted and safety measures in place, you’re set to discover El Salvador’s surf-torn coast, steaming volcanoes and richly textured heritage. Keep your documents handy, respect local regulations and you’ll turn your 90 days (or more) into an unforgettable Central American adventure.