Obtaining a residency visa in El Salvador is not always easy, but our Guide to Residency in El Salvador gives newcomers an overview of the steps involved and advice from others who have already navigated the process.
- Gather the necessary documents for residency status in El Salvador. These documents include a valid passport, a birth certificate, a police record, a medical certificate, and a marriage certificate (if applicable).
- Visit the Immigration Office in El Salvador to apply for residency status. You will need to fill out an application form and provide the necessary documents.
- Pay the applicable fees for residency status. These fees may vary depending on the type of residency status you are applying for.
- Wait for the Immigration Office to process your application. This process may take several weeks.
- Once your application has been approved, you will be issued a residency card. This card will be valid for a period of one year.
- Apply for a Tax Number.
- Visit the Tax Office in El Salvador to apply for a Tax Number.
- Fill out an application form and provide the necessary documents.
- Pay the applicable fees for a Tax Number.
- Wait for the Tax Office to process your application. This process may take several weeks.
- Once your application has been approved, you will be issued a Tax Number.
- Renew your residency status each year. You will need to visit the Immigration Office and provide the necessary documents and fees.
What tips do expats have about residency and visas in El Salvador?
“Passport, birth certificate, criminal record from home country and El Salvador Proof of guaranteed pension income, local bank account, medical from local doctor, local address, all documents notarized and translated into Spanish, process is simple but a Salvadorañ Immigration lawyer simplifies the process,” said one expat living in La Libertad.
“If you plan to stay in El Salvador for an extended period of time, you will need to obtain a residency visa. Depending on your nationality, you may need to apply for a Temporary Residency Visa or a Permanent Residency Visa. You will also need to provide documents such as a valid passport, proof of financial resources, a police record, and a medical certificate,” wrote a member in El Salvador.
“In order to visit El Salvador, foreign nationals must obtain a visa prior to their arrival. The process of applying for a visa involves submitting an application form, a valid passport, a passport-sized photograph, and proof of sufficient funds to cover the duration of the stay. Depending on the purpose of the visit, additional documents may be required. In order to obtain residency in El Salvador, foreign nationals must submit an application form, a valid passport, a passport-sized photograph, proof of sufficient funds to cover the duration of the stay, and a criminal background check. Depending on the purpose of the residency, additional documents may be required. The application process may also involve an interview with a consular officer. Once the application is approved, the foreign national will receive a residency card, which must be renewed every two years,” commented one member living in El Salvador.
