Business Customs

El Salvador and the United States share strong business ties, providing Salvadorans a high level of comfort in doing business with U.S. companies. Much like in the rest of Latin America, in El Salvador, business is conducted after a relationship has been established. Spending time forming a personal connection before jumping into business discussions is highly recommended. Spanish is the official language in El Salvador.

The business dress code in El Salvador varies depending on the setting and sector. A lightweight suit is the most appropriate attire for business meetings with business organizations or events, and business casual is acceptable for business-to-business meetings. Expect to shake hands before and after your meeting. It’s best to wait to use a person’s first name until a relationship has been solidified. Salvadorans commonly use titles such as Licenciado (meaning a college graduate), Ingeniero (an engineering graduate), or Doctor (used for both physicians and lawyers). The person’s last name follows these. Business cards are used and exchanging them during the first meeting is essential. Breakfast meetings are common and begin around 7:30 a.m. Lunches and dinners can be lengthy (2-3 hours). Dinners typically start late by U.S. standards, often at 7:00 p.m. Lunch is usually served at 12:30 p.m.

Travel Advisory 

For the most up-to-date travel information, visit the Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs website https://travel.state.gov, which offers safety updates, travel advisories, and country-specific information. 

Before traveling to El Salvador, consider enrolling in the STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program). STEP is a free service to allow U.S. citizens traveling abroad to register their trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy.

The American Citizen Services (ACS) Unit does not handle visas or immigration information requests.

Please visit the U.S. Embassy in El Salvador website for information about ACS services. For information that cannot be found on the website, please email acssansal@state.gov. For after-hour emergencies, call (503) 2501-2999. This phone number is ONLY for emergency assistance directly affecting a U.S. Citizen in El Salvador. Examples of emergencies include child abduction, arrest, death, crime, and emergency financial assistance.

Safety and Security Information

For the most up-to-date safety and security information, please visit the El Salvador Country Information page on the Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs website travel.state.gov.

Swimming:  Surfing is extremely popular in El Salvador and one of the reasons for the growth in tourism. El Salvador’s Pacific Coast beaches are very risky for swimming. Strong undertows and currents can be dangerous, even for skilled swimmers. Most public beaches have government lifeguards, but private beaches may not. Follow all instructions of any lifeguard, and do not enter the water anywhere you see red warning flags. In addition, El Salvador’s search and rescue capabilities are limited, and access to medical resources in beach areas is inadequate. Check the risks of recreational water activities. Also, think about your own abilities and skills. Be aware that drinking alcohol and swimming can be a deadly combination.

Protests:  Demonstrations occur anywhere and are most common near the capital of San Salvador. They may take place in response to political or economic issues. They may also occur on politically significant holidays and during international events.

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable, avoid areas around protests and demonstrations.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.
   

Crime:  Crimes in El Salvador include robbery, car theft, sexual assault, and other crimes.  

In the past, gangs, primarily Mara Salvatrucha (MS-13) and 18th Street (M18) or sub factions of each, controlled most of the space in El Salvador and were the source of many crimes including extortion. Since March 2022, the Government of El Salvador has severely disrupted gang-related activities. This has led to a significant reduction in crime throughout the country. While levels have dropped, crime, including violent crime, still occurs.

U.S. Embassy government employees and their family members are permitted to travel throughout the country but may not travel between cities after dark, except for the route between San Salvador and the Comalapa International Airport, as well as the highway between San Salvador and tourist destinations along the littoral highway in La Libertad. This is largely due to infrastructure concerns and criminal activity. Additionally, U.S. government employees may not use public buses.  
 

Always exercise caution and practice good personal security procedures throughout your stay.

• Always travel in groups.
• Avoid remote or isolated locations.
• Avoid displaying or carrying valuables in public places.
• Avoid stopping at tourist overlooks, which may be targeted by criminals.
• Never leave passports and other important documents in vehicles.
• In public, remain alert and avoid the use of cell phones and earphones. These make it harder to pay attention to your surroundings and make easy targets for crimes of opportunity.
• Avoid public transportation, especially buses.
• Use only radio-dispatched taxis, taxis stationed in front of major hotels, or internet-based rideshare services.
• Choose banks or ATMs inside secure, guarded areas and remain alert.
• Remain vigilant even in well-known restaurants, hotels, and retailers within San Salvador.
• Credit card cloning and similar fraud can occur; keep your card in sight.
• Be aware of your surroundings when traveling by car. Navigation apps seeking the quickest routes may direct you off safer routes into dangerous areas.
• Drive with your doors locked and windows raised.
• Always avoid travel outside of major metropolitan areas after dark and on unpaved roads always because of hazardous road conditions and criminal activity.
• Criminals who threaten violence typically are violent if victims do not immediately comply. There have been no reports of serious injury among victims who do comply.

Visa Requirement

Individuals entering El Salvador with a U.S. diplomatic, official, or tourist passport are not required to obtain a Salvadoran visa before entering the country. 
Individuals holding a passport from a country other than the United States should consult their country’s embassy or consulate in El Salvador for information on visa requirements for entry into the country.

Immigration, Customs, and Quarantine

Imports of certain high-caliber firearms are prohibited. Any exception to this rule must be approved in advance by the Salvadoran authorities. Weapons for personal defense or hunting may be imported, but their importation is strictly controlled by the police and the Ministry of Defense, pursuant to a special law.

The importation or possession of other firearms or ammunition while traveling to or while in El Salvador is prohibited. Travelers possessing firearms or ammunition are subject to arrest/detainment by Salvadoran authorities. Approval to carry a gun on a flight from airlines departing the U.S. to El Salvador does not constitute approval from the Government of El Salvador to bear a firearm while in El Salvador.

The airport departure fee is included in the price of the airline ticket. Bearers of diplomatic passports are exempt from this departure fee. Travelers leaving by land do not pay exit taxes.

Visas to the United States

All Salvadoran nationals traveling to the United States must first obtain a U.S. visa. Visa applicants should visit the following link(s): U.S. Department of State Visa Website; U.S. Embassy San Salvador Visas Website; Visa Appointment Scheduling Website.

Additionally, some airlines may require travelers to have more than six months of validity remaining on their passports. Therefore, the U.S. Embassy recommends that travelers with six months or less validity remaining on their passports renew them before traveling to the United States.

Interview Waiver for Non-Immigrant Applicants to the United States: All nonimmigrant visa applicants will generally require an in-person interview with a consular officer. However, applicants renewing a B-1, B-2 or B1/B2 visa within 12 months of the prior visa’s expiration may apply via an interview waiver process. Qualifying applicants may submit their documents through the DHL courier service without needing to visit the Embassy in person. To qualify, the applicant’s prior visa must have been issued for full validity and when the applicant was at least 18 years old, the applicant must have Salvadoran nationality or residence, and the applicant must have never been refused a visa (unless such refusal was subsequently overcome or waived). 

Qualified applicants can arrange to submit their documents through the courier service via the U.S. Embassy’s appointment website or the call center (2113-3122 or 2113-3130). All applicants, including those qualifying for an interview waiver, must still complete the online application (DS-160) and pay the visa fee (USD 185). Applicants applying for a visa via the interview waiver process are reminded that the consular officer may still require an in-person interview on a case-by-case basis for any reason. 

Currency

The legal currency in El Salvador is the U.S. Dollar. Bitcoin is also a valid form of payment. Credit cards are widely accepted by most stores and restaurants in major cities, particularly those located in shopping centers. Visa is the most accepted brand, followed by Master Card and American Express. Some stores may ask for an ID when paying with a credit card.

ATMs are in shopping centers, major hotels, and convenience stores, at gas stations, and inside or outside banks.

A 13% Value Added Tax (VAT) applies to all purchases, which is included in most prices. A 10-12% tip is typically included in restaurant invoices. It is customary to leave a cash tip if one is omitted.

Telecommunications/Electronics

There are no government restrictions on internet access, which is available in public places throughout the country. Wi-Fi is also available at international hotels, airports, popular restaurants, and business areas in the main cities, including San Salvador, San Miguel, and Santa Ana. The postal service system does not meet international standards; however, numerous private courier services, including DHL, FedEx, and UPS, operate in the market. 

SIGET (Electricity and Communications Regulator) publishes a report with statistical information grouped by its main areas (landlines, mobile, internet, and costs). 

Telecommunication companies that provide fixed phone line service:

• CTE, S.A. de C.V.[NF14.1]
• El Salvador Network, S.A.
• GCA Telecom, S.A. de C.V. (GCA)
• Telecomunicaciones de America (TELECAM)
• Telemovil El Salvador, S.A. (TIGO)
• Digicel, S.A. de C.V.
• General International Telecom de El Salvador
• CTE Telecom Personal (CLARO)

Providers of Mobile service:

• CTE Telecom Personal (CLARO)
• Digicel, S.A. de C.V.
• Telemovil El Salvador, S.A. (TIGO)
• General International Telecom de El Salvador
• Intelfon, S.A. de C.V. (RED)
   

Providers of cable and satellite service:

• CTE Telecom Personal (CLARO)
• Telemovil El Salvador, S.A. (TIGO)
• SKY 
• Cable Color El Salvador, S.A. de C.V.
   

Mobile phone providers offer roaming services. To avoid high roaming charges, consider purchasing a pre-paid SIM card from major cell phone providers (Tigo, Movistar, Claro, and Digicel). An ID card or passport is required to buy a SIM card. There is 3G coverage in most of the country and 4G in the main cities. 

The electrical plug and outlet, as well as the voltage (110-120 volts), are the same as in the U.S. The primary socket type is North American non-grounded.

Transportation

U.S. airlines with international flights to El Salvador include American Airlines, United Airlines, Delta, Frontier, and Spirit. The Colombian airline Avianca offers direct flights to and from major cities in the United States, with El Salvador serving as its regional hub. Low-cost airline Volaris also provides direct flights to/from the United States.

Most hotels offer airport shuttle services for their guests at rates ranging from USD 25 to USD 45 for a one-way trip. Taxi services, generally provided within the perimeter of deluxe hotels, are mostly reliable. Uber and inDrive are available. Public transportation is not recommended. Renting a car in El Salvador is an option; however, car accidents are among the most common causes of serious injury. Avoid driving at night, plan alternative routes, and always wear your seatbelt.

Language

Spanish is the official language. English is spoken in some business circles. Non-Spanish-speaking business travelers should consider hiring an interpreter for meetings to ensure effective communication

Health

Travelers can check the latest health information on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. It provides the most recent health advisories, immunization recommendations, and requirements, as well as advice on food and drinking water safety for specific regions and countries. A booklet entitled “Health Information for International Travel” (HHS publication number CDC-95-8280) is available from the U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402, and can be ordered by telephone at (202) 512-1800. You may also reach the CDC’s hotline at 1-800-CDC-INFO. 

The following are some helpful health tips while you are in El Salvador: 

• Most well-known restaurants in El Salvador serve safe food and beverages, but lettuce, cabbage, and other uncooked ground vegetables pose a risk of bacterial dysentery and parasitic infection. 
• As in any part of the world, one must use common sense. Hot food should be eaten hot, and cold food should be eaten cold.
• Meat, pork, and chicken should be cooked thoroughly. 
• Bottled drinks are considered safe. Tap water is not potable. Commercially available bottled water from the Agua Cristal, Alpina, and Las Perlitas plants in El Salvador is considered safe for consumption; however, ensure the heat-molded seal on the bottle has not been broken. 
• All the reputable restaurants in El Salvador use ice made from filtered water, which is considered safe.
• Insect repellent should be used liberally when outdoors. There has been a sharp rise in dengue fever, chikungunya, and Zika in Central America. 
   

Yellow Fever Immigration Requirement for El Salvador Entry/Exit: All travelers entering or exiting El Salvador from certain risk countries in Latin America and Africa must show proof of vaccination against yellow fever. For an updated list of countries, please visit the Ministry of Health. The vaccination must have been administered at least 10 days before entry into El Salvador. The requirement does not affect travelers who are transiting through El Salvador. The U.S. Embassy encourages all travelers to ensure they meet all immigration requirements before traveling. For further information on the requirements, don’t hesitate to get in touch with the Salvadoran Immigration Office (DGME): 

Dirección General de Migración y Extranjería (DGME) 
Centro de Gobierno. 9ª Calle Poniente y final 15 Avenida Norte 
Edificio Ministerio de Gobernación, Centro de Gobierno, San Salvador, El Salvador 
Tel.: (503) 2526-3000 or (503) 2213-7800 
E mail: atencion.usuarios@seguridad.gob.sv 

Chikungunya, Dengue, and Zika: Chikungunya, dengue, and Zika are present in El Salvador. Most common symptoms include fever, rash, severe headache, joint pain, and muscle or bone pain. Prevention is essential as there are no specific treatments for chikungunya or dengue, and vaccines are still unavailable. It is recommended to use repellents, cover exposed skin, and sleep in rooms with screened or air-conditioning. The Aedes mosquitoes that carry these illnesses are primarily day-biting and often live in homes and hotel rooms, especially under beds, bathrooms, and closets. Malaria is now uncommon in El Salvador, but travelers to rural areas in the departments of Ahuachapán, Santa Ana, and La Unión should be aware of the potential for infection by Plasmodium vivax. For further information on yellow fever, dengue, and chikungunya, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. 

Medical Services

Although many physicians in El Salvador are highly trained, hospital emergency rooms and clinics are generally not equipped and maintained to U.S. standards. Private hospitals are recommended and accept credit cards. A list of medical providers by specialty is maintained by the American Citizens Services Unit of the Embassy here; however, the embassy does not guarantee any outcomes and cannot pay for services provided by these providers. Travelers should arrange for medical insurance and evacuation before arrival.

For further information on vaccinations in El Salvador, please visit the CDC website.  

Local time, business hours, and holidays

Standard time zone: UTC/CMT –6 hours. El Salvador does not follow daylight savings time. Working hours in the private sector usually are from 8:00 am to 5:30 pm and in the government sector from 7:30 am to 3:30 pm.

Table: Holidays Observed in El Salvador

Salvadoran government offices remain closed for an entire week during Holy Week, Feast of San Salvador Holidays (early August), and between Christmas and New Year’s Eve. Many offices are closed from December 15 to the end of the first week in January. U.S. firms should refrain from visiting the country for business purposes during these periods. 

Climate

The climate in San Salvador is suitable for summer clothing year-round, with an occasional need for a sweater in the evening in December and January. The climate is tropical, rainy season (May to October) and a dry season (November to April).

Temporary Entry of Materials or Personal Belongings

Customs may authorize the temporary entry of foreign merchandise with a temporary or partial suspension of duties for specific purposes under the condition that they are re-exported within the time allowed and without any modification.

Those who plan to live and work in El Salvador for an extended period will need to obtain temporary residency, which is renewed periodically, depending on the duration granted in the residency permit. Under Article 11 of the Investment Law, foreign investors with investments equal to or greater than 4,000 minimum monthly wages have the right to receive an “Investor’s Residence,” which permits them to work and reside in the country. Such residency can be requested within 30 days of registering the investment. The residency permit covers both the investor and their family and is issued for a period of one year, subject to annual extension. There are few restrictions on the professional and technical jobs that foreigners can hold.

American investors seeking permanent residence in El Salvador or interested in obtaining a multiple-entry visa should review the requirements and fees at the DGME (General Directorate for Migration and Foreigners).