El Salvador
Phone Code
+503
Capital
San Salvador
Population
6.3 Million
Native Name
El Salvador
Region
Americas
Central America
Timezone
Central Standard Time (North America
UTC-06:00
On This Page
El Salvador is Central America's smallest and most densely populated country, known for world-class surf breaks, volcanic landscapes, Mayan archaeological sites, and Pacific coastline. San Salvador is the capital and largest city. The country has experienced significant security improvements since 2022 with major reductions in gang-related crime. Visitors are drawn to surf destinations including El Tunco, La Libertad, and El Sunzal (world-renowned surf breaks), Ruta de las Flores (coffee plantations, colonial towns, artisan villages), Lake Coatepeque and Cerro Verde National Park (volcanic crater lake and hiking), Joya de Cerén UNESCO site (preserved Mayan village, 'Pompeii of the Americas'), Tazumal Mayan ruins, Pacific coast beaches, and San Salvador's historic center. El Salvador offers authentic Central American culture, outdoor adventure, and excellent surf.
Visa Requirements for El Salvador
Citizens of 89 countries can visit El Salvador visa-free for up to 180 days, including US, Canada, UK, EU, Australia, and many others. All visitors must hold a passport valid for at least 6 months. Travelers arriving by air or sea must purchase a tourist card upon arrival for $12 USD (cash). Land border arrivals do not require tourist card. Holders of valid visas from US, Canada, or Schengen countries can also enter visa-free. El Salvador participates in the CA-4 Border Control Agreement with Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua, allowing free movement between these countries for up to 90 days (single tourist card covers all four countries). US dollar is official currency. Check current entry requirements as policies may change.
Common Visa Types
Visa-Free Entry (89 Countries)
For citizens of eligible countries including US, Canada, UK, EU, Australia, Japan, and many others for tourism or business.
CA-4 Border Control Agreement
For movement between El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua under single tourist card.
Visa-Free for US/Canada/Schengen Visa Holders
Holders of valid US, Canadian, or Schengen visas can enter El Salvador visa-free even if their nationality normally requires visa.
Tourist Visa (for nationalities requiring visa)
For citizens of countries not included in visa-free list, must apply at Salvadoran embassy or consulate in advance.
Important Travel Information
Cities with missions
Where this country maintains embassies or consulates
Explore different regions and their cities.
El Salvador Embassies Worldwide
Popular Destinations
Top destinations with verified missions
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Embassies in El Salvador
These foreign embassies and consulates are based here. Choose a mission to open its in-depth guide and contact details.
El Salvador
El Salvador
El Salvador
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