Brian Geek
Here is a list of countries and territories that Salvadoran citizens can visit without obtaining a visa in advance:
El Salvador Passport Visa Free Countries
Europe:
- Albania
- Andorra
- Austria
- Belarus
- Belgium
- Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Bulgaria
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Ireland
- Italy
- Kosovo
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Moldova
- Monaco
- Montenegro
- Netherlands
- North Macedonia
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania
- Russia
- San Marino
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Ukraine
- United Kingdom
- Vatican City
Asia:
- Georgia
- Israel
- Japan
- Malaysia
- Philippines
- Singapore
- South Korea
- Turkey
- Uzbekistan
North America:
- Bahamas
- Barbados
- Belize
- Costa Rica
- Dominica
- Dominican Republic
- Guatemala
- Haiti
- Honduras
- Jamaica
- Nicaragua
- Panama
- Saint Kitts and Nevis
- Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
- Trinidad and Tobago
South America:
- Argentina
- Brazil
- Chile
- Colombia
- Ecuador
- Paraguay
- Peru
- Uruguay
Oceania:
- Micronesia
Africa:
- Gambia
- Mauritius
Please note that visa requirements can change, and the duration of visa-free stays varies by country. It’s advisable to check the latest entry requirements with the embassy or consulate of your destination country before traveling.
What Countries Do El Salvador Citizens Need A Visa For?
- Canada: Salvadoran citizens must obtain a visa before traveling to Canada.
- United States: A visa is required for entry into the United States.
- United Kingdom: Salvadoran citizens need to apply for a visa to visit the UK.
- Australia: A visa is necessary for travel to Australia.
- China: A visa must be obtained prior to traveling to China.
- Russia: Salvadoran travelers are required to have a visa to enter Russia.
- India: A visa is required for entry into India.
- Egypt: Salvadoran citizens need a visa to visit Egypt.
- Serbia: A visa is required for Salvadoran travelers to enter Serbia.
- Turks and Caicos Islands: Salvadoran citizens must obtain a visa before traveling to the Turks and Caicos Islands.
It’s important to note that visa requirements can change, and some countries may offer electronic visas (eVisas) or visas on arrival. Additionally, starting from the summer of 2025, the European Union will implement the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), requiring travelers from visa-exempt countries, including El Salvador, to obtain an ETIAS authorization before visiting Schengen Area countries.
Do Salvadorans Need Visa For America?
Yes, Salvadoran citizens are required to obtain a visa to enter the United States. El Salvador is not part of the U.S. Visa Waiver Program, which allows citizens of certain countries to travel to the U.S. for tourism or business without a visa for stays of up to 90 days.
Therefore, Salvadorans must apply for a visa appropriate to the purpose of their visit, such as a tourist (B-2) or business (B-1) visa. The standard nonimmigrant visa issued to Salvadoran citizens typically has a validity of up to 10 years and allows for multiple entries during that period.
It’s important to note that even for short transits through U.S. airports, Salvadoran travelers need a transit (C-1) visa. This visa permits a stay of up to 29 days while transiting through the United States.
To apply for a U.S. visa, Salvadoran citizens should complete the Nonimmigrant Visa Application (Form DS-160), pay the applicable visa fee, and schedule an interview at the U.S. Embassy in San Salvador. Required documents typically include a valid passport, a recent photograph, and evidence supporting the purpose of the trip, financial means, and ties to El Salvador to assure return after the visit.
For the most current information and guidance on the visa application process, it’s advisable to consult the official website of the U.S. Embassy in El Salvador or the U.S. Department of State’s travel pages
Do Salvadorans Need Visa For Europe?
Salvadoran citizens can travel to Schengen Area countries in Europe without a visa for short stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
However, starting from 2024, Salvadoran travelers will need to obtain an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) authorization before visiting Schengen countries.
ETIAS is an electronic travel authorization aimed at enhancing security and will be mandatory for citizens of visa-exempt countries, including El Salvador. The application process is expected to be straightforward, requiring a valid passport and payment of a fee. Once approved, the ETIAS authorization will be valid for multiple short-term stays over a period of three years or until the passport expires. For stays longer than 90 days, such as for work or study purposes, Salvadoran citizens will need to apply for a national visa specific to the country they intend to visit. It’s advisable to check the specific entry requirements of each European country before traveling, as regulations can change.
Countries That Gives Visa On Arrival For Salvadoran Passport Holders?
- Kenya: Visa-on-arrival valid for 3 months; fee: USD 50.
- Bolivia: Visa-on-arrival valid for 90 days; fee: USD 52.
- Bosnia and Herzegovina: Visa-on-arrival valid for 90 days.
- Nicaragua: Visa-on-arrival valid for 90 days; fee: USD 10.
- Zambia: Visa-on-arrival valid for 90 days; fee: USD 50.
- Egypt: Visa-on-arrival valid for 30 days; fee: USD 15.
- Sri Lanka: Visa-on-arrival valid for 30 days.
Additionally, Salvadoran citizens can obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) or eVisa for countries like Sri Lanka, which allows for a stay of up to 60 days.
Traveling To UK For Salvadoran Passport Holders?
Traveling to the United Kingdom (UK) as a Salvadoran passport holder requires understanding the visa requirements, the process, and key aspects of travel to ensure a smooth journey. Salvadoran citizens, like most non-European Economic Area (EEA) nationals, generally need a visa to enter the UK unless they qualify for certain exemptions.
For Salvadoran nationals, a visa is typically required to enter the UK. The specific visa required depends on the purpose of the trip. These include:
a. Tourist Visa (Standard Visitor Visa)
If you are visiting the UK for tourism, visiting family or friends, or attending a short-term course, you will likely need a Standard Visitor Visa. This visa is generally valid for six months, but in some cases, it may be issued for a longer period (up to 10 years, though it still allows stays of no more than six months at a time).
b. Business Visa
If you plan to attend business meetings, conferences, or other related activities, you will need a Business Visitor Visa. It’s also essential to demonstrate that your primary purpose is business-related and that you do not intend to work in the UK.
c. Study Visa
If you intend to study in the UK, you will need to apply for a Tier 4 (General) Student Visa. You must have been accepted into a recognized educational institution and meet specific financial requirements to support your studies.
d. Work Visa
Salvadoran nationals who have a job offer from a UK employer and meet the salary and skills requirements may apply for a work visa under the Tier 2 category. This allows individuals to live and work in the UK for a specific employer for a defined period.
e. Transit Visa
If you are passing through the UK on your way to another country, you might require a transit visa, depending on your nationality and the specifics of your journey.
2. Visa Application Process
To apply for a UK visa, Salvadoran nationals will need to follow these steps:
a. Online Application
The visa application process starts online. Visit the official UK government website (gov.uk) to fill out the visa application form. Each visa category has a specific form, so ensure that you complete the correct one based on your purpose of travel.
b. Documents Required
Along with your completed application, you will need to submit various supporting documents. The typical documents for a UK visa include:
- A valid Salvadoran passport.
- Proof of sufficient funds to support your stay.
- A confirmed return ticket or proof of onward travel.
- Evidence of your accommodation in the UK.
- Any additional documents specific to your visa category, such as a letter of invitation for a visitor visa or a Certificate of Sponsorship for a work visa.
c. Visa Fee
The visa fee depends on the type of visa you are applying for. The standard visitor visa typically costs around £95, while other visa types may have different fees. Payment is made online during the application process.
d. Biometric Information
As part of the application process, Salvadoran applicants are required to provide biometric information (fingerprints and a photograph) at a local visa application center. This step is essential for the processing of your application.
e. Visa Interview
In some cases, the UK visa authorities may require an interview. However, this is not common for most standard visas. If required, the UK authorities will notify you about the interview details.
3. Health and Insurance
Salvadoran nationals traveling to the UK must ensure that they have appropriate travel health insurance. Healthcare in the UK is not free for visitors, except for emergency treatment. It is advisable to purchase travel insurance that covers potential health costs during your stay.
4. Arrival and Immigration Procedures
Upon arrival in the UK, Salvadoran travelers will go through immigration control. You will need to present your passport and the visa, as well as any other relevant documentation that supports your travel purpose (such as a letter of invitation or accommodation details). UK immigration officers may ask questions about the purpose of your visit and the length of stay.
If you are visiting for a short-term purpose, such as tourism, it’s important to show that you have sufficient funds and a return ticket to assure the authorities that you plan to leave the UK after your visit.
5. Stay Duration and Extension
For most visitors, the maximum stay is six months. If you want to extend your stay, you must apply for an extension before your visa expires. Note that extending a visitor visa is not always possible, and it’s essential to meet specific requirements to qualify for an extension.
6. Tips for Salvadoran Travelers
- Apply Early: The visa application process can take several weeks, so it’s essential to apply well in advance of your planned travel date.
- Documents: Ensure you have all the necessary documents to avoid delays. Missing or incorrect documents can lead to your visa being rejected.
- Travel Insurance: Given the cost of healthcare in the UK, having adequate travel insurance is vital to avoid financial difficulties in case of illness or injury.
- Respect Visa Conditions: Be sure to adhere to the conditions of your visa to avoid overstaying, as this could affect your ability to visit the UK in the future.
Conclusion
Traveling around the world for Salvadoran passport holders involves a thorough visa application process. By carefully selecting the appropriate visa, preparing the required documentation, and following the application steps, Salvadoran nationals can enjoy a smooth and successful visit to their destinations.