El Salvador Digital Nomad Visa: How to Apply and Requirements
Not long ago, El Salvador was one of Central America’s best-kept secrets. Today, it’s quickly gaining traction as a top spot for digital nomads... And it's easy to see why with its low cost of living, stunning nature, and a government eager to welcome remote workers.
El Salvador recently introduced its official Digital Nomad Visa (Visa Nómada Digital). This visa offers remote professionals the chance to live legally in El Salvador for up to three years, while enjoying significant tax benefits.
This guide will walk you through every step of the process, from eligibility and application to daily life and long-term opportunities in the country.
What is the El Salvador Digital Nomad Visa?
El Salvador's Digital Nomad Visa is a government-supported residence permit designed for remote workers, freelancers, and online business owners who earn their income abroad. The visa initially grants a 12-month stay, with the option to renew for up to two more years, without needing to leave the country during the renewal process.
This program is part of El Salvador’s broader initiative to attract international talent and boost its economy by welcoming location-independent professionals looking for stability, sunshine, and savings.
Who Can Apply?
One of the most attractive features of this visa is its global accessibility. Applicants from any country in the world can apply, provided they meet the financial requirements.
Minimum income thresholds:
- Single applicants: $1,460 per month
- Married couples: +$500
- For each dependent child: +$300
For example, a couple with one child would need to show a monthly income of $2,260.
Importantly, all income must come from outside of El Salvador. That can include:
- Remote employment
- Freelance projects
- Passive income streams (such as investments or royalties)
What Documents Will You Need?
To support your application, you’ll need to provide the following:
- A valid passport (must remain valid for at least 6 months beyond visa expiration)
- Police clearance certificates from any country you’ve lived in during the past two years
- International health insurance covering a minimum of $50,000
- Proof of income, which can include bank statements, invoices, contracts, or payslips
- Completed online application form, accurately filled out
How to Apply for the Visa
There are two main ways to apply: online through the digital platform or in person via a consulate. Each method has its pros and cons, but the online option is faster and more convenient for most digital nomads.
Online Application
You can apply directly at: www.evisaelsalvador.com (Official digital visa application platform by Migración y Soluciones)
Steps to apply online:
- Visit the site and select "Digital Nomad Visa"
- Fill out your personal and professional information
- Upload the required documents in PDF or JPEG format
- Pay the $100 application fee using a credit card or PayPal
- Receive your application confirmation number by email (usually within 24 hours)
- Wait for processing—typically 5 to 9 business days
- In a hurry? Choose the express option for 24-hour processing for an additional $59.90
Why choose the online route?
- No need to translate your documents into Spanish
- The entire process can be completed in about 5 minutes
- No embassy visits or appointments required
- Document translation and notarization are handled within the system, at no extra cost
Consulate Application
If you prefer or need to apply through a consulate:
- Schedule an appointment at the nearest El Salvador consulate
- Prepare notarized Spanish translations of your documents
- Application fees vary by location, usually between $70–$140
- Processing time ranges from 15 to 60 days
Visa Duration and Renewal
The visa is initially valid for 12 months, with the possibility of renewing it for up to two more years.
To apply for renewal within 30 days before expiration, you must submit updated proof of income and valid health insurance. You can stay abroad for up to 180 days per year and still qualify for renewal.
Permanent Residency & Citizenship
If you fall in love with life in El Salvador and want to stay longer, after 3 consecutive years of holding the Digital Nomad Visa, you're eligible to apply for permanent residency.
To apply for citizenship, you’ll need to pass the DELE B1 Spanish language exam.
Other ways to gain residency include securing local employment with a minimum salary of $700/month or investing in local real estate with a value of at least $100,000
Tax Advantages for Digital Nomads
El Salvador is particularly appealing from a tax perspective. If your income is generated outside the country, you’ll pay 0% income tax.
However, keep in mind that there is a 13% VAT on consumption within the country (restaurants, hotels, local purchases, etc.).
Daily Life in El Salvador as a Digital Nomad
El Salvador offers a unique mix of natural beauty, cultural richness, and affordability.
A 1-bedroom apartment in San Salvador typically costs between $300 and $500/month, while high-speed fiber connections up to 100 Mbps are widely available. Also, a private check-up in a reputable hospital costs around $50–$80.
Top areas for remote workers include:
- El Tunco: Surf-friendly town with a relaxed vibe and beach bars
- Santa Tecla: Great infrastructure, coworking spaces, and cafés with strong Wi-Fi
How Does It Compare to Other Nomad Visas?
If you're trying to decide between El Salvador and other digital nomad destinations, it's helpful to compare the key requirements.
El Salvador offers one of the most attractive visa options with a 3-year total duration (1 year plus renewals), a relatively low monthly income requirement of $1,460, and no income tax on foreign earnings.
In contrast, Portugal’s digital nomad visa is valid for 1 year and requires a significantly higher monthly income of around €2,800, with an estimated 20% income tax. Mexico also offers a 1-year visa, but you'll need to show a monthly income of approximately $2,595, and you may be subject to around 15% income tax on certain income sources.
These comparisons show that El Salvador is a competitive choice, especially for freelancers and remote workers seeking a tax-friendly environment with minimal financial entry barriers.
Other Visa Options in El Salvador
If the Digital Nomad Visa doesn’t quite fit your situation, here are some alternatives:
- Tourist Card: Allows up to 90 days of stay, available on arrival for $12
- Rentista Visa: Ideal for those with regular passive income
- Temporary Residence Visas: Based on employment contracts, family ties, or investments
Looking Beyond El Salvador?
If you’re open to exploring other countries, check out these digital nomad visa programs as well:
- Mexico Digital Nomad Visa
- Turkey Digital Nomad Visa
- Albania Digital Nomad Visa
- Portugal Digital Nomad Visa
Are You Ready To Live and Work in El Salvador as a Digital Nomad?
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