Indian passport holders are not eligible for a visa on arrival in El Salvador. Indians must apply for a visa in advance through an appropriate embassy or consulate before traveling. However, once you arrive in El Salvador, you will need to purchase a tourist card for USD 12, which allows you to stay for up to 90 days.
Visa Types Available for Indian Travelers
El Salvador offers the following visa categories for Indian citizens:
- Tourist Visa – for sightseeing, leisure, or visiting friends/family.
- Business Visa – for attending conferences, meetings, or commercial events.
- Transit Visa – required if you’re stopping in El Salvador en route to another country.
Most visas issued are single-entry visas valid for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
Step-by-Step Visa Application Process for Indians
1. Locate the Responsible Embassy
Since El Salvador does not have an embassy in India, Indian travelers must apply via the nearest El Salvador embassy or consulate, which may be located in a neighboring country or managed through a foreign mission (often the embassy in the United States handles these).
2. Fill Out the Application Form
Obtain the official visa application form either from the embassy website or in person. Fill out the form carefully, including:
- Personal details
- Passport information
- Travel dates and purpose
- Accommodation details
3. Gather All Required Documents
(Refer to the document checklist in the next section.)
4. Book Your Appointment
Some consulates require a scheduled appointment, especially if biometric data or interviews are needed.
5. Submit the Application and Pay Visa Fees
Submit your application along with the required documents. Visa processing typically takes 5 to 15 working days. Payments may be accepted in cash, by card, or via bank transfer, depending on the consulate.
6. Wait for Visa Approval
Once approved, your visa will either be stamped in your passport or sent electronically (in the case of an e-visa).
7. Arrival in El Salvador
On arrival, you will be asked to present your:
- Valid passport with visa
- Return or onward ticket
- Proof of accommodation
- USD 12 in cash for the tourist card
Visa and Tourist Card Fees
Here’s a cost breakdown for Indian applicants:
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Visa application fee | ₹2,500 – ₹3,500 approx. |
| Tourist card on arrival (mandatory) | USD 12 (cash only) |
Tip: Carry small denomination USD bills to avoid any issues at the entry point.
Documents Required for El Salvador Visa (India)
Make sure you submit both originals and copies where necessary. Here’s the comprehensive list:
- Valid Passport – Should be valid for at least 6 months from your date of arrival and have minimum 3 blank pages.
- Visa Application Form – Fully completed and signed.
- Photographs (2) – See photo specifications below.
- Cover Letter – Mentioning purpose of visit, intended duration, and travel itinerary.
- Flight Tickets – Confirmed return or onward travel bookings.
- Hotel Booking / Proof of Stay
- Bank Statements – Last 3 to 6 months, showing sufficient balance.
- Income Proof
- Salaried: Pay slips, Form 16 or ITR
- Self-Employed: Business license, ITR, GST certificate
- Travel Insurance – Not mandatory, but highly recommended.
- Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) – May be required depending on embassy/consulate.
- Invitation Letter – If you are visiting family/friends or attending business meetings.
- Supporting Documents – For minors, students, retirees, etc.
Always check with the embassy about additional country-specific requirements.
Photo Specifications for El Salvador Visa
Your photos should match these criteria:
- Size: 35mm × 45mm
- Background: White or light-colored
- Quality: High-resolution, not older than 6 months
- Face Visibility: Full-face visible, no sunglasses or headgear (except for religious reasons)
- Number of Photos: 2 passport-sized photos
Refund Policy for Visa & Tourist Card
- Visa fees are non-refundable, even if your application is rejected or if you cancel your travel plans.
- Some third-party agents may refund a portion of the service charge, but government fees will not be refunded.
- The tourist card fee of USD 12 is also non-refundable after payment, even if you are denied entry.
After Arrival in El Salvado
Once you land in El Salvador:
- Buy the tourist card at the immigration counter by paying USD 12 in cash.
- Keep the card safe—it must be shown if requested during your stay or upon exit.
- Be prepared for questions on your return ticket, accommodation, and purpose of visit.
- Stay within 90 days — for longer stays, an extension must be applied through the immigration office.
Bonus: The tourist card also allows you to travel within the CA-4 region, which includes Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua, using the same 90-day limit.
Important Travel Tips for Indian Citizens
- No visa on arrival – apply in advance from a designated consulate or embassy.
- Keep a hard copy and digital copy of all your documents, including visa and tourist card.
- Carry USD in small denominations – not all ATMs or shops accept Indian cards.
- Avoid overstaying – penalties apply if you exceed your 90-day limit.
- Declare large amounts of cash – more than USD 10,000 must be declared at customs.
- Check health advisories – no mandatory vaccinations unless coming from yellow fever zones.
FAQs About El Salvador Visa for Indians
Q: Can I get a visa on arrival in El Salvador?
A: No, Indian citizens must apply in advance.
Q: Is the tourist card mandatory?
A: Yes, all tourists must buy a USD 12 tourist card at the entry port.
Q: How long is the visa valid?
A: Generally, the visa is valid for up to 90 days, single entry.
Q: Can I travel to other countries with this visa?
A: Yes, you can travel within the CA-4 countries (Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, El Salvador) with the same tourist card.
Q: Is travel insurance necessary?
A: It is not mandatory but highly recommended for safety and medical coverage.
Final Checklist Before Departure
- Confirm embassy or consulate for visa application
- Complete visa form and print two copies
- Get passport-size photos as per required size
- Prepare flight and accommodation details
- Pay visa fees as instructed
- Carry USD 12 for tourist card
- Print and pack all documents in a folder
- Get travel insurance
- Make copies of your passport and visa