Skip to content

Visitor & short-stay visas

Salvadoran Special Entry Permit (PEI / eVisa)

An online permit for visa-required nationals who cannot obtain a consular or consulted visa, allowing them to travel to El Salvador without visiting a consulate.

Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
Book a consultation

Under review — check current rules

Validity period and authorised length of stay are not stated on the official PEI service page and should be confirmed.

Important information

Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official El Salvador government website before you apply.
On this page
Official name
Permiso Especial de Ingreso (PEI)
Route type
Online entry permit (in lieu of consular/consulted visa)
Cost
US$100.00
Where to apply
elsalvadorpei.migracion.gob.sv
Maximum stay
Up to 180 days
Approved applicants can obtain up to 180 days of legal stay in El Salvador, per the DGME.
Who it applies to
Nationals of category B and C countries
The DGME describes a list of around 110 nationalities that require a visa and can use the PEI.
How the permit is issued
Stamped in the passport on arrival
The authorised permit is stamped into the traveller's passport when they enter El Salvador.
Application process
Four online steps
User registration, completing the application, tracking the request, and email notification of the outcome.
Decision notified by
Email
Outcome can be approved, conditionally approved (prevenida), denied or cancelled.

Who it is for

  • Visa-required foreign nationals who cannot access a Salvadoran consulate
  • Applicants affected by force majeure or the absence of consular services

How to apply

  • Check whether your nationality requires a visa
  • Create an account at the PEI portal (elsalvadorpei.migracion.gob.sv)
  • Complete the online application and upload required documents
  • Pay the US$100 fee and await the decision by email

Requirements

  • Be a foreign national of a nationality that requires a visa to enter El Salvador (category B or C countries)
  • Be unable to obtain a consular or consulted visa — for example because there is no Salvadoran consulate accessible to you, or due to force majeure
  • Hold a valid passport, since the approved permit is stamped into your passport on arrival
  • Meet the legal requirements set by the DGME for the permit to be issued
  • Create an account and submit the application through the official PEI online platform

Documents you may need

The DGME does not publish a fixed list of supporting documents for the PEI; the specific documents are requested inside the online application and can vary with your circumstances and purpose of travel.

  • A valid passport (the permit is stamped into it on entry)
  • Any additional supporting documents the online application requests for your particular case

Frequently asked questions

  • According to the DGME, approved applicants can obtain up to 180 days of legal stay in El Salvador. The permit is stamped into your passport when you arrive.

Official sources

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.

Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.

Related Salvadoran visas

Book a consultation