Legal Basis of The El Salvador Rentista Visa

You can qualify for El Salvador Residency as a foreign national who has a fixed annuity or income.   

Art. 145 of the Special Law on Migration and Immigration, (the Law)defines a resident annuitant, which, in this context, means the digital nomad visa applicant as a foreign person who receives a monthly, permanent, and stable income that either comes from abroad or is generated from abroad. 

Income from abroad is defined as any income not obtained in El Salvador as per the country’s Income Tax law and regulations. Simply put, you qualify for the DNV by fulfilling these three requirements

• You are a foreigner
• You have a stable and permanent source of income, and
• Such income has been generated or earned abroad.

 Your eligibility to live here as a digital nomad depends on whether you have adequate income or not.

According to Art 108 (5) of the Law, foreigners can qualify for the digital nomad visa by financing their stay here from resources generated from abroad or from the income they earn or from any other lawful income that is earned from external sources.

 Since you won’t be allowed to work here, the income you earn must be earned from a foreign employer. As the name itself suggests, you must be able to perform your duties using digital tools and technologies like a smartphone, laptop, or computer that is connected to the Internet.

Is El Salvador Crypto Friendly?

Under the leadership of President Nayib Bukele, El Salvador has gone through remarkable changes. In recent years the country has transformed itself from one of the most dangerous countries on the planet to arguably one of the safest countries in the western hemisphere according to statistics.

This has encouraged significant investment into the country, tourism is increasing and El Salvador is become a significant player in a number of key emerging industries include the blockchain and crypto sector.

In fact on September 7, 2021, In efforts to decouple its economy from the US dollar El Salvador introduced ‘The Bitcoin Law the became the world’s first country to accept Bitcoin #BTC as legal tender.

The country has since established itself as one of the most Crypto-friendly countries on the planet and is enticing both individuals and corporations to its shores with the countries tax-friendly policies and a supportive regulatory environment. There are no capital gains tax on Crypto for tax residents of El Salvador and on a corporate level there is 0% tax on crypto businesses with Crypto related activities. On top of this El Salvador has removed any income taxes on international investments and transfers.

It is also worth noting that a Crypto-community of expats is forming in La Libertad the beautiful coastline of El Salvador focused around El Zonte, otherwise known as Bitcoin Beach. This micro-location is attracting significant investment as Crypto Millionaires purchase land and real estate.

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What has been called by international organizations as “The #Bitcoin Experiment”, is nothing more than the world watching how mass adoption changes a country’s economy. If it’s for the good, it’s game over for FIAT. El Salvador is the spark that ignites the real revolution. – Nayib Bukele

El Salvador Digital Nomad Visa— Minimum Income Requirements

According to Art. 145 of the Law, the foreign person must have a monthly, permanent, and stable income of an amount that is equal to or more than four times the monthly minimum wages paid to an El Salvadorean worker working in the Commerce and Services sector. 

Currently, the minimum monthly wage for a worker in the Commerce and Services sector is $365. This means you must have a monthly income of at least $1460 to qualify for the El Salvador digital nomad visa. 

Fulfilling this requirement is important because the Law does not permit any resident annuitant or digital nomad visa holder to work here. The only exception to this requirement is working in specialized matters or teaching with the State, municipalities, or autonomous official institutions. 

So, for all practical purposes, you can become eligible for the digital nomad visa only if you have a stable and permanent source of income that exceeds the minimum requirement imposed by El Salvador’s immigration law. 

The minimum income requirement increases to six months for digital nomads being accompanied by two or more persons. This means a family of three or four persons planning to move to El Salvador and live there as digital nomads must have a minimum per-month income of 6 x $365 or $2190.

The Application Process

How to apply for the El Salvador digital nomad visa Application Process

You can apply for the El Salvador digital nomad visa in your nation or by visiting El Salvador on a tourist visa. 

If applying from your own country, then the first step is to book an appointment in El Salvador’s embassy or consulate in your country. 

The next step is to submit the application form with all the required documents. Processing time for the visa application is around 45 days. It can take around 45 days for the process to be completed. If your visa is processed outside, then you must register with the General Directorate within five business days of entering El Salvador. 

The application process and the documents required are the same if you apply for the rentista visa in El Salvador. You must make sure you have a valid status throughout the application process. 

If your tourist visa is expiring, then you must apply for the extension to ensure you don’t stay without a valid visa until the issue of the permit. 

Required Documents

As per Article 110 of the Law and Articles 161 and 166 of the Regulations, you will need to submit the following documents when applying for the digital nomad visa. 

• Application form signed by yourself and accompanying family members. The parent or legal representative will sign on behalf of the minor children.
• Copy of valid passport for you and accompanying members.
• Proof of clean police or criminal record from country of origin and of residence for the past two years before your entry in El Salvador. This will also apply to all accompanying members
• Certified copy of your Marriage Certificate or Affidavit of free union executed before a Salvadoran notary detailing the duration of your relationship with your partner, if applicable.
• Certified copy of the birth certificate of all minor members accompanying you.
• Copy of death certificate, where applicable.
• Proof of financial solvency
• Original certificate from the financial institution where you receive your income along with a copy of the employment contract, if any.
• A signed and sworn declaration that has been executed before a Salvadoran notary detailing your income and its origin along with an undertaking that you will not participate in or carry out any paid activity in El Salvador.
• Proof of health insurance coverage for yourself and accompanying members
• Proof of travel insurance coverage for yourself and accompanying members 

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Physical Presence Requirements

According to Art 148 of the Law, the rentista visa holder must not leave for six consecutive months or a period of six months in a single calendar year. If these residing requirements are not met, then you may lose the digital nomad status in El Salvador. 

Special Advantages

Apart from standard privileges like the right to live here and work remotely for a foreign employer, Art. 146 of the Law specifies certain additional advantages for all rentista visa holders.

• No income tax on foreign incomes
• No customs duties on the import of household goods of value not exceeding $20,000
• No customs duties on the import of a motor vehicle of value not exceeding $25,000. This can be done once in five years and the visa holder can sell the vehicle to any third party with prior permission of the Ministry of Finance

El Salvador Nomad Visa Duration

El Salvador’s digital nomad visa is issued for one year. The visa holder can make multiple entries and exits through the validity of the visa provided he or she does not violate the minimum stay requirement.

Renewals

A person with a valid digital nomad permit can apply for an extension of the visa within 30 calendar days of the visa’s expiry. Apart from the standard documents that were submitted when applying for the visa, the digital worker will have to submit the extension request to extend the visa’s validity by one or two years

Processing Time

Visa processing takes around 45 days. You will get a final decision on your visa or extension application within this period provided you comply with all the requirements of the program.

El Salvador Digital Nomad Visa: Fees

Government Fee for Rentista Visa

• Central American Resident      $70
• Non-Central American Resident           $140

Government Fees for Extension of El Salvador Visa

• Central American Resident for one year $55
• Central American Resident for two years $100
• Non-Central American Resident for one year $125
• Non-Central American Resident for two years $240

Legal Fees

• $2750 USD

Path to Permanent Residency

It is possible to obtain permanent residency in El Salvador through residency programs in El Salvador. The main requirements are related to physical presence.

Anybody who has resided in El Salvador as a temporary resident for three years can apply for permanent residency. To qualify for permanent residence, the applicant must submit the following documents specified in Art. 187 and Art 195 of the Immigration Regulations

• Signed application
• Copy of the passport of self and accompanying family members
• Proof of clean criminal record of country of origin and places of residence for two years before entering El Salvador
• If the applicant has lived in El Salvador for more than three months, then a valid solvency certificate from the National Civil Police of El Salvador
• Affidavit establishing that the applicant will cover the living expenses of self and dependent family members in El Salvador
• A bank certificate demonstrating that the amount of monthly funds received from abroad is equal to or greater than the minimum amount required to qualify for the digital nomad permit.
• Original resolution issued to the applicant by the General Directorate of Internal Revenue of the Ministry of Finance of El Salvador

Path to Citizenship

To be eligible for citizenship must:

• Be at least 18 years of age.
• Have a clean criminal record in El Salvador and internationally.
• A solid Spanish proficiency and a basic understanding of the country’s culture and history.
• Have resided in El Salvador for at least five years (temporary or permanent)

Living in El Salvador as a Digital Nomad

Central American countries can offer experiences unmatched across the world and anybody choosing to enter El Salvador must be prepared to be dazzled by the sheer variety of attractions that the nation offers.

From a sedate life in the coastal plains to exciting adventures in the volcanic uplands in the interiors, this place has it all. Bordering the North Pacific Ocean, surf tourism is a real thing here as the country has some of the best surfing spots in the world.  

Cost Of Living

The Financial Times in 2022 ranked El Salvador at second spot among Central American countries in terms of living conditions and affordability. Living here can be 25% cheaper than other destinations like Costa Rica. From basic amenities like food, shelter, and transport to Internet connectivity, this nation ranks high among all nations offering digital nomad visas in part because nomads on an average western salary can enjoy a high quality of life.

Accomodation

Renting a 1-bedroom apartment in San Salvador in a high-end neighborhood would cost around $500-$700 per month with rental costs getting lower as you move away from urban centers. Popular tourist destinations such as El Zonte AKA Bitcoin beach and El Tunco on the other-hand are significantly more expensive and naturally continue to increase as more foreigners discover the delights of El Salvador.

Food

From spicy and savory Pupusas and Tamales to sweet Pan Dulce, living in El Salvador can be a gastronomic delight, especially if you love street food. Staying here, you can experiment with different cooking styles and introduce a bit of traditional Mayan ingredients and cooking styles.

A typical meal in a local restaurant can cost around $5-$10. Expect to pay 100% more than this in higher-end neighborhoods. The cost of groceries and household essentials is not very high either.

Transportation

Public transportation is cheap and generally reliable. Of course, you have the option of having your vehicle imported into the country with zero customs duties on a value of up to $25,000. This can be a particularly smart choice if you don’t plan on settling in one city and want to move around different parts of the country for the real digital nomads’ experience.

You also have the option of relying on rental cars, although you may need some time to get used to the driving ettiquete, which may be different compared to your home country.

Entertainment

You will be spoiled for choice in terms of fun and entertainment in the country. Some of the popular options include surfing, hiking, diving, museum hopping, and visiting archaeological parks. While other countries too may offer such options, what’s special about El Salvador is that you can do all this and more in a single day.  

If you are a history buff, then you can check out relics and pyramids that are more than 1500 years old. If you want to reconnect with nature, then the natural reserves and parks with waterfalls, beaches, and bays should be on your must-visit list

Best Cities to Live in El Salvador

Santa Ana

The largest urban area in the west, Santa Ana is smaller and cheaper than the capital city of San Salvador. Santa Ana has a bustling startup ecosystem, which makes it a smart choice if you want to live in an urban area outside the capital city.

San Salvador

The capital city is located in the central part of the country and gives you maximum choices in terms of housing and other facilities. If a high-speed Internet connection is vital for your work, then settling in San Salvador can help you work without worrying about unstable connections or low speeds.

La Libertad

If you love hitting the beach during your free time, then La Libertad would be the obvious choice for you. The city is a preferred spot for surf tourists, which means it has a more cosmopolitan setup. However, housing and other facilities can be costly since you would be competing with tourist demand for stay, food, and other facilities.

San Miguel

If La Libertad is all about surfing and beaches, then San Miguel in eastern El Salvador is a historic city with a thriving cultural scene. Art galleries, museums, and cultural events are aplenty here. Further, easy access to national parks and beaches makes it a good choice for those who love the outdoors.

Ahuachapan

Famous for its hot springs, friendly locals, and relaxed lifestyle, this city in the western part of the country is surrounded by coffee plantations. If you love the idea of sipping on excellent coffee after hiking in pristine natural scenery, then Ahuachapan may be a better choice compared to bigger cities.

Pros and Cons of living in El Salvador

Digital nomad visas offer a quick and easy route to enjoy a nomadic lifestyle with the option of applying for long-term residency or even citizenship in the future. All digital nomads must explore the pros and cons of their decisions so that they can enjoy exploring the world even as they continue to work remotely.

Quality of Life:

Digital Nomads in El Salvador can enjoy a high quality of life at good value. You can continue working remotely and shift to this nation with a relaxed lifestyle, friendly people, good food, and lots of natural attractions with multiple programs to qualify for residence.

Cost of Living

Among the least-expensive countries in the region, El Salvador offers a great living experience at a very affordable cost. You can work remotely and have a good and happy life without having to worry about finances or restricting your lifestyle in a foreign country.

Healthcare

El Salvador has become a popular destination for medical tourists, which is worth noting for those exploring residency and even eventual citizenship in the country. Private healthcare is more expensive but more reliable as compared to public hospitals in the country.

Since adequate health insurance is a requirement for approval of your residency application, you and your family will be assured of quality healthcare in El Salvador.

El Salvador Alternative Residency Pathways

Using the digital nomad program to live in El Salvador while earning your monthly salary by working remotely is one of the many options available for those interested in moving to El Salvador. Other options for salaried and business persons include:

1. El Salvador Retirement Visa: While the DNV is restricted to those working remotely for a foreign employer, the retirement visa is open to any applicant who fulfills the minimum income requirement. This option is useful for those with a fixed source of income who wish to lead a retired life in the country.
2. El Salvador Citizenship by Investment Visa: The Freedom Visa offers direct citizenship to those who invest $1 million in the country. This program is unique as it allows applicants to make the minimum investment and obtain citizenship through Bitcoin or USDt cryptocurrencies.
3. El Salvador Investment Visa: This program is open to those investing at least 4,000 times the minimum monthly wage applicable in the country.
4. El Salvador Shareholding Investment Visa: You can obtain a temporary residence by investing at least $10,000 as an equity investment in an El Salvadorean company.
5. El Salvador Traders Visa: This is open to individual traders who are owners of commercial companies that have assets of not less than $250,000.

El Salvador Digital Nomad Visa Frequently asked Questions

How many years do I need to live in El Salvador before applying for citizenship?

In most cases, residents should have resided in the country for five years to be eligible to apply for citizenship. However, Spanish or nationals from Spanish-speaking Latin American countries can apply for citizenship after just one year of residency!

Apply for the El Salvador Digital Nomad Visa with Lincoln Global Partners

Lincoln Global Partners is here to assist you throughout the entire process of getting your digital nomad visa. Contact us for more information via the form below.

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El Salvador Digital Nomad Visa Program : Frequently asked Questions

Checkout our FAQ's or reach out to us directly via the contact form at the bottom of the page with further questions.What is the El Salvador Digital Nomad Visa?

The El Salvador Digital Nomad Visa is a specialized visa that allows remote workers or digital nomads to live and work in El Salvador while performing work for foreign companies or clients. It is part of El Salvador’s initiative to attract global talent, entrepreneurs, and freelancers who can contribute to the local economy while working remotely.

How long is the El Salvador Digital Nomad Visa valid?

The visa is typically valid for 1 year, with the possibility of renewal for an additional period depending on the applicant’s compliance with visa requirements.

Are digital nomads required to pay taxes in El Salvador?

El Salvador does not tax income earned from foreign sources, so digital nomads working for clients or companies outside the country may benefit from tax exemptions. However, it’s recommended to consult with a tax professional to understand your tax obligations based on your home country’s rules.

What is El Salvador Known For?

El Salvador is a Central American country, offering not only for its stunning natural landscapes, including beautiful beaches along the Pacific coast, lush mountains, and active volcanoes but also for its highly attractive taxation & crypto policies.

The country is rich in culture and history, with ancient Mayan ruins, colorful colonial towns, and a vibrant cultural scene. Additionally, El Salvador is recognized for its coffee production, producing some of the finest coffee beans globally.

on September 7, 2021, In efforts to decouple its economy from the US dollar El Salvador introduced ‘The Bitcoin Law the became the world’s first country to accept Bitcoin #BTC as legal tender.

Is El Salvador safe?

Under the leadership of President Nayib Bukele, El Salvador has gone through remarkable changes. In recent years the country has transformed itself from one of the most dangerous countries on the planet to arguably one of the safest countries in the western hemisphere according to statistics.

Can I extend or renew the Digital Nomad Visa?

Yes, the visa can typically be renewed for an additional period. However, renewal is subject to approval, and you must continue to meet the eligibility requirements.

Can I work in the country with the El Salvador Digital Nomad Visa?

No, the Digital Nomad Visa is strictly for remote workers who are employed by foreign companies or serve international clients. If you intend to work for a local employer, a different work visa or permit would be required.

Can I bring my family members with me under the El Salvador Digital Nomad Visa?

Yes, you can bring your immediate family members (spouse and children). However, they will need to apply for a visa or residency permit, and you may need to show additional proof of income to support dependents.

How long does the application process take?

The processing time for the El Salvador Digital Nomad Visa may vary but is usually between 30 to 60 days, depending on the completeness of the application and other factors.