El Salvador

Country Info

El Salvador lies on Central America’s Pacific coast, with landscapes ranging from volcanic highlands and coffee plantations to coastal towns and surf beaches. San Salvador, the capital, is the country’s principal urban and business centre.  

The US dollar is its official currency, while the country’s interest in digital finance has attracted attention from investors and entrepreneurs alike. Its Freedom Passport program offers a contribution-based route to citizenship for eligible applicants and their families.

For internationally minded families, Salvadoran citizenship offers a connection to Central America and broader travel opportunities. The Freedom Passport combines family inclusion with a contribution route payable in Bitcoin or Tether, supported by a defined application and due diligence process.

The capital of the country is San Salvador

The currency is the US Dollar (USD)

Population of over 6.39 million

Benefits of

El Salvador

CBI Program

Investing in a second citizenship provides greater global mobility, financial freedom, tax advantages, and access to a secure, high-quality lifestyle, all while ensuring long-term security for you and your family.

Greater travel flexibility

Salvadoran passport holders have visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 130+ destinations, subject to each destination’s entry requirements.

Citizenship for the family

Include your spouse and children under 18 in the same application, helping your family plan its next chapter together.

A defined processing timeframe

Expected processing takes 3 to 4 months. The final timeline depends on the completeness of the application, due diligence and government processing.

A distinctive contribution route

The qualifying USD 1,000,000 contribution is payable in Bitcoin (BTC) or Tether (USDT), providing a route suited to applicants who hold digital assets.

A connection to Central America

Establish a long-term connection to a country known for its Pacific coastline, coffee-growing highlands and interest in digital finance.

Requirements for El Salvador CBI

To apply, the main applicant must:

Be at least 18 years old.

Provide the required application and supporting documents.

Complete government due diligence checks.

Make the qualifying non-refundable contribution following approval.

Complete the required biometrics and citizenship issuance procedures.

Eligible family members: spouse and children under 18. Our advisors will explain the documentation and steps relevant to your family.

EL Salvador Contribution Route

The Freedom Passport requires a non-refundable contribution of USD 1,000,000, payable in Bitcoin (BTC) or Tether (USDT). Additional government and professional fees apply.  

Our advisors will provide a personalised breakdown of the contribution and applicable fees before you proceed.

Application Process

The expected processing time is 3 to 4 months. Passport Legacy guides you through the following five stages, from the initial assessment to citizenship and passport issuance.

Initial assessment

Speak with a Passport Legacy client advisor to discuss your objectives and assess your eligibility. Our team conducts preliminary due diligence checks.

Onboarding and document preparation

Complete the onboarding process and pay the agreed retainer fees. Our team guides you through the required documentation and prepares your application.

Submission and due diligence

Your application is submitted through the online portal, and government due diligence is completed.

Approval and Contribution

Following approval, you make the qualifying contribution in accordance with the program’s instructions.

Biometrics and passport issuance

The required biometrics are completed, followed by issuance of the citizenship certificate and passport.

Overview of

El Salvador

A Pacific coast setting

El Salvador’s Pacific coastline is known for its surf beaches and coastal communities. From quiet stretches of shore to established surfing destinations, the coast is an important part of the country’s appeal.

Overview of

El Salvador

Volcanic landscapes and lakes

Volcanoes and crater lakes shape El Salvador’s interior. Santa Ana volcano and Lake Coatepeque are among the country’s best-known natural landmarks, offering a different perspective from the coast.

Overview of

El Salvador

A tradition of coffee growing

Coffee is closely associated with El Salvador’s highland regions. Plantations, small towns and mountain scenery provide opportunities to explore the country’s agricultural traditions and local food.

Overview of

El Salvador

A base in Central America

San Salvador is the country’s capital and principal business centre.  For families and entrepreneurs considering a connection to Central America, it offers an introduction to the country’s commercial and urban life.

Overview of

El Salvador

An interest in digital finance

El Salvador has attracted international attention for its approach to digital assets. The Freedom Passport’s acceptance of contributions in Bitcoin or Tether is a distinctive feature of its citizenship pathway.

El Salvador

Citizenship by Investment FAQ's

What is El Salvador’s Freedom Passport program?

The Freedom Passport offers eligible investors and their families a pathway to Salvadoran citizenship through a qualifying non-refundable contribution, subject to government due diligence and approval.

How much does El Salvador citizenship by investment cost?

The minimum non-refundable contribution is USD 1,000,000. Additional government and professional fees apply. Passport Legacy can provide a breakdown based on your application and family circumstances.

How long does the application process take?

Expected processing takes 3 to 4 months. Timelines depend on the completeness of your documentation, due diligence and government processing.

Who can be included in the application?

The main applicant must be at least 18 years old and may include a spouse and children under 18.

Can I make the contribution in cryptocurrency?

Yes. The qualifying contribution is payable in Bitcoin (BTC) or Tether (USDT), in accordance with the program’s payment instructions.

Is the contribution refundable?

No. The qualifying USD 1,000,000 contribution is non-refundable.

Do I need to purchase property?

No property purchase is required for the contribution route described here. Applicants qualify through the required contribution and completion of the application process.

Do I need to visit El Salvador?

The program information indicates that no visit to El Salvador is required. Biometrics must still be completed; your advisor will confirm where and how this step is arranged for your application.

What travel access does a Salvadoran passport provide?

Salvadoran passport holders have visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 130+ destinations. Entry permissions, permitted stays and other conditions vary by destination and can change.

When is the qualifying contribution made?

Under the process outlined here, the qualifying contribution is made after approval and before completion of biometrics and citizenship and passport issuance.

Other Programs We Offer

Passport Legacy is a trusted residence and citizenship by an investment firm recognized for delivering best immigration services globally. Passport Legacy specializing in citizenship and residence by investment programs, comprises internationally licensed lawyers, investment advisors, and immigration experts. Our dedicated team of professionals are recognized for delivering the best dual citizenship,passport and visa services. Trust Passport Legacy to be your reliable partner to support on your path to a successful global future.