El Salvador passport → United States

United States visa for citizens of El Salvador

Embassy / VFSB1/B2 Visitor Visa

Citizens of El Salvador need a visa for the United States and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre.

Verified · Last checked 2026-09-05. Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.

Key facts

Entry route	Embassy / VFS · B1/B2 Visitor Visa
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stay	Up to 180 days
Visa validity	3650 days
Entries	Multiple entry
Processing time	7–30 days
Government fee	$185
Passport validity	At least 6 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Required
Proof of funds	Bank statements, pay stubs, or other evidence of financial means

How to apply

1
Complete DS-160 form online
Fill out the Nonimmigrant Visa Application form on the CEAC website
2
Pay the visa application fee
Pay the non-refundable MRV fee of $185 via authorized payment methods
3
Schedule an interview appointment
Book an interview at the U.S. Embassy in San Salvador through the appointment system
4
Gather required documents
Collect passport, DS-160 confirmation, photo, fee receipt, appointment letter, and supporting documents
5
Attend the visa interview
Arrive at the embassy on time for biometrics (fingerprints) and interview with a consular officer
6
Wait for processing
Visa processing takes 3-5 business days on average after interview
7
Collect passport with visa
If approved, passport will be returned via courier or pickup as chosen

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid passport
Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond intended stay
DS-160 confirmation page
Online nonimmigrant visa application form confirmation
Photo
5x5 cm color photo meeting U.S. visa requirements

Travel

Travel itinerary
Optional
Flights and hotel reservations

Financial

Bank statement
Recent 6 months to show sufficient funds

Employment

Employment letter
Optional
Letter from employer stating position, salary, and leave approval

Supporting

Visa application fee receipt
Proof of payment of the MRV fee ($185)
Appointment confirmation letter
Printed from the appointment scheduling website
Proof of ties to home country
Optional
Property deeds, family certificates, or other evidence of return intention
Previous U.S. visas
Optional
If applicable, copies of previous visas

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: No specific minimum, but must cover trip expenses

Bank statements
Pay stubs
Tax returns

Evidence of strong financial ties to home country is important

Good to know

Visa interview is mandatory for El Salvador citizens
Processing times vary; check embassy website for current wait times

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient ties to home country

Provide strong evidence of employment, family, or property in El Salvador

Incomplete or incorrect application

Double-check DS-160 and ensure all information matches documents

FAQ

Do citizens of El Salvador need a visa for the United States?

Citizens of El Salvador need a visa for the United States and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: B1/B2 Visitor Visa.

How long can citizens of El Salvador stay in the United States?

Up to 180 days.

How much does the United States visa cost for citizens of El Salvador?

Government fee: $185.

How long does United States visa processing take?

Typically 7–30 days.

What documents do citizens of El Salvador need for the United States?

Valid passport; DS-160 confirmation page; Visa application fee receipt; Photo; Appointment confirmation letter; Bank statement; and 4 more depending on your situation.

How long must my passport be valid for the United States?

At least 6 months.

Where do I apply?

On the official site: https://ceac.state.gov/genniv/

Sources

ceac.state.gov

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