---
title: United States visa for citizens of El Salvador
description: "Citizens of El Salvador need a visa for the United States and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Stay up to 180 days. Fee: $185. Processing: 7–30 days. Documents checklist and application steps."
canonical: https://nowah.xyz/visa/united-states/el-salvador
lastModified: 2026-09-05
---

# United States visa for citizens of El Salvador

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.*

Official application site: https://ceac.state.gov/genniv/

## 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

- **Valid passport** (Identity): Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond intended stay
- **DS-160 confirmation page** (Identity): Online nonimmigrant visa application form confirmation
- **Visa application fee receipt** (Supporting): Proof of payment of the MRV fee ($185)
- **Photo** (Identity): 5x5 cm color photo meeting U.S. visa requirements
- **Appointment confirmation letter** (Supporting): Printed from the appointment scheduling website
- **Bank statement** (Financial): Recent 6 months to show sufficient funds
- **Employment letter** (Employment, optional): Letter from employer stating position, salary, and leave approval
- **Travel itinerary** (Travel, optional): Flights and hotel reservations
- **Proof of ties to home country** (Supporting, optional): Property deeds, family certificates, or other evidence of return intention
- **Previous U.S. visas** (Supporting, 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

## FAQs

### 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](https://ceac.state.gov/genniv/)

## More

- [United States visa for every passport](/visa/united-states)
- [Every destination for El Salvador passport holders](/visa/passport/el-salvador)