Moving to El Salvador: visas, cost of living & immigrant guide

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Population

6,628,702

Population Growth Rate

0.34%

Population Distribution

• athough it is the smallest country in land area in Central America, El Salvador has a population that is 18 times larger than Belize
• at least 20% of the population lives abroad
• high population density country-wide, with particular concentration around the capital of San Salvador

Urban Population

• population: 75.4% of total population rate of
• urbanization: 1.33% annual rate of change

Population in Major Urban Areas

1.116 million SAN SALVADOR (capital)

Population: Male/Female

• male: 3,172,244
• female: 3,456,458

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Age Structure

• years: 25.3% (male 855,841/female 818,642) 15-64
• years: 66.3% (male 2,077,745/female 2,317,416) 65 years and
• over: 8.4% (male 238,658/female 320,400)

Median Age

• total: 29.7 years
• male: 28.2 years
• female: 31.2 years

Birth Rate - births/1,000 population

17

Death Rate - deaths/1,000 population

5.9

Total Fertility Rate - children born/woman

2.02

Gross reproduction rate

1

Child Marriage

women married by age 15: 4.3% women married by age 18: 19.7%

Contraceptive Prevalance Rate - female 12-49

71.9%

Contraceptive Prevalence Rate - female 12-49

71.9%

Currently married women (ages 15-49)

55%

Mean Age for Mother's First Birth (age 25-49)

20.8

Mother's mean age at first birth

20.8

Sex Ratio at Birth - male/female

• birth: 1.05 male(s)/female 0-14
• years: 1.05 male(s)/female 15-64
• years: 0.9 male(s)/female 65 years and
• over: 0.74 male(s)/female total
• population: 0.92 male(s)/female

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Net Migration Rate - migrant(s)/1,000 population

-7.7

Demographic profile

El Salvador is the smallest and most densely populated country in Central America.

It is well into its demographic transition, experiencing slower population growth, a decline in its number of youths, and the gradual aging of its population.

The increased use of family planning has substantially lowered El Salvador's fertility rate, from approximately 6 children per woman in the 1970s to replacement level today.

A 2008 national family planning survey showed that female sterilization remained the most common contraception method in El Salvador - its sterilization rate is among the highest in Latin America and the Caribbean - but that the use of injectable contraceptives is growing.

Fertility differences between rich and poor and urban and rural women are narrowing.

Salvadorans fled during the 1979 to 1992 civil war mainly to the United States but also to Canada and to neighboring Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica.

Emigration to the United States increased again in the 1990s and 2000s as a result of deteriorating economic conditions, natural disasters (Hurricane Mitch in 1998 and earthquakes in 2001), and family reunification.

At least 20% of El Salvador's population lives abroad.

The remittances they send home account for close to 20% of GDP, are the second largest source of external income after exports, and have helped reduce poverty.

Ethnic Groups

Mestizo 86.3%, White 12.7%, Indigenous 0.2% (includes Lenca, Kakawira, Nahua-Pipil), Black 0.1%, other 0.6%

Language Note

Spanish (official), Nawat (among some Indigenous)

Nationality Noun

• noun: Salvadoran(s)
• adjective: Salvadoran

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Literacy - total population

89.1%

Literacy - male

91.3%

Literacy - female

87.3%

Literacy Definition

age 15 and over can read and write

Education Expenditures - percent of GDP

4.1%

Total School Life Expectancy - (primary to tertiary)

• total: 12 years
• male: 12 years
• female: 12 years

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Life Expectancy at Birth

• population: 75.9 years
• male: 72.4 years
• female: 79.5 years

Infant Mortality Rate

• total: 11.7 deaths/1,000 live births
• male: 13.3 deaths/1,000 live births
• female: 10 deaths/1,000 live births

Infant Mortality Rate - total deaths/1,000 live births

• total: 11.7 deaths/1,000 live births
• male: 13.3 deaths/1,000 live births
• female: 10 deaths/1,000 live births

Maternal Mortality Rate - deaths/100,000 live births

43

Physicians Density - physicians/1,000 population

2.87

Hospital Bed Density - beds/1,000 population

1.2

Health Expenditures - percent of GDP

9.9%

Major Infectious Diseases - degree of risk

• risk: high food or waterborne
• diseases: bacterial and protozoal diarrhea vectorborne
• diseases: dengue fever

Obesity - adult prevalence rate

24.624%

Tobacco Use

• total: 7.9%
• male: 14.1%
• female: 1.7%

Alcohol consumption per capita

• total: 2.94 liters of pure alcohol
• beer: 1.5 liters of pure alcohol
• wine: 0.06 liters of pure alcohol
• spirits: 1.37 liters of pure alcohol other
• alcohols: 0 liters of pure alcohol

Drinking Water Source - percent of urban population improved

• improved: urban: 99.6% of population
• rural: 94.2% of population
• total: 98.2% of population
• unimproved: urban: 0.4% of population
• rural: 5.8% of population
• total: 1.8% of population

Sanitation Facility Access - percent of urban population improved

• improved: urban: 100% of population
• rural: 97.1% of population
• total: 99.2% of population
• unimproved: urban: 0% of population
• rural: 2.9% of population
• total: 0.8% of population

Underweight - percent of children under five years

5%

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Economic Overview

El Salvador, the smallest country in Central America, has an economy characterized by agriculture, manufacturing, and services.

Despite its small size, the country has made significant strides in economic growth and development.

However, it faces numerous challenges, including poverty, violence, and the need for diversification.

This article delves into the key aspects of El Salvador's economy, the challenges it faces, and the opportunities for future growth.

Key Economic Sectors Agriculture Agriculture remains an important sector in El Salvador, employing a significant portion of the population.

Key agricultural products include coffee, sugar, corn, and seafood.

Coffee, in particular, has historically been a major export commodity, though its relative importance has declined due to market volatility and competition.

The government has been working to modernize agriculture, improve productivity, and support small farmers through various programs and initiatives.

Manufacturing and Industry The manufacturing sector in El Salvador includes textiles, apparel, food processing, and electronics.

The country's participation in the Central America-Dominican Republic Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA-DR) has boosted its manufacturing exports to the United States.

The textile and apparel industry is a significant employer, benefiting from preferential trade agreements and foreign investment.

However, the sector faces challenges such as global competition and the need for technological upgrades.

Services The service sector is the largest contributor to El Salvador's GDP, with significant growth in banking, finance, retail, and tourism.

Remittances from Salvadorans living abroad, particularly in the United States, play a crucial role in the economy, accounting for a substantial portion of household incomes.

The financial services sector has been expanding, with efforts to enhance financial inclusion and digital banking.

Tourism Tourism is a growing sector, with the government promoting El Salvador as a cultural, historical, and eco-tourism destination.

The country's scenic beaches, archaeological sites, and vibrant culture attract visitors worldwide.

However, safety concerns and infrastructure limitations have been challenges to fully capitalizing on the tourism potential.

Economic Challenges Poverty and Inequality Poverty and inequality remain significant challenges in El Salvador.

Despite economic growth, a large portion of the population lives in poverty, with limited access to education, healthcare, and social services.

Addressing these issues requires comprehensive social policies, investments in human capital, and efforts to create more inclusive economic opportunities.

Violence and Security Issues High levels of violence and crime, driven by gang activities, have been a major impediment to economic development.

The government has implemented various security measures and programs to combat violence, but sustained efforts and international cooperation are needed to create a safer environment conducive to investment and growth.

Economic Diversification El Salvador's economy is relatively concentrated in a few sectors, making it vulnerable to external shocks.

Diversifying the economy by developing new industries, such as technology and renewable energy, is essential for long-term stability and growth.

Encouraging innovation, supporting entrepreneurship, and attracting foreign investment are critical components of this strategy.

Infrastructure and Investment Inadequate infrastructure, including transportation, energy, and telecommunications, challenges economic development.

Improving infrastructure is vital for enhancing productivity, reducing costs, and attracting investment.

The government has been working on infrastructure projects and seeking international partnerships to address these gaps.

Recent Developments and Future Prospects Bitcoin Adoption In 2021, El Salvador became the first country in the world to adopt Bitcoin as legal tender.

The government aims to promote financial inclusion, attract investment, and boost the economy through cryptocurrency adoption.

This initiative has garnered global attention and has the potential to transform the country's financial landscape, though it also comes with risks and uncertainties.

Economic Reforms The government has implemented economic reforms to improve the business environment, enhance transparency, and attract foreign investment.

These reforms include tax incentives, regulatory simplification, and measures to combat corruption.

Strengthening institutions and governance is crucial for sustaining these reforms and ensuring long-term economic stability.

Green Economy and Sustainability El Salvador is increasingly focusing on sustainable development and the green economy.

Efforts to promote renewable energy, protect natural resources, and mitigate climate change are integral to this strategy.

The country invests in solar and wind energy projects, reforestation programs, a

Industries

food processing, beverages, petroleum, chemicals, fertilizer, textiles, furniture, light metals

GDP - per capita (PPP)

$8,900.00 (USD)

GDP - real growth rate

2.4%

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GDP - Gross Domestic Product (PPP)

$52,260,000,000 (USD)

GDP Per Capita

$8,900.00 (USD)

GDP - real growth rate

2.4%

GDP - official exchange rate

$26,610,000,000 (USD)

GDP - composition, by end use

• consumption: 91.5% government
• consumption: 12.3% investment in fixed
• capital: 14.4% investment in
• inventories: -0.1% exports of goods and
• services: 26.2% imports of goods and
• services: -44.3%

GDP by Sector- agriculture

10.6%

GDP by Sector- Industry

25.3%

GDP by Sector- services

64.1%

Industrial Growth Rate

2.4%

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Inflation Rate

1.1%

Currency Name and Code

US Dollar (USD)

Fiscal Year

calendar year

Commercial Bank Prime Lending Rate

6.3%

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Labor Force

2,788,000

Unemployment Rate

5.5%

Unemployment - note

data are official rates; but underemployment is high

Major Industries

food processing, beverages, petroleum, chemicals, fertilizer, textiles, furniture, light metals

Agriculture Products

coffee, sugar, corn, rice, beans, oilseed, cotton, sorghum; beef, dairy products

Population Below Poverty Line

36.5%

Child Labor - # of children ages 5-14

179,303

Child Labor - % of children ages 5-14

4%

Child Labor - note

note: data represents children ages 5-17

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Labor Force By Occupation- agriculture

21%

Labor Force By Occupation- industry

20%

Labor Force By Occupation- services

58%

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Annual Budget

$5,443,000,000 (USD)

Public Debt (% of GDP)

64.9%

Budget Surplus or Deficit - percent of GDP

-3.3%

Taxes and other revenues - percent of GDP

20.5%

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Full Country Name

Republic of El Salvador

Country Name

El Salvador

Local - Long

República de El Salvador

Local - Short

El Salvador

Etymology- history of name

name is an abbreviation of the original Spanish conquistador designation for the area "Provincia de Nuestro Senor Jesus Cristo, el Salvador del Mundo" (Province of Our Lord Jesus Christ, the Saviour of the World), which became simply "El Salvador" (The Savior)

Independence

15 September 1821 (from Spain)

National Holiday

Independence Day, 15 September (1821)

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Government Type

presidential republic

Constitution

• history: many previous; latest drafted 16 December 1983, enacted 23 December 1983
• amendments: proposals require agreement by absolute majority of the Legislative Assembly membership; passage requires at least two-thirds majority vote of the Assembly; constitutional articles on basic principles, and citizen rights and freedoms cannot be amended; amended 2003, 2009, 2014

Legal System:

civil law system with minor common law influence; judicial review of legislative acts in the Supreme Court

Executive Branch:

• chief of state: Acting President Claudia Juana RODRÍGUEZ DE GUEVARA (since 1 December 2023); note - parliament granted a six-month leave of absence to President Nayib Armando BUKELE Ortez and Vice President Félix Augusto Antonio ULLOA Garay (to allow them to participate in the 4 February 2024 presidential election) and approved the appointment of Claudia Juana RODRÍGUEZ DE GUEVARA as acting president from 1 December 2023 to 1 June 2024, when election winner Nayib Armando BUKELE Ortez will be sworn in for a second term
• head of government: Acting President Claudia Juana RODRÍGUEZ DE GUEVARA (since 1 December 2023)
• cabinet: Council of Ministers selected by the president
• elections/appointments: president and vice president directly elected on the same ballot by absolute majority popular vote in 2 rounds if needed for a single 5-year term; election last held on 4 February 2024 (next to be held in 2029)
• election results: 2024: Nayib Armando BUKELE Ortez reelected president - Nayib Armando BUKELE Ortez (Nuevas Ideas) 84.7%, Manuel FLORES (FMLN) 6.4%, Joel SANCHEZ (ARENA) 5.6%, Luis PARADA (NT) 2%, other 1.3%; note he will be inaugurated on 1 June 2024 2019: Nayib Armando BUKELE Ortez elected president - Nayib Armando BUKELE Ortez (GANA) 53.1%, Carlos CALLEJA Hakker (ARENA) 31.7%, Hugo MARTINEZ (FMLN) 14.4%, other 0.8%

Legislative Branch:

• Description: unicameral Legislative Assembly or Asamblea Legislativa (84 seats; members directly elected in multi-seat constituencies and a single nationwide constituency by open-list proportional representation vote to serve 3-year terms)
• Elections: last held on 28 February 2021 (next to be held in 2024)
• Election Results: percent of vote by party - NI 66.5%, ARENA 12.2%, FMLN 6.9%, GANA 5.3%, PCN 4.1%, other 5%; seats by party - NI 56, ARENA 14, GANA 5, FMLN 4, other 5;
• Composition: men 61, women 23, percent of women 27.4%

Judicial Branch:

• office: judges elected by the Legislative Assembly on the recommendation of both the National Council of the Judicature, an independent body elected by the Legislative Assembly, and the Bar Association; judges elected for 9-year terms, with renewal of one-third of membership every 3 years; consecutive reelection is allowed
• subordinate courts: Appellate Courts; Courts of First Instance; Courts of Peace

Regions or States:

14 departments (departamentos, singular - departamento); Ahuachapan, Cabanas, Chalatenango, Cuscatlan, La Libertad, La Paz, La Union, Morazan, San Miguel, San Salvador, San Vicente, Santa Ana, Sonsonate, Usulutan

Political Parties and Leaders:

• Christian Democratic Party or PDC [Reynaldo CARBALLO]
• Farabundo Marti National Liberation Front or FMLN [Oscar ORTIZ]
• Great Alliance for National Unity or GANA [Nelson GUARDADO]
• National Coalition Party or PCN [Manuel RODRIGUEZ]
• Nationalist Republican Alliance or ARENA [Erick SALGUERO]
• New Ideas (Nuevas Ideas) or NI [Xavier Zablah BUKELE]
• Our Time (Nuestro Tiempo) or NT [Juan VALIENTE]
• Vamos or V [Josue ALVARADO Flores]

Suffrage:

18 years of age; universal

Citizenship Criteria:

• birth: yes citizenship by descent
• only: yes dual citizenship
• recognized: yes residency requirement for
• naturalization: 5 years

Capital Name

San Salvador

Capital - geographic coordinate

13 42 N, 89 12 W

Capital Time Difference

UTC-6 (1 hour behind Washington, DC, during Standard Time)

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International Organization Participation:

• BCIE
• CACM
• CD
• CELAC
• FAO
• G-11
• G-77
• IADB
• IAEA
• IBRD
• ICAO
• ICC (national committees)
• ICRM
• IDA
• IFAD
• IFC
• IFRCS
• ILO
• IMF
• IMO
• Interpol
• IOC
• IOM
• IPU
• ISO (correspondent)
• ITSO
• ITU
• ITUC (NGOs)
• LAES
• LAIA (observer)
• MIGA
• MINURSO
• MINUSTAH
• NAM (observer)
• OAS
• OPANAL
• OPCW
• Pacific Alliance (observer)
• PCA
• Petrocaribe
• SICA
• UN
• UNCTAD
• UNESCO
• UNIDO
• UNIFIL
• Union Latina
• UNISFA
• UNMISS
• UNOCI
• UNWTO
• UPU
• WCO
• WFTU (NGOs)
• WHO
• WIPO
• WMO
• WTO

International Law Organization Participation:

has not submitted an ICJ jurisdiction declaration; non-party state to the ICCt

Diplomatic Representation from US:

• Chief of Mission: Ambassador William H. DUNCAN (since 24 January 2023)
• Embassy: Final Boulevard Santa Elena, Antiguo Cuscatlan, La Libertad, San Salvador
• Mailing Address: 3450 San Salvador Place, Washington, DC 20521-3450
• Telephone: [503] 2501-2999
• FAX: [503] 2501-2150
• Email: ACSSanSal@state.gov
• Website: https://sv.usembassy.gov/

Diplomatic Representation in the US:

• Chief of Mission: Ambassador Carmen Milena MAYORGA VALERA (since 23 December 2020)
• Chancery: 1400 16th Street NW, Suite 100, Washington, DC 20036
• Telephone: [1] (202) 595-7500
• FAX: [1] (202) 232-3763
• Email: infoEEUU@rree.gob.sv
• Consulate(s) General: Atlanta, Boston, Brentwood (NY), Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Houston, Las Vegas (NV), Laredo (TX), Los Angeles, McAllen (TX), New York, San Bernardino (CA), San Francisco, Tucson (AZ), Washington (DC), Woodbridge (VA)

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Geographic Location

Central America

Geographic Coordinates

13 50 N, 88 55 W

Total Area

8,124 Square Miles 21,041 Square Kilometers

Land Area

8,000 Square Miles 20,721 Square Kilometers

Water Area

124 Square Miles 320 Square Kilometers

Land Boundaries

339 Miles 545 Kilometers

Border Countries

Guatemala 203 km, Honduras 342 km

Coastline

191 Miles 307 Kilometers

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Terrain

mostly mountains with narrow coastal belt and central plateau

Highest Point

2,730 Meters

Highest Point Location

Cerro El Pital 2,730 m

Lowest Point Location

Pacific Ocean 0 m

Natural Resources

hydropower, geothermal power, petroleum, arable land

Irrigated Land

173 Square Miles 449 Square Kilometers

Time Zone

UTC-6 (1 hour behind Washington, DC, during Standard Time)

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Climate

El Salvador's tropical climate has pronounced wet and dry seasons.

The dry season, "verano" or summer, from December to April is dusty, especially in rural areas.

The hottest months of the year, March and April, immediately precede the rainy season, "invierno" (winter).

During the May-November rainy season, mornings are usually clear, with heavy rains in early evening and at night.

Thunder and strong winds occasionally accompany the rain, and some June and September mornings are overcast.

Occasional 2- to 3-day rainy spells occur.

The average annual rainfall is 66 inches.

The three geographic zones have distinct climatic characteristics.

The narrow coastal belt is a hot tropical savanna with lush vegetation and temperatures that average 80°F.

The central highlands, where San Salvador lies, are slightly cooler, with an average temperature of 73°F.

San Salvador's temperatures range from 50°F to 90°F throughout the year.

Incoming polar air infrequently causes cold nights and even frost.

The highlands in the extreme north of El Salvador are consistently cool.

Earthquakes and volcanic eruptions have littered El Salvador's history.

Earthquakes ranging from 6.5 to 7.9 on the Richter Scale have struck the country at least 15 times since 1700.

The most serious recent earthquakes occurred on January 13 and February 13, 2001.

Although damage in San Salvador was slight, schools, hospitals, businesses, and public buildings throughout the country were damaged or destroyed.

These two powerful quakes resulted in 1,300 deaths and left more than one million homeless.

Infrastructure damages are estimated at $1.6 billion, or 12% of the country's GDP.

Of the volcanoes located within the metropolitan area of San Salvador, Volcano San Salvador erupted last in 1917 and Volcano Ilopango in 1879.

Although hurricanes do not usually threaten El Salvador directly, strong Caribbean storms can generate heavy winds and rains.

Hurricane Mitch hit El Salvador in November 1998, generating extreme rainfall which caused widespread flooding.

Terrain

mostly mountains with narrow coastal belt and central plateau

Location

Central America, bordering the North Pacific Ocean, between Guatemala and Honduras

Total Area

8,124 Square Miles 21,041 Square Kilometers

Border Countries

Guatemala 203 km, Honduras 342 km

Environment - Current Issues

deforestation; soil erosion; water pollution; contamination of soils from disposal of toxic wastes

Environment - International Agreements

party to: Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Desertification, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Ozone Layer Protection, Wetlands signed, but not ratified: Law of the Sea

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Exports

$4,556,000,000 (USD)

Imports

$9,444,000,000 (USD)

Major Exports

offshore assembly exports, coffee, sugar, textiles and apparel, gold, ethanol, chemicals, electricity, iron and steel manufactures

Major Imports

raw materials, consumer goods, capital goods, fuels, foodstuffs, petroleum, electricity

Top Export Partners

US 47.1%, Honduras 13.9%, Guatemala 13.6%, Nicaragua 6.6%, Costa Rica 4.5%

Top Import Partners

US 39.4%, Guatemala 9.6%, China 8.1%, Mexico 7.4%, Honduras 5.7%

Export Partners

US 47.1%, Honduras 13.9%, Guatemala 13.6%, Nicaragua 6.6%, Costa Rica 4.5%

Import Partners

US 39.4%, Guatemala 9.6%, China 8.1%, Mexico 7.4%, Honduras 5.7%

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Country Description

El Salvador is a democratic country with a developing economy.

Tourism facilities are not fully developed.

The capital is San Salvador, accessible by El Salvador's International Airport at Comalapa.

The U.S. dollar has been the primary currency in El Salvador since 2001, and the economy is fully dollarized.

U.S. citizens traveling with U.S. dollars should not exchange them for colones.

Safety & Security

Most travelers to El Salvador experience no safety or security problems, but the criminal threat in El Salvador is critical and a Travel Warning for El Salvador was issued on August 9, 2013.

Random and organized violent crime is endemic throughout El Salvador.

U.S. citizens are not normally singled out based on their nationality, but are subject to the same threats as all other persons in El Salvador.

See the section below on crime for additional related information.

Political or economic issues in the country may give rise to demonstrations, sit-ins, or protests at any time or place, but these activities occur most frequently in the capital or on its main access roads.

U.S. citizens are cautioned to avoid areas where demonstrations are being held and to follow local news media reports or contact the U.S.

Embassy for up-to-date information.

Strong undertows and currents can make swimming at El Salvador's Pacific Coast beaches extremely dangerous for even strong and experienced swimmers.

Since 2008, twelve U.S. citizens have drowned while swimming in Salvadoran waters.

Lifeguards are not present at beaches and lakes and access to medical resources in these areas is limited.

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Crime

The Department of State considers El Salvador a critical crime threat country which means that conditions exist such that a continuous serious threat for crime, forced entries, and assaults on residents are common.

In 2011, El Salvador had the second highest murder rate in the world, at 71 per 100,000 people (by comparison, the murder rate in Massachusetts, with a similar geographical area and population, was 2.6 per 100,000).

In 2012, a truce between El Salvador’s two principal street gangs may have contributed to a decline in the homicide rate.

According to Salvadoran police statistics, the number of murders for 2012 decreased by 41% from 2011.

However, the sustainability of the decline is unclear.

In addition, the number of reported robberies, assaults, rapes, and missing persons showed significant increases in 2012, and most of these crimes go unsolved.

U.S. citizens do not appear to be targeted based on their nationality.

However, 26 U.S. citizens have been murdered in El Salvador since January 2010.

During the same time period, 274 U.S. citizens reported having their passports stolen.

Armed robberies of climbers and hikers in El Salvador’s national parks is common, and the Embassy strongly recommends engaging the services of a local guide certified by the national or local tourist authority when hiking in back country areas, even within the national parks.

In 2000, the National Civilian Police (PNC) established a special tourist police force (POLITUR) to provide security and assistance to tourists, as well as protection for the cultural heritage of El Salvador.

It has officers located in 19 tourist destinations.

A majority of serious crimes in El Salvador are never solved; only 6 of the 26 murders of U.S. citizens since January 2010 have resulted in convictions.

El Salvador’s current conviction rate for all crimes is five percent.

The Government of El Salvador lacks sufficient resources to properly investigate and prosecute cases and to deter violent crime.

While several of the PNC’s investigative units have shown great promise, routine street level patrol techniques, anti-gang, and crime suppression efforts are limited.

Equipment shortages (particularly radios, vehicles, and fuel) further limit their ability to deter or respond to crimes effectively.

Transnational criminal organizations conduct narcotics, arms trafficking, and other unlawful activities throughout the country and use violence to control drug trafficking routes and carry out other criminal activity.

Other criminals, acting both individually and in gangs, commit crimes such as murder-for-hire, carjacking, extortion, armed robbery, rape, and other aggravated assaults.

According to Salvadoran government figures, out of a population of roughly six million people, there are some 40,000 known gang members from several gangs including the Mara Salvatrucha (MS-13) and Eighteenth Street (M18) gangs.

Gang members are quick to engage in violence if confronted.

Extortion is a particularly serious and common crime in El Salvador.

Many extortion attempts are no more than random cold calls that originate from imprisoned gang members using cellular telephones, and the subsequent threats against the victim are made through social engineering and/or through information obtained about the victim’s family.

U.S. citizens who are visiting El Salvador for extended periods may be at higher risk for extortion demands.

While reported rates of extortion have dropped in the last two years, recent reports show that there is an increase in the level of violence associated with extortion cases, including media reports of extortion victims and witnesses being killed.

Many extortion cases are not reported for fear of reprisal and lack of faith in the ability of the government to protect the victims.

Criminals have ready access to firearms and shootouts are not uncommon.

Foreigners, however, may not carry guns even for their own protection without first obtaining firearms licenses from th

Criminal Penalties

While you are traveling in El Salvador, you are subject to its laws even if you are a U.S. citizen.

Foreign laws and legal systems can be vastly different than our own.

In some places, you may be taken in for questioning for not having your passport with you.

In other places, driving under the influence could land you immediately in jail.

These criminal penalties will vary from country to country.

There are also some things that might be legal in the country you visit, but are still illegal in the United States, and you can be prosecuted under U.S. law.

For example, buying pirated goods, engaging in sexual conduct with children, or using or disseminating child pornography in a foreign country is a crime prosecutable in the United States.

If you break local laws in El Salvador, your U.S. passport won’t help you avoid arrest or prosecution.

It’s very important to know what’s legal and what’s not where you are going.

Penalties for breaking the law can be more severe than in the United States for similar offenses.

Persons violating El Salvador’s laws, even unknowingly, may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned.

Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs in El Salvador are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines.

Prison and detention center conditions are harsh and dangerous.

Overcrowding constitutes a serious threat to prisoners’ health and lives.

In many facilities, provisions for sanitation, potable water, ventilation, temperature control, and lighting are inadequate or nonexistent.

While some countries automatically notify the nearest U.S.

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Medical Facilities

There are few private and no public hospitals with an environment that would be acceptable to visiting U.S. citizens.

The Embassy recommends that these hospitals be used only for emergency care to stabilize a condition prior to returning to the United States for definitive evaluation and treatment.

Private hospitals and physicians expect up-front payment (cash or, for hospitals, credit card) for all bills as there are no hospitals or medical offices who will bill U.S. insurance companies.

Priority Ambulance (011-503-2264-7911) is the only private ambulance service with a fleet of vehicles in San Salvador that has trained personnel and medical equipment to manage emergencies.

The response time is often less than ideal because of the heavy traffic in San Salvador.

Therefore, whenever possible, people should transport themselves directly to the hospital by private vehicle.

Pharmacies are plentiful, but not all medicines found in the United States are available in El Salvador.

Medicines often have a different brand name and are frequently more expensive than in the United States.

We recommend that U.S. citizens traveling to El Salvador carry an adequate supply of any medication they require in its original container, which should be clearly labeled.

A copy of the prescription from your doctor will be helpful in the event that it is requested by immigration or customs authorities.

No specific vaccinations are required for entry into El Salvador from the United States.

Travelers coming from countries where yellow fever is endemic must have had a yellow fever vaccination in order to enter the country.

For more information, visit El Salvador’s Immigration web site.

You can find detailed information on vaccinations and other health precautions on the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website.

For information about outbreaks of infectious diseases abroad, consult the World Health Organization (WHO) website, which contains additional health information for travelers, including detailed country-specific health information.

Tuberculosis is an increasingly serious health concern in El Salvador.

For further information, please consult the CDC’s information on Tuberculosis.

Tap water is not safe to drink in El Salvador, and the Embassy advises official visitors and personnel to use either bottled water or to disinfect tap water using the guidelines suggested at the CDC website.

Traffic Safety

While in El Salvador, you may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States.

The information below concerning El Salvador is provided for general reference only, and may not be totally accurate in a particular location or circumstance.

Major highways and thoroughfares are among the best in Central America, but road conditions throughout El Salvador are not up to U.S. standards.

Even within the city of San Salvador, it is not uncommon to see missing manhole covers and large objects in the roadway marking the danger.

Road travel at night is particularly dangerous outside the capital as there are few road lights and many vehicles lack adequate safety lighting or reflectors.

The

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Airports - total

68

Airports with Paved Runways

5

Heliports

2

Railways

176 Miles 283 Kilometers

Roadways- total

4,299 Miles 6,918 Kilometers

Roadways- paved

2,018 Miles 3,247 Kilometers

Ports and Terminals

Acajutla, Puerto Cutuco, La Libertad, La Union, Puerto El Triunfo

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Telephones

1,099,000

Cell Phones

6,137,000

Internet Users

700,000

Internet Country Code

.sv

Internet Hosts

13,849

Broadcast Media

multiple privately owned national terrestrial TV networks, supplemented by cable TV networks that carry international channels; hundreds of commercial radio broadcast stations and 1 government-owned radio broadcast station

Telephone System

• assessment: multiple mobile-cellular providers are expanding services rapidly and in 2011 teledensity exceeded 135 per 100 persons; growth in fixed-line services has slowed in the face of mobile-cellular competition
• domestic: nationwide microwave radio relay system
• international: country code - 503; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean); connected to Central American Microwave System

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Electricity Consumption- Kilowatt Hours (kWh)

4,524,000,000

Electricity Exports- Kilowatt Hours (kWh)

78,700,000

Electricity Imports- Kilowatt Hours (kWh)

208,400,000

Electricity Production- Kilowatt Hours (kWh)

5,445,000,000

Oil Consumption- Barrels Per Day (bbl/day)

44,040

Oil Imports- Barrels Per Day (bbl/day)

16,160

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Anthem History

The National Anthem of El Salvador was commonly adopted as the National Song on September 15, 1879 but did not have official recognition until December 11, 1953 The Official National Anthem was composed and written by the artist Juan Aberle and by General Juan José Cañas.

It was composed by recommendation of President Dr.

Rafael Zaldívar and was sung for the first time on September 15, 1879 at the prior National Palace by children and young students from government and private schools of the capital city

Anthem Lyrics

HIMNO NACIONAL DE EL SALVADOR CHORUS SALUDEMOS LA PATRIA ORGULLOSOS DE HIJOS SUYOS PODERNOS LLAMAR; Y JUREMOS LA VIDA ANIMOSOS.

SIN DESCANSO A SU BIEN CONSAGRAR.

First Verse De la paz en la dicha suprema Siempre noble soñó El Salvador; Fue obtenerla su eterno problema, Conservarla es su gloria mayor.

Y con fe inquebrantable el camino Del progreso se afana en seguir Por llenar su grandioso destino, Conquistarse un feliz porvenir.

Le protege una férrea barrera Contra el choque de ruin deslealtad, Desde el día que en su alta bandera Con su sangre escribió: Libertad!

Second Verse Libertad es su dogma, es su guía, Que mil veces logró defender; Y otras tantas de audaz tiranía Rechazar el odioso poder.

Dolorosa y sangrienta es su historia, Pero excelsa y brillante a la vez, Manantial de legítima gloria, Gran lección de espartana altivez.

No desmaya su ignata bravura: En cada hombre hay un héroe inmortal, Que sabrá mantenerse a la altura De su antiguo valor proverbial.

Third Verse Todos son abnegados y fieles Al prestigio del bélico ardor, Con que siempre segaron laureles De La Patria salvando el honor.

Respetar los derechos extraños Y apoyarse en la recta razón Es para ella, sin torpes amaños, La invariable, más firme ambición.

Y en seguir esta línea se aferra, Dedicando su esfuerzo tenaz En hacer cruda guerra a la guerra; Su ventura se encuentra en la paz.

Anthem Lyrics English

Let us salute the motherland, Proud to be called her children.

To her well-being let us swear Boldly and unceasingly to devote our lives.

(repeat) Devote our lives!

(repeat 4 times) Of peace enjoyed in perfect happiness, El Salvador has always nobly dreamed.

To achieve this has been her eternal proposition, To keep it, her greatest glory.

With inviolable faith, she eagerly follows The way of progress In order to fulfil her high destiny And achieve a happy future.

A stern barrier protects her Against the clash of vile disloyalty, Ever since the day when her lofty banner, In letters of blood, wrote "Freedom", Wrote "Freedom", wrote "Freedom".

CHORUS Freedom is her dogma and her guide; A thousand times she has defended it, And as many times has she repelled The hateful power of atrocious tyranny.

Her history has been bloody and sad, Yet at the same time sublime and brilliant, A source of legitimate glory And a great lesson in Spartan pride.

Her innate bravery shall not waver: In every man there is an immortal hero Who knows how to maintain the level Of the proverbial valour of old.

CHORUS All are self-denying and faithful To the tradition of warlike ardour With which they have always reaped fame By saving the motherland's honour.

To respect the rights of others And base her actions on right and justice Is for her, without infamous intrigue, The constant and most firm ambition.

And in following this line she persists, Dedicating her tenacious efforts In giving hard battle for battle; Her happiness is found in peace.

CHORUS