Frequently Asked Questions About Moving to El Salvador.
Considering relocation to El Salvador? We answer the most common questions about safety, residency, property, healthcare, and expat life so you can make informed decisions with confidence.
Have Questions? We’ve Got Answers.
Relocation requires clarity. El Salvador is rising as a destination for Bitcoiners, entrepreneurs, and families, but many people still have questions about what it’s like to live, work, and invest here.
Safety Questions
Is El Salvador safe to live in?
Yes, safety has improved dramatically. Violent crime rates have fallen more than 70 percent since 2019. Expats report feeling safe in neighborhoods like Escalón, Santa Elena, El Zonte, and Ataco.
Are there still gangs in El Salvador?
Gangs still exist, but government crackdowns have greatly reduced their influence in daily life. Most expats and families report a strong sense of safety.
Residency and Immigration Questions
How do I get residency in El Salvador?
Residency can be obtained through temporary visas, permanent residency, or investment. Investors and rentistas (income earners from abroad) have clear pathways.
Can I get citizenship in El Salvador?
Yes. After holding permanent residency, you may apply for citizenship. El Salvador allows dual nationality.
Do I need residency to buy property?
No. Foreigners can own property in El Salvador without residency, although restrictions apply to rural land near borders.
Real Estate and Property Questions
Can foreigners buy property in El Salvador?
Yes, foreigners can purchase real estate, including residential, commercial, and agricultural land (with border-area exceptions).
What are property prices like in El Salvador?
Apartments in San Salvador range from $80,000 to $250,000. Coastal villas can range from $120,000 to $500,000. Rental prices are much lower than in Western cities.
Are property taxes high?
No. Property taxes are typically between 0.25–0.5%, much lower than in North America or Europe.
Healthcare and Education Questions
What is healthcare like in El Salvador?
Private healthcare is affordable and accessible. Doctor visits are $25–$50, dental cleanings $40–$60, and health insurance typically $100–$300 per month.
Are there international schools in El Salvador?
Yes. San Salvador offers several international schools with US, British, and French curricula. Tuition ranges from $3,000–$8,000 per year, significantly less than in the US.
Finance and Bitcoin Questions
Can I use Bitcoin everywhere in El Salvador?
Yes, Bitcoin is legal tender. Most businesses accept it alongside the US dollar, especially through the Lightning Network.
Do I have to pay tax on Bitcoin gains?
Foreign investors are exempt from Bitcoin capital gains tax in El Salvador. Income and business taxes may still apply.
Can foreigners open bank accounts in El Salvador?
Yes, but usually with proof of residency or an active residency application.
Lifestyle Questions
What is the cost of living in El Salvador?
40–60% lower than New York, Los Angeles, or London. Rent for a 2-bedroom apartment averages $700 in San Salvador compared to $4,500 in New York.
Do many expats live in El Salvador?
Yes. Communities are growing in San Salvador, La Libertad, and mountain towns like Ataco. The Bitcoin movement has attracted entrepreneurs, nomads, and families.
What is the lifestyle like?
Surf, mountains, fertile farmland, vibrant culture, and affordable living. Many expats describe it as healthier, freer, and more community-driven than Western life.
Download Your Free Relocation FAQ Guide 2024
Get extended answers, neighborhood maps, and exclusive expat interviews in our comprehensive guide.
Your Questions Answered. Your Future in El Salvador Awaits.
The more you learn, the clearer the choice becomes. El Salvador is safer, more affordable, and more open than ever before. Your next step is to move from research to action.