El Salvador E-Visa for Afghanistan Citizens: 2026 Entry Requirements

For citizens of Afghanistan planning a trip to El Salvador, staying informed about the latest electronic visa (e-visa) regulations is essential for a smooth international journey. As El Salvador continues to modernize its immigration infrastructure, Afghan passport holders can now apply for their travel authorization digitally, simplifying a process that previously required long-distance visits to regional consulates.

Visa Policy and Mandatory Requirements

Under the 2026 immigration protocols, Afghanistan is classified among the countries whose citizens require a consular or consulted visa for entry into El Salvador. It is important to note that unlike many other nationalities, Afghan citizens generally cannot enter El Salvador solely based on holding a US, Canadian, or Schengen visa; the official Salvadoran e-visa is a mandatory requirement regardless of other travel permits held.

Before departing from Hamid Karzai International Airport (KBL), ensure that your e-visa is approved and printed, as airlines will verify this document during check-in.

Documentation and Long-Haul Logistics

Traveling from Central Asia to Central America involves complex logistics and multiple flight connections. To minimize the risk of application delays, all digital uploads must be clear and high-resolution.

The foundation of your application is the Afghanistan specific document checklist, which includes your valid passport and a professional digital photograph. Given that there are no direct flights between Kabul and San Salvador (SAL), most Afghan travelers utilize routes through Istanbul (IST) with Turkish Airlines or connect through hubs in the Middle East (Dubai or Doha). A confirmed flight itinerary is a strict requirement, as it allows Salvadoran authorities to verify your intended transit points and return dates.

Currency and Financial Preparation

Financial planning is a key part of your travel preparation. The Afghan Afghani (AFN) is not accepted or exchangeable in El Salvador. The Salvadoran economy operates on a dual-currency system where the United States Dollar (USD) and Bitcoin are both recognized as legal tender.

For a broader understanding of the standards required for supplemental paperwork like bank statements, you can refer to our comprehensive documentation guide. For your daily expenses in El Salvador, we recommend carrying USD in cash—specifically in small denominations—as this is the most reliable way to pay for local transportation, traditional markets, and dining at volcanic viewpoint restaurants.

Approval and Arrival Protocols

The standard processing fee for the e-visa for Afghan citizens is $100. Due to the "consulted" status of the visa for certain nationalities, we recommend applying at least 15-20 business days before your intended departure to allow for administrative review. Once approved, your e-visa will be sent to your email. You must print a physical copy of this document to present to immigration officials at the San Oscar Arnulfo Romero International Airport to receive your final entry stamp.