El Salvador E-Visa for Antigua and Barbuda Citizens: Travel Requirements 2026

Antigua and Barbuda citizens planning to visit El Salvador for tourism or leisure must navigate the specific entry regulations set by the Salvadoran government. While both nations share a Caribbean spirit, travelers from the Twin Island state need to secure a digital travel permit before departing from V.C. Bird International Airport. This guide outlines the essential steps to ensure a smooth journey to Central America.

Visa Policy for Antiguan Travelers

For most holders of an Antigua and Barbuda passport, an e-tourist visa is a mandatory requirement. It is important to note that El Salvador offers an exemption only to those who possess a valid, multiple-entry visa from the USA, Canada, or a Schengen member state. If you do not hold one of these specific third-party visas, you must complete the electronic application to avoid being denied boarding by your airline.

Because regional CARICOM freedom of movement does not extend to El Salvador, preparing your paperwork in advance is the only way to guarantee legal entry for sightseeing or visiting family.

Documentation and Application Standards

The quality of your digital uploads is the most significant factor in avoiding delays. Applicants from Antigua and Barbuda should prioritize clarity in their scans to meet official immigration standards.

The primary requirement for your submission is the Antigua and Barbuda specific document checklist, which includes your passport's biometric page and a recent professional photograph. Since there are no direct flights connecting Antigua to San Salvador, you will also need to provide a flight itinerary that clearly shows your transit through hubs like Panama City or Miami. This itinerary helps authorities verify the duration of your intended stay, which can range from 30 to 90 days depending on the final approval.

Logistics: Flights and Currency

Traveling from the Eastern Caribbean to El Salvador involves a few logistical considerations. Most travelers find the most convenient routes through Copa Airlines via Panama or American Airlines via Miami.

Regarding financial matters, travelers should be aware that the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD) cannot be used or exchanged in El Salvador. The nation operates on a dual-currency system of the United States Dollar (USD) and Bitcoin. For more information on handling transaction fees or using digital assets during your stay, you can review our guide on accepted payment methods and banking details. We recommend that Antiguan citizens carry small denominations of USD for local transport and market purchases, as larger bills can sometimes be difficult to change in smaller towns.

How to Secure Your Approval

To begin the process, you should enter your personal details exactly as they appear on your passport. The standard processing fee is $100, and most approvals are issued within a business week. Once your electronic permit is delivered via email, you must print a physical copy. Immigration officers at the El Salvador international airport require this paper version to finalize your entry and grant you the stay permit.