El Salvador for Colombia Citizens: 2026 Travel and Entry Requirements

For Colombian citizens, El Salvador is more than just a neighboring Latin American nation; it is a rapidly growing destination for world-class surfing, volcano hiking, and colonial history. As of 2026, the travel process between Bogota and San Salvador remains highly accessible, making it an ideal choice for a tropical getaway or a business trip in the heart of Central America.

Visa Policy and Travel Exemptions for Colombians

Good news for Colombian passport holders: you typically do not require a visa for short-term tourism visits to El Salvador for up to 90 days. This visa-free access is part of regional cooperation agreements that simplify movement for Latin American citizens. However, it is essential to ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from your date of arrival at the San Oscar Arnulfo Romero International Airport (SAL).

While a visa is not required, all Colombian travelers must purchase a mandatory tourist card for El Salvador upon arrival. This card is usually priced at $12 and is valid for the duration of your stay.

Flight Logistics and Connectivity

Traveling from Colombia to El Salvador is remarkably convenient due to the strong aerial connectivity between the two nations. El Dorado International Airport (BOG) in Bogota serves as a major hub with multiple daily non-stop flights to San Salvador.

Airlines such as Avianca and Copa Airlines offer frequent direct connections, with a flight time of approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes. Because of the high volume of daily flights, providing a confirmed return ticket or proof of onward travel is a standard requirement at the immigration desk. You should have your Colombia specific document checklist ready, including your hotel reservation details and proof of sufficient funds for your stay.

Currency and Financial Tips for Your Journey

Understanding the local economy is vital before you depart from Colombia. The Colombian Peso (COP) is not accepted or exchangeable in El Salvador. Since 2001, El Salvador has used the United States Dollar (USD) as its primary currency, and more recently, it has adopted Bitcoin as legal tender.

We recommend that Colombian travelers carry USD in cash, especially in small denominations. While credit cards are widely accepted in high-end hotels and restaurants in San Salvador, cash is the most practical way to pay for "pupusas" at local markets or for transportation to the beaches of La Libertad. If you plan to use Bitcoin, ensure you have a compatible digital wallet set up before your arrival.

Arrival and Immigration Procedures

Upon landing in El Salvador, Colombian citizens will proceed to the immigration counter to present their passport and purchase the tourist card. The immigration officer will grant a stay permit, usually for 90 days, which can be extended if necessary at the General Directorate of Migration. It is always a good idea to keep a digital or physical copy of your entry stamp and tourist card throughout your travels across the country.