El Salvador E-Visa for Philippines Citizens: 2026 Application Guide

For Filipino travelers looking to visit El Salvador, whether to explore the vibrant markets of San Salvador or the world-class waves of Libertad, understanding the specific entry requirements is the first step toward a successful journey. As of 2026, Philippine passport holders are required to obtain an official electronic travel permit to enter the country.

Visa Policy and Exemptions for Filipinos

While the e-visa is the standard requirement for citizens of the Philippines, certain exemptions may apply. If you hold a valid, multiple-entry visa for the United States, Canada, or any Schengen Area country, you might be eligible to enter El Salvador without a separate Salvadoran visa. However, if you are traveling solely with your Philippine passport, completing the online application is mandatory to avoid being denied boarding at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL).

Document Standards and Flight Logistics

The most important part of your application is ensuring your digital files meet the required technical standards. Blurry or incorrect documents are the leading cause of application rejections.

For a full list of what to prepare, please consult the Philippines specific document checklist. This includes a high-quality scan of your passport's bio-page and a recent digital photo. A crucial requirement for Filipinos is the flight itinerary. Since there are no direct flights from Manila to San Salvador, your route will likely include transits through hubs like Los Angeles (LAX), San Francisco (SFO), or even Tokyo (NRT) and Houston (IAH). Please ensure your itinerary is clear, as it confirms your intent to return or continue to a third destination.

Currency and Financial Preparation

When traveling from Southeast Asia to Central America, it is important to manage your finances correctly. The Philippine Peso (PHP) cannot be exchanged or used in El Salvador. The country primarily uses the United States Dollar (USD) and Bitcoin as legal tender.

We recommend that Filipino travelers carry sufficient USD in cash, particularly in smaller bills ($1, $5, and $10), as these are essential for local transport and dining in "Surf City." If you have questions about how to handle fees or digital asset payments for your visa, you can visit our page on visa application delayed to see how processing times might be affected by payment verification.

Approval and Arrival

The standard e-visa fee for Philippine citizens is $100, and once submitted, the approval is typically sent to your email within 5 to 9 business days. It is a strict requirement to print your approved e-visa and carry the physical copy throughout your trip. Upon arrival at the San Salvador international airport, you will present this document to the immigration authorities to receive your final entry stamp, which usually allows for a stay of up to 90 days.