The Independent Means Visas in El Salvador (also known as El Salvador Rentista and Pensionado Visas) offer residency to qualified individuals who can demonstrate substantial financial resources and a stable passive income from foreign sources.
MOBILITY ASSSET SNAPSHOT
The Independent Means Visa programs in El Salvador provide pathways to residency for financially self-sufficient individuals. These programs are designed to attract retirees, entrepreneurs, and other individuals looking to establish residency in a Central American country with a growing economy, beautiful beaches, and a welcoming atmosphere for foreigners.
Overview
Pathways to residency for qualified individuals with substantial financial means in El Salvador
Eligibility Requirements
Sufficient financial resources and passive income from foreign sources
Anchor Ancestor restrictions
Months to citizenship
Length of Visa
Initial 1-year residency, renewable annually
Months to Visa
2-3 months
Physical Presence Requirement
8 months per year, cannot leave for more than 3 consecutive months
Availability
Easy
Family Allowance
Spouse and children
Overview
Submit application at the immigration department in El Salvador, typically with the assistance of a local attorney.
Overview
Our experienced team will guide you through each stage of the application process, offering personalized assistance tailored to your needs.
We'll help you gather and organize the documents you need for applying.
Once your documents are ready, we'll let you know where and how to submit your application to the relevant authorities.
Questions?
Find answers to common questions about GlobalPassport™ and our services.
How long does it take to process an Independent Means Visa application?
The processing time is typically 2-3 months from the point of submission.
Can I include my family members in my Independent Means Visa application?
Yes, you can include your spouse, children, and parents in your application without additional income requirements.
What types of income qualify for the Independent Means Visas?
Passive income can include pensions, rental income, dividends, and other forms of regular income not derived from employment in El Salvador.
How often do I need to renew my residency permit?
The initial residency permit is valid for 1 year, then renewable annually.
Can Independent Means Visa holders apply for El Salvador citizenship?
Yes, visa holders can apply for El Salvador citizenship after 5 years of legal residency, subject to meeting other requirements.
DOCUMENTS
Passport (original and copy of all pages)
Marriage certificate and birth certificates of dependents (if applicable)
Not applicable
A clean criminal record is required, confirmed through police clearance certificates from the applicant's country of origin and any country of residence in the past 2 years
Applicants must provide documentation proving they have sufficient financial means to support themselves in El Salvador
DOCUMENTS
Birth certificates from government archives; Marriage certificates for family dependencies; Police clearance records from current and past residences
Certified translations into official language(s); Apostille certification; Government-issued document legalization
Diploma and transcript verification; Professional certification authentication; Credential evaluation services
Initial application submission fee; Processing and handling charges; Administrative review fees
Fingerprint collection fee; Digital photograph requirements; Biometric data processing
Required medical examinations; Vaccination verification; Health certificate processing
Document verification fees; Background check processing; Application status updates
Consulate visit expenses; Interview travel costs; Temporary accommodation (if required)
Language proficiency testing; Skills assessment fees; Additional document requests
Immigration lawyer consultation; Document review services; Legal representation fees
Tax planning consultation; Asset transfer advisory; Investment planning services
Relocation services; Property search assistance; Settlement support services
Residency card processing; Passport issuance fees; Registration certificates
Oath ceremony fees; Registration charges; Local authority fees
Renewal fees; Status maintenance costs; Annual reporting fees
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