El Salvador Travel Advisory

There were no changes to the advisory level or risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated. Advisory Summary U.S. government employees working in El Salvador are allowed to travel throughout the country during daylight hours. However, due to road conditions, hilly terrain, possible landslides during the rainy season, and general lack of streetlights, U.S. government employees are prohibited from traveling between cities or departments (the Salvadoran equivalent of states) at night. Gang activity has decreased dramatically since 2022, causing a drop in violent crime and murders. There are exceptions. U.S. government employees are allowed to travel at all hours between San Salvador and: El Salvador’s international airport La Libertad department U.S. government employees are prohibited from using public buses. Review our travel guidance for El Salvador to learn how to prepare for a safe trip. State of Exemption In March 2022, the Government of El Salvador declared a “State of Exception” in response to an increase in gang murders: The State of Exception allows local authorities to arrest anyone they think is involved in gang activity. It suspends several constitutional rights. This includes the normal protections of criminal procedure, such as the right to a speedy trial and access to counsel. Tens of thousands of people are currently in prison under the State of Exception, all awaiting trial. Several U.S. citizens have been detained under the State of Exception. They have yet to face trial. The State of Exception is still in place. If you decide to travel to El Salvador: Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy or consulate contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency. Review the Country Security Report for El Salvador . Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for El Salvado