Business Hours and Etiquette in El Salvador
Office hours
| Sector | Usual hours |
|---|---|
| Private companies | 8:00 to 17:30 |
| Government offices | 7:30 to 15:30 |
| Breakfast meetings | From about 7:30 |
| Lunch | About 12:30 |
| Dinner | From about 19:00 |
Source: US International Trade Administration: El Salvador Country Commercial Guide, business travel1
El Salvador is on UTC−6 all year. Government offices close for Holy Week, the August festivities and between Christmas and New Year; see public holidays.1
Meetings and manners
- Relationships first: as in much of Latin America, business follows a personal connection, so expect some conversation before the agenda.
- Greetings: shake hands at the start and the end of a meeting. Wait before using first names until the relationship is established.
- Titles: Salvadorans often use Licenciado (a university graduate), Ingeniero (an engineering graduate) or Doctor (physicians and lawyers) before the surname.
- Business cards: they are used, and exchanging them at the first meeting is expected.
- Meals: lunches and dinners can last two to three hours.
Source: US International Trade Administration: El Salvador Country Commercial Guide, business travel1
Dress and language
- Dress: a lightweight suit suits meetings with business organisations and events; business casual is fine for most company meetings.
- Language: Spanish is the official language. If you do not speak Spanish, consider an interpreter for meetings.
Source: US International Trade Administration: El Salvador Country Commercial Guide, business travel1
Money, phones and travel
- Payments: the US dollar is the currency. Cards are widely accepted in the main cities, Visa most of all; some shops ask for ID. ATMs are in shopping centres, hotels, petrol stations and banks.
- VAT and tips: 13% VAT is included in most prices. Restaurants often add a 10% to 12% tip to the bill; if not, a cash tip is customary.
- Phones and power: a prepaid SIM needs an ID or passport. Power is 110 to 120 volts with US-type plugs.
- Getting around: Uber and inDrive operate, and most hotels offer airport transfers. If you drive, avoid driving at night.
- Water: tap water is not drinkable; bottled water and ice in reputable restaurants are considered safe.
Source: US International Trade Administration: El Salvador Country Commercial Guide, business travel1
Sources
Facts checked 9 November 2026. Prepared by InvestSalvador.com for general information.