Residence for Dependants in El Salvador
Documents for form F9
- The general documents for temporary residence, adapted for children: the parent or legal representative files the child’s passport and the apostilled and translated birth certificate.
- Proof of the relationship: birth certificate for children, marriage certificate for a spouse, a notarial declaration of a common-law union stating how long it has lasted, or another reliable document for other relatives.
- A sworn statement before a Salvadoran notary by the person who will support the family, stating the commitment, how long it lasts and where the income comes from.
- For a minor travelling with one parent, a power of attorney or authorisation from the absent parent.
- Foreign documents apostilled or legalised and translated into Spanish.
Source: Jurisprudencia: Regulations of the Special Migration and Aliens Law, Executive Decree 35 of 2019 (PDF, in Spanish); Asamblea Legislativa: Special Migration and Aliens Law, Decree 286 of 2019 (PDF, in Spanish); DGME: temporary residence procedures and forms F1 to F31, form F9 for family members1,2,3
Figures checked November 2026. A guide only, not tax, legal or financial advice.
Sources for the calculator
Family under each route
| Main route | How the family is covered |
|---|---|
| Investor residence (Investment Law Art. 11) | The law extends the residence to the family |
| Pensionado or rentista | Spouse or partner and children under parental authority share the tax and customs benefits; a rentista with 2 or more dependants needs 6 minimum wages |
| Work permit, shareholder and other categories | Family apply on form F9 as dependants |
| Married to or living with a Salvadoran | Also form F9; a foreign spouse keeps the residence after divorce or the spouse’s death |
Source: Asamblea Legislativa: Special Migration and Aliens Law, Decree 286 of 2019 (PDF, in Spanish); DGME: temporary residence procedures and forms F1 to F31, form F9 for family members; INVEST: Investment Law of El Salvador, English translation2,3,5
Points to watch
- Dependants on form F9 have no right to work. A family member who finds a job applies for a work permit.
- A child who starts school needs the right residence status; studying without it is a minor infraction under Art. 224(13) of the Migration Law.
- A child of a Salvadoran father or mother does not need residence: they have the right to Salvadoran nationality.
- Changes of address or civil status must be reported to the DGME within 5 working days.
- Children of permanent residents who turn 18 must register on their own within 6 months of their birthday.
Source: DGME: temporary residence procedures and forms F1 to F31, form F9 for family members; DGME: frequently asked questions on aliens3,4
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my family join me in El Salvador?
Yes. A foreigner can get temporary residence to accompany a family member who holds or is applying for residence, including a spouse or common-law partner, parents and children under 18.
Which form do dependants use?
Form F9, with a notarised declaration from the person who will support the family.
Can dependants work?
No. Residence on form F9 is granted without the right to work.
Sources
- Jurisprudencia: Regulations of the Special Migration and Aliens Law, Executive Decree 35 of 2019 (PDF, in Spanish)
- Asamblea Legislativa: Special Migration and Aliens Law, Decree 286 of 2019 (PDF, in Spanish)
- DGME: temporary residence procedures and forms F1 to F31, form F9 for family members (in Spanish)
- DGME: frequently asked questions on aliens (in Spanish)
- INVEST: Investment Law of El Salvador, English translation (PDF)
Figures checked 9 November 2026. Prepared by InvestSalvador.com for general information. It is not investment, tax or legal advice; please confirm details with a qualified adviser before acting.