Official Import Rules
El Salvador requires a current rabies vaccination, a government-endorsed veterinary health certificate issued within 14 days of travel, and an import permit from MAG. Microchip recommended. Documents should be in Spanish. MAG inspects animals on arrival at Monseñor Óscar Arnulfo Romero International Airport (SAL) San Salvador.
Free route planner
Turn these rules into your dog's step-by-step planCabin/cargo call, breed check, crate size and paperwork timing.Medical Roadmap
Microchip
ISO 11784/11785 microchip fitted before the rabies vaccination. The microchip number must match every certificate.
Rabies vaccination
Rabies vaccination must be valid before travel. Most routes require at least 21 days after a primary vaccination.
Health certificate or pet passport
Use an EU pet passport where accepted, or a government-endorsed animal health certificate for this route.
Rabies titer test
Build in the approved-lab antibody test and any mandatory waiting period before booking the flight.
Travel day
Carry originals, confirm airline pet acceptance, and keep the official authority page saved offline.
Breed & Public-Space Rules
No major national breed ban found
Still check airline policies, local rules, insurance requirements and any transit-country restrictions before booking.
Flying In: Cabin, Hold or Cargo
Cost Breakdown
Quarantine Information
None if documentation complete
City & Housing Notes
San Salvador (Colonia Escalón, Santa Elena, Antiguo Cuscatlán) is the main city. El Salvador adopted Bitcoin as legal tender in 2021, attracting digital nomads. Affordable cost of living. Growing expat community, especially in beach towns like El Tunco.
Vets & Health After Arrival
Reasonable vet care in San Salvador with several modern clinics. Costs are very affordable. Beach areas have limited options. The climate is warm year-round.
Leaving El Salvador With Your Dog
Exit requires a health certificate from a MAG-approved vet. Processing usually 1–2 working days.
Videos & Route Walkthroughs
Use videos as lived-experience context, not as legal authority. Search for recent dog-owner route reports, airport collection walkthroughs, crate-loading examples and relocation-agent explainers, then verify every rule against the official source above.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is El Salvador safe for expats?
Security has improved significantly in recent years. San Salvador's upscale neighbourhoods and beach towns are generally safe. Research specific areas.
Is vet care affordable?
Very. El Salvador has excellent value for vet services. A routine visit costs around $10–25.
Is the Bitcoin economy relevant for pet owners?
Most vet clinics and pet shops accept both USD (the main currency) and Bitcoin.
Community Tips & Nearby Routes
Community reports are useful for practical details such as which cargo desk answers the phone, how long collection took, or whether a landlord asked for insurance. Treat them as tips, then verify rules with the authority and airline.