Worried your Salvadoran passport is about to expire while living in the United States? Many Salvadoran citizens find passport renewal confusing or unclear. The good news is that your El Salvador passport renewal in the US is straightforward once you know the steps and have the required documents ready.
That’s why we’ve created this step-by-step guide at Remitly to walk you through the entire process. You’ll learn how to complete your El Salvador passport renewal in the US, what documents you need, and how to schedule your appointment. You’ll also get a clear breakdown of the costs and what to expect on the day of your visit.
What you need for your passport renewal
To renew your adult Salvadoran passport in the US, you’ll need the following:
- Your current or expired Salvadoran passport
- A valid, original Salvadoran Documento Único de Identidad (DUI)
- If you’ve changed your name or marital status, a valid, updated DUI that shows the change.
- Two recent color passport photos (white background, no glasses)
- Proof of payment of the passport fee
Requirements may vary by location. Before your visit, verify the latest document requirements on your consulate’s website so you don’t miss anything.
How to schedule your appointment
Renewing your Salvadoran passport in the US usually requires an appointment. Same-day walk-in visits are generally not accepted, so plan ahead and book your slot online.
Follow these steps to book your appointment:
Step 1: Visit the official consulate appointment portal
Go to the official El Salvador consulate website at portalcitas.rree.gob.sv.
Step 2: Create an account or log in
If you’re a first-time user, click “Create account” and enter your personal details to register. If you already have an account, log in with your username and password. Your account lets you manage and track appointments easily.
Step 3: Select the consulate location
Choose the nearest or most convenient Salvadoran consulate in the US where you want to renew your passport.
Step 4: Choose the service
From the list of services, select “Emisión de Pasaporte” (Passport issuance). This ensures your appointment is booked specifically for renewing or issuing a passport. Double-check the service description to ensure you pick the correct one.
Step 5: Pick a date and time
Browse the available slots and select a date and time that works for you. Appointments fill up quickly, so booking early helps you secure a convenient time. Check back often for cancellations or newly released times if your first attempt is unsuccessful.
Step 6: Print your appointment confirmation
After confirming your appointment, print the confirmation page and keep it with your documents. Bring this document along to the consulate on the day of your appointment.
TIP: Sometimes, your nearest US consulate may announce a “mobile consulate,” and these may have different scheduling rules. If there’s a mobile consulate coming up near you, it could be a more convenient option for renewing your passport.
Understanding the renewal fees
Renewing your Salvadoran passport in the US currently costs $60 USD compared to $40 if you renew it in Central American territory. Fees may differ if you are replacing a lost or stolen passport.
Accepted payment methods may include a money order made out to the consulate, or a bank deposit to the consulate’s designated account. However, payment methods may vary by location, so confirm with your consulate before you attend your appointment. Fees are also subject to change, so ensure you have the most up-to-date fee before you pay.
Your consulate visit: what to expect
On the day of your appointment, aim to arrive 15 to 20 minutes early to allow time for check-ins and security screening. Once inside, consulate staff generally follow these steps:
Document verification
You’ll present all of the required documents (passport, DUI, etc.). Staff will review each item to ensure everything is complete, authentic, and meets the requirements.
It helps to keep everything organized in one folder to give you quick access to your documents and ensure nothing gets overlooked during your appointment.
Photo and fingerprint capture
If you bring your passport photos with you, staff will check that they meet the standards. If the consulate offers on-site photo or biometric capture, they may take your photo and, at some offices, record your fingerprints. Processes vary by consulate, so be sure to check what’s required for the one you visit.
Information review
Staff will verify your personal details to ensure the information on your forms matches your documents. This step helps prevent mistakes that could affect your passport’s validity.
What happens next
In some cases, consulates print new passports on-site, and you may receive your renewed Salvadoran passport the same day. However, processing times vary depending on the consulate and the number of applications they’re handling. You may be asked to return at a later date or receive the passport by mail. Be sure to confirm this when booking your appointment.
Common issues and how to avoid them
Renewing your Salvadoran passport can be a smooth process if you know the common issues to watch out for:
Incomplete documents
One of the most frequent problems is missing required documents, such as your current passport or DUI. Bring originals and copies, and double-check your checklist before you leave home. Some additional documents may be required in special cases, such as if you’re renewing a passport for a minor.
Incorrect photos
Passport photos must meet strict requirements, including full-color, white background, correct size, and no glasses or hats. If your photos don’t meet these standards, you may need to retake them at the consulate. To avoid rejected passport photos, always review your consulate’s latest photo guidelines before your appointment.
Missed or incorrect appointment
If you arrive without a confirmed appointment or at the wrong consulate, you’ll probably have to reschedule. Print your appointment confirmation and verify the date, time, and location to avoid issues. Also, plan to arrive early so you don’t miss your slot.
Using the wrong form version
Another common mistake is downloading the renewal form from unofficial sources, which may lead to your application being rejected. Always download the form directly from the official Salvadoran consulate’s website to ensure you have the most up-to-date version before your appointment.
Not confirming appointment details
Appointment times and location may change. Double-check your confirmation a day or two before your visit to be sure there are no updates or cancellations. Consider setting a reminder in your calendar so you don’t forget to do this.
Expired or invalid DUI
Your DUI must be valid for a passport renewal in the US. If it’s expired or close to expiring, renew it first to avoid problems at your appointment. A current DUI ensures your identity can be properly verified. Bring both the original and a photocopy in case the consulate requests a copy for their records.
Changes in personal information
If your name, marital status, or address has changed since your last passport was issued, you must provide official documents to prove the update. Bring documents such as a marriage certificate or a legal name change to ensure your new passport reflects accurate information.
Missing or incorrect proof of payment
Even when you use the accepted payment methods, incorrect details or forgetting your proof of payment can stop the process. Keep this proof with your documents and ensure the amount matches the current consulate fee.
Not preparing for security checks
Consulates follow strict security rules. Large bags, electronics, or prohibited items may not be allowed inside. Bring only what you need to avoid complications during entry.
Ignoring special requirements for minors or dependents
If you’re renewing a dependent’s or child’s passport, you usually need to present additional documents, such as parental consent or guardianship papers. Failing to bring them can delay the process, so review the consulate requirements for minors in advance.
Renew your Salvadoran passport with confidence
Renewing your Salvadoran passport from the United States is manageable when you know what to expect. By gathering the required documents, booking your appointment through the official online portal, paying the accurate fee, and arriving on time at the consulate, you can complete your renewal without unnecessary delays.
Always check your local Salvadoran consulate’s website for the latest requirements and updates. With this guide, you can approach your passport renewal in the US with confidence and clarity.
FAQs
Can I complete the El Salvador passport renewal online?
No. You can schedule your passport renewal appointment online, but you must complete the process in person at a Salvadoran consulate. Currently, there’s no option to renew your passport online. In-person renewal ensures proper identity verification and handling of official documents.
What if my DUI has expired?
You need a valid DUI for your Salvadoran passport renewal in the US. If your DUI has expired, you’ll have to renew it before your passport appointment. Some consulates offer DUI renewal services, but not all do, so check what’s available in your location.
How long does passport renewal take?
Some consulates issue passports on the same day, but processing times may vary depending on the consulate and current demand.
What do I do if my old Salvadoran passport was lost or stolen?
If your previous passport was lost or stolen, you have to file a police report and bring it to your consulate appointment. The report serves as proof of the loss and helps prevent misuse. You may also be asked to make a sworn statement on-site.
Can someone else renew my passport on my behalf?
No. Salvadoran passport renewals have to be completed in person by the passport holder. The only exceptions are for minors and certain dependents, where a parent or legal guardian can submit the application with the required documentation. Always check your consulate’s guidelines before your appointment.
Are there any special rules for minors?
Yes. Renewing a passport for a child or dependent requires additional documents, such as parental consent forms or guardianship papers. Both parents usually need to be present unless legal documents state otherwise. Bringing all required paperwork helps prevent delays during the appointment.