Towards improving comprehensive services for the Salvadoran diaspora, the Government of El Salvador has recently launched the immediate issuance of passports in Türkiye, India, Israel, Japan, Australia, South Korea, and China.
This project, spearheaded by President Nayib Bukele’s administration, marks a significant technological advancement, allowing for better support to Salvadorans living abroad. “With this new system, from June 1, 2019, to date, we have issued more than 1.15 million passports worldwide,” said Cindy Portal, Vice Minister of the Diaspora and Human Mobility.
Portal emphasized that this system not only simplifies the process but also invites Salvadorans abroad to experience the new face of El Salvador, a nation undergoing a deep transformation driven by security, tourism, and the efforts of its people.
“This service is part of our unwavering commitment to improving services for our overseas community. With this historic achievement, we can proudly say: Mission Accomplished! Now, there is no need to wait weeks or months for this vital document; Salvadoran passports can be obtained within minutes during a single visit to our embassies,” Portal added.
She also noted that with this new system, 81 of El Salvador’s 104 diplomatic and consular missions around the world now offer immediate passport issuance. The Vice Minister highlighted that this effort eliminates prolonged waiting times, encouraging Salvadorans to access this essential service, which now takes no more than 40 minutes.
Portal reiterated the government’s commitment to continue working closely with the diaspora, transforming embassies and consulates into hubs of support and community engagement. “We hope that soon many will visit us, obtain their new passports swiftly, and witness firsthand the progress we are making together,” she concluded.