El Salvador is a country often referred to as the “Ghetto of the Americas”. It is one of the most impoverished and crime-ridden countries in Latin America and has a very high infant mortality rate. But despite all these challenges, it is still an attractive destination for those who want to relocate. Here are some tips and advice for those planning to move to El Salavdor.
What you should consider when you move to El Salvador.
Most people who move to El Salvador come from another country and must adapt to their new culture and environment. While this may seem like a daunting process, there are a few things you should consider when packing for your move.
First of all, you should not take any unnecessary items with you, as you will have to send them back home if you move. Also, you should consider how much space you will have in your new home.
How to get around after you move to El Salvador.
The country is not the easiest place to get around. There are no buses, so you will have to find a way to get from point A to point B.
Even for those who don’t own a car, there isn’t much public transportation. But that doesn’t mean you can’t still enjoy your new home! Many cities can be easily explored on foot. On top of that, there are many places where you can find good food and culture.
How to find a place to live in El Salvador
When moving to a new country, finding an apartment is important. In Germany, finding an apartment can be difficult and confusing, but in El Salvador it is completely different.
The housing market in El Salvador is very different than what you may be used to. The price is around $100 rent per month per person.
This $120/month is affordable due to the low cost of living in El Salvador. Make sure you are willing to sacrifice some comfort for affordability when considering your move abroad.
What dishes you should try
Salvadoran cuisine is very diverse in terms of the ingredients used. These include corn, beans, rice and tomato sauce. But whether you are interested in traditional dishes or international specialties, you will definitely find something that will please your taste buds and nourish your body.
One of the most popular dishes in El Salvador are the so-called pupusas – thick tortillas filled with cheese or other fillings. They are usually eaten with curtido (a pickled cabbage mixture) and sometimes served with hot sauce. If that’s too much work for you, you can order a pupusa at any restaurant – they’re easy to find!
If you want to try something more daring, you can order a caldo de pollo (chicken soup) with tortillas on the side at one of the many Salvadoran restaurants in the area.
How to get medical care in El Salvador
El Salvador has its own national health care system, which consists of three hospitals and two medical centers. One of the most important things to do before moving to El Salvador is to get a medical checkup in your home country.
The premiums in El Salvador are lower than those in Switzerland, so you will have an easy transition.
How to find a job after your move to El Salvador
One misconception about El Salvador is that there aren’t many jobs there. This is not true at all: the country’s unemployment rate is extremely low, making it one of the most desirable destinations for immigrants and investors. The formalities involved in getting a job are relatively simple if you know how to go about them.
You will need to apply for a work visa, which can take up to six months. To do this, you will need to bring your own passport, a health certificate, and proof of financial means. That’s just the beginning; once you have your work visa, you will also need to apply for a social security number and proof of address, as well as register with the National Registry of Foreigners (Registro Nacional de Extranjeros – RNE). You will also have to pay taxes on your income each month.
Dangers you will face after your move to El Salvador
El Salvador has a high street crime rate, which includes pickpocketing and muggings. You should be especially careful when traveling at night or visiting tourist attractions such as the beaches.
Due to its geographic location on the Pacific coast, El Salvador also experiences frequent earthquakes and sometimes hurricanes. Earthquakes usually occur between March and October, while hurricanes occur during the rest of the year. Prepare for these natural disasters by stocking up on supplies before you travel to El Salvador!
How to apply for a visa to El Salvador
If you plan to move to El Salvador and work in the country, it is important to apply for a temporary visa before you arrive.
To apply for a temporary visa for study or work (J-1), you must have the following:
- A letter of acceptance from an employer in El Salvador.
- A letter of acceptance from an institution in El Salvador
- An application form
Incomplete application forms will not be accepted. You will also need to submit other documents to prove your eligibility, such as bank statements, copies of your passport, etc.
This post has now given you some tips to finally get your move to El Salvador over the line. We wish you all the best and are sure that you will not regret your decision. Even though El Salvador has a bad reputation regarding crime, there are also many beautiful and safe corners.
If you have any questions, please feel free to send us a message. We will support you with words and deeds during your move to El Salvador.