Company Formation in El Salvador
Start your business in El Salvador.
Professional guidance for entrepreneurs, investors and companies establishing operations in El Salvador — from choosing the right structure to registration and the start of operations.
What the service includes
- Guidance on corporate structures
- Incorporation of companies
- Simplified stock companies (S.A.S.)
- Commercial companies
- Drafting of formation documents
- Corporate registrations
- Corporate amendments
- Powers of attorney
- Legal representation where applicable
- Counsel for foreign investors
- Coordination of procedures related to the start of operations
- Post-formation corporate support
The process, step by step
01
Initial consultation
We understand your project, timeline and constraints.
02
Structure selection
We recommend the corporate form that fits your case.
03
Document preparation
Formation documents drafted and reviewed with you.
04
Incorporation
Execution of the formation documents, with notarial coordination where required.
05
Registration
Filings before the corresponding registries.
06
Start of operations
Coordination of the procedures linked to operating.
07
Ongoing support
Corporate follow-up once the company is running.
Who can incorporate
Salvadoran and foreign individuals, as well as foreign companies, can hold ownership in Salvadoran companies. A company can even be formed with a single shareholder through the S.A.S. Certain regulated activities may require a specific corporate form or prior authorizations, which is reviewed case by case.
Choosing between S.A. de C.V. and S.A.S.
The S.A. de C.V. is a traditional corporate structure, while the S.A.S. offers a simplified and flexible alternative. The appropriate vehicle depends on the shareholders, industry, financing plans and operational requirements.
Frequently asked questions
Can a foreigner own 100% of a Salvadoran company?
Yes. Foreign individuals and foreign companies can hold full ownership. The structure is chosen based on your case, and certain regulated activities may carry additional requirements.
Do I need to travel to El Salvador?
Not necessarily. Many steps can be handled through powers of attorney and coordinated remotely; whether travel is advisable depends on your structure and the institutions involved.
How long does incorporation take?
It depends on the structure chosen and the workload of the registries involved. You receive a realistic, case-specific estimate before engaging — never a guaranteed timeline.
What documents do foreign corporate shareholders need?
Generally, proof of legal existence from the home registry, which — depending on the country of origin and the document — may require an apostille or equivalent legalization and a sworn translation into Spanish.
What happens after incorporation?
The company needs ongoing maintenance: records, resolutions, appointments, renewals and deadlines. That is exactly what our Corporate Services cover.
After Incorporation
Corporate Administration
Learn more →Corporate Representation
Learn more →Company Secretarial
Learn more →Trademark
Learn more →Contracts
Learn more →Compliance
Learn more →Website
Learn more →Ongoing Corporate Support
Learn more →Contact
Ready when you are.
Describe your case in a few lines. You will get an honest assessment: whether we can help, what it takes, and what it costs.