News

our Trusted Partner for International Relocation and Customs Exemptions

El Salvador has introduced a new Special Law for the Diaspora and People in Human Mobility, a comprehensive framework that facilitates the return of Salvadorans and naturalized citizens by granting full import tax exemptions on household goods, vehicles, and work-related equipment.

This law positions El Salvador among the most diaspora-friendly countries in Central America, offering significant incentives for those who wish to return, invest, or reestablish their lives and businesses in the country.

At BFI El Salvador – Moving El Salvador, we are ready to assist agents, consulates, and families worldwide in managing every aspect of this process — from customs documentation and inspection coordination to door-to-door delivery.

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🏠 1. Household Goods (Menaje de Casa)

Under the Special Law for the Diaspora and People in Human Mobility, Salvadorans returning to the country can import household goods tax-free for a total declared value of up to USD 100,000 per family group.

The term menaje de casa refers to all domestic items used to furnish and equip a household, including:

• Furniture, appliances, and kitchenware
• Clothing, electronics, personal items, and décor
• Books, children’s items, and family belongings

These goods can be new or used, provided they are for domestic use only and not intended for resale.

BFI El Salvador handles the customs declaration, import coordination, packaging inspection, and final delivery, ensuring compliance with Salvadoran Customs Authority (DGA) guidelines.

For official requirements, visit:
🔗 Customs Service – Import of Menaje de Casa (sitio.aduana.gob.sv)

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🚗 2. Vehicles

The law allows returning Salvadorans to import up to two personal vehicles per family, fully exempt from import duties, as long as the vehicles are for private use and in good condition.

Key requirements:

• The vehicle must be registered under the owner’s name.
• Proof of ownership (title and registration) must be provided.
• The vehicle must be retained for at least two years before transfer or sale.

Eligible vehicles can arrive via Port of Acajutla or through authorized land border entries.
BFI El Salvador coordinates all steps — customs clearance, inland transport, DGA inspection, and delivery — under compliance with the General Directorate of Migration and Foreign Affairs.

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⚙️ 3. Tools, Professional Equipment, and Work Implements

The new legislation also supports returning professionals and entrepreneurs by providing tax-free entry for tools, instruments, machinery, and work equipment necessary to restart a business or trade in El Salvador.

The exemption applies to both new and used items, up to a combined declared value of USD 100,000 per family group.

Examples include:

• Mechanics’ tools, carpentry and construction equipment
• IT, design, and professional office setups
• Agricultural, industrial, or artisan machinery
• Technical or educational materials for small enterprises

BFI ensures the correct classification, valuation, and documentation under the new diaspora benefits program, so your clients or partners receive full exemption without delay.

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🧾 Eligibility and Requirements

To qualify for these benefits, applicants must:

1. Be Salvadoran by birth or by naturalization.
2. Have resided abroad and now wish to return permanently or temporarily.
3. Submit a sworn declaration to the General Directorate of Migration and Foreign Affairs (DGME) indicating their return and new residence in El Salvador.
4. Not have any active migration restrictions or pending legal issues.

These measures reflect the Salvadoran government’s effort to strengthen ties with the diaspora and facilitate reintegration into the national economy.

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🌎 BFI El Salvador — Your Partner in Central America

As members of the International Association of Movers (IAM), WCA World, Globalia Logistics Network, and JCtrans, BFI El Salvador acts as your destination partner for:

• Door-to-Door Relocation Services
• Customs Brokerage & Tax-Exemption Management
• Packing, Storage, and Local Distribution
• Project Cargo & Multimodal Transport Solutions

We provide full support for returning families, expatriates, diplomats, and corporate relocations, ensuring compliance with the new Salvadoran Mobility Law and offering end-to-end visibility throughout the process.

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🤝 Work with Us

Whether you represent an overseas moving company, relocation agency, embassy, or private client, BFI El Salvador can assist you with every step of your client’s return — ensuring documentation accuracy, timely customs release, and secure delivery.

Our team will guide you through:

• Law interpretation and eligibility verification
• Documentation and customs pre-approval
• Shipment coordination and DGA inspection assistance
• On-site delivery at the client’s new home or facility

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Contact Us

📧 moises@bfielsalvador.com
🌐 www.bfielsalvador.com
📍 San Salvador, El Salvador

Moisés Carballo
Sales & Relocation Manager
BFI El Salvador – Moving El Salvador
The way to move. The way to care.

Dear partners and clients,

As part of the new Special Law for the Diaspora and Human Mobility, the General Directorate of Customs (DGA) has updated the import regulations for Salvadorans returning to the country with their personal belongings and vehicles.

According to Resolution DGA-016-2025, each family group is entitled to import up to two vehicles with exemption from import duties and registration taxes, under the following conditions:

🚗 Conventional vehicles (gasoline or diesel): Up to 8 years old from the date of manufacture.
⚡ Electric or hybrid vehicles: Up to 7 years old from the date of manufacture.
🧾 Vehicles must be in good working condition not declared as salvage or total loss.
🔑 The vehicle must remain under the owner’s name for at least two years before transfer or resale.

This new regulation also allows the import of household goods and work equipment under the same law, offering returning Salvadorans greater flexibility and benefits when relocating to El Salvador.

At BFI El Salvador, we are ready to assist you through every step of your international relocation, ensuring smooth customs clearance and safe delivery of your belongings and vehicles.

Let’s make your return home simple, compliant, and stress free.

Best regards,
Moisés Carballo
Sales & Relocation Manager
BFI El Salvador
🌐 www.bfielsalvador.com

📧 mcarballo@bfielsalvador.com

Dear Partners and Clients,

To support all Salvadorans returning under the Human Mobility Law, we are sharing with you the official packing list authorized by the General Directorate of Customs (DGA).

This list – attached to this email – is an essential guide to help you prepare your household goods shipment properly, ensuring eligibility for the tax exemptions and benefits recently confirmed by the authorities.

✅ Key Benefits Under the Law:

Up to $100,000 in household goods per family – tax free.

Up to $100,000 in work tools – tax free.

Up to 2 vehicles exempt from import taxes, subject to age restrictions and ownership requirements.

✅ Examples of Authorized Household Goods:
Furniture, home appliances, electronics, musical instruments, bicycles, books, toys, kitchenware, garden tools, suitcases, and even small boats or jet skis.

ℹ️ For your convenience, the complete packing list is included as an attachment and will also be available on our website.

At BFI El Salvador, we are ready to provide guidance, customs support, and door to door relocation services, ensuring a smooth transition for you and your family.

👉 Learn more from the official announcement here: Instagram – Aduanas El Salvador

👉 Visit our website for the full information: www.bfielsalvador.com.sv

Best regards,
Moisés Carballo
Sales & Relocation Manager
📧 mcarballo@bfielsalvador.com