Guide to Registering NGOs in El Salvador

The registration of NGOs in El Salvador involves meeting a series of specific requirements and following well-defined legal processes that ensure transparency and impact on social and community development.

In this guide, you will find all the necessary information to formalize and register a non-governmental organization (NGO) in El Salvador, from the legal requirements to the practical steps needed to complete the process.

Establishing a nonprofit organization (NGO) in El Salvador requires following a series of fundamental steps and meeting specific requirements. The creation of these entities—which play a crucial role in social and community development—requires a clear understanding of the legal and administrative procedures necessary for registration in El Salvador.

Below, we explain in detail the essential requirements for constituting an association or foundation in El Salvador, providing you with a practical guide to begin your journey toward social impact and positive change.

Legal Requirements for Registering NGOs in El Salvador

General Documentation and Requirements

• Necessary Documentation:

  • The articles of incorporation and bylaws.
  • Identification of the founding members.
  • Fiscal address and contact information.

• Applicable Regulations and Legislation::

  • Laws and decrees applicable to NGOs in El Salvador.
  • Involved entities: the Ministry of the Interior, the Registry of Legal Entities, and the Registry of Associations and Nonprofit Foundations.

Constituting an Association or Nonprofit Foundation in El Salvador Involves the Following Key Steps:

1. Drafting and Approval of Bylaws:
   Develop and approve the rules that will govern your organization.

2. Execution of the Deed of Incorporation:
   Officially execute the legal document that establishes the organization.

3. Creation of a Member Roster and Election of the First Board of Directors:
   Compile a list of members and hold elections for the inaugural board.

4. Preparation of Accounting Books and Records of Minutes and Membership:
   Prepare the necessary accounting records and official registers for meetings and membership, which must be legalized.

For Official Registration in the Registry of Associations and Nonprofit Foundations in El Salvador, the Following Requirements Must Be Met:

1. Application:
   Submit an application addressed to the Ministry of the Interior (Gobernación), signed by the association’s president.

2. Deed of Incorporation:
   Provide two certified copies of the original deed of incorporation, along with three additional copies.

3. Bylaws:
   Supply three copies of the bylaws.

4. Member Roster:
   Include proof of the roster of the entity’s members, accompanied by their identification documents.

5. Board of Directors:
   Provide certification of the minutes from the election of the board of directors.

6. Books and Registers:
   Submit books of assembly minutes and member registers, in addition to the accounting books.

Ensure you comply with these requirements for a successful registration. Contact us for more information and to bring your NGO to life in El Salvador!

Step-by-Step Process to Establish Your NGO

Establishing a nonprofit organization in El Salvador requires following a series of fundamental steps:

Preparation and Document Drafting

• Drafting and Approval of Bylaws:
  Develop the bylaws that will govern the operation of the NGO, including its mission, vision, and internal rules.

• Execution of the Deed of Incorporation:
  Formalize the establishment of the organization through the appropriate deed.

Internal Organization

• Member Roster and Election of the Board of Directors:
  Create a list of the founding members and proceed with the election of the initial board of directors, ensuring that the document is officially certified.

• Preparation of Accounting Books and Records:
  Prepare and legalize the minutes books for assemblies, the member registry, and the accounting books to support the administrative management.

Submission of the Application and Legalization

• Formal Application:
  Submit the application addressed to the Ministry of the Interior, along with all the required documentation.

• Review and Approval:
  The corresponding authorities will evaluate the submitted documentation and, if it meets the requirements, will proceed with the official registration of the NGO.

• Timelines and Costs:
  The estimated time varies and can take between 30 and 60 days, while the costs depend on the administrative fees established by each agency.

Benefits of Registering an NGO in El Salvador

• Legal and Fiscal Recognition:
  Official registration allows access to funding, donations, and fiscal benefits that can enhance the organization’s social impact.

• Transparency and Credibility:
  Having a robust legal status strengthens the institutional image and generates greater trust among donors and collaborators.

Establishing an NGO in El Salvador is a process that requires meticulous planning and compliance with specific legal requirements. By following this guide—from drafting the bylaws to legalizing the books and submitting the application to the Ministry of the Interior—you will be prepared to formalize your organization and access the multiple legal and fiscal benefits that come with it. Always stay updated and seek professional advice to ensure the success of your project and to enhance its social impact.