Are you familiar with the Foreign Agents Law in El Salvador?

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The Foreign Agents Law in El Salvador, approved by Decree No. 308, aims to regulate the activities of individuals and legal entities operating in the country with foreign financing. This law seeks to guarantee transparency, national sovereignty, and political stability.

To whom does the Law apply?

The law applies to any natural or legal person, national or foreign, whose activities respond to foreign interests or financing. This includes associations, non-profit foundations and non-governmental organizations (NGOs).

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RAEX Registry

The Registry of Foreign Agents (RAEX) is created, a dependency of the Ministry of the Interior, where agents must register. The RAEX will have powers of supervision, control and sanction.

Obligations of Foreign Agents

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  • Register with the RAEX (National Registry of Officials of the Republic of Ecuador).
  • Channel funds through authorized institutions.
  • Comply with the Anti-Money Laundering Law.
  • Keep accounting records.
  • Report on your activities and sources of funding.

Important prohibitions

  • Carrying out activities without being registered with RAEX.
  • Interfering in the country’s political affairs.
  • Receiving anonymous or undeclared donations.
  • Changing the use of funds without prior notice.

Tax regime and 30% tax

All foreign financing or donations are subject to a 30% tax, withheld by financial entities. It also applies to goods in kind and national donations.

Sanctions and fines

Fines for non-compliance range from USD $100,000 to $250,000, in addition to other legal and criminal consequences depending on the severity of the case.

Deadlines and effective date

The regulated entities must register with RAEX within 90 days of the law’s entry into force. If they fail to do so, they will not be able to carry out activities or move resources.

Do you wish to consult the complete law?

You can see the complete decree or download it in PDF format.

📄 View the complete law   ⬇️ Download PDF

The Foreign Agents Law establishes a clear framework for organizations with foreign funding in El Salvador. Its compliance is mandatory and its omission can result in severe penalties. If you need legal advice on this regulation, consult a lawyer specialized in corporate and tax law.

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Do you have questions about your obligations as a foreign agent? Contact us and schedule a personalized consultation. At Interbiznet We have a team of corporate and tax law experts who can help you comply with these regulations.