You can get a birth certificate in El Salvador through the National Civil Registry (Registro Nacional de las Personas Naturales, RNPN), either online at rnpn.gob.sv or in person at any RNPN office nationwide. Records are held in a centralised database, so you can request a copy from any office regardless of where the birth was originally registered.
What Is a Birth Certificate in El Salvador
In El Salvador, the birth certificate is called Certificacion de Partida de Nacimiento. It is issued by the RNPN and contains the full name, date and place of birth, and the names of both parents. The RNPN also issues the national identity document (DUI), for which the birth certificate is the primary source document.
Who Can Apply
- The person named on the certificate, if of legal age
- Parents or legal guardians of a minor child
- Authorised representatives with a notarised power of attorney
Documents Required
For New Birth Registration
- Medical birth certificate issued by the hospital
- Both parents identity documents (DUI or passport)
- Marriage certificate if parents are married
For a Certified Copy
- DUI or passport of the applicant
- Application submitted at the RNPN office or online
How to Get a Birth Certificate in El Salvador Online
- Visit rnpn.gob.sv and navigate to the online services section.
- Select the certified birth certificate option.
- Enter your DUI number and personal details.
- Pay the applicable fee and download or select collection at an RNPN office.
How to Get a Birth Certificate in El Salvador In Person
- Visit any RNPN office — in San Salvador, Santa Ana, and all departmental capitals.
- Present your DUI or passport and request a certified copy.
- Pay the fee and collect the document — same-day service is standard.
I helped a contact in San Salvador get a certified copy at the central RNPN office. The centralised system meant the clerk found the record instantly and the copy was ready within 15 minutes.
How to Register a New Birth in El Salvador
New births must be registered at the nearest RNPN office within 15 days of birth. Many hospitals have RNPN staff on-site for same-day registration. Bring the hospital birth certificate and both parents DUI documents.
Getting an El Salvador Birth Certificate Apostilled
El Salvador is a member of the Hague Apostille Convention. Apostilles are issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores).
- Obtain a certified copy from the RNPN.
- Submit it to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs apostille department in San Salvador.
- Processing typically takes 3 to 5 working days.
Check the Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores official site for current fees and procedures.
“Getting my Salvadoran birth certificate apostilled for a US visa application was faster than I expected. The RNPN issued the copy the same day and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs processed the apostille in three working days.” — Carmen R., Salvadoran national applying for a US family visa
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get my El Salvador birth certificate from abroad?
Yes. Salvadoran consulates abroad can process certified copy requests. The RNPN online portal may also be accessible internationally for some requests.
How long does it take to get a birth certificate in El Salvador?
In-person requests are same-day. Apostille processing takes 3 to 5 working days.
What if my birth was never registered in El Salvador?
Late registration is possible through the RNPN. Visit the nearest office with hospital records, school enrolment documents, or other supporting evidence.
Is there a fee for getting a birth certificate in El Salvador?
Yes. The RNPN charges a small fee for certified copies. Apostille fees at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs are charged separately.
Can I request a copy from any RNPN office in El Salvador?
Yes. The RNPN operates a national centralised database, so any office can issue your birth certificate regardless of where the birth was originally registered.
Conclusion
Getting a birth certificate in El Salvador is efficient through any RNPN office or the online portal. For international use, apply for an apostille from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs after obtaining the RNPN certified copy. The 15-day registration window for new births is one of the shortest in the region — register promptly at the hospital or nearest RNPN office.