About El Salvador's Correctional System
El Salvador's correctional system is managed by the Dirección General de Centros Penales. For inmate searches, use the official contacts listed below or contact the facility directly using the phone numbers on this page. Where available, the facility listings below include addresses, inmate capacity, and descriptive information.
For US citizens detained in El Salvador, contact US Embassy El Salvador at +503 2501 2999 immediately, or call the US State Department Citizens Emergency Center at 1-888-407-4747 from the US.
El Salvador Resources & Legal Services
Key El Salvador Prison Contacts
| Agency / Contact | Location | Phone | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dirección General de Centros Penales | El Salvador | +503-2275-9600 | Visit Site |
| US Embassy El Salvador | El Salvador | +503 2501 2999 | Visit Site |
| US State Dept Emergency (from US) | Washington DC | 1-888-407-4747 | Visit Site |
Showing 3 facilities in El Salvador
Penal La Esperanza (Mariona)
Facility
N/A
7000
Centro Penal Sensuntepeque
Facility
N/A
1500
Centro de Confinamiento del Terrorismo (CECOT)
Facility
Closed
The world's largest prison. Opened in February 2023 by President Nayib Bukele. Designed to hold 40000 inmates in the context of a state of emergency against MS-13 and Barrio 18 gangs. Built in 5 months at a cost of $26 million. Conditions documented as brutal with limited due process rights.
El Salvador Prison FAQ
Browse the facility listings on this page to find the specific institution, then contact them directly using the phone number listed. For US citizens detained in El Salvador, contact US Embassy El Salvador at +503 2501 2999 immediately.
Contact US Embassy El Salvador at +503 2501 2999 immediately, or call the US State Department Citizens Emergency Center at 1-888-407-4747 from the US. Consular officers can visit detained Americans, provide lists of local attorneys, and notify family members.
Visitation rules vary significantly by facility and security level in El Salvador. You will typically need to be on an approved visitor list, present valid government-issued photo ID, and comply with the facility's dress code. Contact the specific facility directly using the phone number listed on this page to confirm current visitation hours and requirements.
Contact Unión de Abogados de El Salvador for referrals to qualified criminal defense attorneys in El Salvador. The US Embassy can also provide a list of local attorneys. You can also find a criminal lawyer through our directory.
Each El Salvador facility has its own approved methods for receiving inmate funds. Contact the facility directly using the phone numbers listed on this page for current accepted payment methods, deposit limits, and procedures.