TL Insights
Back to TL Insights
Reform to the Administrative Procedures Law
In February 2026, a reform to the Administrative Procedures Law (LPA) was introduced, bringing important changes to the way public institutions handle documents originating abroad.
This update seeks to simplify procedures and make them more agile, particularly easing the process for companies and players with international operations.
What changes in practice?
The main change is the addition of a new Article 4-A, which establishes that it will no longer be necessary to legalize or apostille certain foreign public documents when they are used in procedures linked to commercial or customs operations, such as product registrations.
In addition, when it is possible to verify a document's authenticity through electronic means or institutional systems, certified or authenticated copies will no longer be required either.
Why does it matter for your company?
This change has a direct impact on the daily operations of many companies, as it makes it possible to: streamline procedures before public entities; reduce costs associated with apostilles and certifications; simplify the preparation of documentation for filings; and accelerate import, registration, and authorization processes.
In other words, less time on paperwork and more focus on running the business.
Which sectors are directly affected?
The reform has an immediate impact on activities such as import and export operations (customs), public procurement and state contracting processes, as well as foreign investment and the establishment of new operations in the country.
How can Torres Legal help you?
At Torres Legal, we support our clients in adapting to these changes, ensuring they can make the most of the facilities introduced by the reform without compliance risks.
Next articles in this category
September 2026
Reforms to the Law for the Promotion of Investment Expansion
The Legislative Assembly approved the reform to the Law for the Promotion of Investment Expansion on September 9, 2026. The reforms will enter into force eight days after their publication in the Official Gazette. The amendments broaden access to the regime by reducing the minimum operating history requirement, allowing participation by corporate groups, easing exclusion rules, and introducing a new methodology for calculating the tax credit.
September 2026
New Professional Liability Rules For Urban Development And Construction
El Salvador has enacted a new Special Law on Professional Liability regulating the planning, design, execution, supervision, control, and maintenance of urban development and construction projects. The law applies to natural and legal persons subject to registration in the Registry of Professionals and Service Providers for Urban Development and Construction. It entered into force on September 19, 2026, as communicated by the Directorate of Territorial Planning and Construction (DOT) on September 21, 2026. As of the date of this publication, the law is not yet available for consultation on the Official Gazette’s website.
August 2026
CNAD Circular No. 008-2026: New Data Protection Compliance Requirements
The National Commission of Digital Assets (CNAD) issued Circular No. 008-2026, addressed to Digital Asset Service Providers and Certifiers, through which it communicates the Guidelines for Personal Data Protection Delegates issued by the State Cybersecurity Agency (ACE).
August 2026
Personal Data Protection Law in El Salvador: Everything You Need to Know About the CNAD’s New Provisions
Digital Asset Service Providers and Certifiers overseen by the National Digital Assets Commission (CNAD) must review the designation, profile, and registration of their Personal Data Protection Delegate, as well as establish an institutional communication channel with the State Cybersecurity Agency (ACE), in accordance with the new personal data protection provisions in El Salvador.
