The Constitution provides for freedom of religion, and the Government respects this right in practice. The Government at all levels generally protects this right in full, and does not tolerate its abuse, either by governmental or private actors. However, the relationship between the State and the Roman Catholic Church currently is being redefined. The Government gives money not only to the Catholic Church but also to other denominations. The budget is allocated proportionately according to membership numbers.
All religious groups enjoy tax-exempt status.
There are no significant foreign missionary groups. In order to receive a religious worker visa, an applicant must demonstrate that the host organization is important for the entire country. An applicant must have completed theological studies and be accredited to an acknowledged order. Visa requests normally are not denied and are processed in the same manner as requests from other individuals or workers. Roman Catholic or Protestant religious education is compulsory in all schools, but the authorities routinely grant exemptions for children whose parents so request.