South America – Peru Visa

1. Do I need a visa to visit Peru?

Yes, most foreign visitors, except for citizens of a few South American countries, need a visa to enter Peru. The type of visa required depends on the purpose and length of your stay. Citizens of the United States, Canada, Australia, and the majority of European countries can enter Peru without a visa for tourism purposes for up to 183 days.

2. How do I apply for a visa to Peru?
To apply for a tourist visa to Peru, you will need to submit a completed application form along with your passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure date), two recent passport-sized photos, proof of financial means, flight itinerary or round-trip ticket, and any additional documents required by the Peruvian Consulate in your country. You may also be asked to provide evidence of hotel reservations or an invitation letter from someone in Peru if you are staying with friends or family.

3. How much does the Peruvian visa application cost?
The cost of a tourist visa to Peru varies depending on your country of citizenship. For most applicants, it ranges from $30-50 USD. Some consulates may also charge an additional processing fee.

4. Can I extend my stay in Peru if my initial visa expires?
If you want to stay longer than the allowed time frame on your tourist visa, you can request an extension at an immigration office in Peru. This extension cannot exceed 183 days within a 365-day period and must be requested at least one week before the expiration date on your original visa.

5. Can I work while on a tourist visa in Peru?
No, it is not permitted to work while on a tourist visa in Peru. If you plan on working or volunteering in the country, you will need to apply for a different type of visa that allows it.

6. Do I need any vaccinations before traveling to Peru?
It is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before traveling to any country. However, there are no required vaccinations for entry into Peru. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends being up-to-date on routine vaccines such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, and the yearly flu shot. They also suggest getting vaccinated for hepatitis A and typhoid, as these diseases can be contracted through contaminated food or water in Peru.

7. Is it safe to visit Peru?
Overall, Peru is a safe country for tourists. Like any other destination, it is recommended to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. Some areas may have higher crime rates than others, so it is important to research and understand the places you plan on visiting before your trip.

8. What currency is used in Peru?
The official currency of Peru is the Peruvian Sol (PEN). US dollars are also widely accepted in tourist areas.

9. Are credit cards accepted in Peru?
Major credit cards like Visa, Mastercard, and American Express are widely accepted in most cities and tourist areas in Peru. However, smaller shops and vendors may only accept cash.

10. What language do they speak in Peru?
The official languages of Peru are Spanish and Quechua. English is spoken in major tourist areas but may not be widely understood outside of those areas. It can be helpful to have some basic Spanish phrases memorized before your trip.
`Additional resources:

– VisitPeru.com provides information about visas, vaccines, safety tips and more.
– The U.S Embassy website has specific information about visas for United States citizens.
– The CDC’s website offers comprehensive travel health recommendations for those planning a visit to Peru.

2. How do I apply for a tourist visa to Peru?


To apply for a tourist visa to Peru, follow these steps:

1. Determine if you need a visa for Peru – citizens of certain countries are exempt from obtaining a visa for short stays in Peru. You can check the list of exempt countries on the website of the Peruvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

2. Gather the required documents – you will need a valid passport with at least 6 months validity from the intended date of entry to Peru, completed visa application form, proof of financial means (such as bank statements or credit cards), proof of travel arrangements (flight tickets, hotel reservations), and a recent passport-sized photo.

3. Fill out the online application form – visit the official website of the Peruvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and fill out the online visa application form with accurate information.

4. Pay the application fee – after completing the online form, you will be prompted to pay the visa fee. The current fee for a tourist visa is $30 USD.

5. Submit your application – once you have completed all the necessary steps, submit your application along with all required documents to your nearest Peruvian embassy or consulate.

6. Wait for processing – it can take up to several weeks for your visa to be processed, so make sure to apply well in advance of your planned travel dates.

7. Collect your passport and approved visa – if your visa is approved, collect your passport and visa from the embassy or consulate where you applied.

Note: The requirements and process may vary slightly depending on your country of citizenship and where you will be applying for the visa. It is recommended to check with your local Peruvian embassy or consulate for specific instructions and requirements before applying.

3. What documents do I need to apply for a Peru visa?

Applicants will typically need to provide the following documents when applying for a Peru visa:

1. A completed visa application form (available online or at a Peruvian embassy/consulate)
2. Valid passport with at least 6 months remaining before expiration
3. Two recent passport-sized photographs
4. Proof of travel arrangements, such as round-trip flight tickets or an itinerary
5. Proof of financial means, such as bank statements, credit card statements, or a letter from employer indicating salary and length of employment
6. Hotel reservations or proof of accommodation arrangements
7. Travel insurance with coverage for the duration of stay in Peru
8. If visiting family/friends in Peru, a letter of invitation from them plus their official ID/citizenship document
9. For business travelers: a letter from employer stating purpose of trip and financial responsibility
10. In some cases, proof of legal residence in country where applying for the visa (if not a citizen)

Please note that specific requirements may vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for and your country of citizenship/residence. It is best to check with your nearest Peruvian embassy or consulate for detailed information on required documents.

4. Is there an online application process for the Peru visa?

Yes, there is an online application process for the Peru visa. Applicants can submit their applications through the official website of the Peruvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the nearest Peruvian embassy/consulate in their country. The steps for the online application process are as follows:

1. Visit the official website of the Peruvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (https://www.visaperu.gob.pe) or the embassy/consulate website.
2. Create an account on the website by providing your personal details such as name, email, and passport information.
3. Fill out the online visa application form with accurate information.
4. Upload all required documents such as passport copy, travel itinerary, and proof of financial means.
5. Pay the visa application fee using a credit/debit card.
6. Submit your application and take note of your application number for tracking purposes.
7. Await notification from the embassy/consulate regarding your visa status.

It is recommended to apply for a Peru visa at least 3-4 weeks before your intended travel date to allow ample time for processing.

5. How long does it take to process a Peru visa?


The processing time for a Peru visa can vary depending on the type of visa and the individual’s circumstances, but it typically takes between 5-15 working days. It is recommended to apply for a Peru visa at least 30 days before your planned travel date to allow enough time for processing.

6. Can I get a visa upon arrival in Peru?


No, visa upon arrival is not available for Peru. All foreign nationals must obtain a visa before traveling to Peru. Visas can be obtained from the Peruvian embassy or consulate in your home country.

7. How much does a Peru visa cost?


The cost of a Peru visa varies depending on the type of visa and the nationality of the applicant. However, as an example, the fee for a tourist or business visa for citizens of most countries is currently $30 USD. The fees can be paid at the Peruvian consulate or embassy where you apply for your visa. Some countries have agreements with Peru that allow their citizens to enter without a tourist visa for up to 90 days. It is recommended to check with your local Peruvian embassy or consulate for specific fees and requirements.

8. Is there any specific requirement for passport validity when applying for a Peruvian visa?

Yes, your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of your planned entry into Peru. It must also have at least one blank page for the visa stamp. If your passport does not meet these requirements, you will need to renew it before applying for a Peruvian visa.

9. Do I need proof of travel or accommodation bookings for my Peruvian visa application?

Yes, you will likely need to provide proof of your intended travel and accommodation bookings as part of your Peruvian visa application. This can include flight reservations, hotel or hostel bookings, and any other documentation that supports your planned itinerary in Peru. Providing this information shows the consulate that you have a clear plan for your trip and are not likely to overstay your visa. However, it is always best to check the specific requirements for your nationality and type of visa with the Peruvian consulate or embassy where you will be applying.

10. Are vaccination records required for obtaining a Peru visa?

It is not a requirement to provide vaccination records when applying for a Peru visa. However, it is always recommended to have up-to-date vaccinations before traveling to any country. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends being vaccinated against certain diseases such as hepatitis A and typhoid when traveling to Peru. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before your trip to determine the necessary vaccinations for your specific travel plans.

11. What is the length of stay allowed on a tourist visa in Peru?


The length of stay allowed on a tourist visa in Peru is a maximum of 183 days within a one year period.

12. Can I extend my stay in Peru after my tourist visa expires?

Yes, you can extend your stay in Peru after your tourist visa expires. In order to do so, you will need to apply for a visa extension at the immigration office (Migraciones) at least 30 days before your tourist visa expires. The maximum extension period is 90 days.

To apply for a visa extension, you will need to gather all necessary documents, including your valid passport, proof of financial means, and a copy of your round-trip ticket or evidence of ongoing travel plans.

Note that overstaying your tourist visa without obtaining an extension can result in fines and other penalties, and may affect your ability to enter the country in the future. It is important to adhere to the expiration date on your tourist visa or obtain an extension if needed.

13. What are the requirements for applying for a business or work visa in Peru?


To apply for a business or work visa in Peru, you will need to fulfill the following requirements:

1. Valid passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Peru.

2. Completed visa application form: You can either fill out the visa application form online or obtain a hard copy at the Peruvian consulate or embassy.

3. Two recent passport-sized photographs: These should be in color, with a white background and without glasses or hats.

4. Proof of legal residence: If you are not applying for the visa from your home country, you must provide proof of legal residence in the country where you are applying (e.g. residence permit).

5. Letter from your employer or company: This must include information on your position, salary, purpose of trip and length of stay.

6. Business letter: If traveling for business purposes, you must submit an invitation from a company in Peru specifying the nature of your business and dates of travel.

7. Proof of financial means: You may be required to show proof that you can cover all expenses during your stay in Peru, such as bank statements or traveler’s checks.

8. Medical certificate: A medical certificate may be required if you plan to stay in Peru for more than six months.

9. Police clearance certificate: Depending on your home country, a police clearance certificate may be required to prove good character and no criminal record.

10. Consular fee payment: You will need to pay a non-refundable consular fee when submitting your application.

11. Additional documents may be required depending on the specific type of visa being applied for (e.g., work contract, educational documentation).

It is important to note that each Peruvian consulate or embassy may have slightly different requirements and it is advisable to contact them directly before submitting your application to confirm all necessary documents and procedures.

14. Is it possible to obtain permanent residency in Peru through employment or investment opportunities?

Yes, it is possible to obtain permanent residency in Peru through employment or investment opportunities. Depending on the type of employment or investment, certain requirements and conditions will need to be met.
For employment-based permanent residency, you would need to have a job offer from a Peruvian company and meet the criteria set by the Ministry of Labor. This includes having a college degree or 4 years of experience in your field, as well as obtaining a work visa. After holding this visa for two years, you can apply for permanent residency.

For investment-based permanent residency, you would need to invest a minimum of $30,000 USD in Peruvian stocks or real estate. You can also invest in a business that creates jobs for at least 5 Peruvians. After holding an investor visa for three years, you can apply for permanent residency.

Additionally, if you have been married to a Peruvian citizen for at least two years or are the parent of a Peruvian child, you may be eligible for permanent residency through family ties.

It is always recommended to consult with an immigration lawyer or contact the Peruvian immigration authorities (Migraciones) for specific information and guidance on obtaining permanent residency through employment or investment opportunities.

15. Are there any special entry requirements for minors traveling to Peru with their parents or guardians?


Minors traveling with their parents or guardians to Peru do not have any additional entry requirements as long as they possess a valid passport and visa (if required). However, it is recommended to carry a notarized consent letter signed by both parents authorizing the minor to travel with their guardian or one parent. Additionally, if the minor is traveling with only one parent, a copy of the other parent’s ID and a notarized consent letter from the non-traveling parent may also be required. It is always best to check with your airline and the Peruvian Embassy prior to traveling.

16. Are there any additional fees or charges associated with the Peruvian tourist visa application process?


Yes, there are some additional fees and charges that may be involved in the Peruvian tourist visa application process. These may include:

1. Application fee: The current application fee for a Peruvian tourist visa is US $30.

2. Service charge: If you are applying for your visa through a Peruvian embassy or consulate abroad, you may need to pay a service charge.

3. Visa processing fee: Some embassies or consulates may charge an additional processing fee for each visa application.

4. Expedited processing fee: If you need your visa quickly, some embassies or consulates may offer expedited processing for an additional fee.

5. Visa extension fee: If you wish to extend your stay in Peru beyond the initial 183 days permitted on a tourist visa, you will need to pay a visa extension fee.

6. Overstay fines: If you overstay your tourist visa in Peru, you will be required to pay a fine of US $1 per day for each day of overstay.

It is important to check with the Peruvian embassy or consulate where you plan to apply for your tourist visa about their specific fees and charges, as they may vary between different locations.

17. How can I track the status of my Peruvian visa application once submitted?


Once you have submitted your Peruvian visa application, you can track the status by contacting the Peruvian embassy or consulate where you applied. You can also check the status online through the respective embassy’s website, if available. It is recommended to keep a copy of your visa application and documents for reference in case of any inquiries.

18. Do citizens of certain countries have different processing times or requirements when applying for a Peruvian visa?


Yes, citizens of certain countries may have different processing times or requirements when applying for a Peruvian visa. It is important to check with the Peruvian embassy or consulate in your country for specific requirements and processing times. Additionally, some countries have reciprocal agreements with Peru which may affect the visa application process. It is always best to consult with official sources for accurate and up-to-date information.

19. Will having dual citizenship affect my ability to enter and stay in Peru with both passports?

It is possible to enter and stay in Peru with dual citizenship, but there are some important things to keep in mind:

1. Eligibility: Not all countries allow their citizens to have dual citizenship. Before applying for dual citizenship, make sure that both countries (Peru and the other country) allow it.

2. Entry requirements: Dual citizens may be required to enter Peru using the same passport that they used to apply for a visa or obtain permission to enter the country. It is important to check with the Peruvian embassy or consulate before traveling.

3. Length of stay: As a dual citizen, you may be able to stay in Peru longer than if you were only using one passport. This is because each country might have different limits on how long its citizens can stay in Peru.

4. Taxes: As a dual citizen, you may be subject to taxes in both countries. Make sure you understand your tax obligations before entering and staying in Peru.

5. Military service: Some countries require their citizens to complete military service, regardless of where they live or hold citizenship. It is important to check with the embassy of your other country before traveling.

6. Obligations and responsibilities: As a dual citizen, you will have obligations and responsibilities towards both countries, including following their laws and regulations.

Overall, having dual citizenship should not affect your ability to enter and stay in Peru as long as you meet all entry requirements and follow all laws and regulations of both countries. However, it is always best to check with both embassies or consulates before traveling so that you can fully understand any potential implications or restrictions.

20 . Is it possible to obtain a multiple-entry tourist visa for longer stays in Peru?

Yes, it is possible to obtain a multiple-entry tourist visa for longer stays in Peru. The visa allows travelers to enter and exit the country multiple times within a specific period of time, usually up to 6 months or 1 year.

To apply for a multiple-entry tourist visa, you will need to submit the following documents:

1. A completed application form
2. A valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining and two blank pages
3. Two recent passport-sized photos
4. Round-trip flight itinerary
5. Proof of financial means (e.g. bank statement)
6. Hotel reservations or invitation letter from a host in Peru
7. Travel insurance that covers your entire stay in Peru

It is important to note that the requirements for a multiple-entry visa may vary depending on your country of citizenship, so it is recommended to check with the Peruvian embassy or consulate in your home country before applying.

Additionally, you may also be required to provide additional documents such as a criminal record certificate or proof of travel purpose.

The processing time for a multiple-entry tourist visa can vary from a few days to several weeks, so it is advisable to apply well in advance of your planned trip.

Once approved, the multiple-entry visa will be valid for the specified period stated on the visa sticker placed in your passport.

It is important to follow the conditions and regulations of the visa during your stay in Peru and respect any entry and exit dates stated on the visa. Failure to comply with these conditions could result in deportation and future difficulties obtaining visas for other countries.

Overall, obtaining a multiple-entry tourist visa can be a convenient option for travelers who plan on entering Peru more than once within a specific period of time, making it easier for them to explore different regions and attractions in the country during their stay.