Guide to Residency in Peru

Obtaining a residency visa in Peru is not always easy, but our Guide to Residency in Peru gives newcomers an overview of the steps involved and advice from others who have already navigated the process.

• Understand the Types of Visas
  • Research the different types of visas available for foreigners in Peru. The most common are:
    • Work Visa (Trabajador)
    • Student Visa (Estudio)
    • Investor Visa (Inversionista)
    • Retiree Visa (Rentista)
    • Family Visa (Familiar)
  • Visit the official Peruvian immigration website (Migraciones) for detailed information:
• Gather Necessary Documents
  • Passport with at least six months validity.
  • Completed visa application form (Formulario F007).
  • Background check or police clearance from your home country, apostilled or legalized.
  • Additional documents depending on the type of visa:
    • Work Visa: Employment contract, company registration, etc.
    • Student Visa: Acceptance letter from a Peruvian educational institution.
    • Investor Visa: Business plan, investment proof, etc.
    • Retiree Visa: Proof of pension or financial stability.
    • Family Visa: Marriage certificate, birth certificates, etc.
• Apply for a Tax Number (RUC)
  • Visit the National Superintendence of Tax Administration (SUNAT) website:
  • Fill out the Form 2021 - Solicitud de Inscripción en el RUC.
  • Submit the form online or at a SUNAT office.
• Schedule an Appointment with Migraciones
  • Visit the Migraciones website to schedule an appointment:
  • Select the type of visa you are applying for.
  • Choose a date and time for your appointment.
• Attend Your Appointment
  • Arrive at the Migraciones office on time with all required documents.
  • Submit your application and pay the associated fee.
  • Provide biometric data (fingerprints and photograph) if required.
• Wait for Approval
  • Processing times vary depending on the type of visa and workload.
  • Track your application status online through the Migraciones website.
• Register with the Foreigner Registry (RNE)
  • Once your visa is approved, register with the RNE within 30 days.
  • Visit the RNE office with your passport and visa.
  • Complete the registration process and obtain your Carné de Extranjería (Foreigner ID Card).
• Renew Your Visa
  • Visas are typically valid for one year and can be renewed.
  • Follow the same process for renewal as the initial application.
  • Ensure you renew your visa within the specified time frame to avoid fines or deportation.

Important Notes

All documents must be translated into Spanish and apostilled or legalized. Always check the official Migraciones website for the most up-to-date information and requirements.

It is recommended to consult with a Peruvian immigration lawyer or professional for personalized advice and assistance with the residency process.

What tips do expats have about residency and visas in Peru?

"In order to visit Peru, foreign nationals must obtain a visa prior to their arrival. The process of applying for a visa involves submitting an application form, a valid passport, a passport-sized photograph, and the applicable visa fee. Depending on the purpose of the visit, additional documents may be required. In order to obtain residency in Peru, foreign nationals must submit an application form, a valid passport, a passport-sized photograph, and the applicable fee. They must also provide proof of sufficient financial resources, a criminal background check, and a medical certificate. Depending on the type of residency, additional documents may be required. Once the application is approved, the foreign national will receive a residency card, which must be renewed every two years," commented one member living in Peru.