Arequipa
Urban RiverfrontArequipa is Peru's second-largest city and the capital of the Arequipa Region, located in the southern highlands of the country. Situated at an elevation of approximately 2,335 meters (7,660 feet) above sea level, the city is renowned for its distinctive white volcanic stone architecture, earning it the nickname 'La Ciudad Blanca' (The White City). The historic center features colonial-era buildings, baroque churches, and plazas constructed from sillar, a white volcanic rock quarried from nearby volcanoes. Arequipa serves as a major cultural, commercial, and educational hub in southern Peru, home to universities, museums, and galleries. The city is surrounded by dramatic volcanic peaks, including the iconic Misti volcano, which dominates the skyline. Arequipa's strategic location makes it a gateway to the Colca Canyon, one of the world's deepest canyons, and other natural attractions in the region. The city blends indigenous heritage with Spanish colonial influence, reflected in its cuisine, traditions, and urban layout. Arequipa has a vibrant local culture with distinctive regional customs, traditional markets, and a strong sense of regional identity among its residents.
BlueCross BlueShield Global SolutionsGet Quote
BlueCross BlueShield Global Solutions (BCBS) offers global health plans for international assignments or trips lasting 6 months or longer. With access to over 1.7M medical providers in 190 countries around the world, BCBS provides members with solutions and industry-leading digital services - ensuring top-quality coverage to people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
BlueCross BlueShield Global SolutionsBlueCross BlueShield Global Solutions (BCBS) offers global health plans for international assignments or trips lasting 6 months or longer. With access to over 1.7M medical providers in 190 countries around the world, BCBS provides members with solutions and industry-leading digital services - ensuring top-quality coverage to people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
Get Quote
Visa & Residency
Obtaining a residency in Peru involves several steps and the difficulty can vary depending on the type of visa and the applicant's circumstances. The most common types of residency visas for expats include the Rentista Visa, Family Visa, and Retirement Visa. The Rentista Visa is popular among digital nomads and those who can prove a permanent income of at least $1,000 per month from abroad. This visa is valid for one year and can be renewed annually. To apply, individuals must provide proof of their income, a police clearance certificate, and a health certificate, among other documents. The Family Visa is for those who have a family connection to a Peruvian citizen or resident, such as a spouse, parent, or child. Applicants must provide legal documents proving the family relationship, such as marriage or birth certificates. The Retirement Visa is an option for retirees who receive a pension. The minimum monthly income requirement for this visa is typically around $1,000. Applicants must provide proof of their pension and may also need to show evidence of health insurance. The process generally starts with gathering the required documents, which often need to be apostilled or legalized depending on the country of origin. After arriving in Peru, applicants must complete a visa application form and submit it to the authorities, along with the necessary documents and the visa fee. Some visas may require an interview or additional paperwork. It's important to note that the process can be bureaucratic and may require patience and time. It is advisable to have all documents correctly prepared and to follow the instructions provided by the Peruvian immigration authorities (Superintendencia Nacional de Migraciones) closely. Hiring a local attorney or a visa agency can help navigate the complexities of the process. Overall, while there are several steps involved, the process is considered average in terms of difficulty compared to other countries.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Arequipa is moderate compared to Lima and other major Peruvian cities, making it relatively affordable for both residents and visitors. Housing, food, and transportation costs are reasonable, though prices have been gradually increasing in the city center and popular neighborhoods. Local markets and traditional dining options offer budget-friendly options, while modern amenities and services are available at competitive prices.
Weather
Arequipa has a dry, temperate highland climate with mild temperatures year-round due to its high altitude. The city experiences two seasons: a dry season from May to October with clear skies and cool nights, and a rainy season from November to April with occasional afternoon showers.
Healthcare in Arequipa
Arequipa has several private and public hospitals providing reasonable healthcare services, with facilities like Hospital Honorio Delgado and private clinics offering modern equipment and trained staff. Healthcare quality is generally adequate for routine and emergency care, though serious cases may require travel to Lima for specialized treatment. Medical costs are moderate compared to developed countries.
Schools in Arequipa
Arequipa has several international schools including Colegio Americano de Arequipa, which offers an American curriculum, and other institutions providing IB or bilingual programs. These schools cater to expatriate families and offer English-language instruction alongside Spanish.
Multiple bilingual schools operate in Arequipa, offering Spanish-English instruction. These schools blend Peruvian educational standards with bilingual curricula, serving both local and expatriate families seeking dual-language education.
Restaurants in Arequipa
Living in Arequipa
Moving to Arequipa
