Verified Facts
Visa rules change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate of Peru before traveling.
Visa Policy Overview
Peru has a relatively liberal visa policy, allowing citizens from many countries to enter without a visa or with a visa on arrival. As a member of the Andean Community of Nations, Peru has a reciprocal visa policy with other member countries, making it easier for citizens of these countries to travel to Peru. Currently, citizens from over 90 countries can enter Peru without a visa, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia.
Peru's visa policy is designed to promote tourism and economic development, while also ensuring the security and integrity of the country's borders. The government has implemented various measures to streamline the visa process and make it easier for visitors to enter the country. With its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant cities, Peru is a popular destination for tourists, business travelers, and students alike.
Requirements By Nationality
| Nationality | Visa Required? | Type | Max Stay | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US Citizens | No | Tourist | 183 days | No visa required for tourism or business stays up to 183 days |
| UK Citizens | No | Tourist | 183 days | No visa required for tourism or business stays up to 183 days |
| EU Citizens | No | Tourist | 183 days | No visa required for tourism or business stays up to 183 days |
| Canadian Citizens | No | Tourist | 183 days | No visa required for tourism or business stays up to 183 days |
| Australian Citizens | No | Tourist | 183 days | No visa required for tourism or business stays up to 183 days |
| Indian Citizens | Yes | Tourist eVisa | 30 days | eVisa required, must apply online prior to arrival |
| Chinese Citizens | Yes | Tourist Visa | 30 days | Visa required, must apply at a Peruvian embassy or consulate prior to arrival |
By Visitor Type
Tourists: Tourists can stay in Peru for up to 183 days without a visa, as long as they meet the necessary requirements, such as having a valid passport, proof of onward travel, and sufficient funds. Tourists can extend their stay for an additional 183 days, but must apply for an extension at a Peruvian immigration office.
Business Travelers: Business travelers may need to provide additional documentation, such as an invitation letter from a Peruvian company or a letter explaining the purpose of their visit. They may also need to apply for a business visa, which can be obtained at a Peruvian embassy or consulate prior to arrival.
Students: Students who plan to study in Peru must apply for a student visa, which requires proof of enrollment at a Peruvian university, as well as other documentation, such as a valid passport and proof of sufficient funds. The duration of the student visa will depend on the length of the study program.
Workers: Workers who plan to work in Peru must apply for a work visa, which requires sponsorship from a Peruvian employer, as well as other documentation, such as a valid passport, proof of qualifications, and a contract with the employer. The work visa process can be complex and time-consuming, and applicants should allow several months for processing.
Documents Checklist
- Valid passport with at least six months' validity
- Completed visa application form (if required)
- Recent passport-sized photo
- Proof of onward travel (such as a return ticket or reservation)
- Proof of sufficient funds (such as cash, credit cards, or traveler's checks)
- Hotel reservation or proof of accommodation
- Health insurance that covers the duration of the stay
- Proof of vaccination against yellow fever (if traveling from a country with a high risk of yellow fever transmission)
- Police certificate (if required for certain types of visas)
- Diploma or certificate of qualification (if required for certain types of visas)
Entry Points & Procedures
Peru has several major airports, including Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima, which is the main entry point for most international flights. The airport has a modern and efficient immigration system, with separate lines for citizens of Peru, other South American countries, and the rest of the world. Travelers should be prepared to present their travel documents, including their passport, visa (if required), and proof of onward travel. Land borders are also an option, with major crossings at the borders with Ecuador, Colombia, Brazil, Bolivia, and Chile. Travelers should be prepared to present their documents and undergo a brief inspection by immigration officials.
Upon arrival, travelers will need to go through immigration and customs, where they will be required to declare any goods they are bringing into the country. Travelers should be aware of the customs regulations, including restrictions on the importation of certain goods, such as plant and animal products. Failure to declare restricted goods can result in fines and penalties.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- Not having a valid passport with at least six months' validity
- Not having proof of onward travel or sufficient funds
- Not declaring restricted goods at customs
- Not applying for a visa in advance (if required)
- Not registering with the Peruvian authorities (if required for certain types of visas)
- Not having health insurance that covers the duration of the stay