Immigration Law at Peru
Here’s a structured, current overview of immigration law in Peru, covering entry, work permits, residency, and citizenship provisions:
1. Entry & Visitor Visas
Visa-Free Entry: Citizens from many countries—including most EU member states, several Americas nations, and more—can enter Peru without a visa for up to 90 days for tourism or business.
Conditional Visa Exemptions: Citizens of mainland China, India, and Macau may enter Peru for up to 180 days visa-free if they hold a valid visa or residence permit from the U.S., Canada, the U.K., Schengen area, or Australia.
Tourist and Business Visas (for others):
Apply in advance at a Peruvian Consulate.
Typically allow stays up to 183 days, with multiple entries permitted.
2. Work Visas & Temporary Residency
Work Visa Requirement: To work legally in Peru, a visitor must switch to a work visa via an application through DIGEMIN (Peru’s immigration authority).
Types of Work Visas:
Temporary Work Visa (short-term <12 months): Requires a labor ministry–approved contract, Interpol clearance, clean criminal records, employer justification, proof of company registration (RUC), and local address verification. Fees apply (~S/22.20).
Resident Work Visa (Dependent) (≥12 months): Similar documentation, but supporting longer-term employment. Application fee ~S/161.40.
Resident Work Visa (Independent): For self-employed or contractor work with Peruvian entities, with same supporting documents and fee.
Visa Application Process:
Begin with a short-term visa (e.g., tourist) if necessary.
Change migration status while in Peru upon securing a job—strictly before the current visa expires.
3. Residency & Investor Routes
Investor Visa:
Requires a minimum investment of PEN 500,000 in a Peruvian company (not just share transfers).
Must present a viable business plan and employ at least 5 local workers.
Visa lasts one year and is renewable if conditions are maintained.
Pathways to Permanent Stay or Citizenship via Investment:
Permanent Residency: Available after 3 years of maintaining conditions.
Naturalization: Possible after 2 years of residency under investor visa status—provided ties to Peru are demonstrated (e.g., property ownership, cultural integration, Spanish proficiency).
4. Naturalization & Dual Nationality
By Descent or Birth (Jus Soli/Jus Sanguinis):
Anyone born in Peru is a Peruvian citizen for life—no need for registration.
Children born abroad to Peruvian parents can register and obtain nationality, even after age 18.
Naturalization:
General route: Legal residency for 2 years (continuous, without lapses), even via work or marriage, allows applying for Peruvian citizenship.
Dual Citizenship:
Fully permitted in Peru. No requirement to renounce the original nationality.
5. Refugee & Humanitarian Provisions
Venezuelan Temporary Permit (PTP): Implemented in 2017 to temporarily regularize Venezuelan migrants, granting them legal residency and work authorization amid the refugee crisis.
Summary Table
| Category | Key Details |
|---|---|
| Entry Visas | Many nationals visa-free up to 90 days; others require consulate visas or eligibility via third-country visas. |
| Work Visas | Temporary or resident; requires employment contract and formal application to DIGEMIN. |
| Investor Visa Path | PEN 500K+ investment with local hires; leads to renewal, permanent residency, and eventual citizenship. |
| Naturalization | Possible after 2 years legal residency; citizenship by birth or descent recognized; dual nationality allowed. |
| Humanitarian Status | PTP for Venezuelans offers temporary legal residency and work rights. |
Final Thoughts
Peru offers diverse pathways for immigration—whether through work, investment, or family ties. Investor visas offer accelerated routes to residency and citizenship, while standard pathways require diligent visa management and legal residency. The country's welcoming stance (including dual nationality and refugee provisions) reflects a flexible system, though bureaucracy remains significant.
Need help with entries like student or spouse visas, preparing documentation, or estimating timelines for naturalization? Let me know—happy to assist!
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