Every great journey begins long before your flight takes off.
From the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu to the vibrant streets of Cusco and the serene waters of Lake Titicaca, Peru welcomes travelers from around the world with open arms.
Before packing your bags, understanding Peru’s visa requirements ensures a seamless start to your adventure — especially for travelers who value comfort, luxury, and effortless planning.
“Luxury travel begins with peace of mind knowing that every document, every detail, and every moment is perfectly arranged.”
Who Can Visit Peru Without a Visa?
Peru warmly welcomes citizens from over 100 countries without the need for a visa.
Travelers from North America, South America (except Venezuela), the European Union, and Oceania can enter the country visa-free for tourism.
Visa-free travelers include citizens of:
- The United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand
- All members of the European Union
- Most Latin American countries
- Even citizens from several neighboring South American countries can enter Peru using just their national ID card.
Explore our Peru Travel Guide to plan your journey through Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu.
Visa-Free Entry Requirements
Even if you don’t need a visa, there are a few requirements to keep in mind:
- A passport valid for at least six months upon arrival.
- A return or onward ticket showing your departure plans.
- A completed Andean Migration Card (TAM) provided upon arrival in Lima or filled out online.
From May 2023, Peru no longer stamps passports at entry; instead, all travel data is recorded digitally through the TAM system.
Do You Need a Visa for Peru?
You’ll need a visa if your nationality isn’t included in the visa-exempt list.
For most travelers, this applies mainly to countries in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.
Check the latest list directly from the Peruvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs or consult your nearest Peruvian Consulate.
Types of Visas for Peru
Depending on your travel purpose, Peru offers different visa types:
| Visa Type | Purpose | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist Visa | For leisure and travel | Up to 183 days |
| Business Visa | For meetings, contracts, and professional visits | Up to 1 year |
| Transit Visa | For travelers passing through Peru | Up to 3 days |
Tourist Visa: Application and Requirements
If you require a Tourist Visa, apply at a Peruvian embassy or consulate before traveling.
You’ll typically need:
- A passport valid for 6+ months
- Round-trip flight itinerary
- Proof of accommodation (hotel reservation or tour booking)
- Bank statements showing financial solvency
- Visa fee payment (around S/112)
- Processing times vary, but most applications are reviewed within 5–10 business days.
ATE Tip: When you book a luxury journey with us, our travel experts can guide you through all pre-departure logistics, including visa support and document preparation.
Business Visa: When Is It Needed?
For U.S. citizens and many others, a Business Visa is only required if you plan to sign contracts or formalize agreements in Peru.
If your trip is limited to attending conferences, meetings, or networking events, you can usually enter visa-free.
Key details:
- Valid up to 1 year
- Embassy fee: $0
- Processing: 3–5 business days
- VisaHQ or professional services can assist with document pre-verification
“Business in Peru is built on trust and begins with preparation. Arrive informed, ready, and confident.”
Extending Your Stay in Peru
Travelers can stay in Peru up to 183 days per calendar year.
If your initial permit is shorter (30–90 days), visit an Immigration Office (Migraciones) before it expires to request an extension.
Apply early: Extensions are granted only before your stay ends.
Overstaying Your Visa: What You Should Know
Falling in love with Peru is easy leaving can be harder.
If you overstay your tourist permit, there’s a S/4.40 daily fine for each extra day. This must be paid in cash at the airport before departure.
Essential Travel Tips Before You Go
- Check entry requirements with your local Peruvian Consulate before booking.
- Keep digital copies of your passport, TAM card, and travel documents.
- If entering overland, ensure your TAM card is issued properly at the border.
- For multi-destination trips, plan with a trusted local operator like Andean Travel Experience, who handles logistics from visas to private transfers.
Plan Your Tailor-Made Journey with our local experts for a seamless arrival experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work in Peru with a tourist visa?
Can I apply for a visa online?
Not yet. All applications must be processed through a Peruvian consulate.
How long does a visa last?
Tourist visas are valid for up to 183 days per year, depending on the discretion of immigration officers.
At Andean Travel Experience, we believe every journey should begin with confidence and ease.
Whether you’re exploring Cusco’s cobblestone streets, sailing across Lake Titicaca, or tasting Peruvian gastronomy in Lima, our travel specialists ensure every detail including your visa preparation is handled with care.
“Your time in Peru should be spent living the experience, not waiting in line.”
Ready to experience Peru without the stress? Let our experts design your custom, luxury itinerary from visa assistance to private guides and curated stays.
Contact us today or visit the link in our bio to begin your Andean adventure.