Peru 2025: Practical Guide to Visas and Work Permits

This article summarizes the current landscape for visas and work permits in Peru in 2025, explains relevant policy interpretations, and provides hands-on operational steps and Notes (precautions) for foreign nationals and employers. Policies continue to be administered by Peru’s Superintendencia Nacional de Migraciones (Migraciones) and Peruvian consulates abroad; always verify final requirements with those official channels before application.

Overview of Main Visa and Permit Categories

Key Policy Points and Interpretations for 2025

• Migraciones remains central: All foreign residence permits and updates must be processed through Migraciones’ online platform and in-person appointments when required.
• Work permits are generally employer-driven: Most employers must sponsor a foreign employee's work visa by submitting an employment contract and company documentation.
• Recognition of foreign credentials: Professional qualifications often need certification and official translation; certain regulated professions (healthcare, law, engineering) require local registration.
• Flexibility for tech and remote roles: Peru has shown growing openness to professionals in IT and digital services; however, employment contracts and tax compliance remain mandatory.
• Family reunification: Dependents may apply concurrently or after the primary worker secures a residence permit; supporting documents and proof of relationship are essential.

Step-by-Step: How to Obtain a Work Visa and Residence (Practical Workflow)

1. Job offer and employment contract: Secure a written contract with a Peruvian employer. The contract should clearly state position, salary, start date, and working conditions.
2. Employer prepares company documentation: Company registration certificate, tax ID (RUC), corporate minutes if required, and proof of ability to hire.
3. Compile personal documentation: Valid passport, passport-size photos, university diplomas and transcripts (apostilled or legalized as required), criminal record certificate from home country (with apostille/legalization), medical certificate if requested, and sworn translations into Spanish.
4. Submit visa application: The employer or applicant files the work visa or temporary residence petition through the Peruvian consulate or Migraciones’ e-services, following the specific checklist for the visa type.
5. Attend biometric appointment and interview: The applicant may need to visit a consulate or Migraciones office to provide biometrics and/or answer questions.
6. Receive visa and enter Peru: If issued abroad, present visa at port of entry. If approved inside Peru, obtain authorization to apply for a foreign ID.
7. Register with Migraciones and obtain Carné de Extranjería: After arrival, schedule an appointment to register and obtain the foreigner identity card (carné), which is necessary for long-term stays and accessing services.
8. Tax and social security setup: Register with SUNAT (tax authority) if working or conducting business; the employer should register the employee with EsSalud and the pension system (ONP or private AFP) per labor law.

Documents Commonly Required (Checklist)

• Valid passport (at least 6 months validity)
• Signed employment contract
• Company registration and tax documents
• Criminal background check (apostilled/legalized and translated)
• Academic credentials and professional licenses (if applicable)
• Medical certificate (where requested)
• Passport photos and completed application forms
• Proof of payment of visa fees

Notes (Important Precautions and Practical Tips)

• Always apostille or legalize documents as required by the Peruvian consulate: Many consulates require criminal records and diplomas to be apostilled in the issuing country.
• Use certified Spanish translations: Peru typically requires certified (sworn) translations for official documents; non-Spanish submissions can delay processing.
• Confirm profession-specific registration: Doctors, nurses, lawyers and some engineers must register with Peruvian professional bodies before practicing.
• Mind tax residency rules: Spending more than a certain number of days in Peru can create tax residency; get early tax advice to avoid surprises.
• Be precise about salary and labor conditions: Peruvian labor law protects workers; contracts should meet legal minimums and social contributions must be applied.
• Check visa validity and renewals early: File renewal applications well before expiry—late renewals can incur fines or complications.
• Keep originals and certified copies: Carry originals during filing and keep certified copies for local registrations (bank accounts, RUC, leases).
• Language and cultural readiness: Spanish proficiency speeds administrative tasks and professional integration.

Case Examples

Case 1: Software Engineer (India) Hired by Lima Startup

A Peruvian startup offered a senior developer role. The employer drafted a fixed-term contract and provided company registration documents. The applicant submitted apostilled degree and police clearance, obtained a work visa through the Peruvian consulate, then registered with Migraciones upon arrival. Timeline: 6–10 weeks from submission to Carné de Extranjería.

Case 2: Filipino Nurse Seeking Employment in Private Clinic

The nurse needed diploma recognition from Peru’s health authority and Spanish proficiency certification. The process involved professional registration in Peru before employment; this extended pre-employment time but is standard for regulated healthcare posts.

Case 3: Entrepreneur / Investor

An entrepreneur who established a SAC company and invested locally applied for investor residency. Evidence of company operations and investment capital were crucial; business plans and tax filings strengthened the application.

Compliance and Common Pitfalls

• Incorrect or missing apostilles and translations are leading causes of refusals.
• Using a short-term tourist entry to work is illegal and risks fines, deportation, and bans.
• Informal or verbal employment agreements will not support a work visa application.
• Delays in employer registration of social security can trigger labor disputes—employers should act promptly.

Where to Get Help

For document processing, translation, and relocation logistics, many applicants use specialized service providers. For out-of-sea human service and relocation assistance, consider SailGlobal for tailored support during pre-departure and settlement phases.

Final note: Immigration policy details and fee schedules can change rapidly. Treat this guide as a practical roadmap but confirm up-to-date requirements directly with the Peruvian consulate in your country or Migraciones before proceeding.