Peru Visa Requirements For US Citizens (2025)

For American citizens, traveling to Peru for tourism or most business purposes, you do not need to apply for a visa in advance—you can enter visa-free and receive a tourist stamp upon arrival. However, you should be informed on when you do need a visa, the different types, as well as other helpful information.

Peru Visa Requirements For US Citizens

U.S. citizens do not need a visa to enter Peru for tourism, as long as:

Your stay is 183 days or less within a 365‑day period
You present a U.S. passport that’s valid for at least 6 months beyond your entry date and has at least one blank page for entry/exit stamps
You may need to show proof of onward or return travel—airlines can require it before boarding, and immigration may ask for it too

Does US Citizens Needs Visa To Travel To Peru?

No, U.S. citizens do not need a visa to travel to Peru for tourism—you’re allowed to enter visa-free and stay up to 183 days (border officers typically grant 90 days but may allow longer, up to 183 days

How Long Does It Takes For An American Citizen To Get Peru Visa?

For American citizens, traveling to Peru for tourism or most business purposes, you do not need to apply for a visa in advance—you can enter visa-free and receive a tourist stamp upon arrival. We will explain this and delve into when you do need a visa, the different types, and how long processing typically takes.

1. Tourist Entry (Visa-Free)

Visa-Free Entry: U.S. citizens can enter Peru without a visa for tourism/business and receive up to 183 days stay—though more commonly it’s 90 days per 180-day period, depending on immigration officers
On Arrival: You’ll get a Tarjeta Andina de Migración (TAM) stamp (formerly referred to as an e-visa or electronic stamp). It’s stamped in your passport or recorded digitally .
Duration: Immigration officers may grant between 30–183 days, but 90 days is most common

In short: For tourism, no visa needed in advance. Just a valid passport (with at least six months until expiry) and proof of onward travel on arrival are required .

2. When a Visa Is Required

If your purpose is not covered by visa-free entry, you must apply for the appropriate visa beforehand:

a) Tourist Visa

Rarely needed for U.S. citizens, but some apply via consulate.
Requirements: Passport (valid 6+ months), completed form, flight and hotel bookings, bank statements, photo, local residency proof (if not applying in U.S.), personal interview, and a $30 fee
Processing Time: Generally 5–15 business days; advisable to apply at least 2–3 weeks before travel

b) Business Visa

For conferences, business meetings, paid activities in Peru.
Documents: Employer letter, proof of funds, passport, application form; fee also about $30 USD
Processing Time: Similar to tourist, 5–15 business days, sometimes shorter (~3–7 business days) .

c) Student & Work Visas

Student Visa: Requires acceptance letter from a Peruvian institution, proof of funds
Work Visa: Needs job contract, employer sponsorship · passport, form, proofs.
Processing Times: Typically 5–15 business days, sometimes longer depending on complexity and consulate load.

3. Processing Timeline Summary

Visa Type	When Required?	Typical Processing Time
Tourist (Visa‑Free)	Arrive in Peru	Immediate (on arrival stamp)
Tourist Visa	Rare; applied in advance	5–15 business days
Business	For paid meetings, etc.	5–15 business days (<3–7 days per some sources)
Student	Studies in Peru	5–15 business days
Work	Employment in Peru	5–15 business days

For consular visas, it’s wise to apply 3–6 weeks before travel
Expedited options might be available via visa agencies like CIBTvisas for urgent needs .

4. On Arrival in Peru

Keep these in mind:

Passport Validity: At least 6 months from arrival date
Proof of Funds & Return Ticket: Might be requested by airlines or immigration .
90 Days Rule: Although legally 183 days, most Americans get 90 days per 180-day period .
Extension: Extensions are rare. You can overstay at your own risk (fines ~$1–1.50/day)
Digital Stamps: Post-pandemic, digital entry records often replace passport stamps. Use the website to verify TAM if needed

5. Planning Tips

If travelling for tourism: no visa needed. Just arrive with your passport and return/onward booking.
If working, studying, or attending business meetings: identify the correct visa type and apply at your local consulate (or via trusted visa services).
Ensure your passport has 6+ months validity and a blank page.
Apply early—ideally 3–6 weeks before travel—to allow for processing and any additional document requests.
For urgent cases, ask about consular processing or expedited services.
Upon arrival, keep your TAM or digital record safe until exit to avoid complications

What Do You Need As A U.S Citizen To Move To Peru

Moving to Peru as a U.S. citizen offers an exciting opportunity to experience a vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and a slower, more colorful pace of life. Whether you’re drawn by the historical richness of Cusco, the coastal charm of Lima, or the tranquil beauty of the Sacred Valley, relocating to Peru is about much more than just a change of address—it’s a lifestyle transformation.

Peru is a country that blends ancient traditions with modern conveniences. From the towering Andes mountains to the dense Amazon rainforest, it offers natural beauty that inspires awe. The cities are alive with color, music, and a deeply rooted cultural heritage. Peruvians are known for their warmth, hospitality, and strong sense of community, which can make the transition for expats especially welcoming.

One of the first things to consider when thinking about a move is the cost of living. In general, Peru is more affordable than the United States. Everyday expenses like rent, groceries, public transportation, and dining out tend to be significantly lower. In urban areas such as Lima or Arequipa, you’ll find a range of neighborhoods, from upscale districts with modern amenities to more modest areas that offer authentic local flavor. Many U.S. citizens are surprised to discover they can live quite comfortably on a fraction of what they spent back home.

Cultural adaptation is another key aspect of the experience. Life in Peru moves at a different rhythm—things may not always run on time, and systems may be less efficient than what you’re used to. But with patience and openness, these differences often become part of the charm. Spanish is the official language, and while English is spoken in tourist-heavy areas, learning at least basic Spanish is incredibly helpful for daily interactions and integration.

Peruvian cuisine is another highlight. Known globally for its diversity and bold flavors, it’s a major draw for many. From fresh ceviche on the coast to hearty dishes like lomo saltado in the highlands, food is an important part of Peruvian identity. Shopping at local markets is not only economical but also a way to connect with local culture. Here, you’ll find everything from exotic fruits to handcrafted goods, often sold by small-scale farmers and artisans.

Health and wellness are also important considerations. Peru has both public and private healthcare systems. Many expats opt for private clinics, which are generally affordable and offer good quality care, especially in major cities. Pharmacies are well stocked, and medications are often available over the counter that would require a prescription in the U.S.

Community is vital for settling in comfortably. Fortunately, Peru has a growing expat community, particularly in cities like Lima and Cusco. There are social groups, online forums, and meet-ups where newcomers can connect, share advice, and make friends. Building relationships with locals and other expats helps ease homesickness and creates a sense of belonging.

Daily life in Peru can be deeply fulfilling. Whether you’re hiking ancient Incan trails, sipping coffee in a colonial plaza, or participating in a vibrant local festival, the experience can be rich and rewarding. The slower pace gives you the chance to enjoy the moment and discover new passions.

Conclusion

While the move comes with its challenges, including cultural adjustment and practical logistics, the rewards of living in Peru often outweigh the difficulties. It’s a country that encourages exploration, embraces diversity, and offers a profound sense of history and place. For U.S. citizens ready to step out of their comfort zones and embrace a new way of life, Peru may just be the perfect destination