Do you need a visa for Peru?

Many travelers can visit Peru for tourism without obtaining a visa in advance, while some nationalities must apply for a visa before departure. To determine which category you fall into, you’ll need to check Peru’s official requirements for your passport.

In practice, Peru entry requirements depend on:

• Nationality (passport you’re traveling on)
• Purpose of travel (tourism, business, study, work, residency)
• Length of stay

If your trip includes paid work, study, or a long-term move, a tourist entry is usually not the correct approach. Tourist entry is designed for tourism and short stays.

Tourist entry vs. “tourist visa” (why the wording confuses people)

Travelers often say “tourist visa” when they really mean “tourist entry permission.” They are not always the same thing:

• Visa-required travelers typically need to apply before travel.
• Visa-exempt travelers may not need a visa, but are still granted a specific permitted stay length on arrival.

Even if you don’t need a visa, entry is still a formal process. Airlines and immigration officers can request documentation.

Peru entry requirements: what to have ready

The most common problems happen before you even reach immigration—at airline check-in. Airlines can deny boarding if you can’t prove you meet entry conditions.

1) Passport validity

Make sure your passport meets Peru’s validity rules for your nationality. Some destinations require several months of validity beyond arrival. Even if the official rule seems lenient, airlines often apply a cautious standard.

2) Proof of onward or return travel

This is one of the most common check-in requests. Keep your return flight confirmation or onward itinerary easy to show—screenshots help.

3) Accommodation details

Have the address and contact information for your first stay (hotel, hostel, rental, or a local contact). A booking confirmation works fine.

4) Proof of funds (sometimes)

Most tourists aren’t asked, but it can happen. A recent bank statement or a credit card can help demonstrate you can support yourself.

5) Travel insurance documentation

Not always required for entry, but useful for real life—especially if you have tour-related activities, altitude travel, or long intercity transport.

How long can you stay in Peru as a tourist?

Permitted stay length can vary based on nationality and the conditions granted at entry. The key is to confirm:

• what Peru’s general rules are for your passport; and
• what you are actually granted when you arrive.

If you’re planning a long trip (or multiple trips), track your dates carefully. It’s easy to lose count when you add side trips or change flights.

Can you extend your tourist stay in Peru?

Extension options and processes can change, and they may be limited. If you think you might need extra time:

• research extension rules before you arrive;
• do not wait until the last week to investigate; and
• plan your exit in case an extension is not available or not approved.

Arrival in Peru: what immigration may ask

Immigration questions are usually direct and practical. Expect things like:

• Purpose of visit: tourism, visiting family, business meetings, etc.
• Length of stay: your planned departure date.
• Where you’re staying: first accommodation address.
• Onward travel: your flight or ticket confirmation.

The fastest way to move through arrival is to have your confirmations ready on your phone—without relying on airport Wi‑Fi that may be slow, restricted, or unreliable.

Why Zetsim helps with Peru visa and entry logistics

Travel paperwork is easiest when you can access it instantly. A Zetsim travel eSIM helps you stay connected in Peru from the moment you land, which makes real-world entry situations simpler:

• pull up onward travel confirmations at check-in or immigration
• access booking emails, PDFs, and travel insurance documents
• message accommodation if you’re delayed
• use maps for airport transfers and first-day navigation

Common mistakes travelers make with Peru entry

• Assuming everyone gets the same stay: rules vary by nationality and entry conditions.
• Not carrying proof of onward travel: airlines may require it even if immigration doesn’t ask.
• Arriving with a nearly expired passport: this creates avoidable boarding risk.
• Relying on public Wi‑Fi for documents: it’s often slow when you need it most.
• Leaving extension research too late: plan early if you might need more time.

Resources

• Superintendencia Nacional de Migraciones (Peru)
• Zetsim travel eSIM plans

This content is for general information and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration rules can change; always verify requirements with official sources before travel.