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Marrying in Peru

Marrying in Peru

A practical guide to getting legally married in Peru

Planning to get married in Peru? First of all - congratulations! Getting legally married in Peru is not overly complicated, but it does require preparation, paperwork, and patience. Especially if a foreigner is involved, collecting the right documents and understanding the local procedures early on can save you from delays and last-minute stress.

And yes - this is Peru. So expect a bit of running around, possible waiting times, and the occasional bureaucratic surprise. The good news: thousands of couples successfully marry in Peru every year. With the right information and realistic expectations, you can too.

This guide covers everything you need to know about getting married in Peru: where and how to marry, which documents are required (particularly for foreign nationals), and what to expect when it comes to religious ceremonies, receptions, costs, and destination weddings.

 

Overview

 

Civil Wedding in Peru

Introduction

In Peru, only a civil marriage is legally recognized. So, if you dream of a church wedding, a romantic beach ceremony, a Shaman’s blessing, or an adventurous mountaintop marriage, be aware that they have no legal validity on their own.

If you want to be legally married in Peru, you must first complete a civil ceremony.

A civil wedding in Peru can be performed either:

  • at the registry office of a municipality, or
  • since December 2022, at a public notary.
 

Who can legally marry in Peru

You can marry in Peru if:

  • both partners are at least 18 years old.
  • at least one partner is Peruvian or a legal resident of Peru.
  • additionally, most municipalities and notaries require that at least one partner lives in the district where the wedding takes place or within the notary’s jurisdiction.

It’s also important to know that, under current Peruvian law, marriage is defined as a union between a man and a woman. Same-sex marriages and civil unions are not legally available in Peru at this time.

 

Getting married in the registry office of a municipality

Even though notarial weddings are now possible, most couples still choose to marry at the municipal registry office where at least one partner lives.

Regulations, required documents, and procedures can vary slightly from one municipality to another and changes can happen without much notice. Therefore, your first and most important step is always to check directly with the municipality where you plan to marry. This helps avoid last-minute surprises, which could delay your wedding by weeks or even months - especially important for foreigners - and ensures your documents are accepted.

Below is a general overview of documents commonly required for a civil wedding in Peruat a registry office of a municipality .

 

Typical marriage requirements at a municipality in Peru

Most municipalities request:
  1. Marriage application form
  2. DNI / carné / passport
  3. Birth certificate
  4. Certificate of being free to marry (Certificado de soltería)
  5. Proof of domicile
  6. Prenuptial medical exam (Certificado médico prenupcial)
  7. Wittnesses
  8. If divorced: divorce certificate
  9. If widowed: death certificate of former spouse
Explanatory notes:

1. Application form

This form includes personal information about the couple and the witnesses and confirms your intention to marry. Municipalities usually provide their own format.

2. Identification

3. Birth certificate

  • Peruvians:
    Recent certified copy, often not older than 3 months (varies by municipality).
  • Foreigners:
    Original birth certificate from the home country.

Don’t miss the rules for foreign documents in Peru (apostille/legalization + translation if required).

4. Certificado de soltería

The “Certificate of being single” is an official document stating that you are single, divorced or widowed, so legally free to marry.

  • Peruvians:
  • Foreigners:
    This is often where things become a bit challenging. In many countries, such a certificate simply doesn’t exist or cannot be issued. So yes - a little creativity and patience may be required. Commonly accepted options include:
    • Affidavit at a Peruvian notary
      If you are already in Peru, first check with the municipality where you plan to marry whether they accept an affidavit signed before a Peruvian notary. If they do - great. You just visit a notary and sign the declaration. Be aware you may first need a Permit to sign contracts. This is often the quickest and easiest solution.
    • Embassy/Consulate certificate
      Another option is to contact your home country’s embassy or consulate in Peru. Many are familiar with this situation and can either:
      • issue a Certificado Consular de Soltería, or
      • notarize a sworn statement in which you declare that you are single (unmarried, divorced, or widowed).
      • Most municipalities accept these documents, but always confirm beforehand.
      • Important: Documents issued by an embassy or consulate must be legalized by the Peruvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and translated if not in Spanish.
    • Document from your home country
      If the municipality does not accept the above options and you have someone back home who can help - or if you are still in your home country - check whether any government authority can issue an official document confirming your civil status. Some countries provide civil status records or similar certificates.
    • Notarized affidavit in your home country
      If none of the previous options work, you still have two possibilities:
      • Sign an affidavit before a notary public in your home country declaring that you are single (unmarried, divorced, or widowed), or
      • Request a search or confirmation from the authority responsible for marriage registrations in your country. If you have never been married, they will not find a record and can often issue a statement confirming this.

Don’t miss the rules for foreign documents in Peru (apostille/legalization + translation if required).

5. Domicile certificate

Most municipalities require that at least one partner lives in the municipality where the wedding takes place. This can be shown through:

6. Certificado médico prenupcial

Most municipalities require a medical exam, the so-called certificado médico prenupcial. It typically includes:

  • Basic health check
  • STIs/STDs counseling
  • Blood test (HIV/AIDS and other STIs/STDs)

It’s best to ask the municipality which doctor or clinic to use. Both partners must attend together. The results and the certificate are usually ready within a couple of days.

7. Witnesses

Usually, 2 witnesses are required (some municipalities ask for 4; two for the groom and two for the bride).

They should:

  • Not be family members
  • Know the couple well
  • Present valid ID (DNI, passport, carné)

Choose reliable and trustworthy people - if a witness present at paperwork submission doesn’t show up on the wedding day, the ceremony may not proceed.

8. If divorced

Additionally to above-mentioned requirements, if one or both partners are divorced proof that the previous marriage legally ended is required.

Examples:

  • Divorce decree
  • Final judgment
  • Municipal divorce resolution

Don’t miss the rules for foreign documents in Peru (apostille/legalization + translation if required).

Some municipalities impose waiting periods. Women remarrying within 300 days of divorce may need a pregnancy test.

9. If widowed

Additionally to above-mentioned requirements, if one or both partners are widowed municipalities require:

  • Death certificate of the spouse
  • Sometimes also: Former marriage certificate

Don’t miss the rules for foreign documents in Peru (apostille/legalization + translation if required).

Some municipalities require a pregnancy test if remarriage occurs within 300 days.

Using foreign documents in Peru

Any foreign document presented in Peru must meet specific formal requirements.

  • Apostille or legalization
    Foreign documents must either:
    • carry an Apostille (if the issuing country is a member of the Hague Apostille Convention), or
    • be legalized (if the country is not part of the Convention)through a Peruvian consulate abroad and then the Peruvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
  • Translation into Spanish
    If a foreign document is not entirely in Spanish, it must be translated into Spanish by a certified translator in Peru .
    • Lists of government-approved certified translators (traductor público juramentado) are available on the Peruvian government website. There you can select the language of your original document and find translators for that language, however, mostly in Lima.
    • In some cases, the translation itself may also need legalization by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Lima or a RREE branch in the provinces.
  • Validity period (“expiration date”) of documents
    Something many foreigners don’t expect: in Peru, official documents are often only accepted for a limited time after issuance. Unless stated otherwise:
    • Documents issued in Peru are usually accepted only if issued within the last 3 months.
    • Documents issued abroad are usually accepted only if issued within the last 6 months.
 

Application process for getting married at a municipality in Peru

Once you have gathered all the required paperwork, the most demanding part is behind you and you can breathe a little easier.

The next step is to submit your documents to the municipality. Don’t forget to bring your witnesses. At this stage you also pay the fee for the civil ceremony and choose your wedding date. After submitting the paperwork, there is usually a waiting period of at least one or two weeks before the marriage can take place. If the municipality is busy, however, the next available date might be two or even three months away, so planning ahead is wise.

You can normally choose whether the civil ceremony takes place at the municipal building or at a venue of your choice, where a municipal official performs the ceremony; the latter typically involves additional costs. Many municipalities also require the couple to publish a marriage announcement in a local newspaper and to submit the full newspaper page once the announcement has been printed.

With that done, you are almost at the finish line. The final step is the civil ceremony itself. As in many countries, it is usually a simple and rather brief affair, often attended only by close family and friends. The ceremony typically lasts around 20 to 30 minutes. The official may speak about marriage as the union of two people, as well as the legal rights and responsibilities that come with it. Your main role is to listen, say “Sí, quiero” or “Sí, acepto” at the right moment - otherwise all your hard work of the last weeks or months would have been in vain - and sign the marriage certificate. If you are marrying while in Peru on a tourist status, the municipality may require a Permit to sign contracts so you can legally sign the marriage certificate.

Congratulations! You made it and are now legally married in Peru.

After the ceremony, many couples celebrate with a small lunch or a private gathering with close family and friends. Larger celebrations only follow if couples don't plan a separate religious wedding later on (see the section on Wedding reception below).

One last administrative step remains: After your wedding, your marriage must be registered with Reniec. Once registered, you can obtain the official Peruvian marriage certificate. Peruvians must then update their marital status on their DNI. If applicable, foreigners should also register their marriage with the embassy or consulate of their home country in Peru.

 

Getting married at a public notary in Peru

Besides getting married at a municipal registry office, couples in Peru can also marry at a public notary - an option available since December 2022. This alternative is open to Peruvian-Peruvian couples, Peruvian-foreigner couples, and foreign resident-foreigner couples.

In general, the required documents are similar to those requested by municipalities. However, many couples report that notarial marriages are handled more clearly and efficiently, and that the overall process is often more straightforward and faster. While a notary wedding may feel less romantic than a ceremony at the municipality, it can be a practical solution if you are short on time or facing administrative hurdles at a municipal office.

That said, procedures and document requirements are similar to the ones at municipalities and can vary slightly from one notary to another. It is therefore highly recommended to check the exact requirements with the notary where you plan to marry. Doing so helps ensure your paperwork is complete and avoids unpleasant surprises or delays.

To give you a general idea of what to expect, the following are the documents typically requested.

 

Typical marriage requirements at a public notary in Peru

Most public notaries request:
  1. Marriage application form
  2. DNI / carné / passport
  3. Birth certificate
  4. Certificate of being free to marry (Certificado de soltería)
  5. Proof of domicile
  6. Prenuptial medical exam (Certificado médico prenupcial)
  7. Wittnesses
  8. If divorced: divorce certificate
  9. If widowed: death certificate of former spouse
Explanatory notes:

1. Application form

This form includes personal information about the couple and the witnesses and confirms your intention to marry. Public notaries usually provide their own format.

2. Identification

3. Birth certificate

  • Peruvians:
    Recent certified copy, often not older than 3 months (varies by municipality).
  • Foreigners:
    Original birth certificate from the home country.

Don’t miss the rules for foreign documents in Peru (apostille/legalization + translation if required).

The “Certificate of being single” is an official document stating that you are single, divorced or widowed, so legally free to marry.

  • Peruvians:
  • Foreigners:
    This is often where things become a bit challenging. In many countries, such a certificate simply doesn’t exist or cannot be issued. While municipalities randomly accept (or often not) a "subsitute" document, notaries seem to have clearer rules. Often accepted are:
    • Certificado Consular de Soltería
      Contact your home country’s embassy or consulate in Peru. Many are familiar with the situation and can issue a Certificado Consular de Soltería (Consular Certificate of Single Status). Important: Documents issued by an embassy or consulate must be legalized by the Peruvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and translated if not in Spanish.
    • Official document from your home country
      Check whether any government authority can issue an official document confirming your civil status. Some countries provide civil status records or similar certificates. If not, sign an affidavit before a notary public in your home country declaring that you are single (unmarried, divorced, or widowed). Don’t miss the rules for foreign documents in Peru (apostille/legalization + translation if required)
    • Declaración jurada de estado civil
      In case you cannot get the consular certificate or an official document from your home country, talk to the notary, if they accept a Declaración jurada simple de estado civil.

5. Proof of domicile

Most public notaries require that at least one partner lives in the jurisdiction of the notary. This can be shown through:

6. Certificado médico prenupcial

Most public notaries require a medical exam, the so-called Certificado médico prenupcial. It typically includes:

  • Basic health check
  • STIs/STDs counseling
  • Blood test (HIV/AIDS and other STIs/STDs)

It’s best to ask the notary which doctor or clinic to use. Both partners must attend together. The results and the certificate are usually ready within a couple of days.

7. Witnesses

Usually, 2 witnesses are required.

They should:

  • Not be family members
  • Know the couple well
  • Present valid ID (DNI, passport, carné)

Additionally, the witnesses must sign a sworn statement declaring that they are not aware of any legal impediment to the marriage.

Choose reliable and trustworthy people - if a witness present at paperwork submission doesn’t show up on the wedding day, the ceremony may not proceed.

8. If divorced

Additionally to above-mentioned requirements, if one or both partners are divorced proof that the previous marriage legally ended is required.

Examples:

  • Divorce decree
  • Final judgment
  • Municipal divorce resolution

Don’t miss the rules for foreign documents in Peru (apostille/legalization + translation if required).

Some municipalities impose waiting periods. Women remarrying within 300 days of divorce may need a pregnancy test.

9. If widowed

Additionally to above-mentioned requirements, if one or both partners are widowed municipalities require:

  • Death certificate of the spouse
  • Sometimes also: Former marriage certificate

Don’t miss the rules for foreign documents in Peru (apostille/legalization + translation if required).

Some municipalities require a pregnancy test if remarriage occurs within 300 days.

Using foreign documents in Peru

Any foreign document presented in Peru must meet specific formal requirements.

  • Apostille or legalization
    Foreign documents must either:
    • carry an Apostille (if the issuing country is a member of the Hague Apostille Convention), or
    • be legalized (if the country is not part of the Convention)through a Peruvian consulate abroad and then the Peruvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
  • Translation into Spanish
    If a foreign document is not entirely in Spanish, it must be translated into Spanish by a certified translator in Peru .
    • Lists of government-approved certified translators (traductor público juramentado) are available on the Peruvian government website. There you can select the language of your original document and find translators for that language, however, mostly in Lima.
    • In some cases, the translation itself may also need legalization by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Lima or a RREE branch in the provinces.
  • Validity period (“expiration date”) of documents
    Something many foreigners don’t expect: in Peru, official documents are often only accepted for a limited time after issuance. Unless stated otherwise:
    • Documents issued in Peru are usually accepted only if issued within the last 3 months.
    • Documents issued abroad are usually accepted only if issued within the last 6 months.
 

Application process for getting married at a public notary in Peru

The process of getting married at a Peruvian notary is similar to a civil wedding at a municipal registry office, as explained above, but it is often quicker, clearer, and more organized.

The most important part is having all your required documents in order. Once everything is complete, you submit your paperwork to the notary, pay the fee for the ceremony, and choose your wedding date. Notaries are usually more flexible than municipalities when it comes to scheduling, which can save you a significant amount of time.

Most notaries require that a wedding announcement is displayed at the notary’s office and that the couple publishes a marriage announcement in a local newspaper. After publication, the full newspaper page with the announcement usually has to be submitted to the notary.

You are then almost at the finish line. The final step to becoming legally married in Peru is the ceremony itself. As in many countries around the world, it is typically a simple and rather private affair, often celebrated only with close family members and friends. The ceremony usually lasts around 20 to 30 minutes.

The notary conducting the ceremony may speak about marriage as the union of two people, as well as the legal rights and responsibilities that come with it. Your main tasks are to listen carefully, say “Sí, quiero” or “Sí, acepto” at the right moment — otherwise all your preparation of the past weeks or months would have been for nothing — and sign the marriage certificate. If you are in Peru as a tourist, the notary may require that you first obtain a Permit to sign contracts, which allows you to sign legally binding documents, including your marriage certificate.

Congratulations! You made it and are legally married in Peru.

After the ceremony, many couples celebrate with a small lunch or a private gathering with close family and friends. If there is no separate religious wedding planned, this may be followed by a larger celebration (see the section on Wedding reception below).

One last administrative step remains: After your wedding, your marriage must be registered with Reniec. Once registered, you can obtain the official Peruvian marriage certificate. Peruvians must then update their marital status on their DNI. If applicable, foreigners should also register their marriage with the embassy or consulate of their home country in Peru.

 

Religious Wedding in Peru

As mentioned above, only a civil ceremony creates a legally valid marriage in Peru. A religious wedding is optional and can only take place after the civil ceremony. Nevertheless, in Peru a church wedding is often a huge affair, the emotional and social highlight of the marriage, and many couples choose to exchange their vows in front of God, extended family, and friends as well.

Each religion has its own rules and preparation process for a religious marriage. Since around 80% of Peruvians are Catholic, the Catholic ceremony is the most common. Typically, couples are asked to present:

  • ID (DNI for Peruvians, passport or carné for foreigners)
  • Birth certificate
  • Baptismal certificate (legalized by the ecclesiastical notary of the Archdiocese)
  • Certificate of Confirmation (legalized by the ecclesiastical notary of the Archdiocese)
  • Religious pre-marriage counselling
  • 4 witnesses (2 for the groom, 2 for the bride), can’t be family
  • Official civil marriage certificate or reliable proof that the civil ceremony will take place before the religious one.
  • “La proclamación” (public announcement of the upcoming wedding, which may be made during Sunday mass, published in the parish magazine, or displayed on the parish notice board).
  • Fee or donation

For exact requirements, please get in contact with the corresponding congregation.

Unlike the civil ceremony, which is usually tied to the municipality or notary where one partner resides, a religious wedding can often be held in the church of your choice. However, popular churches and especially well-known cathedrals may have waiting lists of several months and higher fees. It’s also worth planning the logistics early, as you’ll need to arrange transportation for the wedding party between the ceremony, the reception venue, and home.

 

Wedding Reception in Peru

The religious ceremony is often followed by a large reception at one of the most beautiful or prestigious venues the couple or their families can afford. These celebrations typically feature plenty of good food, an open bar, a wedding cake, a photographer, music and dancing, and sometimes even an entertainment program with professional dancers or animators and a few party games. In short, it’s usually a lively, night-long celebration.

Many couples choose to hire a wedding planner or book a wedding package that combines catering and event services at a hotel, club, or event venue. That said, organizing all or parts of the reception yourself is absolutely doable and, if you compare options and plan carefully, you can save a fair amount along the way. Which brings us to the question many couples ask next: how much does a wedding in Peru actually cost?

 

Wedding costs in Peru

As anywhere in the world, you can celebrate a beautiful and memorable wedding in Peru on a modest budget or spend the price of a small apartment on a luxury event. There really is something for every style and wallet.

How much you end up spending depends on many factors: whether you only have a civil ceremony or also a religious wedding, if you plan a small gathering or a big party, whether you marry in your backyard or a five-star hotel, how many guests you invite, and if you organize everything yourself or hire a wedding planner, if you serve home-cooked food or use the service if an exclusive caterer. Add to this the dress and suit, rings, décor and flowers, photographer, music and entertainment, transport, accommodation for guests, and all the little extras that inevitably pop up and the final number can vary widely. The sky or better the budget you are willing to spend, your or your parents’ financial resources, savings or limit of the credit card is the limit.

In Peru, the biggest chunk of the budget usually goes to the reception venue, catering, and decoration. However, the “smaller” items - invitations, attire, rings, hair and makeup, cake, photo and video, music, entertainment, and transport - add up faster than many couples expect and shouldn’t be underestimated.

To give you a realistic idea, here are rough average ranges many couples in Peru report:

A simple civil wedding at a municipality is the most economical way to marry in Peru. Fees commonly range between US$ 40 - 400 (approx. S/ 140 - 1,400+).
On the lower end, this usually covers a standard ceremony at the municipal building on a weekday. Higher fees often apply for popular districts in Lima, weekend ceremonies, special dates, or if the official travels to an outside venue. Even at the higher end, it remains a very affordable option compared to a full wedding celebration.

A civil wedding at a public notary is typically a bit more expensive but often more flexible and faster to arrange. Costs generally fall between US$ 160 - 400+ (approx. S/ 540 - 1,400+).
Many couples choose this option for convenience, clearer procedures, and shorter waiting times. Location and demand play a role here as well. Notaries in central or high-demand districts may charge more than those in smaller cities or towns. Special dates (Valentine’s Day, symbolic calendar dates, weekends) can also push prices up, so do additional services, publications, or special scheduling.

A nice, average wedding with 50 - 100 guests often lands around US$ 8,000 - 16,000 (approx. S/ 27,000 - 54,000+).
This typically covers a good venue, catering, open bar with local drinks, music, photography, and decent décor. You can certainly do it for less with careful planning or more if you add premium options.

A larger wedding with 100 - 200 guests and a bit more luxury commonly falls between
US$ 16,000 - 40,000 (approx. S/ 54,000 - 135,000+).
At this level couples often choose upgraded venues, more elaborate décor, premium bar options, and professional coordination.

A huge or high-end wedding with 200+ guests can easily reach US$ 40,000 - 95,000+ (approx. S/ 135,000 - 320,000+) and sometimes more.
These weddings often include prestigious venues, top-tier catering, full wedding planning services, live bands or shows, luxury décor, and high-end photo and video production.

Location and season also play a role. Weddings in Lima and Cusco tend to be pricier than in smaller cities, and peak wedding season can push prices up. On the other hand, choosing an off-peak date, comparing packages, and being selective with extras can make a big difference.

In the end, there is no “right” budget. Some couples prefer an intimate celebration and invest elsewhere in their future, while others dream of a once-in-a-lifetime party with everyone they love. Both are perfectly valid. The key is to plan realistically, prioritize what truly matters to you, and avoid starting married life with financial stress.

 

Destination wedding in Peru

With its incredible diversity of landscapes, deep-rooted traditions, and world-famous sights, Peru is a dream setting for couples who want more than a standard wedding. Few countries offer such a variety of backdrops for a memorable ceremony or vow renewal: saying your vows in a centuries-old colonial church, barefoot on a Pacific beach at sunset, on the grounds of a rustic hacienda or vineyard, during a traditional Andean ceremony with a Shaman in the Sacred Valley, in a five-star luxury hotel overlooking the ocean, deep in the Amazon rainforest, or even with Machu Picchu as your symbolic backdrop.

It’s easy to see why Peru has become an increasingly popular destination wedding location - the scenery is spectacular, the cultural touch adds meaning, and the experience often feels more intimate and unique than a large traditional wedding at home.

However, it’s important to understand the legal side. Nearly all of these picturesque ceremonies are symbolic only and not legally binding. For this reason, most couples first get legally married in their home country. Alternatively, if at least one partner is a legal resident of Peru, the civil marriage can be completed at a Peruvian municipality or notary before the symbolic celebration.

Once the paperwork is taken care of, couples are free to focus on the experience itself and this is where Peru truly shines. Many hotels, lodges, and specialized wedding planners offer destination wedding packages that can include ceremony setup, celebrants, flowers, photography, music, and even traditional elements such as Andean rituals or Peruvian cuisine.

A destination wedding in Peru is less about formalities and more about creating a once-in-a-lifetime memory in an extraordinary place. For many couples, it’s not just a wedding day; it’s the beginning of their story together, set against one of the most beautiful and culturally rich countries in the world.

 

Same-sex marriage and civil union in Peru

To this day, the Peruvian Constitution defines marriage as a stable union between a man and a woman. As a result, same-sex marriages and civil unions are currently not legally available in Peru, and same-sex marriages performed abroad are generally not recognized by Peruvian authorities.

Over the years, LGBTQ+ advocates and some public figures have repeatedly pushed for legislative change. There have also been individual court cases in which judges ruled in favor of same-sex couples seeking the recognition of their rights or foreign marriages. However, strong conservative sectors in Congress, the influential role of the Roman Catholic Church, and resistance within parts of the state apparatus have so far prevented broader legal reform.

In January 2018, the Inter-American Court of Human Rights (IACHR) issued an advisory opinion stating that countries that signed the American Convention on Human Rights - which Peru did - should provide legal recognition for same-sex couples, including access to marriage or equivalent institutions. At the time, this raised hopes that Peru might move toward marriage equality within a reasonable timeframe.

So far, however, no comprehensive change in national legislation has followed, and the legal situation remains unchanged.

 

Please note: LimaEasy is not a Peruvian government agency, public authority, or law firm. The information provided is based on our best knowledge and is intended as general guidance to help you understand Peruvian regulations and procedures. Regulations, requirements, and administrative practices may change at any time and without prior notice, so we recommend verifying current details with the relevant authorities before acting on this information.

And last but not least: If you notice any inaccuracies or outdated information on this page, please help us keep this guide up to date by leaving a comment below or contacting us via our contact form. Thank you for your support!

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  • This commment is unpublished.
    bishoy · 04/11/2022
    i am egyptian citizen traveling to peru with an invitation letter from my girl friend  can i reserve one way ticket.
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
      · 04/11/2022
      @bishoy Hello Bishoy,

      for you as Egyptian national, an invitation letter isn't enough to enter Peru. You must apply for a tourist visa at a Peruvian consulate before coming to Peru. See the publication of the Peruvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs page 2 (I attached a picture which shows that Egyptians need a tourist visa and cannot travel visa-free to Peru).

      The requirements to apply for a tourist visa include a round-trip ticket. You find more information in our article Tourist Visa and there especially under the point "How and where to apply".

      Greetings
      Eva
  • This commment is unpublished.
    B · 29/10/2022
    I'm A US citizen and I married a Peruvian woman, for reason I won't get into it didn't work out, she never got her citizenship or greencard (the marriage was over within months) Is this marriage even recognized in the us? I can't seem to get a straight answer
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
      · 29/10/2022
      @B Hello B,

      You don’t have to register a foreign marriage in the US to be accepted. So, if your marriage was legally performed in Peru and is valid, it is “automatically” recognized and legally valid in the US.

      Greetings
      Eva
  • This commment is unpublished.
    David · 10/08/2022
    I live in the US and want to marry in Ica, Peru. They are pretty much asking for all of the above, though I'm having a tough time understanding what they mean by providing a Domicile certificate. How do I obtain such a document from my state?
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
      · 10/08/2022
      @David Hello David,

      Usually, for marriages between a Peruvian partner and a non-domiciled foreigner only one Certificado Domiciliario per couple is requested, and this is provided by the Peruvian partner.

      I don’t know if the municipality of Ica specified if both have to present a domicile certificate and if a utility bill is ok or if they want a sworn statement which has to be signed in front of a notary.

      Anyway, if Ica is fine with only one “certificate”, your fiancée, depending on what is requested, either just needs an electricity, water, or phone bill or has to pay a notary a visit who usually has the corresponding form letter on hand. If they want the “certificate” from you as well, depending on what is requested, use the same electricity, water, or phone bill (add a second copy) and say that you live under this address together with your fiancée when you are in Peru or, once you are in Peru, go to a notary and get the document.

      Greetings
      Eva
  • This commment is unpublished.
    Andy · 04/08/2022
    My girlfriend is a Chinese citizen and working in Lima for a Chinese Company. I am a Canadian Citizen. Can we get marry in Lima ? 
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
      · 04/08/2022
      @Andy Hello Andy,

      Many municipalities in Peru require that at least one partner must be Peruvian or a legal resident of Peru.

      So, assuming that your girlfriend is a legal resident because of working for a company in Lima, yes, you can marry in Peru.

      For exact details on requirements, get in contact with the municipality where you are planning to marry

      Greetings
      Eva
  • This commment is unpublished.
    Matthew · 17/07/2022
    I have been with my same-sex Peruvian partner for 21 years now.  It's such a shame that even now after all this time, our union is still not recognised in Peru.  
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
      · 17/07/2022
      @Matthew Hello Matthew,

      I feel with you. For me, it's incomprehensible that same-sex marriage or even civil unions between same-sex partners are still not allowed, performed or recognized.

      I wish you all the best.

      Greetings
      Eva
  • This commment is unpublished.
    Evelyn F · 28/06/2022
    I am an american woman in a relationship with a peruvian man. We are living in the united states but he is ready to go back to peru to retire. He wants me to go with him. If I marry him when we are in peru before my tourist visa is up, will that be enough that I can stay? Of course if we provide the documentation and stuff... or... do I need to apply later for actual naturalization later on? Can I just exist there after proving we are married and get the marriage visa and thats enough? If not, do I need to speak fluent spanish in order to take another step? -- Thanks!! I am so lost and very afraid he and I could become separated in this world...  
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
      · 28/06/2022
      @Evelyn F Hello Evelyn,

      All good, first of all take a deep breath and relax. I can assure you no need to worry, just the option to marry the man you love (congrats) and a chance of a new adventure in your life. And nobody will forcibly separate you from your partner.

      But I highly recommend to carefully prepare this step and thoroughly inform yourself before (!) heading to Peru. Hopefully, LimaEasy can help with the one or other article; otherwise, you are always welcome to get in contact with me. If you don’t want to do this here in the comments publicly, just scroll down to the bottom of the page and click on “contact us” and send me a private message.

      Anyway, regarding your questions:

      Yes, if you marry your partner in Peru (or elsewhere), have your marriage registered at Reniec (or a Peruvian consulate) and have all other necessary documents you can apply for a family visa in Peru which allows you to stay in the country for a year as a resident (after that you can easily extend the visa). If you read through the family visa article, the requirements, preparation, and application steps might be overwhelming at first. But if you work off each step as described, you shouldn’t encounter any huge obstacles.

      After three years of legal residency in Peru, you can switch to a permanent resident visa (no extensions anymore and indefinite residency in Peru if you aren’t outside the country for more than a year).

      Or after two years of living legally in Peru, you could (but aren’t required to - I didn’t) get the Peruvian nationality. But you would get it by marriage with a Peruvian national, not by naturalization (it’s another administrative procedure). But honestly, right now, this isn’t important. First steps first.

      If you decide moving to Peru, yes, you should learn Spanish. But nobody expects that you are fluent from day one. When filling out necessary forms, for example, at least basic knowledge is helpful, but you still have your partner who hopefully speaks his native language and who can not only introduce you to his home country, its customs and traditions and its sometimes crazy bureaucracy but as well help with the language barrier.

      The only thing that worries me a bit is getting everything done in the timeframe you have on a tourist visa in Peru. Be aware that your tourist visa must be still valid on the day you apply for your family visa. When entering Peru, most nationalities only get 90 days to stay in Peru and that’s not a lot of time for all the bureaucracy awaiting you. In my opinion it is nearly impossible to prepare the necessary paperwork for your marriage, finally get married, then get your marriage certificate and have your then husband’s DNI updated with the correct marriage status, and after that start with the preparation work for your family visa and here especially the Interpol clearance (see the family visa article) and finally apply for your resident visa in the three months.

      So, here either extremely good organization skills are required, and nothing goes wrong (unlikely in Peru) or you fly one time to Peru to get married, then leave the country and return to apply for your residency or you have your civil wedding already in the US and get the Peruvian marriage certificate at a Peruvian consulate there and then enter Peru to directly start with your visa application process.

      To come to an end, I don’t know your circumstances and if you have ever been to Peru before, but I always highly recommend to at least visit the country for a few weeks before packing all your bags and permanently moving there. Peru is a beautiful country but living there is quite different from what you are used from back home. As every country around the globe it has its pros and cons. The question is if for you all the great stuff outweighs the negatives.

      Anyway, I wish you all the best. And feel free to contact me anytime if you have more questions.

      Greetings
      Eva
  • This commment is unpublished.
    J · 25/06/2022
    Hello! 

    I am an American citizen and my fiancé is Peruvian. We are in the middle of the fiancée visa process, however, we are interested in having an “inka wedding” or spiritual wedding in Ollantaytambo but I want to make sure this would not impact our current fiancée visa process as I am aware that if we were to get married the fiancée visa would be void. 

    Thanks so much! 
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
      · 25/06/2022
      @J Hello J,

      Honestly, I’m not familiar with resident visa applications for the US. So, it might be wise to check with the US embassy in Lima what they have to say.

      However, your “spiritual wedding” isn’t anything official; you are not getting legally married according to Peruvian law and won’t get a marriage certificate. It’s usually only a symbolic ceremony, so I doubt that this could in any way have an impact on the visa application of your fiancée.

      Greetings
      Eva
  • This commment is unpublished.
    oliver · 22/06/2022
    Hello, 

    If i got married in peru end want to apply for a  family visa, I only need my official married document and an official document of my origin country that i don't have a criminal status? 
    Like this website says:  https://www.gob.pe/12876-solicitar-calidad-migratoria-de-familiar-residente-para-mayores-de-edad

    Or do I need a Interpol - Ficha de Canje Internacional as well?

    And is it a problem to start the process if my tourist visa is already ore almost expired?
    (while staying in Peru)

    Thanks a lot!

    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
      · 22/06/2022
      @oliver Hello Oliver,

      All the information you need, including a list of all requirements and a walk through the process, can be found in our article “Peruvian family visa”.

      And yes, if you were married in Peru, for the application of your family visa you need next to other documents which are listed in the article linked above

      - your Peruvian marriage certificate issued by RENIEC

      - the official document of your home country that you don't have a criminal status (with Apostille or, if your home country hasn’t signed the Hague Convention, legalized. If the document isn’t in Spanish, it has to be translated by an official translator in Peru. )

      - the Ficha de canje issued by Interpol in Peru

      Not sure what you mean by “almost expired”. On the day you fill in the necessary fields on the Agencia Digital, send in your application and then get the confirmation of your application, your tourist visa must be still valid. If it’s only expired for one day, the application won’t be accepted, or the application process won’t even work.

      However, if your tourist visa expires shortly after you send your application and receive the confirmation, you won’t have any problem.

      Greetings
      Eva
  • This commment is unpublished.
    MJ · 09/03/2022
    Hello,

    I am from the US and just got married in Peru! My now wife is from Peru. We were told that i have to register my marriage in the US or else it is as if i were single and never got married. I cant find any information on where i need to "report/register" my marriage. Do you know what steps or where i have to do this? As far as i know as long as it was a legal wedding there is no need for me to do this but i am getting different answers from everywhere. 

    Thank you for your help!
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
      · 09/03/2022
      @MJ
      Hello MJ,

      First of all, congratulations and all the best for your life together.

      I’m not from the US and have to admit that except for some general knowledge, I have no idea about US laws and regulations (already more than busy keeping up to date with the ones from Peru and from my home country).

      When I remember (!!!) correctly, the US has no marriage registry on federal level, and marriages are just registered on state level. In general, foreign marriages, however, are recognized and considered valid in the US without additional registration if the marriage was performed according to the laws and regulations of the country where the wedding took place. The foreign marriage certificate (with Apostille and translated into English) is usually accepted for official purposes.

      As far as I know, the US embassy isn’t really helpful and for further information and questions in regard to marriages abroad /recognition in the United States, US citizens should contact the Office of the Attorney General of their state of residence in the US.

      Sorry, I can’t help any further.

      Greetings
      Eva
  • This commment is unpublished.
    Lee · 07/02/2022
    Hi there,

    I am from the UK, and my now wife, Peru. We recently married in Arequipa (this article was really helpful to us, so thanks a lot) and due to an emergency I had to return home to the UK without my wife due to the visa applications etc. We have not yet finalised the details to change her DNI or to inform the UK embassy of our wedding. So I was just wondering what this means in terms of the matrimony? Do we have a certain timescale that we must do this? Or what is the legal status of our marriage? 

    Any help greatly appreciated, 

    Thanks
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
      · 07/02/2022
      @Lee Hello Lee,

      When you married, you should have gotten a copy of the Acta de Celebración de Matrimonio. Usually, the municipality sends the original acta within 2 weeks after a marriage to Reniec who then is supposed to register the marriage in the civil registry and to issue a marriage certificate. As this process often isn’t done in a timely manner, it is recommended to pay Reniec a visit after a marriage and request the inscription of the marriage.

      In the time frame from marriage to inscription / getting the marriage certificate you are legally married in Peru, however, you don’t have the correct document to prove it. For any administrative procedures such as changing the civil status of your spouse in Peru, registering your marriage either at the UK consulate or in the UK, applying for a visa in Peru,etc. you need a copy of the Peruvian Acta de Matrimonio. So, it’s in your own interest to get your marriage registered in Peru as quickly as possible, so you can update the DNI of your wife, register your marriage in the UK / at the consulate (if this isn’t done you and your wife might be married, but not legally considered so in the UK as you don't have the correct document to prove and register your marriage), update your civil status and / or proceed with the visa application.

      First, best check if your marriage was already automatically registered with Reniec. This can be done on the Reniec website either under “Consultas en linea” and then “Consulta de actas registrales” or under "Copias certificadas de actas/partidas” and then “Verificar acta/partida Paso1”.

      If your marriage is already registered, your wife can do the Rectificacion del estado civil online under above-mentioned link; you are not needed for this.

      I’m not sure how long after marriage Peruvians have to change their civil status, so I checked on the Reniec website where I found a) Peruvians have a period of 120 days to update their marital status after marriage and b) those who married must update their marital status within a period of 30 days. So, not sure what is correct.

      If your marriage isn’t registered yet, one of the spouses (so, if you aren’t in Peru at the moment, no problem) can request the registration of your marriage at any Reniec office. So, your wife should get this done and then change her civil status as described above.

      Greetings
      Eva
  • This commment is unpublished.
    Bharat · 28/01/2022
    Hi, I’m an Indian citizen and a Canadian permanent resident. I want to marry my Peruvian girlfriend, she lives in Lima. 

    Peruvian immigration told her that in order  to carry out a marriage between a foreign person and a Peruvian there would have to be a minimum relationship of 1 year, in which either of the two parties would have to come to the country more than one or two or three times, and demonstrate the couple relationship in which they not only through social network.

    Is it true that there has to be a minimum of 1 year of relationship?
    Please guide us.

    Thank you.
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
      · 28/01/2022
      @Bharat
      Hello Bharat,

      I never heard of it. And even though I highly recommend getting to know your future wife in person and thoroughly (I know my husband for 33 years and we are married 24), I wonder why your girlfriend would ask Peruvian immigration. In charge of civil marriages in Peru is the municipality where you plan to marry (in most cases, this has to be the municipality where the Peruvian partner lives).

      But as things change, I just checked the requirements for marriages between a Peruvian and a foreigner again listed on the websites of a few different municipalities in Lima and on the Peruvian government website. Nowhere is anything mentioned related to a minimum time of your relationship or to proving anything about the way of your relationship. So, as far as I see, to get married in Peru you do not have to prove a minimum of 1 year relationship or 2 / 3 visits to the country.

      The same applies to getting a resident family visa in Peru once you are married. While in this case Peruvian immigration (Migraciones) is in charge, there is no such thing as minimum relationship time or proof of anything in regards to your relationship on the list of requirements.

      Additionally, I know a few foreigners who got married to a Peruvian in Peru and while some municipalities made the way to marriage more difficult than necessary, no-one had to prove anything regarding their relationship to the municipality or later, when applying for their visa, to Migraciones.

      Greetings
      Eva


  • This commment is unpublished.
    Lissette · 06/01/2022
    I got Married in Peru , came to the US and years later got divorced in the US. If I were to want to get remarried, do I need to also be divorced in Peru for my new marriage to be valid?
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
      · 06/01/2022
      @Lissette
      Hello Lissette,

      You not really have to get divorced again in Peru, but your divorce must be recognized in Peru, otherwise you remain married before Peruvian law in Peru with all legal implications such as for example support obligations or inheritance claims. So, in your own interest you should make sure that you are not only legally divorced in the US but also in Peru.

      You must request the recognition of your US divorce at the Peruvian Judicial Power (Exequatur); the procedure is called "reconocimiento de sentencia de divorcio en el extranjero".

      For that it's not necessary to be in or to travel to Peru. Any Peruvian consulate can inform you about the exact requirements and the process and can help with the necessary paperwork.

      Greetings
      Eva


    • This commment is unpublished.
      Tes Abellana · 29/12/2022
      @Sunflower Hi. I just wanna ask if someone who is divorced and got married in the Civil wedding. Does the Church allow the marriage to take place in the Church in Peru? Since the other is already divorced? I am quite confused if the Catholic Church in Peru allows that. Thank you
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
      · 29/12/2022
      @Tes Abellana
      Hello Tes,in the

      As far as I know, if one partner is divorced and was already married in church, in the eyes of the Catholic church, this civil divorce does not break the indissoluble bond of marriage in front of God. This can only be broken if the marriage is declared invalid and annulled by the church.

      If the divorced person only had a civil marriage, things might be different.

      Your best chance of finding out if a couple with one divorced partner can be married in church is to talk to the pastor / priest of the church you are planning to marry.

      Greetings
      Eva
  • This commment is unpublished.
    Alexandra · 03/01/2022
    Hey all! Anyone can explain how it works with the last name if a woman is getting married to a Peruvian man? 
    Is it possible to get the name of him? 
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
      · 03/01/2022
      @Alexandra
      Hello Alexandra

      The Peruvian names consist of first name(s), father's surname (apellido paterno) and mother's surname (apellido materno); if a woman is married she keeps her two last names and, if at all, adds "de and the husband's father's surname".

      So if Juanita (first name) Perez (father's surname) Gonzalez (mother's surname) marries Juan Torres Gomez, she either remains Juanita Perez Gonzalez or she will be Juanita Perez Gonzalez de Torres.

      It's absolutely unthinkable that a Peruvian woman will renounce her names and take her husband's names. Additionally, if you take your husband's name, from the name you become your husband's sister; and getting the names correctly registered for possible future children will be a nightmare.

      I married a Peruvian abroad under foreign law and took my husband's (father's) surname. As long as we lived abroad we didn't have any problems . However, when moving to Peru and finally registering our marriage and our children with Reniec convincing the officials that I'm my husband's wife and not sister and getting our children the father's surname and the correct mother's surname (and not a second time the husband's name) was challenging and time consuming.

      So, my recommendation keep your name and just add the "de and husband's surname). Makes your life a lot easier, if you plan to live in Peru or other Latin American countries.

      Greetings
      Eva
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Grace · 22/03/2022
      @Sunflower Hi eva, thanks for your recommendation to add the 'de and husband's surname. I assume you have done this and having children with surname issue as you mentioned it was challenging n time consume.

      Could you share more in detail experience, what you do in order registering your marriage and your children with Reniec convincing the officials?
      Did your children still facing any issue relating the surname in Peru now?
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
      · 22/03/2022
      @Grace Hello Grace,

      No, as described above, I haven’t done it, I was stupid enough to take my husband’s surname which many years later gave us lots of problems registering our marriage and our children with correct surnames at Reniec in Peru.

      I still have my husband’s surname and didn’t change it to the Peruvian naming as I would have had to change my name in my home country, then get my name changed on many documents including my passport, marriage certificate, etc. and only then could have registered our marriage at Reniec. So no, never did that.

      Instead, we went to court and had a Peruvian judge officially rule that I’m not my husband’s sister but his wife; while Reniec didn’t want to accept and seemingly couldn’t understand my birth certificate with my maidan name (so, my father’s surname) and our marriage certificate which shows my maidan name and at the bottom has a paragraph explaining that according to xyz law in my home country I took my husband’s surname which as well becomes the surname of our family, the judge had a closer look at both documents and after questioning my husband ruled in our favor and ordered Reniec to register our marriage.

      Reniec then did register our marriage but told us that they only can do it with my name as in my passport which is first names, husband’s name “born” my maidan name. So, my husband’s surname is now my apellido paterno and my maidan name which is my father’s surname is now my apellido materno. Absolutely stupid, but we agreed under the condition that they would register our children correctly with first names, my husband’s (their father’s) surname and then my maidan (their mother’s) name.

      So, while now my name is completely “wrong” in Peru, my children’s name is correct, and they don’t have any problems. The only thing important to me.

      And just for your info, all this happened nearly 20 years ago, so, not sure if Reniec today is more understanding and accommodating.

      What you have to do to register your marriage? Depends on where you were married. If you were married in Peru, the municipality is supposed to automatically send the Acta de Celebración de Matrimonio to Reniec, who is supposed to register your marriage and issue the Partida de Matrimonio. However, as this often takes ages, you can request the registration of your marriage at Reniec to speed up the process. Super simple process and, when I remember correctly, there is no discussion about the wife’s surnames as the Peruvian way of naming is applied. If you were married abroad, you are supposed to register your marriage at a Peruvian consulate. Advantage: they know the differences regarding the names and are usually more accommodating (but best check with them before changing your name). Disadvantage: your marriage is registered at the consulate and your marriage certificate issued by the consulate, not Reniec; so, in the future when you are in Peru you can’t get copies of it from Reniec but have to request them from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. If you married abroad and didn’t register your marriage at a consulate, you can as well do so at Reniec in Peru. If the names on birth certificates, marriage certificates, DNI of the Peruvian part and passports are the same, no problem. But as soon as something is out of the ordinary, be prepared for lots of discussions.

      Registering a child at Reniec as well usually is a simple process if it was born in Peru. You and the baby just pay Reniec a visit (have ID with you and the Certificado de nacido vivo (CNV) which you get at the hospital where the child was born), do lots of paperwork and within 2 weeks you have the birth certificate. Naming is done according to the Peruvian rule, so father’s surname and mother’s surname as registered with Reniec or in case a foreigner is involved according to the name on the carné or in the passport. During the pandemic, Reniec started online registering births. So, if the mother is Peruvian, she can register the child online either through the DNI BioFacial app or through the Reniec Mesa de Partes. Not sure, if this is still possible. If the child was born abroad, it should be registered at a consulate, otherwise it can be done later at Reniec in Peru. However, you only have 60 days after birth to register the child. After that, you have to do an Inscripción de nacimiento extemporánea; this late registering is possible for any Peruvian older than 61 days and even adults that never were registered.

      Greetings
      Eva
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Grace · 04/04/2022
      @Sunflower Hi eva,
      so i am asian and planning to be married but facing the same surname rule issue, so lets say my full name grace angela. And my fiance is peruvian, his name Silvio Cueto Lopez.
      Based on reniec nameing rules, is my last name ‘angela’ considered as family name? Our internal discussion is saying it is part of given name, not family name.
      Before marriage, should i change my name with Grace Angle ‘De Lopez in order to align with reniec rule? Or just keep it as grace angela?
      should i keep it simple with marry abroad from peru? But however i should register our marriage in both of our origin country

      what is the court suggestion when this u deal with ur children naming?
      If i keep it as grace angela…. Will be an issue if my future children naming?
      example Maria Cueto Angela is correct based on reniec?

      please advice based on ur experience 🙏🏻 Or at least i can get heads up to what should be prepare in documents
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
      · 04/04/2022
      @Grace Hello Grace,

      Sorry, but I have the feeling that you either didn’t understand the Peruvian naming system and why I had problems with the name (see below example 3) or are overthinking things, making them more complicated than they are.

      Why would Reniec not accept your name(s)? And why would you think of changing your name? Do not do it, you make things even worse and create your own little hell. The naming problems mentioned only arise if you marry abroad and take your husband’s surname! If you marry abroad and keep your surname, all is fine; and if you marry in Peru, there is no problem.

      And you don’t know which of your names are first/given names and which surnames? Have a look at your passport. I just checked passports from different Asian countries (China, India, Correa, Japan) and all had a “Given name” field and a “Surname” field. So, you should be able to identify if your first name is only Grace or if you are Grace Angela. And as authorities in Peru will use the names as in your passport, there is no discussion and moving around a first name, making it a surname.

      There might be discrepancies only with the surname(s). The thing is that Peruvians usually have their first/given name(s)(nombre(s)), then the father’s surname (apellido paterno; first surname) and then the mother’s surname (apellido materno; second surname).

      In many other countries, people only have one surname and that might or might not be the father’s. So, in case you only have one surname, even if this is not your father’s (it could be your mother’s or your husband’s), in Peru this surname will be considered as “apellido paterno” (father’s surname). In case you have two surnames, the first will be considered as “apellido paterno” (father’s surname) and the second as “apellido materno” (mother’s surname), no matter if these two names really are your father’s and mother’s first surnames.

      The naming of children is super simple. As described above, the child is given his or her first names by the parents, then the father’s first surname and the mother’s first surname is added. To make it clearer, find attached three charts.

      Example 1

      As mentioned by you, father’s complete name is
      Silvio (first name) Cueto (father’s surname) Lopez (mother’s surname)

      Mother’s complete name is as mentioned by you
      Grace (first name) Angela (father’s surname) ??? / n/a (mother’s surname; I don’t know, if you have a second surname; if not, it’s just dropped) If you are married to Silvio you can add “de Cueto” to your name.

      Child’s complete name would be
      ??? (first name) Cueto (father’s first surname) Angela (mother’s first surname)

      Usual Peruvian naming: first name(s), father’s first surname, mother’s first surname. All good.

      Example 2

      Father’s complete name is
      Silvio (first name) Cueto (father’s surname) Lopez (mother’s surname)

      Mother’s complete name is
      Grace Angela (first names) ??? (father’s surname) ??? / n/a (if applicable,mother’s surname)

      Child’s complete name would be
      ??? (first name) Cueto (father’s surname) ??? (mother’s surname)

      Usual Peruvian naming: first name(s), father’s first surname, mother’s first surname. All good.

      Example 3

      Father’s complete name is
      Silvio (first name) Cueto (father’s surname) Lopez (mother’s surname)

      Mother’s complete name is
      Grace (first name) Cueto (you took your husband’s name, which now is considered as your father’s surname)

      Child’s complete name would be
      ??? (first name) Cueto (father’s first surname) Cueto (mother’s first surname)

      So, when you take your husband’s name, your surname is now considered being your father’s first surname, from the name making you his (half) sister. Your child will get the father’s first surname and the mother’s first surname (which, as you have taken your husband’s first surname, is again your husband’s name).

      I hope, the topic is now clearer.

      The documents you have to prepare for marrying are listed above. However, as they can vary a bit, best ask at the municipality where you plan to marry.

      Greetings
      Eva
  • This commment is unpublished.
    Timo · 31/12/2021
    Hi. If you get married in Peru does leaving the country after marriage affect when you can apply for full residency (like it does for work visas)? I got stuck here during the pandemic and my tourist visa expired. I want to get married to my Peruvian partner but I also need to go back to my home country for 6 months to a year. If after my marriage I leave Peru for 6m/1y will this affect when I can apply for full residency? 
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
      · 01/01/2022
      @Timo
      Hello Timo,

      No, leaving Peru after marriage won't affect your application for a family visa when you return.

      Once you are married make sure to have your marriage correctly registered at Reniec, so when you want to apply for your visa, some of the groundwork is already done and you just have to get a new copy of your marriage certificate. Additionally, your spouse should update her DNI at Reniec with the correct marital status. And make sure to bring the police clearance certificate from your home country when you return. With all this done, once you are coming back to Peru, you just have to get the Interpol clearance and can apply for your family visa without major hurdles.

      Happy New Year

      Eva
  • This commment is unpublished.
    Ana · 22/09/2021
    Hi, I’m Peruvian and my fiancé is an American citizen and a Protestant. We have been looking into doing our religious ceremony through the Protestant church as opposed to the Catholic one but can’t find any pastors to perform the ceremony. Would you be able to point me in the right direction? 
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
      · 22/09/2021
      @Ana
      Hello Ana,

      Already 30 years ago I had the same problem with my wedding and later with the christening of my children. It’s a shame that the two main denominations of Christianity make it so difficult for interdenominational couples.

      Anyway, unfortunately I don’t know any pastors who would perform the ceremony. If you are envisioning a traditional wedding in a typical church, personally I would try to find two pastors, one catholic and one evangelic, hoping that they are willing to perform an ecumenical ceremony in one of their churches; this would make everyone happy.

      Or I would try to find a church or chapel to rent for the ceremony and hope that a pastor comes with it or can easily be arranged. The Decameron El Pueblo in Santa Clara, Ate, Lima, for example, has an absolutely lovely little chapel on their premises where this is possible if the reception is held there as well. Checking out hotels and resorts with churches or chapels or offering wedding packages might bring you a step further. Or a wedding planner might have contacts.

      Another option could be to check out the “expat” churches in Lima, which are usually more open and welcoming to everyone; however, I’m not sure if the invited family approves. The Union Church, for example, is an international, interdenominational Christian Fellowship in Miraflores, Lima, but in my opinion, the church building isn’t what one typically envisions for a wedding. Probably a nicer option could be the Good Shepherd Church in Miraflores, Lima which not only serves the English-speaking expatriate and non-Roman Catholic community, but also has a Spanish-speaking congregation and also serves as the cathedral of the Anglican Diocese of Peru; the small cathedral building is really lovely and everyone at the church usually welcomes and embraces anyone. However, I’m not sure if they are open to non-members; it costs nothing to ask and even if they are not willing to perform the ceremony, they might have the one or other contact.

      Sorry, I couldn't be of more help.

      All the best,
      Eva

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