If foreign visitors, who are in Peru as a tourist, or temporary visa holders who haven't applied for a CTM, need to sign a legally binding document (such as a work contract, sworn statement, rental contract, car purchase, marriage license, apartment purchase, etc.) they must apply for a special permit, the so-called “Permiso especial para firmar contratos” or also known as "Permiso especial para suscribir documentos", before signing the document.
So, if you sign a contract or document when being in the country as tourist and don't have the special permit officially, the contract is null and void, can be contested and, if you have to present it at a Peruvian authority, usually is not accepted
While for years the Permit to sign contracts had to be applied for in person at any Migraciones office in Peru, in January 2018 the application process was simplified and now the application can be easily done online.
Be aware that you can only apply for the Permit to sign contracts when you are in the country legally, so your tourist (or other temporary visa) / authorization to enter and stay as a tourist in Peru must be valid.
Requirements for the Permit to sign contracts
- Form PA - Autorizaciones y Permisos
- Passport
- Be in the country on a valid tourist (other temporary) visa/stay as a tourist
Please note: Since October 22, 2023, the procedure is free of charge.
How to apply for the Permit to sign contracts
Open the Migraciones Agencia Virtual and click on Entrar. On the next page, select "Extranjero". Then choose in the drop-down menu the document with which you entered Peru (most probably passport), enter your passport number, your birthdate, nationality, the date you entered Peru and the captcha. Click on Verificar.
Now you are on the main page of the Agencia Digital. Here you can either use the search field or find in the menu on the left under "Permisos" the subpoint "Para firmar contratos".Click on it.
Now just fill in required fields and upload the form. Click on the little arrows next to each requirement, and certain fields appear depending on the requirement.
After entering the requested info click on Validar.
At the end of the process you get the confirmation of your application with the file number (no. de expediente) and date of application. Download this document and/or print it; keep it safe.
Within 5 business days, the Permit to sign contracts is sent to your e-mail address.
The special Permit to sign contracts is valid for a maximum of 30 days.