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Peruvian Family Visa

Peruvian Family Visa

A Guide to Peruvian Visas

Part 6

Some family members of Peruvian nationals and foreigners with resident status in Peru have the right to family reunification and can apply for a family visa, the so-called Visa familiar residente. Depending on your relationship to the Peruvian citizen or foreign resident, several family visa sub-types exist.

And before we continue ...

Applying for a residence visa in Peru can feel confusing and overwhelming at first. Requirements, procedures, and the different authorities involved are not always easy to understand, especially for foreigners navigating the process for the first time.

The family visa application involves several steps and requires careful preparation of documents both from abroad and in Peru.

This guide explains the entire process step by step - from the legal background and document preparation to submitting your visa application, receiving your residence approval, and obtaining your Carné de extranjería. With the detailed explanations and practical instructions provided here, you should be able to prepare and submit your application on your own. We also explain important rules and practical aspects of living in Peru on a family visa.

 

Table of contents

 

Family visa types in Peru

In Peru, a family visa can be based either on a relationship with a Peruvian citizen or with a foreigner who already has resident status in Peru. In both cases the visa type is called Visa familiar residente. However, the required documents and specific sub-type may differ depending on the sponsor’s immigration status.

Important:
Currently, same-sex marriages and civil unions are not legally recognized in Peru. Therefore, even if such a marriage or civil union was legally performed abroad, it is generally not recognized by Peruvian authorities, including Migraciones, and cannot be used as a basis for a family visa application. Foreign partners in such situations usually have to apply for another visa type, for example a work visa, retirement visa, or other residence visa, depending on their personal circumstances.

Depending on your relationship to the Peruvian citizen or foreigner with resident status in Peru, several family visa sub-types exist.

  • Spouses of Peruvian nationals (para el caso de casado/a peruana/o)
  • Spouses of foreigners with resident status (para el caso de casado/a con extranjera/o residente en el país)
  • Minor children of Peruvians or foreigners with resident status (para el caso de hijos menores de edad de peruano/a o extranjero/a residente)
  • Unmarried adult children (18 to 28 years old) who are financially dependent on their parents (para el caso de hijo/a mayor de edad)
  • Adult children with disabilities (para el caso de hijos mayores de 18 años con discapacidad)
  • Parents of Peruvians or foreigners with resident status in Peru who do not have Peruvian nationality (para el caso de padres de peruano/a o extranjero/a residente) (*)

(*) Children born on Peruvian territory to Peruvian or foreign parents are automatically considered Peruvian citizens. They have the right to obtain a Peruvian birth certificate, a Peruvian DNI, and a Peruvian passport.

For many years, foreign parents could not obtain a resident family visa through their minor child born in Peru. However, this changed with the introduction of the 2017 Foreigner Law and a new interpretation of the relevant regulation a few years later.

Before the parents can apply for a resident family visa, the child’s birth must first be registered with Reniec, and the child must obtain both a Peruvian birth certificate and a Peruvian DNI.

 

Legal background for a family visa application in Peru

Where to apply for a family visa

Officially, you can apply for a family visa either from outside Peru or while already in the country, for example while staying as a tourist.

However, the practical situation has changed in recent years. For decades, Peruvian consulates abroad handled residence visa applications entirely, from providing information and issuing application forms to receiving the application and, if approved, granting the residence visa.

Since August 2021, however, Peruvian diplomatic missions abroad generally only handle tourist and business visa applications. Foreigners who wish to apply for a residence visa are now usually referred to Migraciones in Peru.

This means that foreigners who can enter Peru visa-free (in other words, those who do not need to apply for a tourist visa at a Peruvian consulate) typically travel to Peru as tourists and then apply for a change of immigration status, known as Cambio de calidad migratoria, at Migraciones. This is different from a “Solicitud de calidad migratoria,” which is the procedure used when applying for residency from outside Peru.

Foreign nationals who cannot enter Peru visa-free (meaning they must apply for a tourist visa at a Peruvian consulate before traveling) are officially required to apply for their residence visa from outside Peru. In practice, this process can be more complicated, lengthy, and sometimes frustrating.

If you fall into this category, we explain the process in detail in our separate guide on the Peruvian residence visa application from abroad.

Foreign nationals who want to apply for a residence visa in Peru, for example because they are married to a Peruvian, have found work in Peru, or p...

 

Important laws and regulations

For foreigners planning to stay in Peru long-term and apply for a resident visa, several laws and regulations form the legal basis of the immigration system.

The most important ones are Decreto Legislativo 1350, Peru’s “old” Foreigner Law, and Decreto Legislativo 1582, which introduced modifications to this law. Both mainly establish the general framework for immigration matters. More detailed regulations can be found in Decreto Supremo 002-2021-IN published in 2021, as well as in the TUPA (Texto Único de Procedimientos Administrativos) of Migraciones, which is usually updated every year.

Helpful information can also be found on the official Peruvian government website. All these documents are, of course, in Spanish.

While in the section Requirements for a family visa application in Peru below we explain the required documents in English, the official list of requirements can be found, for example, in Decreto Supremo 002-2021-IN, page 44, in article 89-B “Procedimiento administrativo de cambio de calidad migratoria por la de familiar residente”.

Since the TUPA is the most current official document and may contain small updates compared to the Decreto Supremo, we recommend checking it as well when looking for the latest official information in Spanish. In the current version, the relevant section can be found on page 149 for adult applicants and on page 77 for minor applicants.

 

Requirements and documents to apply for a family visa in Peru

Below you find the general requirements and documents needed to apply for a family visa in Peru - more precisely to complete the procedure called Cambio de calidad migratoria familiar residente (change of immigration status to family resident). As the family visa includes several sub-types, additional documents may be required depending on your relationship to the Peruvian citizen or foreign resident.

Please note that Migraciones reserves the right to request additional documents at any time during the evaluation of your application.

Required documents to apply for a family visa include:

  • Passport
  • Clean criminal record (Antecedentes policiales, penales y judiciales) from your home country or from the country where you legally lived (so with a resident visa) during the 5 years prior to coming to Peru (exception minors) (1) + (2)
  • Official document that proves the family tie
    For example:
    • Married to a Peruvian or foreigner with resident status:
      • marriage certificate (1) + (3) (4)
    • Child or parent of a Peruvian or foreigner with resident status:
      • birth certificate (1) + (3) + (5)
    • Union de hecho, so a legal Peruvian relationship with a Peruvian or foreigner with resident status:
      • Sworn statement indicating the SUNARP registration (1)
  • ID of the family member
    • DNI of the Peruvian family member with correct family address, correct marital status and no pending election fees, or
    • Carné de extranjería of the foreigner with resident status
  • Interpol clearance - Ficha de canje internacional not older than 6 months (see below)
  • Receipt for the paid application fee
    • Authority: Migraciones
    • Code: 07568 - Cambio de calidad migratoria
    • Concept: Cambio de calidad migratoria a familiar residente
    • Fee: S/ 161.40 (2026)
  • Additional required documents depending on the situation
    • Unmarried adult children (up to 28 years):
      • Official certificate of being single, (1) + (3) or
      • Sworn statement in which the applicant declares before a Peruvian notary that they are unmarried, (1) and
      • Enrollment certificate of a Peruvian educational institution (1)
    • Adult children with disabilities
      • Official certificate of being single (1) (3), or
      • Sworn statement in which the applicant declares before a Peruvian notary that they are unmarried, (1) and
      • Document proving a condition of permanent disability and the need for parent’s care (1) (3)

Explanatory notes

(1) Validity period (“expiration date”) of documents in Peru

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.

(2) Criminal record check

As we receive many questions about the criminal record certificates required for visa applications in Peru (“Antecedentes policiales, penales y judiciales”), we dedicated a separate article to this topic where we explain in detail which document you need, where to obtain it, and what to watch out for when applying for it.

One of the requirements when applying for a resident visa in Peru or when changing your immigration status (for example, from a work visa to a perm...

(3) Foreign document rules 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 (see below).

(4) Marriage certificate

Marriage in Peru at a municipality integrated into the Reniec system:

  • Certified copy of your marriage certificate issued by Reniec (not older than 90 days)

Marriage in Peru at a municipality not integrated into the Reniec system:

Some municipalities are not yet integrated into Reniec and only issue local records. If you got married in such a municipality, the local marriage certificate must first be authenticated by Reniec before Migraciones accepts it.

In this case:

  • Step 1: Obtain a certified copy of your marriage certificate from the (provincial) municipality. Inform them that you need the copy for Migraciones-related purposes, so the right stamp is put on the certificate.
  • Step 2: Pay the fee on pagalo.pe or at any Banco de la Nacion branch
    • Authority: Reniec
    • Code 02143 - Certificaciones
    • Concepto: Certificacion de firma;
    • Fee: S/ 31.
  • Step 3: Apply at a Reniec office for the so-called "Solicitud de authenticacion de firmas". Bring the certified copy of your marriage certificate, the payment receipt, ID, and copies. In Lima this can only be done at the Reniec office in Miraflores (Av. Diez Conseco 230) or the Reniec office in Jesus Maria (Jr. Talara 130).
  • Step 4: At Reniec you are handed a form to fill out. Then, just wait your turn in the “Certificaciones” line, hand in your documents and usually within a week or two you can pick up your marriage certificate with another stamp on it. 

Only after this authentication will Migraciones accept the marriage certificate. When you submit your visa application, the document must not be older than 90 days.

Marriage abroad to a Peruvian citizen (registered at consulate)

  • Certified copy of your marriage certificate issued by the Peruvian consulate and legalized by the Peruvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (RREE) in Lima or their provincial offices (not older than 180 days)

Already in Peru without a recent copy? At the Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores (RREE) in Lima, you can get certified copies of birth, marriage, and death certificates registered at a Peruvian consulate abroad.

Marriage abroad to a Peruvian citizen (not registered at consulate)

If you were married abroad to a Peruvian citizen and the marriage was not registered at a Peruvian consulate, the Peruvian spouse must first register the marriage with Reniec.

For this, the foreign marriage certificate with Apostille or - if the country where the document was issued is not part of the Hague Apostille Convention - legalized by a Peruvian consulate is required (not older than 6 months).

Once in Peru, the foreign marriage certificate must be translated into Spanish and, in some cases, legalized by the Peruvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (RREE).

After the marriage has been registered with Reniec, obtain a certified copy of the marriage certificate issued by Reniec.

Marriage abroad to a foreigner

  • Marriage certificate with Apostille or - if the country in which the document was issued didn't sign the Hague Apostille Convention - legalized by a Peruvian consulate (not older than 6 months).

Once in Peru, the marriage certificate must be translated into Spanish and, in some cases, legalized by the Peruvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (RREE).

(5) Birth certificate

Child of a foreigner with resident status in Peru

  • Birth certificate of the child showing that it is the son or daughter of the foreigner with resident status. The document must have an Apostille or - if the country in which the document was issued didn't sign the Hague Apostille Convention - legalized by a Peruvian consulate (not older than 6 months).

Once in Peru, the birth certificate must be translated into Spanish and, in some cases, legalized by the Peruvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (RREE).

Parent of a Peruvian citizen - birth registered at a municipality integrated into the Reniec system

  • Certified copy of the birth certificate issued by Reniec showing you as the parent (not older than 90 days).

Parent of a Peruvian citizen – birth registered at a municipality not integrated into the Reniec system

Some municipalities in Peru are not yet integrated into the Reniec system, meaning that births are registered only at the municipal level. If the Peruvian family member was born in such a municipality, the birth certificate must first be authenticated by Reniec before Migraciones accepts it.

In this case:

  • Step 1: Obtain a certified copy of the birth certificate from the (provincial) municipality. Inform them that you need the copy for Migraciones-related purposes, so the right stamp is put on the certificate.
  • Step 2: Pay the fee on pagalo.pe or at any Banco de la Nacion branch
    • Authority: Reniec
    • Code 02143 - Certificaciones
    • Concepto: Certificacion de firma;
    • Fee: S/ 31.
  • Step 3: Apply at a Reniec office for the so-called "Solicitud de authenticacion de firmas". Bring the certified copy of your marriage certificate, the payment receipt, ID, and copies. In Lima this can only be done at the Reniec office in Miraflores (Av. Diez Conseco 230) or the Reniec office in Jesus Maria (Jr. Talara 130).
  • Step 4: At Reniec you are handed a form to fill out. Then, just wait your turn in the “Certificaciones” line, hand in your documents and usually within a week or two you can pick up the birth certificate with an additional Reniec authentication stamp.
  • Only after this authentication will Migraciones accept the birth certificate. When you submit your visa application, the document must not be older than 90 days.

Parent of a foreigner with resident status in Peru

  • Birth certificate of the foreigner with resident status in Peru showing you as the parent. The document must have an Apostille or - if the country in which the document was issued didn't sign the Hague Apostille Convention - legalized by a Peruvian consulate (not older than 6 months).

Once in Peru, the birth certificate must be translated into Spanish and, in some cases, legalized by the Peruvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (RREE).

 

Step-by-step guide to apply for a family visa in Peru

Applying for a family visa in Peru is generally a straightforward process. However, if you are unfamiliar with the procedures and the different steps involved, the whole process can feel confusing and overwhelming at first.

The following step-by-step guide walks you through the entire process and is intended to help you prepare and complete the application on your own. Please keep in mind that it serves as general guidance only, as procedures and requirements may change at any time. Also note that at least basic Spanish skills are necessary to fill out forms and understand instructions during the application process.

 

Before submitting your visa application

Before you can submit your family visa application through the Migraciones Agencia Digital, there are a few important preparations to complete. Some required documents must be obtained in your home country, others have to be issued or processed in Peru.

In addition, foreign documents need to be apostilled or legalized (often only possible in the country where they were issued) and translated into Spanish in Peru, and you must complete the Interpol clearance procedure (Ficha de Canje). You will also have to pay the visa application fee and prepare digital copies of all required documents for upload.

The following sections explain these preparatory steps so you can complete everything in advance and submit your visa application without unnecessary delays.

 

Translation of foreign documents

Once in Peru, all documents issued abroad that are written in a foreign language must be translated into Spanish.

Officially, since the introduction of Decreto Legislativo 1272, which simplified administrative procedures in Peru, a simple translation should be sufficient. In theory, this means you can use any registered translator in Peru.

However, in practice it is still recommended to use a certified translator in Peru, preferably a traductor público juramentado (sworn public translator), as their translations are generally accepted by Peruvian authorities without any issues.

Lists of these government-approved translators - unfortunately most of them are located in Lima only - can be found on the Peruvian government website. Under point 3, simply select the language of your original document and the corresponding list of certified translators will appear.

Another option is checking with the Colegio de Traductores del Perú or simply doing a Google search for registered translators in Peru.

For less common languages, the Peruvian government also lists traductores especiales, translators authorized to translate so-called “special languages” into Spanish. In the text just click Directorio de traductores especiales and select the language of your original document.

If your documents carry an Apostille and are translated by a certified translators, Migraciones should accept them without problems under the rules of the simplified administrative procedures. Nevertheless, many translators still recommend an additional legalization of the translation by the Peruvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (RREE). The reason is that Migraciones does not always apply the simplified procedures consistently. In some cases, documents without the additional legalization have been rejected, and applicants were asked to upload the apostilled and translated documents again - this time with an additional legalization by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (RREE) in Lima or at one of its regional offices.

If you decide to skip this additional RREE legalization step, we strongly recommend keeping a close eye on your Migraciones electronic mailbox for any notifications requesting additional authentication (see below).

If your documents are not apostilled but legalized, they must always be authenticated again after translation by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (RREE) in Lima or at one of its regional offices.

 

Interpol

Before you can even begin the family visa application process, you must also obtain the Ficha de Canje Internacional issued by Interpol in Peru. This clearance confirms that you are not internationally wanted and is a mandatory requirement for nearly all temporary and residence visa applications in Peru. 

As the procedure involves several steps and a visit to an Interpol office in Peru, we explain the process in detail in our separate guide: “Interpol – Ficha de Canje Internacional.”

Before applying for any temporary or residence visa in Peru, all foreigners must first obtain the Ficha de Canje Internacional issued by Interpol. ...

Paying the application fee

As with all administrative procedures in Peru, before you can submit your application, you must first pay the corresponding fee.

Payment can be made either:

  • in person at any Banco de la Nación branch, or
  • online via pagalo.pe (from a computer or via the pagalo.pe app on a smartphone or tablet)

Detailed, step-by-step instructions on how to register on pagalo.pe, how to make the payment, and what to watch out for can be found in our article “Paying administration charges and processing fees in Peru.”

All administrative charges, processing fees, and fines issued by Peruvian government agencies and public authorities must be paid through the Banco...

For the family resident visa application, you need:

  • Authority: Migraciones
  • Code: 07568 - Cambio de calidad migratoria
  • Concepto: Cambio de calidad migratoria por la de familiar residente mayor de edad (adults) or menor de edad (minors)
  • Fee: S/ 161.40 (2026)

Once the payment is completed, keep the receipt safe. You will need it when submitting your application.

 

Last preparations

Prepare digital copies of your documents. Create clear PDF files of your passport (the page with your personal data) as well as of all other required documents. Migraciones currently allows a maximum file size of 3 MB per document, so make sure your scans are readable but not too large.

Once everything is prepared, you are ready to start your family visa application.

One more important point:
If you need to leave Peru while your visa application is being processed, you must first apply for a special travel permit, the Permiso Especial de Viaje (also called Autorización de estadía fuera del país). Leaving the country without this authorization automatically cancels your pending visa application.

Foreign nationals in Peru who have applied for a visa - more precisely, for a change of immigration status (cambio de calidad migratoria) - or a ch...

  

Submitting your visa application on the Agencia Digital

Now it’s finally time to submit your family visa application.

Before getting started, however, there are a few important things you should know about the Migraciones Agencia Digital, the online platform where the application must be submitted.

  • First of all, the platform generally only works when accessed from within Peru.
  • The Agencia Digital is available in Spanish only. While it may be tempting to use automatic translation tools in your browser, we recommend not using them, as they can sometimes cause display or system errors.
  • To reduce technical problems when using the platform, it is also advisable to:
    • disable ad blockers
    • avoid incognito or private browsing modes
    • use a standard browser window

And even though we do our best to keep this guide as up to date as possible, the Agencia Digital is frequently updated and small changes to the process may occur. Therefore, please treat the following walk-through primarily as general guidance.

If you notice that something works differently than described here, you are very welcome to share your experience in the comments section below (visible after approval) or use the email button at the bottom of the page to send us a private message. Your feedback helps us keep this guide accurate and useful for others.

Step 1: Access the Migraciones Agencia Digital

Go to the Migraciones Agencia Digital and click on Entrar.

On the next page, select Extranjero and fill in the following fields:

  • Documento
    Select the document you used to enter Peru or that is registered with Migraciones (usually pasaporte).
  • Número de documento
    Enter your passport number.
  • Fecha de nacimiento
    Enter your date of birth.
  • Nacionalidad
    Select your nationality. Country names are listed in Spanish (for example, EE. UU. for the United States, Alemania for Germany).
  • Último movimiento migratorio de entrada
    Enter the date you last entered Peru.
  • Código captcha
    Complete the captcha.

Click Verificar.

Important:
No matter which forms you fill out in Peru, always enter your personal data exactly as it appears in your passport. Even small differences can cause problems.

 

Step 2: Select the visa application procedure

You are now on the main page of the Agencia Digital.

  • Either use the search bar, or
  • In the left-hand menu, go to Cambio de calidad migratoria and select familiar residente
    • Casado con peruano o extranjero residente if you are married to a Peruvian or foreign resident 
    • Padres de peruano o extranjero residente if you are the parent of Peruvian or foreign resident
    • Hijo menor de edad for underage children.
    • Hijos adultos con dispacidad for adult children with disabilities

Click on the one that applies to continue.

 

Step 3: Choose the Migraciones office and generate your update code

You are now on the Cambio de calidad migratoria - Dependencia page.

Fill in the required fields:

  • Seleccione la dependencia donde desee gestionar su trámite
    Select the Migraciones office that should handle your application (for example, Lima, a MAC center, Cusco, Arequipa).
  • Ingrese código de actualización
    If you do not already have a current data update code, click the link “Obtenga aquí su código de actualización de datos” below the field.

A new tab opens, taking you to the Sistema de Actualización de Datos page.

Click the Sistema de actualización de datos button and fill in the requested fields:

  • Tipo de documento
    Select pasaporte.
  • Número de documento
    Enter your passport number.
  • Nacionalidad
    Select your nationality (listed in Spanish).
  • Sexo
    Select your gender.
  • Fecha de nacimiento
    Enter your date of birth (dd/mm/yyyy).
  • Captcha
    Complete the captcha.

Accept the sworn statement and click Continuar.

You will then be taken to a rather extensive questionnaire. Be aware that you only have a limited amount of time (usually 20 to 30 minutes) to complete all required fields. Once you start, you must finish within this time. If the time expires, all your progress is lost and you have to start again from the beginning.

The questions may appear somewhat unorganized or unusual. From time to time Migraciones changes the questionnaire, moving questions around, adding new ones, or removing others. Therefore, the description below should be seen as general guidance to give you an idea of what kind of information you may be asked to provide.

First, you will be asked to enter personal information, including:

  • marital status
  • country of residence
  • country of birth
  • whether you have any criminal, police, or judicial record
  • your address in Peru (including department, province, district, road type, zone type, street name, and house number)
  • your email address
  • mobile phone number and landline number
  • hair color and eye color
  • height (in meters) and weight (in kilograms)

Next, you must provide the details of an emergency contact, including their passport number, name, mobile phone number, and email address.

The following section asks about personal aspects, such as whether you have a disability or illness and whether you require medical treatment.

After that, you will be asked questions about your immediate family situation. You must indicate whether you are single or have a partner. If you have a partner, you must enter their personal details, including:

  • passport information (country issuing the passport, type of passport, passport number)
  • name(s) and surname(s)
  • gender
  • date of birth
  • whether your partner is currently in Peru with you

Once you have completed this section, click Guardar.

The next topic concerns your education and profession, including your highest school and academic degree, your profession and occupation, and whether you currently study or work in Peru.

You will then be asked about your living conditions, including the type of housing, since when you have lived there, how many people live in the household, and how many rooms the home has.

The last block of questions relates to financial information, for example whether you have taken out a loan in Peru or if you maintain a bank account in the country.

Once you have completed all questions, click Continuar.

That should be it. A pop-up window should then appear displaying your codigo de actualización. Copy this code.

Return to the original tab with your Cambio de calidad migratoria application, paste the code into the field, and click Siguiente.

 

Step 4: Upload required documents

In this step you must upload all required documents and, where requested, enter additional information. The Agencia Digital organizes the requirements into several tabs. Some tabs only require you to upload the corresponding document(s), while others also ask for additional information.

When uploading your documents, make sure that the file size does not exceed the maximum allowed size (usually 3 MB per document) and that the dcocuments are clear and easy to read.

Important for those wanting to verify the exact requirements:
If you only want to check or verify the current requirements, you can simply click through the different tabs. Once finished, leave the page without submitting anything.

To proceed with your application, click the small arrow next to each requirement. Depending on the document, additional fields may appear. Fill in the requested information and upload the corresponding PDF file.

Note
The fields described below correspond to a family visa application for adults, for example if you are married to a Peruvian. If you are applying for a minor, additional fields may need to be completed and different or additional documents, such as your passport or carné may have to be uploaded.

Pago por derecho de trámite (application fee)

Under Pago por derecho de trámite, you must enter the information from your payment receipt:

  • Número de recibo
    This corresponds to the secuencia de pago on the págalo receipt.
  • Código de verificación
    This is the código de control on the págalo receipt.
  • Fecha de recibo
    This is the fecha de operación on the págalo receipt.

After entering the information, click Validar.

Ficha de Canje Interpol (Interpol clearance)

Under Ficha de canje Interpol, you must upload:

  • the Ficha de Canje Internacional issued by Interpol in Peru, and
  • the criminal record certificate with Apostille and Spanish translation.

Please note that both fields are mandatory, and you cannot continue unless both documents are uploaded.

Documento de vinculo

Under Documento de vinculo you must upload the document proving your family tie (for example, your marriage certificate or birth certificate).

Documento de identificacion del conyuge

Under Documento de identificacion del conyuge, you must enter the DNI number of the Peruvian part of the family or the Carné number of the foreign resident you are related to.

Click on Validar.

Documento de Identificación del administrado

Under Documento de Identificación, select the document with which you entered Peru (in most cases pasaporte). You are then asked to fill in your passport number, the date of issue and the country of issue and upload a copy of the passport page with your photo and personal data.

Exceso de permanencia (overstay)

There is one final tab called Exceso de permanencia.

If you apply while your stay in Peru is still valid, this tab should already display a green check mark, and you can simply leave it as it is.

If, however, you apply after your stay as a tourist has expired, you should be able to open this tab and upload:

  • a payment receipt for the overstay fine, and
  • a sworn statement explaining the reasons for your overstay.

Once these two documents are uploaded, the check mark in front of the tab should turn green.

However, please be aware that officially you must be in Peru on a valid stay to apply for a Cambio de calidad migratoria. If your stay has already expired, your application will in most cases be denied, even if the system allows you to upload the documents and continue with your application.

So before relying on this option, please read our chapter Can I apply for a family visa when my stay as a tourist is expired?.

Final step

Once all required documents are uploaded, each tab should show a green check mark. Finally, accept the terms and conditions and click Siguiente to continue.

 

Step 5: Review and confirm your personal information

You are now shown a summary page with your personal details already filled in.

The only fields you can edit here are:

  • your mobile phone number, and
  • your email address (make sure an e-mail address is registered that you have unrestricted access to)

If everything is correct, click Guardar datos y generar trámite.

Please note
For whatever reasons, sometimes this page isn't displayed.

 

Step 6: Application confirmation

You are now taken to the Registro de Solicitud de Cambio de Calidad Migratoria page. At first glance, you will only see a number displayed on the screen and a request to make an appointment to have your biometric data taken.

Do not continue yet.

First, save this number! It's your Numero de expediente (file number), which is sometimes also called Numero de tramite. The number usually consists of 2 letters (often an abbreviation of the Migraciones office where you applied; LM for Lima, for example; or CY for Chiclayo, etc.) and 9 digits.

Next, click on Descargar or Imprimir to download and/or print the complete Registro de Solicitud de Cambio de Calidad Migratoria document before proceeding to the appointment page.

This document is the official confirmation that your application was successfully submitted, so make sure to keep it safe.

At the top right of the downloaded document, under the bar code, you will again find your Numero de expediente (file number). At the bottom of the first page, under the signature / fingerprint field, you usually find the Fecha de publicacion (application date) and the Codigo de verificación (verification code).

Additionally, at the bottom of the first page - or sometimes on a second page - you should also find your login data for your Migraciones electronic mailbox, the Buzon electronico (see below).

If you cannot find the verification code and/or the login data for the electronic mailbox on the Registro de Solicitud de Cambio de Calidad Migratoria document, or if you missed downloading it, check below how to recover the login data and the verification code.

 

After submitting your visa application

After submitting your application, there are still a few steps to complete before receiving your residency and Carné de Extranjería. The following sections explain what happens next and what you should watch out for during the processing of your application.

Biometric data appointment

After your visa application, you will be asked to schedule an appointment to have your biometric data taken (photo, fingerprints, and signature). To make the appointment, you must enter a code. This code is your Número de expediente (also called Número de trámite).

Make an appointment

For a long time, getting a biometric appointment in Lima was quite a challenge, as foreign nationals could only register their biometric data at the Migraciones main office in Breña. To improve the situation, Migraciones allowed foreigners to complete this step as well at several MAC centers. As a result, it became much easier to secure an appointment within a reasonable time.

However, at the end of March 2026, Migraciones announced that starting April 1, 2026 (and no, not an April Fool’s joke), biometric data for applicants in Lima will once again only be collected at the main office in Breña. As a result, it can be expected that securing an appointment may become more difficult and require some patience again.

In contrast, at Migraciones offices in the provinces, appointments are usually readily available.

Our recommendation: Use the appointment link provided at the end of your application and try to schedule your appointment immediately.

If you are unable to secure a slot right away or prefer to book it later, you can return to the Agencia Digital and schedule it under Citas en Línea, subcategory Para registro de datos biométricos.

To schedule the appointment, simply enter your Número de expediente, choose a Migraciones office and select an available date. If everything works smoothly, your appointment is scheduled.

Download or print your appointment confirmation under the Constancia cita tab before clicking Finalizar.

As an additional tip: even though it is easy to overlook, next to the Constancia cita tab you will find another tab called Cargo trámite. This tab can be very useful if you missed to download the confirmation of your application or if the login details for the Buzón electrónico or the verification code are missing from your document. Simply click on the Cargo trámite tab to download the Registro de Solicitud de Cambio de Calidad Migratoria document again. The downloaded version should now include both the verification code and the login details for your Buzón electrónico.

What to expect during your appointment

On the day of your appointment, arrive 15-30 minutes early at the Migraciones office you selected when making the appointment.

You will only need your

  • Passport, and
  • printed (!) appointment confirmation

The procedure can vary slightly depending on the office. At the Migraciones office in Lima, for example, you usually receive a number and wait until you are called. 

When it's your turn proceed to the counter, where staff will:

  • record your signature
  • take fingerprints
  • take your biometric photo

Avoid wearing white, pastel or very light-colored clothing, as Migraciones may reject photos where clothing blends into the background. Dark or strong colors are recommended.

Processing times at the Migraciones offices vary. Some applicants have a smooth and quick experience finishing within 30 minutes, while others report waiting one to three hours. So, plan accordingly..

At the Migraciones offices outside Lima, the whole process is usually quick and painless.

After your biometric data appointment, all you can do is regularly check your Buzon electronico and wait for a notification from Migraciones. You may receive a message informing you that a document you uploaded is not accepted, that additional documents are required, or that your visa has been approved.

 

Buzon Electronico

The Buzón electrónico is your personal Migraciones electronic mailbox, which you should check regularly for notifications from Migraciones. These notifications may include, for example, requests to upload missing or additional documents, or messages informing you about the approval or denial of your visa application.

You can access your Buzón

  • by clicking the Buzón button at the top of the main page of the Agencia Digital, or
  • by using this direct link.

Your username (usuario) and password (contraseña) can be found on the Registro de Solicitud de Cambio de Calidad Migratoria, the confirmation document of your successfully submitted application (see Step 6 above). If the login information is not on the document or if you missed to download it, see the section below explaining how to recover the login data.

Please note that notifications sent through the Buzón electrónico are considered officially delivered. If you do not respond within the deadline stated in the message - which is often only five days - your application may be dismissed.

Therefore, if you receive a notification from Migraciones informing you that a document is missing, unreadable, incomplete, or not submitted in the required form (for example missing an Apostille or translation), you should react immediately.

If you already have the requested document, create a PDF file (maximum size 3 MB) and upload it through the Agencia Digital. This process, known as Subsanación, is explained in detail in our article Subsanacion - Submitting documents.

During the internal review of any application submitted via the Migraciones Agencia Digital, Migraciones may determine that a required document is ...

If you don't yet have the requested document and cannot submit it within the deadline, you must still respond to the notification. In this case, you can request an extension of the deadline to submit the document later. This procedure is called Solicitud de ampliación de plazos and is explained in our article Extension of a Migraciones deadline.

If Migraciones asks you to submit an additional document during the internal evaluation of an immigration-related application, you are usually give...

 

Approval of your visa

After submitting your application and completing the biometric data appointment, all you can do is wait for Migraciones to process your application.

The official processing time for resident visa applications is 30 business days. In practice, however, most applicants receive the approval notification in their Buzón electrónico within two to three months.

Nevertheless, it is important to check your Buzón electrónico regularly to make sure you do not miss any notifications, including the approval of your visa - if you are among the lucky ones within three or four weeks.

You can also check the status of your application:

If you haven’t received any notification after about four months, you may want to follow up with Migraciones. You can do this

  • by calling the MAC hotline 1800, or
  • by visiting the Migraciones office or MAC center you selected during your application (you may need an appointment), or
  • by sending an email to infomac [@] pcm.gob.pe

asking about the status of your application.

Another option is to submit a so-called Solicitud de celeridad de trámite, which is a request for expedited processing.

Usually, however, after two to three months you will find a notification in your Buzón electrónico (the subject line is often something like Notificación trámite cambio de calidad) informing you that your visa has been approved.

Congratulations!

However, the process is not finished yet, as you still need to obtain your Carné de extranjería, your official Peruvian ID.

The first notification normally instructs you to wait for further instructions on how to pick up your carné. So once again, keep checking your Buzón electrónico and wait for a second notification from Migraciones (usually titled Notificación expedición del carné) informing you that your carné has been issued.

Officially, issuing the carné can take up to 30 business days, but according to reports from applicants the waiting time can range from a few days to about two months.

 

Getting your carné (foreigner ID)

Once notified that your carné is ready, log in to the Agencia Digital and book a pickup appointment under:

  • Citas en Línea, subpoint recojo de documentos.

Download and print the appointment confirmation.

Note
Some Migraciones offices outside Lima may not require appointments for pickup.

If you urgently need your carné

Especially in Lima, getting an appointment to pick up your carné can sometimes turn into a real test of patience. Slots are often fully booked, and availability can appear and disappear quickly. Unfortunately, there is no shortcut here - your only option is to keep checking the system again and again: later the same day, the next day, or a few days later. Persistence usually pays off.

If, for whatever reason, you urgently need proof of your carné but can’t secure an appointment to collect the physical card, there is a practical workaround. You can download a document from the Agencia Digital confirming that you have a valid residency and carné, even if you don’t yet have the card in hand.

To do this, log in to the Agencia Digital and, on the main page, go to the left-hand menu. Under “Constancias” select Carné de Extranjería. A page will open showing the data printed on your carné. At the bottom of the page, confirm the statement “Estos son los datos con los cuales se emitirá su constancia…” by ticking the small box and then click Siguiente.

You will then see the "Constancia de Emisión de Carné de Extranjería” on your screen. Download it and, if necessary, print it. While it doesn’t replace the physical card, it serves as official proof that you have a valid residency and carné.

To collect your carné, be on time and bring:

  • passport
  • printed appointment confirmation (if applicable)

Staff will direct you to the collection counter where your new card is handed over.

Congrats! You made it!

To familiarize yourself with your Carné de extranjería, we highly recommend reading our glossary article Carné de Extranjería - Peru’s ID Card for foreigners.

 

Family visa Peru - FAQs for residents

If you live in Peru on a family visa, there are a few important rules and obligations you should be aware of. The following questions and answers explain the most important aspects of maintaining your residency, traveling abroad, working, and dealing with Migraciones.

How long is the family visa valid?

The family visa - the permit that allows you to legally live in Peru - is usually valid for one year, in case you are married to a Peruvian two years. After this period, it must be extended to maintain your legal resident status.

Our article “Residence visa extension” explains the extension process in detail.

In Peru, a residence visa - so, the permit that allows you to legally live in the country - is usually valid for only one (1) year and must then be...

 

How long is the carné de extranjería valid?

The Carné de Extranjería, the physical Peruvian ID card issued to foreign residents, is usually valid for four years (minors three years). After that, it must be renewed.

For more information, see our article “Renewal of the Carné.”

When your Peruvian residence visa is approved, you receive a Carné de Extranjería, Peru’s foreigner ID card. While many residents assume the card a...

 

How long can I stay outside Peru without losing my residency?

Foreigners living in Peru on a family visa cannot stay outside the country for more than 183 days within a 365-day period, otherwise their resident status may be canceled.

If you need to stay abroad for longer, you must apply for the Autorización de estadía fuera del país por 183 días before leaving Peru. With this authorization, you will not lose your residency status.

 

Can I work in Peru on a family visa?

Yes! If you are living in Peru on a family visa, you are allowed to work both as an employee and independently.

Unlike some other residence visas, the family visa does not restrict professional activities, so you may take up employment with a Peruvian company, work as an independent contractor, or run your own business. However, as with any professional activity in Peru, you must comply with the applicable tax and labor regulations.

 

What should I do if my personal information changes?

If any information provided during your visa application changes, Migraciones must be informed within 30 days.

This includes, for example:

  • receiving a new passport
  • changing your address
  • other relevant personal information

To report such changes, you must apply for an Actualización de datos (update of registered information). In some cases, a new Carné de extranjería may be issued after the update is approved.

Our article “Update your information in the Migraciones database” explains the process in detail.

If any personal information printed on your carné or registered in the Migraciones database changes, you must request an Actualización de datos (up...

  

What documents do I need when leaving Peru temporarily?

When leaving Peru temporarily, you must present your passport and valid Carné.

In addition, foreigners living in Peru on a family visa may be required to present a tax declaration form before being allowed to leave the country. Although this requirement is rarely enforced, in practice, it is still part of the official regulations.

The document you need depends on whether you generated income in Peru or not.

If you did not generate any income in Peru

You must present the Formulario 1495 - “Declaración jurada de haber realizado actividades que no impliquen la generación de rentas de fuente peruana.”

To do this:

  • Download Formulario 1495,
  • Fill in and sign the form
  • Present it to the immigration officer when leaving Peru (only if requested)

If you worked as an employee in Peru

You must present a Certificado de Rentas y Retenciones before leaving the country. This document is issued by your employer and confirms that the corresponding income tax has been withheld according to Peruvian tax law.

Today, the physical form Formulario 1492 is rarely used. Instead, the employer must:

  • log into Sunat Virtual
  • complete Formulario Virtual 1692
  • print and sign the document and provide it to the employee

The certificate is valid for 30 days after being filed with SUNAT, meaning you must leave Peru within those 30 days.

If you work independently in Peru

If you generate income from Peruvian sources as an independent worker and pay your income tax directly to SUNAT, you must complete Formulario 1494 - Declaración jurada de haber pagado directamente el impuesto (or the equivalent Sunat Virtual form).

Fill in and sign the form, attach the payment receipt proving that you paid your income tax, and present both documents to the immigration officer before leaving Peru.

 

What happens to my family visa if I divorce or separate?

If your family visa in Peru is based on a marriage and the relationship legally ends, the consequences depend on your current immigration status and the basis of your residency.

If you still hold a regular family resident visa based on marriage, the visa is normally tied to the marital relationship that served as the basis for your application. As long as the marriage legally exists (which it does even if you are separated), the basis for the visa remains. However, if the marriage legally ends through divorce, the basis for the visa generally no longer exists. In most cases, Migraciones will therefore not extend the family visa once it expires. Before your residence expires, you usually must either change to another visa type or leave Peru.

If you have already obtained permanent residence (residente permanente), the situation is different. Permanent residence is generally independent of the original reason for your residency. Therefore, a divorce usually does not affect your permanent resident status, and you can normally continue living in Peru as long as you comply with the general residency rules.

If you have children with your Peruvian spouse, another option may exist. In this case, it may be possible to change your family visa from one based on marriage to one based on being the parent of a Peruvian child, provided the child has Peruvian nationality and the birth is properly registered in Peru. However, if your residency is already based on being the parent of a Peruvian child, a separation or divorce from the other parent normally does not affect your family visa, as the qualifying relationship with the child still exists.

As immigration situations can differ depending on personal circumstances, it is recommended to check with Migraciones or an immigration professional if your marital status changes while you are living in Peru on a family visa.

 

Can I change from a family visa to another visa type in Peru?

Yes. Foreigners living in Peru on a family visa can apply for a Cambio de calidad migratoria to another residence visa category if they meet the requirements.

In general, it is possible to change, for example, to:

  • permanent residency after meeting the required residency period.
  • another family visa type (for example, from a family visa based on being married to a Peruvian to a family visa based on being the parent of a Peruvian)
  • a retirement visa (rentista residente)

Before applying, make sure that you meet the specific requirements of the new visa type, as the documentation and conditions may differ.

You can apply for this change of immigration status while you are still in Peru, without having to leave the country. The process is done through the Migraciones Agencia Digital and requires submitting all documents corresponding to the new visa category.

However, timing is important. You should apply while you are still legal in Peru, so before your family visa expires.

 

When can I apply for permanent residency in Peru?

After three years of legal residency in Peru on a family visa, you can apply for permanent residency.

This process is called Cambio de calidad migratoria a permanente residente (familiar residente). Once approved, you receive indefinite residency and no longer need to extend your visa each year.

 

When can I apply for Peruvian citizenship?

Family visa holders can currently apply for Peruvian citizenship by nationalization after two years of legal residency in Peru.

However, a new nationality law approved in August 2025 increases the required residency period to four years. The law is not yet in force, but it may become applicable in the near future.

 

What should I do if I leave Peru permanently?

If you plan to leave Peru permanently, you must cancel your residence visa with Migraciones.

After the cancellation is approved, you will receive an Orden de salida, which gives you 15 days to leave the country.

 

Special situations and practical tips

While the application process usually runs smoothly if you follow the steps above, some applicants encounter special situations or technical issues during the process. The following sections explain common edge cases and practical solutions that may help if something doesn’t go as expected.

How to find or recover your verification code and Buzón electrónico login data

1. On the Registro de Solicitud de Cambio de Calidad Migratoria document

The verification code and the login details for your Buzón electrónico are usually printed on the Registro de Solicitud de Cambio de Calidad Migratoria document. This is the confirmation document of your successfully submitted application, which you should have downloaded after submitting your application and before making the appointment for your biometric data registration (see Step 6 above)

2. On the Biometric data appointment page

If you missed to download this document or if the verification code or the login details are not printed on it - which for unknown reasons sometimes happens - you can usually recover both when making your biometric data appointment.

After selecting a date and time for your appointment, you will be taken to a page that shows two tabs at the top:

  • Constancia cita
    Click here to download or print the confirmation of your biometric data appointment.
  • Cargo trámite
    Click this tab to download the confirmation of your visa application, which should include your verification code and the login data for your Buzón electrónico.

If you already scheduled your biometric appointment and cannot return to the Cargo trámite tab, there is another workaround. You can create a new “dummy” biometric data appointment to access the document again.

To do this:

  • Go to the Agencia Digital.
  • In the left menu click Citas en línea and select Datos biométricos.
  • Create a new appointment by selecting a date and time

You will be taken to a page that shows the Constancia cita and the Cargo tramite tab at the top.

  • Click Cargo trámite
  • Download the original Registro de Solicitud de Cambio de Calidad Migratoria document containing your verification code and Buzón electrónico login data.
  • Leave the page without confirming the appointment; so do not click Finalizar, just leave the page.

3. Other options

If none of these options work and you need the verification code, you will have to contact Migraciones.

However, if you only need the login details for your Buzón electrónico, there is one last easy way to recover them.

Go to the Agencia Digital and click the Buzón electrónico button at the top of the page (or use the direct link). Then click “¿Olvidaste la contraseña?” to access the Verificación de datos page.

Enter the following information:

  • your nationality
  • passport 
  • passport number
  • last name(s)
  • first name(s)
  • date of birth

After submitting the form by clicking Siguiente, you will receive an email containing your username (usuario) and a link allowing you to create or reset your password.

 

Can I apply for a family visa if my stay as a tourist is expired?

Officially, no. To apply for a Cambio de calidad migratoria (change of immigration status) in Peru, you must be in the country on a valid stay, for example as a tourist.

However, during the application process on the Migraciones Agencia Digital, there is a tab labeled Exceso de permanencia (overstay). This tab suggests that foreigners who have overstayed their authorized stay may still be able to apply for a Cambio de calidad migratoria by uploading:

  • the payment receipt for the overstay fine, and
  • a sworn statement explaining the reason for the overstay.

In 2022, Migraciones informed us that this tab does not apply to the Cambio de calidad migratoria process from tourist to a residence visa and that applicants must be in Peru on a valid stay when applying for a residence visa.

However, in 2023, there were reports of cases where Migraciones staff explicitly suggested this option to foreigners who had already overstayed their tourist stay but still wanted to apply for a residence visa. In some of these cases, the applicants uploaded the required documents - including the payment receipt for the overstay and an explanation - and their visa applications were later approved.

Over the past few years, we have contacted Migraciones several times regarding this issue and received contradictory answers, ranging from “No, you must be in the country on a valid stay” to “Yes, it may be possible.”

That being said, according to the official rules, you must be in Peru on a valid stay when applying for a Cambio de calidad migratoria from tourist to a residence visa. Even if the system allows you to upload all required documents and submit the application, in most cases the application will likely be denied. Therefore, you should not rely on this option.

We always recommend avoiding overstaying your authorized stay in Peru. If you plan to apply for a residence visa but are still missing some of the required documents, it is usually better to submit your application before your tourist stay expires using a small workaround. We explain this option in the next section below.

If, for any reason, you cannot submit your application while your tourist stay is still valid, it may be worth personally checking with Migraciones to see if there is any possibility of applying later despite the overstay before leaving the country and attempting to return to Peru to renew your tourist stay.

If you have recent information about this topic or would like to share your experience, please let us know using the comment section at the end of this article or through our contact form.

 

Can I apply for a family visa if I don't have all the required documents?

Officially, no. On the Agencia Digital, the Migraciones online platform where you must submit your application, the fields for uploading the required documents are mandatory. You normally cannot continue with or complete your application unless all required documents are uploaded.

However, even though we cannot and do not recommend it, there may be situations where your tourist stay is about to expire and you must submit your visa application before a certain date. In such cases, and depending on which document is missing, it may be possible to temporarily upload another document in its place to complete the application.

If you choose this option, you should already have a solid plan to obtain the missing document quickly, because the time you will later get to submit it is usually very limited.

How this workaround works

Follow the instructions in our step-by-step-application guide above until you reach Step 4, where you must enter information and upload all required documents as PDF files.

If you are missing a document, you cannot leave the upload field empty. Instead, you must upload something that explains the situation.

For example:

  • Missing criminal record certificate
    Under the Interpol tab, you must upload the Ficha de Canje from Interpol and your criminal record certificate (Antecedentes). Both fields are mandatory.
    If you don’t yet have your criminal record certificate, you could upload:
    • the Ficha de Canje a second time, or
    • a signed letter explaining that you are still waiting for the document from your home country.
  • Missing Ficha de Canje from Interpol
    If you couldn’t get an Interpol appointment in time, you could upload:
    • a letter explaining the situation, and
    • your appointment confirmation with Interpol.
  • Missing Peruvian marriage certificate 
    If you don't have your Peruvian marriage certificate, because Reniec takes its time to register your foreign marriage, you could upload:
    • your foreign marriage certificate
    • a copy of your Reniec tramite and a short explanation.
  • Missing Apostille or translation
    If you already have the document but not yet the Apostille or official translation, you could temporarily upload the document in its current form.

After uploading the placeholder document, continue the process and complete your application as described in the guide above.

After uploading the placeholder document, continue the process and complete your application as described in the guide above.

Confirmation of your application

In Step 6 of the application process, you can download the Registro de Solicitud de Cambio de Calidad Migratoria document. It contains:

  • your Número de expediente (file number)
  • the Fecha de publicación (application date)
  • the Código de verificación

This document confirms that your application was successfully submitted. Once you receive this confirmation, your tourist stay is effectively paused, meaning that even if your tourist stay expires while your visa application is being processed, you won’t have any problems related to overstaying.

What happens next

Because the required document was not submitted correctly or was missing, Migraciones will eventually send you a notification requesting the document.

This notification may arrive:

  • within a few days, or
  • several weeks or even months later, depending on when your application is reviewed.

The notification will be sent to your Buzón electrónico and is considered officially delivered. In most cases, Migraciones gives you only five days to upload the requested document.

You must respond to the notification within the deadline, even if it is on the last day. If you fail to respond, your application may be dismissed.

If you already have the document

If you have obtained the requested document in the correct form, simply upload it through the Agencia Digital.

This process, known as Subsanación, is explained in our article Subsanación - Submitting documents.

During the internal review of any application submitted via the Migraciones Agencia Digital, Migraciones may determine that a required document is ...

If you still don’t have the document

If you are unable to obtain the document within the given deadline, you can apply for an extension of the deadline (up to 30 additional days). This procedure is called Ampliación de plazos.

You can learn more about this process in our article Extension of a Migraciones deadline.

If Migraciones asks you to submit an additional document during the internal evaluation of an immigration-related application, you are usually give...

Should you upload the document before receiving the notification?

If you receive the missing document before hearing from Migraciones, you technically can upload it immediately through the Subsanación option in the Agencia Digital.

However, several applicants reported that they still received a notification later requesting the same document again. For this reason, it is usually better to wait until you receive the official request.

Important

If you decide to use this workaround, check your Buzón electrónico regularly and respond immediately to any notification from Migraciones.

While this method has worked for many applicants in the past, procedures may change, and Migraciones could still reject the application (which could then be appealed). In addition, submitting documents later will almost certainly delay the approval of your visa, sometimes by several weeks or even months.

  

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 immigration 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.
    Shel · 20/12/2022
    Hi. Could you elaborate on the second sentence of the following statement from the article? What sort of trouble? What reasons provided for denial? Would an immigration lawyer be able to facilitate this? Do you have a list of such lawyers? Thank you in advance for any additional insight you can provide.

    "Before the parents can apply for a resident family visa, the child has to be registered at Reniec and a Peruvian birth certificate and Peruvian DNI has to be issued. Be aware that unfortunately Migraciones seems to be a bit uncooperative since August 2021, and often gives foreign parents trouble when trying to apply or outright deny the application."
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
      · 20/12/2022
      @Shel Hello Shel,

      before 2017, foreign parents of underage Peruvian children could not apply for residency (family visa) based on their child. This changed with the introduction of the new foreigner law in 2017 and a different interpretation of some regulations. Quite a few foreigners applied for a family visa based on their child. No problem.

      However, since August 2021, it seems that the interpretation of the law changed again and Migraciones wouldn’t allow foreign parents to apply for a family visa based on their Peruvian child. The option is still in the foreigner law, but I heard more than once that Migraciones simply gives parents who apply for the visa (you can’t apply online but must do so in person at a Migraciones office) a hard time, for example, rejects documents, asks for some document that doesn’t exist or outright tells the parents that this visa option is no longer available or only available for certain nationalities.

      If you want to try applying for the family visa based on your underage child, either make first an appointment at Migraciones for “Informes”, ask for the exact requirements and how the process works and go from there or get a good immigration lawyer on your case, who might (or not) be able to help you.

      Greetings
      Eva
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Shel · 20/12/2022
      @Sunflower Thank you Eva. I wonder if they would be more receptive of a Filipina mother from a Spanish speaking region of the Philippines, given the shared history. Sounds like we need to speak with a well connected immigration attorney. Thank you very much for the elaboration. We would really like to purchase land and live in Peru, but if it is not possible then we will go for Mexico instead where I already have residency.
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
      · 21/12/2022
      @Shel
      No, I doubt that Migraciones is more accessible based on shared history. Sorry.

      But if you aren't in Peru already, why don't you get in contact with a Peruvian consulate who might (or not) be able to help?

      Greetings
      Eva
  • This commment is unpublished.
    Leta · 21/11/2022
    Rianne, 

    Thank you for the offer of further assistance. As of now we are waiting for the response from their review. What I anticipate is perhaps a two week reply and a 10 day notice to comply and a 30 business day extension all of which should be giving enough time for the Apostille to arrive and get certified translation. I spoke to several translation companies and they do this regularly : official and certified translations. They turn it around quickly within a couple of days. Hopefully that is all we need. Thanks again. Is the 30 bus day extension added to the 10 days or should we wait until the 10 days is near up before applying for the extension as we want every day we can get. 
  • This commment is unpublished.
    Mikayla · 14/11/2022
    Hi,
    I was wondering what happens if they deny my application for some reason (Such as not submitting the right documents in time, etc.).  Will I have to pay all the overstay fees if I have to leave the country after overstaying my tourist visa? 
    (long back story)
     I got married in March was given till July for my tourist Visa. I then submitted all the necessary documents except for the one from the FBI because my time was running out, and I knew I could get an extension. I then made the appointment to get my biometrics done. I went to that appointment in August, and they said that my application was accepted and to make an appointment online in 10 days to pick up my Carnet. Thus, I did not think I had to give them my FBI clearance. I received it unapositlled right before that appointment.

    I waited 10 days but it would not allow me to make an appointment online. So we went and asked at the office in person. They could not help me and said it had to be made online and to just wait longer. So we did, and still, we could not make an appointment to pick up my card.

     By September, we still had no notifications in my Buzon electronico or any way to make the appointment. We've tried calling them on the phone and on the online chat help But can NEVER receive an answer. We have gone in person MANY times but they will NOT help us without an appointment but it won't let me make any appointment and they just don't understand that the online platform for me is just broken or something. So we kept trying and waiting. 

    Finally, in October I received a notice saying I need to submit the FBI judicial clearance. But it said it was sent in August though it WAS NOT! I received the email in October and have screenshots for proof. But because they told me everything was accepted at my biometrics appointment, I had not submitted the document. 

    The thing is, I submitted the document from Interpol to the FBI and paid an extra fee, and filled out an extra form for them to apostille it for me. They did not because that office no longer forwards things for apostille. So I didn't bother sending it back and paying another $100 to mail it back to the US when they told me my application was accepted, and everything was finished and ready to pick up. 

    But now I have sent it in and waiting for the apostilled document back, asked for the 30 day extension, and am again waiting.

    So now I have overstayed my tourist visa for 4 or 5 months because I was waiting for this process to be done. And I knew that leaving while it was in the process would void it. So I didn't leave. But what happens if they reject me for the delays etc.? Will I have to pay all the overstay fees if I have to leave the country? Or what happens if I cancel the application and move out of the country after being here for so long. Just a little concerned about how hard and long this ended up being.
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
      · 14/11/2022
      @Mikayla Hello Mikayla,

      After reading your comment, I’m lost for words. Sorry for being blunt, but you messed up, big time. You made absolute chaos out of a simple and straightforward process with clear requirements and honestly, I don’t know if anything can be done to straighten this out.

      First of all, yes, you can leave during your resident visa application is in process. You just have to apply for a travel permit (see above under “Last steps before your family visa application in Peru” the last point) which allows you to leave Peru for a maximum of 30 days while your application is in process.

      Then, once you applied on the Agencia Digital and you received the confirmation of your resident visa application, time stops. So, even if your tourist visa / stay as a tourist expires you don’t become illegal (in Peru it’s called “irregular”) and you don’t have to pay any overstay fees for the time your application is in process.

      And even though you already had your biometrical data appointment, this does not mean that your resident visa is already approved, no matter what you were told. Migraciones will only issue the carné if your resident visa is approved, which they can only do if you submit all (!!!) required documents, which you didn’t.

      Another thing, you submitted the Interpol document to the FBI? Which document from Interpol? The Ficha de canje? This has nothing to do with the FBI Criminal Record Check which is done in the US by the Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

      Anyway, for me the big question is if your resident visa application still is in process. So, you received a notification in which Migraciones requested that you submit your criminal record check with Apostille. How much time did they give you to upload the document? At that point, you should have reacted immediately (even if you got the notice late)! Never ever trust anyone telling you something. You got a written request and should have replied in writing. Back then, you could have asked for an extension of the deadline they gave you; now it’s too late for that. Usually in the notification they as well tell you that if you don’t react and don’t upload the missing document at the end of your deadline, your application is automatically canceled. You are then additionally required to leave the country. If you don’t do it, they can send you a “salida obligatoria” (obligatory departure) notice. Did you get something like this?

      Anyway, the first thing you must check with Migraciones if your visa application is still valid or if they have already canceled it.

      So, there is no way around making an appointment on the Agencia Digital under “Citas en linea” and “Informes”. You must (!!!!) speak to someone at Migraciones. It’s strange that neither this seems to work nor the chat on the Agencia Digital nor the phone number. Yes, sometimes it is difficult to reach Migraciones, but we are talking about months that you tried. So, probably clear the cache and browsing history of your browser, or use another browser, try it from another device and best a computer. I know quite a few people who hadn’t had any problems making an appointment online over the past weeks, while the chat seems to be very, very difficult to reach.

      The problem is, if they canceled your resident visa application, you are supposed to leave the country and you must pay the overstay fine from the date of the cancelation of your resident visa application (or the date Migraciones gave you until which you have to leave) until the day you leave.

      In case Migraciones didn’t already cancel your application, you might have a chance to put things right. However, as the requirements stipulate, you need your record check with an Apostille and translated by a certified translator in Peru. No way around it and surely not the place to save money.

      Anyway, your first step now is speaking to someone at Migraciones, finding out what the status of your application is and, if it’s not canceled yet, probably even getting the name of the person at Migraciones handling your application. Beg for an appointment with this person, explain your case to him/her (no attitude, no finger pointing, otherwise you have lost already; be nice, friendly, accept all the blame, apologize, whatever, even though it’s difficult and unfair) and hope he/she gives you the option to hand in your record check as soon you have it.

      If you can’t manage to get an appointment on your own, your best chance is to contact an immigration lawyer and hope that he can straighten things out for you.

      Wishing you all the best.

      Greetings
      Eva


    • This commment is unpublished.
      Mikayla Smith · 17/11/2022
      @Sunflower Thanks, I did submit the extension application immediately. And the thing is the record check I got back from the fbi took 2 months to arrive (not sure why it's faster for some people). And I'm currently still waiting for the apostilled document back. Once I receive it I just need to translate it and submit it. I have not received any other notice that it's been canceled or even that my extension was approved. However, we sent an email and did the extension on the platform. We got a response to that email saying to do it on the platform and it will be fine. Which we did. I finally got an informe appointment and will attend that with my questions. Hopefully my document will come back by then. Thank you for your quick response. 
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
      · 17/11/2022
      @Mikayla Smith
      Wow, great news. Hope everything works out and you finally get your resident visa approved and your carné issued.

      Greetings
      Eva
  • This commment is unpublished.
    Leta · 12/11/2022
    Rianne,

    Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience. It couldn't have come at a better time as I am planning to upload the docs the day before my visa expires next week even though I don't have the Apostille. Anxiety has been much reduced with your hopeful information as I expect the Apostille in 45 days approximately. I actually have my very official looking one page FBI background check with insignias etc and I decided to have it certified in Lima by a translation company without the Apostille for now. I figured it would show good efforts and establish a relationship with the translator for quick turnaround when needed later. You mention "translation and legalization by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs up to two weeks ---- is that the requirement or can any Peruvian firm offering Certified/Official translations accomplish the task...if so I emailed a dozen and found several that would do the one page in 1 to 2 days for a range of 120-175 soles.

    To summarize the possible timeline from what I have understood: after hopefully maybe as much as 30+ days!!! I will receive an e-notification request on their portal to upload additional required docs within 10 working days. (that is already the 45 days I need!!). I can try to find it online but otherwise I will go to Migraciones and ask for the hardcopy that is an extension for filing any required missing docs .....as much as 30 working days!!!! From the day we submit there may be as much as 12 weeks time to obtain the Apostille. I just got an email that said it's between 6 and 8 weeks but has been as much as 10 weeks to obtain from time of submission. We started 2 weeks ago but with the holiday season ahead I like the sound of 12 weeks!!! 

    In addition, after uploading the missing doc it may take two weeks for their review at which time they may find (intentional or not) something missing which would keep the process open and in review while matters are cleared up for at least some additional time. All the while the tourist visa has expired after the initial application. WOW....I am breathing deep at the moment and less dependent on the US State Department!

    You have mentioned "additional requirements" be they small stuff....and now my curiosity has peaked as I found the website thus far clear in terms of the requirements which are listed on Lima Easy. The website list has 5 documents to upload as follows:
    1. payment receipt for processing (paid to pagalo - great online system) (upload #1)
    2. interpol exchange sheet:
    a. Fecha de Canje Internacional (upload #2)
    b. FBI background check (for USA) (upload #3)
    3. Link Document --- marriage certificate (re-certified within 90 days of application) (upload #4)
    4. Spouses DNI card number (showing married, correct address and no outstanding fees)
    5. Info fill in and Copy of Passport (upload #5)

    I haven't seen the page or pages that follow that input page but I understand it has the PA form filled in--- does that get downloaded and signed/fingerprinted and then uploaded??
    Are there any other forms or details for a spouse application? We had prepared a spousal sworn statement but we don't see that it is yet required? We had previously uploaded (during the online questionnaire) a copy of our electric bill.

    Thank you so much for sharing.

    Leta
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Rianne · 19/11/2022
      @Leta Hi Leta,

      I am so happy to hear that my sharing was useful for you! I feel warmth, knowing that my experience (it literally felt like a marathon sometimes...) can benefit some other people who are currently in the process. 

      In general, the thing I learned is: this is Perú. Things work differently than in 'the West'. Assessors hold some kind of personal power in making additional requirements (just because they can). In addition - in an attempt to prevent fraud with official documents there are some extra required steps that add more days to obtain an accepted FBI document. Just to gice an idea: my 1 page Dutch 'FBI document' (front and back) turned out to be a 10 page upload for Migraciones to pass all the official requirements. 

      I would be happy to give answers to your questions, and at the same time I value interaction, connection and efficiency. What I would like to offer is to contact me on Whatsapp:  ‪+51 XXX‬ XXX XXX. Would that work for you? (this offer is also open for other LimaEasy members with questions regarding this procedure, happy to help!).

      Warmly,
      Rianne

    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
      · 21/11/2022
      @Rianne Hello Rianne,

      thank you so much again for sharing your experience and offering your help. 

      To avoid anyone spamming your WhatsApp I deleted your phone number. However, I forwarded it to Leta.

      The only thing I would like to know is, did you have to get your record check which, as you are from the Netherlands surely had an Apostille, legalized again by the Peruvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs? I thought after it's translated into Spanish it can be used without the extra legalization.

      Greetings
      Eva
  • This commment is unpublished.
    Leta · 03/11/2022
    Eva, 
    I see the following: If you were married in Peru: recent copy of marriage certificate issued by Reniec (not older than 90 days). My certificate is from 2018 and I have a certification dated December of 2020. Does that need to be recertified/updated?? I will be happy to soon make a PDF file of the info on Migraciones site as it will be helpful to others. 
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
      · 03/11/2022
      @Leta Hello Leta,

      You were married in Peru and your marriage was registered with Reniec in Peru? If so, you need a “fresh” (not older than 90 days) certified copy of your marriage certificate.

      It’s an easy and quick process, if your marriage was properly registered and the certificate digitalized which should have happened when you married in 2018. Your husband must get it at Reniec (you can’t, because a DNI is needed for it).

      The easiest and quickest is to use the “Reniec ATMs”, called Modulos PVM, that are located in a few shopping malls such as Jockey Plaza. Plaza Lima Sur, Open Plaza Angamos, Real Plaza in centro, at the Reniec branches in Miraflores, San Isidro and Jesus Maria, at the Banco de la Nación branch on Jr. Lampa and I think as well at the MAC centers. Your husband just has to select “Emision de copias certificadas de partida de matrimonio” on the touch screen, then put his index finger on the field for reading fingerprints, pay S/ 12 in cash or with a Visa debit/credit card, enter required personal data (name, month and year of marriage) and the machine will immediately print a fresh copy of your Peruvian marriage certificate.

      Your husband as well can go to a Reniec branch or a MAC center to get a recent copy of your marriage certificate, but I think he then must pay the fee at a Banco de Nacion before.

      Greetings
      Eva
  • This commment is unpublished.
    Leta · 03/11/2022
    Thanks Eva,

    Is the sworn statement a doc composed by my husband and signed without notary, fingerprint or witness or is there a form?

    I do have the update code. To be careful, can I enter the system, explore while delaying the upload of docs prior to my visa expiration date and most important exit system without causing a submittal? 

    You mentioned a 30 day extension may be available somewhere on the site. I would really like to locate that option now to make sure it will be available when needed or can I make an appointment by calling or going to Migraciones now with all my paperwork and ask directly for an extension. FBI Apostille just wrote and said it can be 6 to 9 weeks and I have 2 weeks on visa and maybe only 33 days more if I can find the extension. Cutting real close!!
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
      · 03/11/2022
      @Leta Hello Leta,

      As mentioned above in the article under requirements, the sworn statement is no longer on the official requirement list. However, the last info I have is that it’s still needed. But as I don’t have access to the part of the Agencia Virtual where you can apply for a resident visa, including the page where you upload all necessary documents, I can’t check if you are still asked to upload it.

      Anyway, in case you still have to upload the sworn statement, your husband must declare that the relationship with you is still intact, that Peru is the mutual country of residence, and he supports you. At least until a few years ago, the sworn statement had to be issued by a notary in Peru and notaries usually had a form letter with the exact wording Migraciones accepts, on hand. But I’m sure somewhere in the depths of the government website you find a sample letter as well.

      Yes, you can enter the system and the part where you apply for your visa and carefully explore until you reach the page where all requirements are listed / where you have to upload your documents. There just scroll through the list and leave the page. Do not upload any documents! Do not confirm your application!

      As said in my reply from October 28, I don’t know if there still is an option to get a 30-day extension for uploading your missing FBI check. But I was told that the application for the extension can be done on the Agencia Virtual and there in the Mesa de Partes Virtual (at the top right). I don’t know how this tramite is called and where you find it. Best check with Migraciones, especially as even the 30-day extension might not give you enough time. So, either call them, explain your case and hope that the one talking to you knows what he is talking about; or send them a message via the Chat on the Agencia Virtual; or make an appointment on the Agencia Virtual (left menu under citas) - not sure how quick you can get one - and talk to someone in person.

      As said before, I don’t have access to this part of the Agencia Virtual, so please let me know how things are going. If you could make a screenshot of the page where you have to upload the documents or share the individual steps of the application, that would be absolutely great, so I could make this article even more detailed and lots of others could benefit.

      Wishing you all the best.

      Greetings
      Eva
  • This commment is unpublished.
    Leta · 02/11/2022
    Eva, 
    On the Formulario PA do I sign and fingerprint only or do I need to have it witnessed or notarized? Does the numero de expediente, fecha de pulicacion and codigo de verificacion remain blank? When the time comes to upload are there other than the 8 docs listed? My spouses DNI card shows a prior address. Does he need to get a new card before I upload?
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
      · 02/11/2022
      @Leta Hello Leta,

      If Migraciones hasn’t changed anything (which they love to do), the Form PA - Cambio de calidad migratoria will appear on your screen (partly) filled in once you have uploaded your documents. If and where necessary, complete it online. Leave the field for the Numero de expediente (that’s the file number of your application), Fecha y Codigo blank. Either the system automatically fills in these fields or Migraciones will do so. Then download and print the form, sign it, and put the fingerprint of your index finger with black or blue ink on it. The form doesn’t have to be witnessed or notarized. You won’t have to upload it but present it when visiting Migraciones.

      In our list all officially published requirements are mentioned. However, as already said above, Migraciones loves to change procedures, which sometimes include requirements, without prior notice. If you want to double-check the current requirements, enter the Agencia Virtual and click on Cambio de calidad migratoria residente familiar. If you haven’t done so already, the system most probably asks you to update your personal data. Do so (just fill in the fields) and you get a code which you have to enter before the system allows you to continue with your visa application. Just follow the steps. Once you get to the page where you have to upload all your documents, you can see all requirements.

      The DNI of your husband should be “actualizado”, so up-to-date with correct family address, and marital status, with no open fines.

      Greetings
      Eva


  • This commment is unpublished.
    Leta · 29/10/2022
    Eva,
    I hope I didn't mess up? Yesterday prior to your excellent guidance I started the online process and reached the page that asks for the data update code - which I didn't have...but below it there is a link to get a data update code which I clicked entering into the Data Update System where I found several pages of a questionnaire which I successfully completed. At the end I was given a 10 digit code and with that I went back to the original webpage where it says Enter data update code. Then I received your reply suggesting that I start the process the day before my visa expired to give more time (which is needed) for the FBI background Apostille to arrive. My question is without having entered the code am I still able to take advantage of the remaining 20 days I have on my existing visa OR has the clock started on that 3 to 5 day period and then the eventual request for 30 day extension (that may or may not still be available)??? Anxiously awaiting your thoughts!
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
      · 29/10/2022
      @Leta Hello Leta,

      I don’t think you messed up.

      You just updated your personal data, correct? You didn’t fill in the required fields for the application, didn’t upload required documents, didn’t have the form PA-cambio de calidad migratoria on your screen, didn’t confirm your application and didn’t get the confirmation of your visa application, correct? You just got the update code, correct?

      Then you are fine. At the moment, you are still in Peru as a tourist, as you haven’t completed the visa application. Only after you got the confirmation of your visa application, Migraciones will contact you within a few days in case you haven’t uploaded all documents and only then will give you a deadline.

      So, for now relax a bit, check that you have all required documents to the satisfaction of Migraciones together and pray that your criminal record check arrives soon.

      Greetings
      Eva
  • This commment is unpublished.
    Leta · 29/10/2022
    Eva,
    As I am sure your readers will agree, your assist is not only valuable for content, direction, experience and insight but often comes at a time that is of great relief to the questioner even when the situation remains somewhat challenging. THANK YOU SO MUCH for your prompt and clear response. 
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
      · 29/10/2022
      @Leta Thank you so much for your kind words. It's always great hearing that what I do here on LimaEasy is appreciated and helpful. I can't eliminate the challengers and don't know everything, but I hope I can explain the basics, give some insight and probably here and there point someone in the right direction.

      Greetings
      Eva
  • This commment is unpublished.
    Leta · 28/10/2022
    Hi all,
    I am US citizen married to Peruvian for 4 years, coming and going to USA. Now I am in Lima and have only 30 day visa due to many days previously this year (immigration at airport were gracious to allow as long as I promised to apply for residency!), I have sent off for the FBI background check (which will take one week but another 7 weeks for Apostille) and have just obtained the Ficha de Canje card from Interpol. Much progress but time is running out and I understand one can't apply for family visa Cambio Migratoria por la de familiar residente on an overstay visa. Thus I thought to go as far as I can while waiting for FBI Apostille. went onto Pagalo and paid for 07568 and have receipt and then went to Agencia Digital and started the questionnaire --- saved info as I went along but my 1 hour ran out!! I logged on again but the info was gone!!. QUESTION #1: can I/should I get an extension on my tourist visa? #2: without the FBI Apostille completed would I be able to get through the questionnaire on Migraciones? What am I to do with so little time remaining on my visa because if I leave Peru, I can't apply outside the country for the family visa and I can't return due to #days this year. 
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
      · 28/10/2022
      @Leta Hello Leta,

      Yes, you are right, to apply for a family visa or any other resident visa (accurately to apply for the Cambio de Calidad Migratoria) your stay as a tourist must be still valid on the day you apply on the Agencia Digital. And since August 2021, you can’t extend your stay as a tourist anymore.

      Considering that you already stayed lots of time in Peru this year and most probably will have problems when you leave and try to re-enter, your only option is to apply on the Agencia Digital the latest possible before your stay as a tourist expires.

      So, apply on the last day when your stay as a tourist is still valid (or if you want to make sure nothing goes wrong on the penultimate day). Fill in all required fields and upload all documents you already have. You can leave the field for the criminal record check blank and still can continue with the application process. At the end, make sure your application is correctly sent and keep the confirmation of your application safer than safe.

      Once you have the confirmation, the time stops; if your stay as a tourist expires the next day, no problem. But check your Buzon electronico (login information is at the bottom of your confirmation) every single day!!! As you haven’t uploaded all required documents, usually within only 3 to 5 days Migraciones will send you a notification requesting to upload, in your case, the criminal record check usually as well within a time limit of 3 to 5 days. Take this notification more than serious!!! You must react to it, even if it’s on the last day of the deadline they gave you, otherwise your application is canceled.

      Going this way, you apply when your stay as a tourist is still valid, and you hopefully can buy yourself enough time until your record check arrives. So, if you have the record check before the deadline expires, great, just upload it and all is fine. If you still don’t have it, then the following is a bit of a gamble (worked at the end of last year and the beginning of this year, not sure if now and how exactly).

      Three readers of LimaEasy who were in the same situation as you reported that they were able to get an extension of the deadline. As all three used a lawyer / tramitador for this, I’m not sure how the exact procedure is. But I was told that somewhere in the “depths” of the Mesa de Partes Virtual on the Agencia Virtual there should be the option to apply for this extension, which gives you a max of an additional 30 days to upload the missing document. Once you send the request for the extension, you usually won't hear back from Migraciones, and when you upload your record check within the 30 days, all should be good.

      Wishing you all the best.

      Greetings
      Eva
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Rianne · 12/11/2022
      @Leta Hello Leta,
      Maybe my sharing of the procedure might be useful and give some ease regarding processing time. I am currently applying for a family visa too, based on my marriage to my Peruvian husband, and am doing the whole procedure myself (in the Trujillo office of Migraciones). 

      I applied online on the last day of my allowed stay as a tourist. I didn't have my international document (similar to your FBI report) at the time. The problem is, that the system will not allow you to continue the online process if you do not upload a document in the required field (so you cannot leave it blank, I tried that). What the system does accept in this field is the same upload of the Ficha de Interpol. So basically, I uploaded it twice. Then I was able to continue to the next menu and apply. 

      It took Migraciones about 30 days to evaluate my uploaded documents. I applied the 23rd of August and got a reply from them on the 27th of September (through e-notification, you will get a login code after you apply). It was a 2 page document requesting to upload additional documents (the FBI document being one of them) within 10 working days. In the meantime I already arranged the document including the translation and legalization by Ministery of Foreign affairs (keep in mind this process takes about 1.5 to 2 weeks). 

      About the request for extension to upload documents (max 30 working days), there is a document that the Migraciones office gave me in hardcopy, not sure if you can find it online. You can upload this doc. on the last day of the 10 working days period granted in the 'Subsanacion' part of the online menu which will apppear at the top left (note: don't upload other documents). I didn't get any official approval of my request for extension, so I am not sure how it is processed (if at all).

      After uploading the documents (at the end of your extension period) Migraciones informed me that the case manager takes about 14 days to evaluate the uploaded documents. It depends if the specific person goes on holiday etc. so it is my assumption that it is pretty flexible... we are in Peru, anything goes. 

      I went to the Migraciones office myself to double check if all the documents were alright (you can only verify this if the case manager is onsite, so you have to be lucky to catch him/her that day), because I aim to travel in December. The case manager made up all kinds of additional requirements (petty, do-able stuff), on the spot so I spent a whole day going back and forth copying, printing and uploading documents in the Subsanacion menu. I am sharing this as I can imagine that the evaluation of your additional document upload and the way that the online system works can buy you some additional time. 

      Meaning: I can imagine that - even if you do not have your complete FBI document on the end of your 30 day extension period - just upload what you have. Maybe the translation or legalization of the document is still in progress so you can upload the English document. You will then have about two weeks more until they send an evaluation of the documents saying there is something missing (I am sure they will find something again). Hopefully by this time you have the official document that Migraciones can process.

      Does this help?

      Please let me know if you have additional questions. I am happy to share what I've learned so far in 'navigating' Migraciones.

      Best of Luck,
      Rianne
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
      · 12/11/2022
      @Rianne
      Hello Rianne,

      you are an angel send from heaven. Thank you so, so much for sharing your experience. This is more than helpful for many in the same situation and especially right now for Leta, who has to apply next week before her stay as a tourist expires (and she only will get her criminal record check in a few weeks)!!!

      I wasn't sure if the extension of the deadline Migraciones gives you to upload missing documents is still in place. You confirmed it is. Wow! Great! And in cases like this, it's good to hear that Migraciones took a month to evaluate your application.

      Anyway, thank you again for taking the time to write here in such detail.

      I just have one question. You said your FBI report (which I assume had an Apostille) needed to be legalized by the Peruvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Is this correct? I thought you just have to get the certified translation in Peru and then it's accepted.

       Thanks again, Rianne.

      Have a great weekend
      Eva
  • This commment is unpublished.
    Hollie · 17/10/2022
    Hello,

    I am an American citizen. I’ve been with my Peruvian partner in the US for 8 years and we would like live in Peru together for the long term. We are open to marriage but are wondering if it is the only option we have in order for me to become a resident.

    I am also wondering if I will need to pay taxes by becoming a resident while working for a company based in the US.

    Can you advise what are my options? How long in advance should we begin the process of applying for residency before moving to Peru?
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
      · 17/10/2022
      @Hollie Hello Hollie,

      The easiest, quickest, least complicated, and least stressful option is to marry your Peruvian partner and then apply for a family visa in Peru.

      But, of course, depending on your circumstances and preferences, which I don’t know, there might be other options. Are you planning to work in Peru for a Peruvian company and can get a work contract? If so, you could apply for a resident work visa (doesn’t really make sense doing so, as with the family visa you already have a permit to stay long term and a permission to work without having to jump through all the bureaucratic hoops of the work visa). Or are you and / or your partner planning to open your own company in Peru? Then you could employ yourself and apply for a work visa (as above, not really wise as you only make things more complicated than they could be). Or are you planning to invest a larger amount (at least S/. 500,000) in Peru? Then you could apply for an investment visa (here as well, with a family visa you already have your permit to stay long term in Peru and can, if you wish, invest, but don’t have to). Or if you receive a pension, you could apply for a rentista visa (you must provide proof of getting a state or private pension of at least US$ 1000 per month and you are not allowed to work in Peru when on a rentista visa)…

      Anyway, as already mentioned above, getting married and then appling for a family visa based on being married to a Peruvian is in most cases the best option which offers the most possibilities with the smallest bureaucratic hurdles in Peru.

      My knowledge regarding taxation in cases like yours is limited and I’m not familiar with US taxes. So, I highly recommend getting in contact with an expat tax expert specialized in Peru and US taxes. Therefore, here just some general information.

      Peru and the US have not signed a tax treaty, making it difficult to generally say how various income generated in Peru or the US is taxed in the other country.

      As resident of Peru, you are required to pay income tax on your worldwide income (so, on income generated in Peru and abroad) on a progressive scale from 8% to 30%. So, if you live in Peru and work for a US company earning money in the US, your income must be taxed in the US anyway, but officially is additionally considered foreign source income by the Peruvian income tax law. However, most US Americans I know, leave their US income in an account in the US and pay as required US taxes, but don’t declare their foreign income to the Peruvian tax authority and just withdraw from an ATM. While in lots of cases this surely is borderline or outright wrong according to the Peruvian tax law, as things stand today, the Peruvian tax authority doesn’t pursue such cases.

      On the other hand, if you generate income and pay income tax in Peru, then there are several exemptions that you pay less or no income tax in the US.

      Overall, please seek legal advice from a specialist!

      Usually, Peruvian consulates abroad do not issue resident visas anymore. So, you enter Peru as a tourist and then start the application process in Peru. How it’s done, is explained in detail above.

      The most important thing before leaving the US is to get organized, get all your and your Peruvian partner’s documents in order and prepare whatever possible, so once you arrive in Peru you just have to finish the last steps before being able to apply for your resident visa. As you usually only get 90 days when you enter Peru as a tourist and must apply before your stay as a tourist expires, time is often an issue.

      So, in case you decide to marry, best marry in the US (or marry in Peru before moving there). If you marry in the US (best keep your last name and do not take your husband’s surname!), get your US marriage certificate and then register your marriage at a Peruvian consulate in the US. There you are then issued a Peruvian marriage certificate. When you apply for your family visa in Peru, a marriage certificate issued abroad can’t be older than 6 months. So, either marry half a year before your actual application in Peru (which might be difficult to exactly plan) or get a new copy of your Peruvian marriage certificate a couple of months before heading to Peru (not sure, but I think the Peruvian consulate must legalize it).

      If you marry in Peru (in our article Marrying in Peru you find the details), you must register your marriage at Reniec and present a marriage certificate not older than 3 months when applying for your family visa. Be aware that it is nearly impossible to get everything together for your marriage in Peru, then marry, get everything together for your family visa application and apply within the three months you are given as a tourist. So, if you want to marry in Peru, best make one trip to Peru to marry (little obstacle at least one partner must live in Peru otherwise most municipalities won’t marry you and you should plan at least a good 2 or 3 months from start to having your Peruvian marriage certificate) and another to finally move and apply for your resident visa.

      To save time in Peru, your Peruvian partner should, if applicable, get his DNI and passport in order while still being in the US. So, after your US marriage and the registration of your marriage at the consulate, he should, for example, change his marital status on his DNI or, if applicable, have election fees paid or waived, etc. However, check with the Peruvian consulate how long these changes take; in some cases it might be quicker to do once in Peru.

      The same applies to you, check that your passport is valid for another few years, so you don’t have to worry about renewing it in the near future in Peru. Even though not necessary for the family visa application, I always recommend having at least a copy of your birth certificate (with Apostille) and depending on your circumstances probably as well a copy of your highest degree (with Apostille) when moving to a foreign country. Most probably you won’t need it, but you never know and getting these documents while being abroad can be a nightmare.

      Then the most important thing before leaving the US, get your FBI background check. As far as I know, it takes anything between a few days to a month or so until the FBI issues the document and then, depending on the workload another few weeks to get the Apostille. So, here you should probably start 2 months before leaving the US.

      That’s all you can do before moving to Peru. Once in Peru, do not waste time. Your then husband should immediately change the address on his DNI to a Peruvian one and, if still necessary, his marital status. In the meantime, you first should get your appointment at Interpol and get an official translation of your FBI background check. Then follow the steps as described above.

      Greetings
      Eva
  • This commment is unpublished.
    June · 21/09/2022
    Hello Eva, Thanks for your amazing articles. I wonder if you can help with this question. IThank you in advance for any help!
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
      · 21/09/2022
      @June Hello June,

      I just answered your mail. And sorry, no.

      But probably I can help or someone here might have the answer.

      Greetings
      Eva

  • This commment is unpublished.
    Leroy · 01/09/2022
    Hi Eva,

    I’m currently in the process of changing my migratory status “Cambio de calidad migratoria - Familiar Residente - Familiar Residente: Casado con peruano(a)”. I have just finished uploading all the required documents to the “Migraciones Agencia Digital” website. Once I submitted the application it auto generated the F-007 (Some details prefilled) and also provided me with a code to make an appointment for biometric scans.

    I have 3 questions:
    1. Is the biometric scans part of the change of migratory status ie. “Cambio de calidad migratoria”? There were no appointments in Lima for biometric scans for 6 weeks. I’m wondering if I have to wait until these scans are completed before my migratory status is changed/approved and I can apply for the carné de extranjeria?
    2. The migraciones website said the F-007 form is to be submitted once the application is approved, is this correct? I couldn’t see anywhere to where to uplod this form on the migraciones agencia digital website at the moment. *note as per Anil’s comments below FYI couldn’t see a download button for this form when it was generated so I had to print screen.
    3. Is there a certain length of time all the documents submitted are valid for? Eg. Its almost been 3 months since my Australian police check (Antecedentes policiales, penales y judiciales) was issued and apostilled. I hoping This doesn’t expire.

    Thanks in advance for your help. Your website is a great resource and very helpful for foreigners.

    Leroy
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
      · 01/09/2022
      @Leroy Hello Leroy,

      Thanks for your nice words about LimaEasy.

      Answer to your first question:

      According to the legislation, the appointment for having your biometrical data taken is not part of the approval process for changing your immigration status from, in your case, tourist to family. It belongs to the issuance of the carné de extranjería part.

      But for the past year alone, there have been three major changes. First, applicants had to download an app, take their biometrical data in the app and then transfer their data during the resident visa application process onto the Agencia Digital. Without submitting your biometrical data, no application. Then a few months ago Migraciones announced that the biometrical data is taken in person as it was before Covid, and that the applicant had to make an appointment on the Agencia Digital after he/she received the approval. This method only worked a couple of months and Migraciones started to send applicants an email with an appointment. From Anil I heard for the first time that the system allowed you to make an appointment right after the application.

      So, with this being said and being used to Peruvian bureaucracy, I'm slowly but surely getting confused. But as you didn’t make an appointment after your application, I highly recommend making one as soon as possible on the Agencia Digital (under Citas en Linea) as waiting times are long right now and once your resident visa is approved you otherwise have to wait ages to finally have your biometrical data taken and your carné issued.

      Answer to your second question:

      Due to my immigration status, I don’t have access to this part of the Agencia Digital and can’t check how and where what has to be done or uploaded making it impossible for me to answer your question. Here we have the same problem as above over the past year there have been constant changes. The last time I was able to catch a glimpse which was at the beginning of 2022, in the upper part of one page there was a red download and next to it upload button for the form, below the option to upload all other necessary documents. This seems to have changed.

      Additionally, I now heard from a few of our readers different versions on how they did it; a few told me, yes, you download the form during the application process, fill it in, sign and fingerprint it and upload it again. Others told me they couldn’t find the form, didn’t do anything and their visa was approved without any objections from Migraciones while others received a message from Migraciones through the Buzon electronico to download the form on the government website, fill it in, sign, fingerprint and upload it through the Mesa de Partes on the Agencia Digital which they did. Now I read from you that you got the form after you submitted your application.

      Anyway, personally I wouldn’t do anything at the moment, just regularly check your Buzon. In case Migraciones is missing the form, they will contact you and request that you upload it (filled in, signed and fingerprinted) within a certain time frame (usually only 3 to 5 working days).

      Answer to your third question:

      Usually, documents issued in Peru are accepted if they are not older than 3 months, documents issued abroad shouldn’t be older than 6 months. But if the person who handles your application has a bad day, doesn’t know the regulations or whatever, he or she might invent other time spans. Anyway, if your Antecedentes weren’t older than 3 months when you submitted your application, no need to worry. They should be accepted with no problem.

      Greetings
      Eva
  • This commment is unpublished.
    Anil · 27/07/2022
    Hi, I am in the process of changing my resident status as I am married to a Peruvian. I filled the information in the Agencia Digital, however, I did not get the option of downloading Form F-007 as mentioned in this blog. After uploading my documents, it directly gave me the option of taking appointment "cita" which I did. I got the appointment although have to wait for more than a month. I checked all the data and sections while filling the form and I was particularly careful not to make any mistake. Is Form F-007 not required recently? Just wanted to be 100% sure. Another question I have is, usually how many days do they take to respond whether my application is approved or not and where do they notify (email or buzon electronico)? Thanks so much.
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
      · 27/07/2022
      @Anil Hello Anil,

      Unfortunately, as I have no access to this part of the Agencia Digital due to my immigration status, I can’t check if they changed something again (they must have as you said you could already make your appointment for having your biometric data taken after you submitted your application) or send you a screenshot.

      You said you are changing your resident status. So you are already a resident and are changing your visa type? Or did you mean that you are changing your immigration status from, I assume, tourist to family?

      If the latter is the case, when I remember correctly on the top of the page where you uploaded all other documents, you should have downloaded the form, printed it, filled it in, then signed and fingerprinted it and uploaded it again.

      If you haven’t done so, you should check your buzon electronico as all communications is done through it. So, in case something with your application isn't to the satisfaction of Migraciones, a document is missing, or whatever they will contact you there.

      Right now, the only thing you should do, check your buzon regularly. If they don’t request the form, don’t do anything. If you get a notification that the form is missing, download it here, fill it in, sign and fingerprint it. Then enter the Agencia Digital, go to the Mesa de Partes and upload the form.

      And I can’t tell you how long the approval process of your resident will take. Over the past few months, I heard from people who waited anything from 4 weeks to 6 months.

      Greetings
      Eva
  • This commment is unpublished.
    Tristan · 14/07/2022
    Hi! Just wondering do I have to have my biometrics appointment before my visa expires or once the registration has been successfully completed can I have the biometrics taken outside the time the my visa would have expired? Thanks very much!!
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
      · 14/07/2022
      @Tristan Hello Tristan,

      Sorry, I don’t understand. Which visa are you talking about? The tourist visa?

      No matter if you are in Peru on a “real” tourist visa issued by a Peruvian consulate or travel visa-free to Peru and got an authorization to enter and stay for x (up to 90) days - this is nothing more than an entry in a database and granted automatically when you enter - it has to be valid on the day you submit the application for your resident visa on the Agencia Digital and get the confirmation of the application.

      Then time stops. If a day later your “tourist visa” expires no problem. As the appointment for getting your biometrical data taken is sometime during the approval process of your residency, most often at the end of it, your “tourist visa” not necessarily has to be valid at that point. And as the approval process sometimes takes many weeks or even months, the “tourist visa” of most foreigners is expired by the time they get the biometrical data appointment.

      Or do you already have a resident visa? If you have to extend your residence permit usually no new carné is issued, so no appointment for biometrical data is necessary. If you, however, for whatever reason need a new carné, then similar to above you just have to make sure that your residency is still valid when you apply for the new carné, if it expires at some point later and is already expired on the date of appointment for the biometrical data no problem.

      Greetings
      Eva

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