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Peruvian Retirement Visa

Peruvian Retirement Visa

A Guide to Peruvian Visas

Part 7

Foreigners who receive a state or private pension - including a social security pension, government pension, employment-related pension, union pension, disability pension, or similar lifelong benefits - or who receive a permanent income from royalties or dividends can apply for permanent residency in Peru through the so-called Rentista visa (retirement visa).

To qualify, applicants must prove that they receive a permanent monthly income of at least US$ 1,000 (or the equivalent in another currency). This income must be guaranteed for life, for example through a pension, lifetime annuity, or other lifelong benefit. A permanent income from royalties or dividends is usually accepted as well, provided that it is paid indefinitely.

Be aware that income from remote or freelance work, or passive income, such as rental income, capital gains, interest, or similar are not considered permanent income for the purpose of this visa. To meet the requirement, you must demonstrate that you receive at least US$ 1,000 per month indefinitely, meaning for the rest of your life.

Additionally, you should know that foreigners living in Peru on a retirement visa are not allowed to work or receive remuneration for any kind of professional activity in Peru.

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 retirement 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 retirement visa.

 

Table of contents

 

Legal background for a retirement visa application in Peru

Where to apply for a retirement visa

Officially, you can apply for a retirement 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.

Peruvian residence visa application from abroad

Peruvian residence visa application from abroad

Peruvian Visa Types
Foreign nationals, who want to apply for a residence visa in Peru (for example because they are married to a Peruvian, found work in Peru, want to ...

 

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. However, keep in mind that all these documents are published in Spanish.

While in the section Requirements for a retirement 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 46, article 92-B “Procedimiento administrativo de cambio de calidad migratoria rentista 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 146.

 

Requirements and documents to apply for a retirement visa in Peru

Below you find the official requirements and documents needed to apply for a retirement (rentista) visa in Peru - more precisely to complete the procedure called Cambio de calidad migratoria (change of immigration status).

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

Required documents 

  • 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 (1) + (2) + (3)
  • Letter or confirmation from your pension fund or social security stating that you receive a monthly income of at least US$ 1000 or the equivalent in any other currency. (1) + (3) + (4)
  • (Interpol clearance - Ficha de canje internacional not older than 6 months) (5)
  • Receipt for the paid application fee
    • Authority: Migraciones
    • Code: 07568 - Cambio de calidad migratoria
    • Concept: Cambio de calidad migratoria a rentista residente
    • Fee: S/ 161.40 (2026)

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.

International document corresponding to the Antecedentes policiales, penales and judiciales in Peru

International document corresponding to the Antecedentes policiales, penales and judiciales in Peru

Legal Stuff
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) Proof of pension or permanent income

Before leaving your home country, request the required document from your pension fund or social security authority and have it apostilled if your country is a member of the Apostille Convention. If your country is not part of the convention, the document must instead be legalized by the relevant authorities in your home country and the Peruvian consulate.

The challenge with both processes is that the document must carry an official signature in order to be apostilled or legalized. However, many pension statements are generated automatically and therefore are often not signed. As a result, it can sometimes be quite a challenge to obtain a properly signed document in your home country.

For example, U.S. nationals receiving Social Security benefits can request a “signed benefit verification letter for Apostille or authentication purposes” from the U.S. Social Security Administration, which can then be apostilled.

(5) Ficha de canje

In 2023, the requirement to present the Ficha de Canje (Interpol) was declared an illegal bureaucratic barrier for retirement visa applicants. About a year later, the corresponding field on the Migraciones Agencia Digital, where applicants previously had to upload the document, was removed. As a result, retirement visa applicants - at least currently - cannot submit the Ficha de Canje through the system.

However, be aware that the Ficha de Canje is still listed among the official requirements, as it continues to have a legal basis in the Foreigner Law and the current TUPA. Therefore, the upload field could be added again at any time, or Migraciones may request the document separately during the application process. 

 

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

Applying for a rentista 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 rentista 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. 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 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.

 

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.”

Paying administration charges and processing fees in Peru

Paying administration charges and processing fees in Peru

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

For the retirement visa application, you need:

  • Authority: Migraciones
  • Code: 07568 - Cambio de calidad migratoria
  • Concepto: Cambio de calidad migratoria rentista residente
  • 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 rentista 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.

Travel Permit (Permiso Especial de Viaje / Autorización de Estadía fuera del País )

Travel Permit (Permiso Especial de Viaje / Autorización de Estadía fuera del País )

Legal Stuff
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 retirement 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 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 rentista residente

Click on it 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.

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.

Documento de Identificación (ID document)

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.

Ficha de Canje Interpol

Since 2024, you must only upload your criminal record check under Ficha de Canje Interpol.

Exceso de permanencia (overstay)

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 retirement visa when my stay as a tourist is expired? below.

Documentos Especificos

Under Documentos Especificos you must upload the letter from your pension fund. 

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).

f 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 the section 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 an appointment in Lima was quite a challenge. Fortunately, biometric data can now also be registered at several MAC centers, not only at the Migraciones office. As a result, it is usually much easier to secure an appointment within a reasonable time. At the offices in the provinces appointments are usually readily availbale.

Nevertheless, we recommend using the provided link at the end of your application and scheduling the appointment immediately.

If you prefer to make the appointment later, you can return to the Agencia Digital and book 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 or MAC center, 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 / MAC center 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. At some MAC centers, however, you may first have to queue with other visitors at the check-in counter before being allowed to enter.

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 office and MAC centers in Lima 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 regularly 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.

Subsanacion - Submitting documents

Subsanacion - Submitting documents

Legal Stuff
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.

Extension of a Migraciones deadline

Extension of a Migraciones deadline

Legal Stuff
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 MAC centers and 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.

 

Rentista visa Peru - FAQs for residents

How long is a retirement resident (rentista) visa valid?

The retirement visa - meaning the residence permit that allows you to legally live in Peru - has indefinite validity and does not need to be extended. Once approved, you keep your resident status permanently as long as you comply with the applicable residency rules.

 

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. After that, it must be renewed.

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

Renewal of the Carné de Extranjería

Renewal of the Carné de Extranjería

Legal Stuff
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 rentista 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 rentista visa?

No! Foreigners living in Peru on a retirement visa are generally not allowed to work or receive remuneration for professional activities in Peru.

 

Do I have to pay taxes in Peru on my retirement income?

No! Pension payments received from abroad are exempt from taxation in Peru for holders of a retirement visa (Rentista visa). This means that the foreign pension income you use to qualify for the visa is not subject to Peruvian income tax.

 

What happens 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.

Update your information in the Migraciones database

Update your information in the Migraciones database

Legal Stuff
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.

 

When can I apply for permanent residency in Peru?

If you live in Peru on a retirement visa (rentista visa), this question does not really apply. The retirement visa already grants you permanent resident status, as the residence permit has indefinite validity and does not need to be extended.

For this reason, you cannot change to the separate “Residente Permanente” visa category, which is mainly intended for holders of temporary residence visas who want to obtain permanent resident status after several years in Peru.

 

When can I apply for Peruvian citizenship?

In the past, foreigners living in Peru on a retirement visa were able to apply for Peruvian citizenship through naturalization after meeting the required residency period. However, recent changes to the nationality regulations have created some uncertainty regarding whether retirement visa holders are still eligible to apply for citizenship.

Therefore, it is advisable to check the current rules with Migraciones or an immigration lawyer confirming if citizenship is available for rentistas.

 

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 retirement 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 retirement 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 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 your criminal record certificate (Antecedentes). The field is mandatory.
    If you don’t yet have your criminal record certificate, you could upload:
    • a signed letter explaining that you are still waiting for the document from your home country.
  • 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.

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 a 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.

Subsanacion - Submitting documents

Subsanacion - Submitting documents

Legal Stuff
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.

Extension of a Migraciones deadline

Extension of a Migraciones deadline

Legal Stuff
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.
    Jon Gould
    Jon Gould · 04/06/2025
    I am in the process of applying for a Peruvian Rentista Visa.  My question regarding my pension.  I have established a checking account in Peru.  Am I required to have my monthly pension check directly deposited into my Peruvian checking account?  I would prefer to have my pension check deposited into my USA checking account.  Currently it is easier and cheaper for me to withdraw money from my USA account while I am in Peru.  From reading the notes, it sounds  like direct deposit of the pension check into a Peruvian account is not required.  I just want clarification.  Thank you.
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
       · 05/06/2025
      @Jon Gould
      Hello Jon,

      you are right. Your pension doesn't have to be deposited directly into your Peruvian account. You can have your pension check deposited into your US account and then, for example, transfer money from there into your Peruvian account or use an ATM in Peru.

      Greetings
      Eva
  • This commment is unpublished.
    Jen
    Jen · 02/06/2025
    I just arrived in Peru, but the immigration officer at the airport only gave me 30 days when I asked for 90. She said that I am only allowed 90 days per YEAR and for 2025 I have already used many of those days since I was here during January and February (I arrived in December.) I explained that I should be allowed 90 days out of every 180 days, and I had already stayed a little more than 90 days outside the country. However, I could not convince her, and appealing to supervisors did not help.

    So I need to act fast to apply for either a retirement visa or family visa. I think I would be eligible for both. I am the parent of a Peruvian child (still a minor), and I receive more than $1,000 per month from Social Security. I was married to a Peruvian, but he died, so I can't use the marriage route, but I am still a family member of a Peruvian who is with me. I do not plan on working no matter which visa I get. Do you have any advice? Which visa would be easier to get? I was worried about the availability of Interpol appointments, but if retirement visas don't need that, then that would help me. I already have my FBI background check and social security benefit letter both apostilled. I still need to get them translated. I am confused about the sworn statement. Does that need to be notarized or anything? Written inside Peru? In Spanish? My son also receives Social Security for his support, but he came into Pe
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
       · 03/06/2025
      @Jen
      Hello Jen,

      To begin with a short explanation of the time foreigners can stay in the country as a tourist. According to the Peruvian foreigner law, in general, tourists can stay in Peru for up to 183 days in a 365-day period.

      However, this doesn’t mean that all foreigners can stay the full 183 days in a 365-day period or that you get the complete 183 days when you enter the country.

      A publication issued by the Peruvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (RREE), which is based on agreements Peru has with different countries, limits and, in some cases, divides the general 183 days per year allowing most foreign nationals to stay in Peru as a tourist for up to 90 days in a 180-day period.

      If you check out the list , you will see that for most foreign nationals, who can travel to Peru visa-free, you find 90/180, which means they can stay up to 90 days in a 180-day period, for a few 180/365, so up to 180 days in a 365-day period and 90/365 (up to 90 days in a 365-day period).

      I don't know how long you have already stayed in Peru within the last 365 days. But as the immigration officer said that you are only allowed 90 days per year I assume you are from the US. Under Estados Unidos de America you will on the list only 90, so 90 days. The list doesn't state if it's in a 180- or 365-day period. This leaves lots of room for interpretation and uncertainties.

      Over the past over three years, I regularly get e-mails or comments stating that someone or an immigration officer said/showed some document that US Americans (and a few other foreign nationals) can only stay 90 days in a 365-day period.

      I've never seen such a document explicitly stating 90/365 for US Americans nor could I find it on any official site. I even contacted Migraciones and the Peruvian General Consulate in Washington to get official information but they confirmed that US Americans can stay visa-free as a tourist for 183 days per year and the 90 means 90 days in a 180-day period.

      However, as in many countries around the globe it’s always at the discretion of the immigration officer how he/she evaluates you /your situation/your travel history and how many days he/she is willing to let you stay as a tourist in Peru. You are not entitled to stay the full 90 days in a 183-day period or the full 183 days per year. It's completely up to the immigration officer if he/she lets you enter and how long he/she allows you to stay.

      With this being said, if you have the option to apply for a residence visa and if you plan to stay at least half a year per year in Peru, best apply for residence visa. 

      As time is an issue, apply for the one you already have all documents. So, as you already have your social security letter and your criminal record check with Apostille go for the rentista visa and just get both documents translated, pay the fee for the visa application and, just to make sure, fill in the sworn statement. That should be it. 

      Which visa is better for you, I can't tell you. But if you want to switch from rentista visa to family visa at one point (because you want to work, for example) you can still do so any time, but hopefully then with less time pressure.

      It seems that your comment was cut off. I really, really hope that your son entered Peru on his Peruvian passport. Then he is in Peru as a Peruvian, can stay in Peru as long as he wants and doesn't have to prove anything. 

      All the best

      Eva
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Jen
      Jen · 03/06/2025
      @Sunflower Thank you for your reply. Yes, I am from USA. I think the immigration officer interpreted the law to be 90/365. I think I will apply for the rentista visa. Should I make or try to make an appt for interpol just in case they ask for it, or is this not needed at all for rentista visas? Yes, my son entered Peru with his Peruvian passport. Thank you so much for all you do with this website. You are a big help to so many people, including me.
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
       · 03/06/2025
      @Jen
      Thank you so much for your nice words. it's always great to hear that the page really helps foreigners getting through Peruvian bureaucracy. 

      And good that your son entered as a Peruvian, one worry less. 

      As said before, the rentista visa is a good option, especially as you already have required documents, and gives you a permanent residency from day 1. The only downside is not being able to work. If your circumstances change, you can always switch to a family or other residence visa later. But I think now it's important that you get your visa application done before your stay as a tourist expires.

      If nothing changed over the past few months the field on the Agencia Digital where you had to upload the Ficha de canje from Interpol during your application is gone. So, you cannot upload the document anymore. As things change quickly in Peru without prior notice you could check yourself on the Agencia Digital if the field is still gone (due to my immigration status I have no access to this part of the Agencia). 

      So, enter the Agencia Digital, in the left menu on the main page look for "Cambio de calidad migratoria” and there click on "Rentista Residente". You get to the first page of the actual visa application. Here, select the Migraciones branch or MAC center closest to you which should handle your application (for example, Lima, Cusco, Arequipa, …). Click on Siguente and your are on the 2nd page of the retirement visa application. On this page you find taps where you must fill in some data and/or upload all for the retirement visa application necessary documents or where you can just verify the current requirements.

      Just click through the tabs but do not upload any documents and do not click on Siguente; once you checked all tabs/requirements just leave the page completely. If the Ficha de canje tab is still gone, I would risk it and apply without the Ficha. However, be aware that Migraciones always has the right to ask for additional documents and could request later that you upload the Ficha. 

      So, if Migraciones evaluates your application and isn't happy that you haven't uploaded the Ficha, they will send you a notification requesting that you upload the document within a few days. As it isn't possible to get an appointment that quickly, you can then apply for an extension of the deadline Migraciones gave you, which gives you an additional 30 days, get an appointment and the Ficha and upload it. No problem. 

      Greetings
      Eva 
  • This commment is unpublished.
    MJ
    MJ · 02/06/2025
    Hi, thank you so much for your information on the rentista visa. My husband and I are entering Lima 25 of july as tourist (we dont need a visa for 90 days as tourists) and want to change our immigration status when we get to Peru. We where hoping to apply for the rentista visa, but as I can see in the earlier comments we won't qualify as we have a passive income from house renting, and active income from our job in our home country that we will keep and work remote - and not a pension. Is that correct?

    Can I ask you for other possibilities given our situation? We have return tickets back home in April 2026, so we will be staying for 9 months in first.

    I have explored the opportunities for digital nomad visa, but if I understand correct this is not yet available. Do you know when it will?

    Will we have any problems when entering Peru since our return date in April is longer than the 90 days we are permitted without a visa? I have talked to the embassy in Norway and they say we should apply once we're in the country, but I am not sure what's the best way forward, and find it really difficult to get information since I dont speak spanish yet.

    Thank you!
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
       · 02/06/2025
      @MJ
      Hello MJ,

      to apply for a rentista visa in Peru you need any type of a state or private pension, lifelong benefits or a permanent (!) income for the rest of your life from royalties or dividends of at least US$ 1000 per month or the equivalent in any other currency.

      Passive income, such as rental income or income generated from remote work, is not considered a permanent income. So, I'm sorry, but with your type of income you cannot apply for a rentista visa in Peru.

      And yes, unfortunately, the digital nomad visa is still not available. It was already introduced in November 2023 in the modification of the Foreigner Law, Decreto Legislativo 1582, but to make it available, it must be included in the corresponding Migraciones administrative regulations, called TUPA, which for all Migraciones procedures include details of the application process, required documents and specific eligibility criteria. Until today, this didn't happen. It seems that the Peruvian government either forgot about the digital nomad visa, which many foreigners are looking forward to, or is still working on defining the regulations, required documents and criteria to be met for the Digital Nomad Visa. All we can do is continue to wait and hope for any official information. If there are any changes I will update our Digital Nomad Visa article immediately. 

      According to the foreigner law, foreign nationals can stay in Peru as a tourist a maximum of 183 days in a 365-day period. A publication issued by the Peruvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs divides / limits this max for most foreign nationals, who can stay in Peru visa-free, to 90 days in a 180-day period (or 2 times 90-days in two 180-day periods). 

      You should be aware that you do not have a right to get the full 90 days in half a year when you enter or be allowed to stay the max allowed 183 days per rolling year. It's always at the discretion of the immigration officer if he/she lets you enter, how he/she evaluates your case and how long he/she is willing to let you stay.

      With this being said, Peruvian law requires that foreign visitors need a return or onward passage out of the country if they aren't residents, proving that they leave the country when the tourist visa or temporary authorization to stay as a tourist expires. But the law doesn't state that this return or onward passage must be an airline ticket; it could be anything proving that you leave Peru when the time comes.

      When entering the country, Peruvian immigration officials hardly ever ask to see this proof. The ones executing above regulations are usually the airlines. As they could be held responsible and have to fly you back, if denied entry to Peru, most airlines require a return or onward flight ticket to even let you check-in to your flight to Peru. As your return ticket is dated 9 months after you enter Peru, you might get problems when checking in to your flight to Peru. So, best check with the airline. Some airlines as well accept a reservation for a return flight, a few are happy with a bus ticket and there are as well airlines that let you fly with just a one-way ticket.

      If your airline requests a return or onward ticket, which reflects the allowed time as a tourist, you could always make a reservation for one, print the confirmation, and then depending on the agency, you either don't pay it and let it expire or cancel it within a certain time. Other options include buying a fully refundable ticket or, more affordable, "renting" a ticket.

      Not knowing your situation and plans it's difficult to recommend other residence visas. As you are already married, marrying a Peruvian and applying for a family visa isn't an option. I assume as well that you don't plan to study in Peru, so no student visa either. You could apply for an investment visa, if you are willing to invest a substantial amount in a Peruvian company. Or if you consider working for a Peruvian company, even as an independent service provider, you could apply for a work visa. Other than that it's nearly impossible from the info I have to apply for a residence visa in Peru.

      One last option, which I do not recommend, especially because you want to stay such a long time in Peru, is to overstay your time as a tourist. Please read our article Peruvian overstay fine for tourists to learn about the consequences and fines involved. 

      Greetings
      Eva
  • This commment is unpublished.
    Tania
    Tania · 21/05/2025
    Hello, thank you for all the wonderful information it has been a great help ! Once you are accepted and receive your carné de extranjería I understand you must remain a total of 183 days with in a year period in Peru. Is it correct that you count the days starting by the issue date on your carné card not from a calendar year ?
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
       · 21/05/2025
      @Tania
      Hello Tania,

      no, your days outside Peru are not per calendar year but per 365-day period. The big question is - and that seems to differ from immigration officer to immigration officer - when the 365-day period starts. Usually, immigration officers take as start date for the 365-day period the date your visa was approved or the date your carné was issued. However, I was told by a few of our readers that the immigration officer used the date when they first left the country.

      And be aware that according to the Peruvian Foreigner Law, article 33.1 (I attached a screenshot), foreigners with any resident immigration status, except permanent residency, lose the residency if their absence from the national territory exceeds 183 consecutive (!) days within a period of 365 days.

      While the article clearly states consecutive days, in practice immigration officers often interpret it as cumulative days. Usually all days a resident foreigner is outside Peru are added and if these exceed 183 days in a 365-day period the foreigner may not be allowed to enter as resident anymore and the resident visa is canceled.

      And even though the retirement visa is valid indefinitely and doesn't have to be extended it still isn't considered a permanent resident visa. There has been some discussion over the past years to change that, which would allow rentistas to be outside the country for 365 days instead of 183, but today it's still considered a temporary visa and the 183 days apply.

      Greetings
      Eva
  • This commment is unpublished.
    Theodore Anderson
    Theodore Anderson · 29/04/2025
    I have read mixed information on this visa. Are you sure in 2025 that rental income from my primary residence (house in the U.S.) doesn't count?
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
       · 29/04/2025
      @Theodore Anderson
      Hello Theodore,

      yes, I'm sure. 

      According to Peruvian regulations to apply for a retirement visa the applicant

      - must receive a state or private pension including social security pension, government pension, employment related pension, union pension, disability pension, etc.

      or

      - must prove a lifelong permanent income from royalties, dividends, or similar.

      So, you must prove that you get at least US$ 1000 for the rest of your life.

      Rental income, interests, etc. are not considered permanent income.

      While before 2021, Migraciones was more relaxed about the requirement allowing rental income, capital gains, etc. as proof, for the past few years they are strict requesting either a letter from social security or from a private/state pension or a confirmation of a lifetime permanent income.

      There are a few immigration lawyers and facilitators (called tramitadores in Peru) still claiming that they can get you a rentista visa with passive income, such as rental income. Be careful. I know only one person who went with a lawyer I don't know, who really managed to get the rentista visa based on having rental income (for that a "donation" was made to one person at Migraciones), all the others who tried didn't get the visa.

      However, you could always check with an official source, such as a Peruvian consulate or, perhaps better as they decide, Migraciones, the Peruvian immigration authority.

      Greetings
      Eva
  • This commment is unpublished.
    Gregory Murphy
    Gregory Murphy · 20/04/2025
    Thank you so much for all of this information!  I was just about to initiate the process for obtaining a Peruvian retirement visa after reading, on 2 other websites, that investments and interest earned could be the basis for passive income.  Now I see on this website that is not an option?  I just want to verify if sufficient money in the bank earning more than the required amount ($1,000 per month) in interest would not be considered.  I am surprised that someone cannot just show proof of a large amount of money in a savings account as a basis for obtaining the aforementioned visa.
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
       · 20/04/2025
      @Gregory Murphy
      Hello Gregory,

      I already replied to your FB post  but here again.

      According to the Peruvian regulations to apply for a retirement visa the applicant

      - must receive a state or private pension including social security pension, government pension, employment related pension, union pension, disability pension, etc.

      or

      - must prove a permanent income for the rest of his/her life from royalties or dividends.

      So, you must prove that you get US$ 1000 for the rest of your life no matter what happens.

      Rental income, interests, etc. are not considered permanent income.

      While before 2021, Migraciones was more relaxed about the requirement allowing rental income, capital gains, etc. as proof, for the past few years they are strict requesting either a letter from social security or from a private/state pension or a confirmation of a lifetime permanent income.

      There are a few immigration lawyers and facilitators (called tramitadores in Peru) still claiming that they can get you a rentista visa with passive income. Be careful. I know only one person who went with a lawyer I don't know, who really managed to get the visa (for that a "donation" was made to one person at Migraciones), all the others who tried didn't get the visa.

      Another option for you could be an inversionista visa (investment visa). So, if you have S/ 500,000 (about US$ 130,000) you could invest it in a Peruvian company and then apply for a resident visa.

      Or we are all still waiting for the implementation of a digital nomad visa. It's already in the new foreigner law but they seem to still work on the requirements.

      Greetings
      Eva

    • This commment is unpublished.
      Gregory Murphy
      Gregory Murphy · 21/04/2025
      @Sunflower Thank you so much!  It looks like my mother, who also wants to live in Peru (she's been to the country many times in the past to visit me during my almost 7 years of living on the country in the past), could be the sponsor of the rentista visa with her own social security: as it would be over the $1,500 required for someone + 1 dependent.  Do you know if there are age, or any other type of, restrictions for dependents on this visa?  In other words, would an almost 50 year old son be allowed as a dependent?
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
       · 21/04/2025
      @Gregory Murphy
      Hello Gregory,

      having a plan B is always good in Peru. However, I fear that yours won't work.

      Usually, the dependent only can be a spouse, a minor child, an unmarried adult child (18 years to 28 years) dependent on the rentista visa holder, or an adult child with disabilities.

      However, as I couldn't find anything specific in the regulations and laws that clearly specifies the requirements for the dependent, I recommend that you contact either Migraciones, the Peruvian immigration authority, or a Peruvian consulate abroad. They - hopefully - know the answer.

      All the best
      Eva
  • This commment is unpublished.
    PC
    PC · 26/03/2025
    I am looking at the Rentista Visa for myself, wife, and two children with the goal of naturalizing as Peruvian citizens. Will my children, who will be younger than 18 after we stay the required time in Peru be allowed to naturalize as citizens at the same time as us?
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
       · 27/03/2025
      @PC
      Hello PC,

      I assume that you plan to apply for a retirement visa and once your visa is approved your wife and children for a family visa.

      The retirement visa allows you to live in Peru indefinitely. The family visa is valid for two years and then can be extended; after three years a change to a permanent resident visa is possible.

      Anyway, as over the past 3 or 4 years foreigners living for two consecutive years on a retirement visa in Peru had problems applying for the Peruvian nationality, best check with Migraciones or the Peruvian consulate if it's even possible when the time comes. Lot's can change in a few years.

      Additionally, be aware that - at least at the moment - minors cannot apply for the "nacionalidad peruana por naturalización". So, the foreign applicant must be at least 18 years old and must have lived in Peru as a legal resident for at least two years. Furthermore, if the applicant isn't married to a Peruvian or isn't in the country on a religious visa, he/she must show a yearly income of 10 UITs (in 2025, this equals S/ 53,500). And you must pass an exam mostly about Peruvian history.

      Greetings
      Eva
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Cool Moon
      Cool Moon · 20/04/2025
      @Sunflower So now it is impossible for retirement visa holders to apply for citizenship after two consecutive years stay in Peru?  Any recent change in laws about that?
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
       · 21/04/2025
      @Cool Moon
      Hello Cool Moon,

      I didn't say that it impossible, I just shared that over the past few years Migraciones is interpreting the regulations differently (no law changes, just a different interpretation) than before and is reluctant to accept applications for the Peruvian nationality from rentista visa holders.  

      If this will be the case tomorrow, or in a month or a year, I don't know. Therefore I recommend(ed) to contact Migraciones or a Peruvian consulate to get an official statement and plan accordingly.

      All the best.

      Greetings
      Eva
  • This commment is unpublished.
    John
    John · 19/03/2025
    I just submitted my rentista application and wanted to share some thoughts:

    Firstly, thank you for the comprehensive detail contained on your site. During the procedure, I consulted it countless times. When I did have questions, I found that calling migraines on 1800 on my local phone worked well and I was provided with patient, accurate assistance. Thankfully, I speak Spanish. I don't know if they provide information in English.

    It can't be overstated that getting your foreign documents translated an apostilled before leaving your home country can save headaches, time, and courier fees. I underestimated the effort to find a translator. One of my documents was in both Dutch and English, which required two separate translations.

    Updating personal data (actulizacion de dates) on the website I believe was important to do prior to submitting the visa. They reduced the time to update data from 30 to 20 minutes (as stated on your site). Because of this it took me three tries to complete it properly.

    I obtained the biometrics appointment one day after submitting the visa request. Everyone was professional and the appointment took five minutes. They told me to monitor my email and that in 15 to 30 days I should get an answer. Hope my feedback helps and thank you again.
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
       · 19/03/2025
      @John
      Hello John,

      thank you so much for sharing your experience in such detail. 

      As Migraciones is known for changing their processes and the Agencia Digital constantly, it's always great to get current feedback and I appreciate any comment so our visa pages are as up-to-date as possible. I will update the allowed time for filling in the data questionnaire.

      And yes, now all you can do is wait and check your Buzón electrónico regularly. 

      I hope you get the notification that your visa was approved soon; however, be aware that the approval can take (much) longer than the 15 to 30 business (!) days.

      Anyway, I wish you all the best and thanks for taking the time to write to me.

      Greetings
      Eva
    • This commment is unpublished.
      John Eberhard
      John Eberhard · 08/07/2025
      @Sunflower Hello Eva

      Before replying, I want to let you/sunflower/limaeasy know the information you provide on this site has been invaluable. The blog Q&A is super helpful too. You do a fabulous job and I want to thank you and recognize you for your tireless effort. Thank you once again!!

      After nearly four months, I received a reply on my process of requesting a visa and I am in utter despair and about to give up. Suggestions welcome.

      March 17, 2025 - Submitted CAMBIO DE CALIDAD MIGRATORIA - RESIDENTE RENTISTA
      July 8, 2025 - Request for additional documents
      Details for the lengthy process below

      Additional documents requested:
      1. Updated Interpol doc as the one submitted is nearing its 6 months expiration
      2. Proof of Dutch residence for the past 5 years - French national, lived in NL (where my proof of conduct was issued).
      3. Revised proof of income document - see below:

      CPA proof of income stated: <Applicant’s> permanent net income monthly over the two-year period January 1, 2023 to December 31,2024 is greater than $1100 and expected to continue. This was translated to: El ingreso neto mensual del señor xxx se ha mantenido constante durante el periodo de dos (2) años comprendido entre el 1 de enero de 2023 y el 31 de diciembre de 2024, el cual asciende a un monto mayor a USD 1,100.00, y se espera que este monto se siga incrementando.

      Migrations reply: Esto a razon, de que el reporte de ingresos presentado menciona un periodo de dos años por lo cual no esta dentro de los supuestos en el requisito mencionado. (This is because the income report submitted covers a period of two years, which does not meet the requirements mentioned above.)

      I can understand requirements 1 & 2, but 3, the proof of income feels like semantics and potentially lost in translation. To redo the income document will be extremely burdensome.

      As I see it now I’ve several options:
      A. Provide documents as requested - $500 / 6-8 weeks to obtains notary stamps, multiple apostiles, translations, and courier fees.
      B. Seek to get Migrations to accept my income document as is, either visiting them in person or asking LimaEasy or an attorney. Provide other docs.
      C. Abandon the process. I am unsure, even more so now how long I will stay in Peru, although my lease ends in Dec and I prefer to stay legal.

      Details regarding the extended process time:
      I’d traveled out of the country (with permission) in April. After not receiving any message in the buzón, I called and they asked me to come in in person where I was told that the process is normally paused while the applicant is out of the country. It should have been restarted automatically upon my return, but that didn’t happen (no reason provided). After visiting the office on July 4th, they told me the process was restarted and answered days later.


    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
       · 08/07/2025
      @John Eberhard Hello John,

      First of all thank you so much for your lovely words about LimaEasy, a small project my husband and I started over 20 years ago, and me (sunflower, Eva). It’s always great to hear that the information we provide and our little Q&A helps others.

      I'm sorry hearing about your issues with Migraciones. Applying for a rentista visa is usually an easy and straightforward process, if you present exactly the documents Migraciones is requesting.

      1. Ficha de canje from Interpol: In Peru, documents have an “expiration date”. Documents issued in Peru, as the Ficha de canje, for example, are usually only accepted when they were issued a maximum of 3 months prior to being submitted. So, if your Interpol document was nearing the 6 months mark when you submitted it it’s no wonder that Migraciones rejected it. Getting a new one shouldn’t be a problem.

      2. Migraciones is always strict and a bit tricky when a foreigner from country A lived in country B and then applies for residency in Peru. I’m therefore surprised that they seem to be happy with your French criminal record check and didn’t additionally request one from the Netherlands. Anyway, proving your residency in the Netherlands might be a bit complicated as you as an EU citizens don’t need a visa or residence card when you live in another EU country. However, if you lived longer than 3 months in the Netherlands you were obligated to register with the municipality where you lived. If so, they should be able to issue an official document, something like a registration certificate, including the date when you moved there and left. That should be enough proof. In Germany, where I’m from, it’s easy to get such a document, not sure how difficult it is in the Netherlands. And this document, of course, needs an Apostille and must be translated in Peru.

      3. I don’t know what CPA stands for, but anyway your proof of pension income is poorly worded (for Migraciones) - why are the last two years mentioned, there should be only the starting date - and the translation is misleading as the “permanent net income” was translated to just “ingreso neto mensual” instead of “ingreso permanente (!!!) neto mensual”. Additionally the “expected to continue” in the original isn’t helpful as you must prove that you get the amount for the rest of your life and not that the amount is “probably” paid, not mentioning that the translation of this part seems strange anyway - “se espera que este monto se siga incrementando” means “it’s expected that the amount continues to increase”. From your explanation, I understood that you received x amount from 2023 to 2024 and it is expected that you will receive this amount in the future. So, as I haven’t seen the original document, I’m not sure, if there are a few things lost in translation and if it might be worth having the document translated correctly and hope that Migraciones then accept it.

      A) If you plan to stay long term in Peru, there is no way around submitting the documents to Migraciones liking. So, even though I know what headache it is to get documents from abroad with Apostille when you are already in Peru, getting the correct documents is necessary to get your retirement visa.

      B) Sometimes it can be helpful to get an appointment with Migraciones, explain your situation in person and ask for their help/guidance. It might (or not) solve the one or other issue and could help you understand their perspective / requirements better or just confuse you more or make things worse. I doubt that an immigration lawyer can solve your problems without having the correct documents and fear that in your current situation it’s just money down the drain.

      C) If you abandon the process or if Migraciones denies your application, you get a notification and must leave the country within 15 days. If you don’t leave voluntarily Migraciones can issue a “salida obligatoria” (obligatory departure) notice and further sanction you with a re-entry ban for a certain time (both are rare and never actively pursued, but not unheard of).

      So overall, it’s up to you how you want to continue. If you want to keep your application in process, you must react to the Migraciones notification within the time frame Migraciones gave you, usually only 5 days. As you can’t get the documents in these few days, you must apply for an extension of the deadline, which gives you another 30 days to submit requested documents. How it’s done is explained in our article Extension of a Migraciones deadline. As you most probably won’t have the documents after 30 days, you can apply for another extension, which hopefully is granted.

      As you haven’t really asked for any specific information, I hope I explained what you are looking for. If you have more questions I’m more than happy to help to the best of my knowledge.

      All the best

      Greetings
      Eva
    • This commment is unpublished.
      John
      John · 08/07/2025
      @Sunflower Thank you Eva for taking the time to write back. Sounds like you’d previously worked for Migrations, you know it so well.

      I didn’t apply for a French criminal record check as I haven’t lived there since last century. I’ve already been in contact with the Dutch authorities they definitely have the document and the records. It’s fairly straightforward, albeit a pain, so Im not worried about that (or the Ficha).

      CPA-Certified Public Accountant (the income is from the US). Very good suggestions about the translation, I’d also noticed that the ‘permanente’ was missing. A visit to both Migrations and the translator will be worth it.

      Attached is a redacted excerpt of the original document. If you have other translation suggestions, I’m all ears. I had no idea they’d be so strict about wording, sometimes saying less is better.

      Thank you
      John 
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
       · 09/07/2025
      @John Good morning John,

      Now I understand why the wording of your proof of income is off and why Migraciones didn’t accept it. You don’t have a typical private or public pension but are trying to apply for the rentista visa using permanent income, which is only accepted if it derives from royalties or dividends. Your document states that you are a stake holder meaning that you own a percentage of a company with a claim on assets and profits. Migraciones, however, needs a proof that you get direct return on that ownership (so have dividends). 

      Getting the rentista visa using permanent income is tricky and applications are often denied because most proofs of permanent income don’t fulfill Migraciones requirements. And as I don’t know how this document proving your permanent income must be worded so Migraciones is happy with it, I highly recommend to either speak to someone at Migraciones in person and ask if there is a form letter or if they can share the key points of such document or hire an immigration lawyer, at least for a consultation, who knows what he/she is doing and can point you in the right directions. Choose this lawyer carefully, you really need someone with expertise and experience.

      Greetings
      Eva
  • This commment is unpublished.
    AJ
    AJ · 17/03/2025
    Hi, I’m 30 years old with steady monthly income, can I still apply? 
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
       · 18/03/2025
      @AJ
      Hello AJ,

      your age isn't the problem. To apply for a rentista visa in Peru you must prove a state or private pension, so lifetime annuities, other lifelong benefits or a permanent (!) income for the rest of their life from royalties or dividends of at least US$ 1000 per month or the equivalent in any other currency.

      A "steady monthly income", rental income, income generated from remote / freelance work, capital gains, interests, etc. are not considered permanent income. To fulfill the requirement you must prove that you receive at least US$ 1000 per month "indefinitely", so for the rest of your life.

      So, while you could apply, your visa will be rejected as you cannot fulfill the requirements.

      Sorry.

      Greetings
      Eva
    • This commment is unpublished.
      AJ
      AJ · 18/03/2025
      @Sunflower Any recommendations for a better fit visa? 
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
       · 18/03/2025
      @AJ
      Depends on your circumstances. Are you married to a Peruvian or have any other family in Peru? Then a family visa. Do you consider establishing a company in Peru, which could employ you? Or do you want to work for a Peruvian company or offer a service to a Peruvian company?Then a work visa. If you have time, the Digital Nomad visa could be a fit. The visa was introduced already in November 2023 but until now the administrative regulations haven't been published. Many hope that this will happen soon.

      Greetings
      Eva
  • This commment is unpublished.
    Dean
    Dean · 16/03/2025
    Morning, I would like to comment on the following  section "Foreigners living in Peru on a retirement visa have to be in the country at least 183 days per year, otherwise they lose their resident status" ...Recently (early March 2025) I made an appointment in Lima at Migraciones to cover this subject. They made it clear to me that with the rentista visa you have to be present at least once per 365 days (ie you can leave for 1 year period minus a day) I also asked this question on a recent trip (last November) as I was leaving the country at the Lima airport and the migracion officer confirmed this as well. So ... do you have any update or more info as to what is correct? thanks in advance
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
       · 16/03/2025
      @Dean
      Hello Dean,

      I haven't heard of any recent changes regarding this topic. So, I really wonder on which grounds the immigration officers told you that as a rentista you can stay outside the country for 365 days and then just have to return for one day.

      Have a look at the Foreigner Law, Decreto Legislativo 1350 (the new Foreigner Law 1582 just states changes to the old Foreigner Law and therefore the corresponding article isn't mentioned). I attached a screenshot of the article 33.

      Article 33.1: Foreigners with any resident immigration status, except "permanent", lose their resident status if they stay outside the country for more than 183 consecutive days in a 365-day period. 

      Article 33.2: Foreigners with the immigration status permanent resident lose their status when they are outside the country for more than 365 days.

      Article 33.3: An exception is made for foreign residents who are absent from the country for a justified reason. In these cases, the period of absence may be extended, requiring the corresponding authorization of absence to be processed and obtained from IMMIGRATION.

      If nothing changed this year, the rentista visa is a simple resident visa, not a permanent resident visa even though its holder is allowed to stay in the country indefinitely.

      So, I tried to find any information about recent changes either regarding the law or the definition of a rentista visa and couldn't find anything.

      Sorry.

      Greetings
      Eva
  • This commment is unpublished.
    Diana
    Diana · 21/02/2025
    I'm having trouble accessing the buzon. 
    I have already applied for a rentista visa, I did the biometrics and interpol steps, 

    Today I received an email to my personal email that I had a notification ready in my buzon, but since I applied online and went through the steps already, I don't have the information you mentioned (login data or verification code). I also cannot download or see any information about my Tramite aside from a "in process" note. I don't see where to find the Formulario PA.

    When I go to "forget password", it says there is no record of my data. But my inbox in the Migraciones site says I have a message, and I received an alert to my personal gmail that I have a notification waiting.

    I'm not sure what else to do how to find this information aside form maybe going directly to the migration office. 

    Any advise?
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
       · 21/02/2025
      @Diana
      Hello Diana,

      when you applied for your visa, didn't you download the "Registro de Solicitud de Cambio de Calidad Migratoria". At the bottom or on a second page you should find your login data for the Buzon Electronico. If you don't have the document or if it isn't on there under the Historial tab (should be a tab where you find the form to download - if they haven't changed the interface again, your next option is the Buzon electronico.

      So, switch off any translation program which automatically translates the page from Spanish to your preferred language to avoid system errors. And to avoid further system errors, do not to use a VPN and switch off any ad blockers or an incognito mode you might use. Then enter the Agencia Digital and click on the Buzon electronico button. Click on "¿Olvidaste la contraseña?" and you get to the "Verificacion de Datos" page. Here enter your nationality, passport, passport number, last name(s), first name(s) and your birth date. Enter your details exactly as when you applied for the visa and exactly as in your passport. The birthday must be entered month/date/year. After submitting your information by clicking on Siguiente, you should then get an e-mail with the "usario" and a link to reset or create a password.

      If this doesn't work, then you can only get in contact with Migraciones. Sorry.

      Greetings
      Eva
  • This commment is unpublished.
    Gary James
    Gary James · 18/02/2025
    Hello. First I want to thank you and this website for the detailed information. Here is my situation.
     1-  I arrived in Cusco Peru last week and have a 90 day tourist visa. Prior to arriving I had one week back in the USA (from 2 years in Asia) to get my FBI background check which was clear. It was mailed to me at a PO BOX which is still there in the US and I haven't requested it  to be sent to my address in PERU yet. I am staying at an AIRBNB so I don't have a permanent address yet although I have been given permission by my host to use his address.
    I did find an official USA website for the Apostille and I truly hope I don't have to go back to the USA to get this done as I didn't get the Apostille before arriving in Peru.
    2- I am 61 and will be applying for my SSA payments in a few months so I won't have any official paperwork regarding my retirement income until November or December if I were to make a guess. I turn 62 in October which is when I am eligible for benefits. 
    3- During this period I will be leaving Peru and returning. I have a flight out of the country in 87 days and then will be coming back with a return flight in order to get another 90 days...hopefully.I may have to do this process more than once. 

    Based on that here are my questions.

    I have not had the background check translated or apostilled yet. What is the best way to have the translation
    I am retired so time and effort isn't an issue but I am just hoping I won't have to physically go back to the USA. I would like to do as much as I can early if its possible. 

    Thanks for any information and guidance.

    Gary

    Sorry for a second post but there were some important information that didn't make my first comment. This is the MAIN question. Is it worth getting the Apostille and translation done now even though I won't have my income documentation for several months?


    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
       · 18/02/2025
      @Gary James
      Hello Gary,

      thank you for your nice words. And just for your info I combined your two comments.

      First of all you should be aware that documents in Peru have an "expiration date". Documents issued outside Peru, such as your FBI criminal record check, are only accepted by Migraciones when they were issued not more than 6 months prior to being submitted.

      So, assuming your FBI check was issued in January or February 2025, then you can only use it as part of your required documents for the visa application until July or August of this year. If you use your FBI check that was issued in January or February for a visa application later it will be rejected and you will be asked to submit a current FBI check.

      When I understood correctly, you will only be able to submit your visa application in November or December as only then you will have the letter from SSA confirming your retirement income. Therefore, it doesn't make any sense to get an Apostille on the FBI record you already have. It would be a waste of money as you won't be able to use it. Instead you must get a new FBI check, depending on when you plan to apply, earliest probably July or so and have it apostilled in the US.

      The FBI check with Apostille then must be translated in Peru. Best use a certified translator in Peru, a so-called traductor publico juramentado. You find lists of these government-approved translators on the Peruvian government website. Just click under point 3 on Inglés and the list of translators for English/Spanish translators appears. Get in contact with one of them and have the translation done.

      Another option could be to apply for your retirement visa without having the confirmation of your retirement income. However, this might not work out. 

      Depending on when your FBI check was issued you must apply latest July or August, so it is accepted. Counted from these months you probably have 3 to 5 months until you get the SSA letter, but Migraciones might check your application quickly and could send you a notification within a few days (or if you are lucky only 2 or 3 months) after application that you must upload the SSA letter. Usually they only give you anything between 5 and 7 days to upload the requested document. Yes, you could apply for an extension, but this only gives you another 30 days. So, applying for the retirement that early when your FBI check is still valid but the SSA letter is not only applied for isn't feasible and could get dangerous.

      And another point that worries me is your time as a tourist in Peru. You are only allowed to stay in Peru as a tourist for 183 days in a 365-day period and a max of 90 days in a 183-day period. Additionally, your stay as a tourist must still be valid on the day you apply for your retirement visa. If you entered the country last week and got 90 days you must leave the country by around May 10. Assuming you only will be able to submit your retirement visa application in November or December and hoping that you will get the full 90 days when you return, you only can come back to Peru in August or September.

      I hope, I explained the situation understandably. If you are confused or have any further questions, I'm more than happy to try again.

      Greetings
      Eva
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Gary James
      Gary James · 18/02/2025
      @Sunflower Thanks very much Eva. It looks like I will need to get another FBI check done later this year. This is a separate issue I can work on, but they should already have my fingerprints which was needed to be done in person so I will investigate that part further.
      The only part that has me a little confused is having the translation done after the apostille. The website from the US government seemed to suggest otherwise or maybe I am reading the following wrong. SEE below.
      "If the country where you are using the document requires it to be translated from English, get a professional translator and have it notarized
      Do not get the original document notarized.
      Submit your request for authentication services (includes your Form DS-4194, fees, and documents)"

      Sounds like I can't make the submission until after the translation.

      Either way, this was very helpful as was the issue with the tourist visa duration. I do have an outbound flight from PERU on May 8th but it sounds like my thinking I could come back in a week or two is incorrect.   
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
       · 18/02/2025
      @Gary James
      It is irrelevant what the US government website suggests. The foreign document must be accepted in Peru, so Peruvian regulations apply.

      Foreign document + Apostille put on it in the country of origin + translation into Spanish in Peru by an official translator. 

      If you follow these steps and keep in mind that the foreign document can't be older than 6 months you won't have any problems.

      All the best
      Eva
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Gary James
      Gary James · 18/02/2025
      @Sunflower Thanks again. I will add one more piece of information if anyone might be helped by this. I just contacted the US agency that took my fingerprints and then completed my background check and they delete the info after 30 days so it looks like I will need to go back to the USA to do the whole process again. Live and learn. I had other things to take care of when I was there so if I had gone there just for this then it would be very frustrating. Thanks!
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
       · 18/02/2025
      @Gary James
      No, you don't have to go back to the US for the fingerprinting. It can be done in Peru and is accepted by the FBI.

      In Lima, for example, you can officially get fingerprinted at the National Police Complex (Direccion de Criminalistica PNP) on Av. Aramburu 550; in Cusco at the Policia Nacional del Peru, DIVINCRI PNP, Oficina de Criminalistica Cusco (a building behind the big police headquarters in Plaza Tupaq Amaru). 

      You must, however, provide the fingerprint card (available online), which must contain your full name and date of birth and the seal/stamp of the police agency and the signature of the official taking the fingerprints.

      Greetings
      Eva
  • This commment is unpublished.
    Rod
    Rod · 09/02/2025
    Hello
    A question for you, if I may ask - do you know whether the 183 days per year have to be consecutive or just a total per year? If non-consecutive, can one freely travel out of Peru or are there documents one must complete?
    Thanks!
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
       · 09/02/2025
      @Rod
      Hello Rod,

      according to the foreigner law foreigners living in Peru on a retirement visa (or any other resident visa) can stay out of the country for a max of 183 consecutive days in a 365-day period. If you need to be outside Peru for longer you can apply for a "Autorización por estadia fuera del país por mas de 183 días".

      And even though the law is stating consecutive days, be aware that it is not possible to stay outside for half a year, return for a week and leave again for another half a year. 

      If you want to leave and re-enter the country regularly, which you are free to do without having to apply for anything, immigration officers add all the days you are outside the country in a 365-day period. These shouldn't exceed 183 days in a 365-day period. If they do you may loose your resident visa.

      So, even though the law doesn't explicitly state this, you must be in Peru for at least half a year when you have a rentista (or any other resident visa) to keep your residency.

      Greetings
      Eva
  • This commment is unpublished.
    Eugene
    Eugene · 07/12/2024
    Hello Dean,

    Could you please tell me in what form did you provide your proof of income? Did it bear any signature or seal?
    I am also a canadian and I am still waiting for my first paycheck from Canada Pension.

    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
       · 07/12/2024
      @Eugene
      Hello Eugene,

      you need a document from your private or public pension on an official letterhead showing your pension amount. And yes this document needs a signature and stamp/seal from the competent person/authority. Without a signature it cannot get the Apostille.

      If it's not possible to get a pension statement with signature, you could get the document notarized first and then apostilled. This should work as well.

      Greetings
      Eva
  • This commment is unpublished.
    Dean
    Dean · 08/11/2024
    Good morning all,

    Finally received my rentista visa from Peru after 2 months of my app date. ollowing thheir instruction  was simple and thourough for me to do this on my own.  Just want to highlight some areas that may have changed.. FYI I submitted my APP on September 14th

    1- All my docs were translated but I did not have them legalized by Ministry of Foreign affairs (RREE) , no issue in my case. (and a visit thereafter to migraciones informed me that it was not necessary) 
    2- I was required to upload the Interpol document (I missed uploading it the first time around) but they did request it 1 week after my original app. Also note that when I did go to Interpol for my background check, they did not ask me for a proof of payment to the receiver general of Canada that used to be the case for Canadian, US and Australian citizens.
    3- Back in Canada I had my document apostilled by a Peruvian consulate but I still needed them to be legalized by Ministry of Foreign affairs (RREE) once in Peru.
    4- Prior to receiving any communication via the Migraciones electronic mailbox, I would always receive an EMAIl in my Gmail account advising me to go there to retrieve a message from Buzon.
    5- It took me (going slowly to be thorough) no more than 15 minutes to complete my app.
    7-Was not requested to upload a utility bill that showed my address.
    8- I may have missed this part but did not enter any info about hair, eye color height etc…and never asked about it later , nor the part on living conditions (but again may have missed this but no errors reported ).
    9- Exceso de permanencia tab ,When I applied I was 8 days over my allowable stay as a tourist, so I paid the 8 day fee prior to making my migraciones app and was not requested to submit my payment voucher or sworn statement as to why I overstayed as that step was green (phewf)
    10- Codig de verification, never saw it after I successfully completed my app, but I did retrieve it when I visited migraciones and asked for it.

    Finally , I must pleasantly admit that all govt offices I went to (interpol, Ministry of foreign affairs, Migraciones, getting my CE etc the wait time was vey short and making payments, retrieving document etc was very fast so was quite impressed about that. Furthermore If you are in Lima I highly encourage you to take an appointment at migraciones (book on line cita informes) as they are also very helpful with any queries you may have and getting an appointment was quite easy for the same week…as opposed to calling their assistance line … this is not at all helpful. 
    Thanks again Eva
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
       · 08/11/2024
      @Dean
      Hello Dean,

      thank you so much for sharing your experience in such detail.

      Some remarks from my side:

      2. As explained in our Interpol article, since July 2024 some (not all) US Americans and Canadians weren't asked for the money order at Interpol anymore. It's still on the official requirement list and until now I couldn't find out why sometimes the money order has to be presented and other times not. I really hope that Interpol eliminates this requirement soon.

      3. Here I'm confused. On January 11, 2024 Canada finally implemented the Hague Apostille Convention. The Apostille is put on Canadian documents by the Authentication Services Section of Global Affairs Canada. If you had an Apostille on your document then you don't have to get another authentication by the Peruvian consualte anymore and a further authentication by RREE in Peru is not needed as well; only if you didn't use an official translator in Peru then Migraciones might ask to get the translation authenticated by RREE again. A Peruvian consulate cannot get a Canadian document apostilled. However, they can legalize it. So, if your document only had a legalization by the Peruvian consulate (and not an Apostille issued by the Authentication Services Section of Global Affairs Canada) then yes, it always needs another authentication by RREE.

      4. That's interesting. Never heard that Migraciones sends notifications using the visa applicants e-mail account. But reading your other comments under 7 and 8, I assume that you never filled in the "Actualización de Datos Extranjero" pages (at that time the system had some problems displaying it and till now some people still can't access it).

      5. Yes, once you have all documents together, the actual application on the Agencia Digital is quick and easy.

      9. Wow. If the check in front of the exceso de permanencia tab is green, your stay as a tourist is still valid. Seems the system didn't get the message that you overstayed. You were lucky.

      Anyway, I'm so happy for you that you managed the whole process on your own. Now, being a resident, enjoy your life in Peru.

      All the best

      Greetings
      Eva

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