Peru Tourist Visa Guide
Peru, a country steeped in tradition and natural beauty, is a visual delight for travelers. From the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu to year-round carnival festivities, majestic mountain peaks, delectable cuisines, ancient architectural wonders, and more, Peru stands as a hotspot for tourists. The Peru tourist visa has played a vital role in attracting visitors from around the world.
Understanding Peru Tourist Visa
What is a Peru Tourist Visa?
The Peruvian tourist visa is an official authorization that allows individuals to enter the country for the sole purpose of engaging in tourism-related activities. This includes sightseeing, leisure pursuits, adventurous sports, and more. While citizens of several countries can enter Peru without a visa, Indian citizens must obtain a Peru tourist visa.
However, individuals holding a valid multiple-entry visa from Australia, Canada, Schengen/EU, the UK, or the US can enter Peru without a separate Peruvian tourist visa. They are permitted a stay of up to 180 days within a one-year period. It’s essential to note that the mentioned visa must be valid for at least six months from the entry date and must have been previously used to enter the respective country.
How to Obtain a Peru Tourist Visa?
Peru Tourist Visa Application from India
The application process for a tourist visa to Peru for Indian citizens is conducted entirely offline. You have the option to apply directly or seek assistance from a visa agency. Given that applying on your own would necessitate a visit to the Embassy, using an agency is often recommended.
Before initiating your application, ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for a tourist visa. Here are the steps to apply:
- Visit the official website of the Peruvian embassy and download the Peru tourist visa application form.
- Complete the application form with accurate details.
- Affix your photograph, fingerprints, and signature on the application form.
- Submit the completed application form, required documents, and fees either in person at the Embassy of Peru in New Delhi or through a reputable travel agent.
- Ensure that you provide accurate information and genuine documents, as false information or fake documents can lead to visa rejection.
Eligibility for Peru Tourist Visa
According to Peru tourist visa requirements, you must meet the following conditions to apply for this permit:
- Reside in India during the application process. If you are residing in another country with a residence permit, you must apply through the respective authority there.
- Hold a passport valid for at least six months from your intended entry date into Peru.
- Have the sole purpose of visiting Peru for tourism alone.
- Possess sufficient funds to support your stay.
Documents Required for Tourist Visa to Peru
The set of document requirements for a Peru tourist visa application includes the following:
- A passport valid for at least six months from your intended travel date.
- Two completed visa application forms.
- Three recent passport-sized photos meeting specified requirements.
- A personal covering letter detailing the purpose of your visit.
- Confirmed flight tickets.
- A detailed travel itinerary.
- Proof of accommodation, such as hotel bookings or an invitation letter from your host.
- Bank statements for the past three months.
Peru Tourist Visa Photo Specifications
Ensure your visa photos adhere to the following specifications:
- Dimensions: 35mm x 45mm
- Color: Colored
- Head must be centrally positioned
- Photos should be taken within the last three months
- Background: Solid, plain white, or grey
- 80% face coverage
- Neutral facial expression
- Non-thick framed and prescription glasses are allowed
- Headgear is permitted only for religious reasons
- Facial hair is allowed
Processing Time for Peru Tourist Visa
The processing time for a Peruvian tourist visa is typically around 7-10 working days. However, this duration can vary significantly depending on factors such as the volume of applications at the embassy, the number of entries, the duration, validity, and other considerations. Therefore, it is advisable to apply well in advance of your intended travel date.
Peru Tourist Visa Fees for Indian Citizens
The cost of a Peru tourist visa varies slightly depending on foreign exchange rates. The Embassy also reserves the right to update fees without prior notice. To avoid any discrepancies, it is essential to check the exact fee amount before commencing your application.
Sample fees for different visa types include:
- Single entry Normal Tourist Visa (90 days, 3 months validity): ₹3,371.0
- Single entry Normal Tourist Visa (90 days, 6 months validity): ₹3,371.0
After Submission
Once you have submitted your application to the embassy, the processing phase begins. Depending on the embassy’s requirements, you may be asked to attend an in-person interview or provide additional documents. It’s crucial to note that once your application is submitted, you cannot modify it.
Upon reaching a decision regarding your application, you can collect your passport during designated hours on working days. If you have applied through a travel agency, they can collect it on your behalf.
How to Check Peru Visa Status?
Since the entire application process is offline, the embassy does not offer an online tracking service for visa status. However, if you have applied through a travel agent, you can inquire whether they can check your status by contacting the embassy directly.
When You Have the Visa
Upon successfully obtaining your tourist permit, it’s essential to keep the following points in mind to ensure a hassle-free journey:
Before You Travel
- Note the validity, stay duration, and the number of entries specified on your visa. You must not stay in the country beyond this period.
- Carry all your travel documents with you before departing for Peru.
At the Border
- Present your passport with the visa to the immigration officer at the port of entry, where your entry stamp will be placed.
- Be prepared to show copies of other documents submitted with your application.
- Answer any basic questions about your visit honestly and without hesitation.
When You Enter Peru
- While on a tourist permit, you cannot engage in formal employment with a Peruvian company or take part in business activities.
- You may be eligible to extend this type of visa if needed.
- Keep copies of your passport and visa with you while traveling within the country.
- Respect the culture, customs, and immigration laws of Peru during your stay.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can extend your tourist visa in Peru easily. You can do this by visiting the immigration department in Lima and applying for an extension. However, ensure that you apply for an extension before your visa expires. If you are not able to get the extension in time, you must leave the country immediately.
Upon the expiration of your tourist permit, you are not allowed to stay in the country any longer. As per regulations, you must leave Peru before the exact expiry date stated on your visa. Staying beyond that date is considered an offense and can result in fines and deportation.
The embassy requirements do not mention specific medical tests for the tourist category. However, it is expected that you are in good health during your visit. It is advisable to undergo a medical check-up before traveling to a foreign country.
No, it is not possible to convert a tourist visa into an employment permit. These categories are independent of each other. If you require a work permit, you must apply for one after returning to your home country.
The embassy requirements do not specify a minimum amount for visa applications. Instead, you are expected to possess sufficient funds to support your entire stay. Ensure that the funds are easily accessible, and your transaction history shows stability.
The processing time for a Peruvian tourist permit is typically 7 to 10 working days, but it can take longer depending on various factors. Therefore, it is recommended to apply at least 10 working days before your intended travel date.