Peru Citizenship by Residency (2025)

How to Obtain Peruvian Citizenship by Residency in 2025

Peruvian citizenship by residency, or naturalization, offers permanent residents a fast track to joining a nation rich in history, from Machu Picchu to Lima’s culinary scene. Overseen by the Superintendencia Nacional de Migraciones (Migraciones), the process requires just 2 years of residency—one of the shortest in South America—making it ideal for expats and retirees. A Peruvian passport ranks 34th globally (132 visa-free destinations in 2025) and includes Mercosur associate benefits.

With its stable economy and diverse landscapes, Peru attracts adventurers, professionals, and families. This 2025 guide covers eligibility, residency requirements, application steps, and expert tips to secure your citizenship efficiently.

Who Qualifies for Citizenship by Residency?

Naturalization is open to permanent residents, with a standard 2-year residency requirement and no special exceptions for ties like marriage. Here’s who qualifies:

Note: Unlike some countries, Peru doesn’t shorten residency for spouses or parents of citizens—everyone follows the 2-year rule. Dual citizenship is permitted.

Residency Rules: The 2-Year Pathway

Residency begins with a temporary visa, followed by permanent residency (Residencia Permanente), both issued by Migraciones. Here’s the process:

• Temporary Visa: 1 year via Trabajo (work), Rentista (~$1,000 USD/month income), or Familiar (spouse/child of resident); renewable.
• Permanent Residency: Apply after 1-2 years of temporary residency; requires ~$1,500 USD/month income or stable job.
• Physical Presence: Must spend 183+ days/year in Peru (6+ months) during the 2 years as a permanent resident.

Example: Juan, a Spaniard, gets a Rentista visa in April 2023 with $1,200 USD/month income. He switches to permanent residency in April 2024 and applies for citizenship in April 2026 after 2 years (total 3 years in Peru).

Key Rule: Absences over 6 consecutive months during permanent residency reset the 2-year clock unless approved by Migraciones (e.g., for work).

Step-by-Step Application Process

Naturalization is handled by Migraciones and finalized via a Supreme Resolution. Here’s the 2025 process:

1. Start Residency: Obtain a temporary visa, then permanent residency.
2. Complete 2 Years: Live in Peru as a permanent resident for 2 years, with 183+ days/year.
3. Gather Documents: Permanent residency card, passport, birth certificate (apostilled/translated), police clearances (Peru + home country), health certificate, proof of income/residence, 2 photos.
4. Submit Application: File Solicitud de Naturalización at Migraciones’ online portal or in-person; pay PEN 533 (~$140 USD).
5. Review & Interview: Background check and possible Spanish interview with Migraciones officials.
6. Await Approval: 6-12 months; approved via Supreme Resolution in El Peruano (official gazette).
7. Oath & ID: Take oath, receive naturalization certificate, and apply for DNI/passport.

Timeline: 3-4 years total (1-2 years temporary + 2 years permanent + processing).

Costs of Peruvian Citizenship

Fees are reasonable, with additional costs for residency and documents:

Tips to Secure Your Citizenship

• Start with Rentista: Easiest visa for passive income holders (~$1,000 USD/month).
• Stay Resident: Spend 183+ days/year in Peru to meet presence rules.
• Learn Spanish: Not required, but fluency helps interviews and integration.
• Prove Income: Show consistent earnings (e.g., job, pension) to satisfy economic stability.
• Track Updates: Check Migraciones for 2025 fee or policy changes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

References & Resources

• Migraciones - Official residency and citizenship info.
• RENIEC - DNI/passport services.
• Henley Passport Index - Passport ranking.