Peru has increased the minimum residency requirement for naturalization from two to five years and introduced income and language evaluation criteria.
These Peru citizenship changes affect eligibility, processing, and the requirements applicants must meet.
In this article, we explore:
- What are the updated requirements of the Peru citizenship program?
- Do I need to pass language tests to get Peru citizenship?
- Does Peru accept dual citizenship?
- Is it safe to go to Peru now?
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The information in this article is for general guidance only. It does not constitute financial, legal, or tax advice, and is not a recommendation or solicitation to invest. Some facts may have changed since the time of writing.
What are the Latest Changes in the Peru Citizenship Program?
Peru has implemented a new citizenship framework in 2025 that replaces the previous law in effect since 1996 and the major updates include:
- Extended Residency Requirement – Naturalization in Peru now requires five years of continuous legal residency, up from the previous two years.
- Income Threshold – Applicants must demonstrate an annual income of at least 10 tax units (around USD 15,000 in 2025).
- Language and Cultural Tests – Applicants must pass evaluations in Spanish or Indigenous languages, as well as tests on Peruvian history, geography, and civic education.
- Processing Time – The naturalization process can take up to 18 months, with the possibility of longer processing in exceptional cases.
- Exceptions – Certain individuals, such as distinguished athletes or those granted citizenship for meritorious achievements, may still be exempt from the five-year residency requirement.
Currently, only Singapore and Liberia offer citizenship timelines as short as two years, placing Peru among naturalization countries with stricter requirements.
Applying for Peruvian Citizenship: Documentation and Compliance
Applicants must provide thorough proof of income, residence, and other legal documents to successfully complete the naturalization process in Peru.
Key documentation includes:
- Proof of Income – Annual earnings must meet the threshold of 10 tax units (≈ USD 15,000 in 2025). Acceptable evidence includes employment contracts, pay slips, bank statements, or business income reports.
- Residency Documentation – Applicants must show continuous legal residence for five years. This can include rental or lease agreements, utility bills, tax records, or official residency certificates.
- Identity Verification – Valid passport, national ID, or visa documents to confirm identity and legal entry into Peru.
- Language and Civic Evaluations – Certificates of language proficiency in Spanish or an Indigenous language, and completion of any required history, geography, or civic education tests.
- Additional Legal Documents – Any supplementary documents requested by the immigration authorities, such as letters of recommendation, evidence of public service, or proof of distinguished achievements if applying under exception categories.
What are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Citizenship in Peru?
Advantages
- Dual Citizenship – Peru recognizes dual nationality, allowing applicants to keep their original citizenship.
- Visa-Free Travel – A Peruvian passport grants access to over 150 countries, including most of Latin America and the Schengen Area.
- Full Civic Rights – Citizens can vote, run for office, and enjoy unrestricted rights to live, work, and own property in Peru.
- Access to Services – Citizenship provides eligibility for public healthcare, education, and pension systems.
Disadvantages
- Stricter Requirements – The residency requirement has increased from two to five years, making the path longer.
- Income Threshold – Applicants must prove an annual income of at least 10 tax units.
- Mandatory Tests – Language, history, and civic exams may pose challenges for those unfamiliar with Spanish or Indigenous languages.
- Extended Processing Time – Naturalization applications can take up to 18 months or longer in some cases.
Is it Hard to Get Citizenship in Peru?
Yes. The new rules have made citizenship more difficult by extending residency to five years, adding income and language requirements, and lengthening the processing timeline.
Does Peru Allow Dual Citizenship?
Yes, Peru allows dual citizenship. Applicants can retain their original nationality while acquiring Peruvian citizenship.
This provides flexibility for expatriates or individuals who wish to maintain ties to their home country.
Conclusion
Peru’s citizenship program has become more structured and demanding, reflecting a global trend toward stricter naturalization policies.
While the process now takes longer and requires proof of income, language skills, and cultural knowledge, dual citizenship remains an option, offering flexibility to applicants with international ties.
FAQs
What’s your nationality if you’re from Peru?
If you are from Peru, your nationality is Peruvian.
Is Peru a strong passport?
Yes, the Peruvian passport is considered moderately strong.
As of 2025, it offers visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 150 countries, including most of Latin America and the Schengen Area.
However, it is not ranked as one of the most powerful passports in the world.
Is Peru safe right now?
Peru is generally safe for residents and tourists in most areas, but safety levels vary.
Major cities and tourist destinations are secure with proper precautions, while rural or remote regions may face higher risks from crime or political unrest.
What is the cost of living in rural Peru?
The cost of living in rural Peru is relatively low compared to urban areas. Monthly expenses can range from USD 400 to USD 700 for a modest lifestyle, covering housing, food, and basic services.
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