Peru Investor Visa

Overview of Peru's Investor Visa

Peru's Investor visa, formally known as the Calidad Migratoria de Inversionista, is designed to attract foreign capital and entrepreneurship to the Peruvian economy. It grants residency to individuals who make a substantial investment in a Peruvian enterprise that generates employment for local workers.

The minimum investment threshold is approximately 500,000 PEN (roughly $130,000 USD), and the investor must create at least 5 formal jobs for Peruvian nationals. This visa is administered by Migraciones in coordination with other government agencies including SUNAT (tax authority) and SUNARP (public registry).

Peru's position as the sixth-largest economy in Latin America, its membership in the Pacific Alliance (alongside Mexico, Colombia, and Chile), and its extensive network of free trade agreements make it an attractive destination for international investors.

Types of Qualifying Investments

Starting a New Business

The most common path is establishing a new company in Peru. You can form a Sociedad Anonima Cerrada (S.A.C.) or Sociedad Comercial de Responsabilidad Limitada (S.R.L.), which are the most popular business structures for foreign investors. The business must be registered with SUNARP, obtain a RUC from SUNAT, and be operational with hired employees.

Popular sectors for foreign investment include:

• Tourism and hospitality (hotels, restaurants, tour operators)
• Agriculture and agro-export (Peru is a major exporter of blueberries, avocados, and quinoa)
• Technology and software development
• Mining services and equipment
• Import/export and retail
• Real estate development

Acquiring an Existing Business

Purchasing an established Peruvian company can qualify, provided the acquisition value meets the minimum threshold and you maintain or increase employment levels. This approach has the advantage of inheriting an existing workforce, client base, and operational infrastructure.

Real Estate Development

Investment in real estate development projects can qualify for the Investor visa. This includes constructing residential or commercial buildings, hotel development, or mixed-use projects. The key distinction is that the investment must involve active development and job creation, not simply purchasing a property for personal use.

Capital Contributions

Making a significant capital contribution to an existing Peruvian company as a shareholder or partner can qualify, provided your personal investment meets the minimum threshold and the company employs the required number of workers.

Job Creation Requirements

The 5-job minimum is a critical component of the Investor visa. These positions must be:

• Formal employment registered with the Ministry of Labor (MTPE)
• Full-time positions for Peruvian nationals (not other foreigners)
• Enrolled in ESSALUD (public health insurance) and a pension fund
• Paid at least minimum wage (currently 1,025 PEN/month, approximately $270 USD)
• Maintained continuously throughout the duration of your visa

Migraciones will verify employment records during initial processing and at each renewal. Failure to maintain the required number of employees can jeopardize your visa status.

Business Formation in Peru

Setting up a business in Peru involves several steps:

1. Choose a Business Structure Most foreign investors opt for a S.A.C. (Sociedad Anonima Cerrada), which is similar to a limited liability company. It requires a minimum of 2 shareholders and a maximum of 20. For solo investors, an E.I.R.L. (Empresa Individual de Responsabilidad Limitada) is an option.

2. Reserve Your Company Name Submit a name reservation request to SUNARP (Superintendencia Nacional de los Registros Publicos). The name search and reservation typically takes 1-3 business days.

3. Draft Articles of Incorporation Prepare the company's bylaws and articles of incorporation (minuta de constitucion) with the help of a Peruvian attorney. These documents must be notarized.

4. Register with SUNARP File the notarized articles of incorporation with SUNARP to officially register the company. This process takes approximately 5-7 business days.

5. Obtain Your RUC Register with SUNAT to obtain your RUC (Registro Unico de Contribuyentes), which is your company's tax identification number. This is required for invoicing, paying taxes, and hiring employees.

6. Open a Business Bank Account Open a corporate bank account at a Peruvian bank (BCP, BBVA, Interbank, or Scotiabank are the major options). You will need your SUNARP registration, RUC, and identification documents. Transfer your investment capital through this account to create a clear paper trail.

7. Register Employees Hire your employees and register them with the Ministry of Labor, ESSALUD, and a pension fund (AFP or ONP).

Financial Considerations

Taxes

Peru's corporate income tax rate is 29.5%. Dividends distributed to shareholders are taxed at an additional 5%. Peru has double taxation treaties with several countries including the United States, Canada, Brazil, Chile, Mexico, and several European nations.

Businesses in certain sectors or regions may qualify for tax incentives. The Amazon region offers reduced tax rates, and agricultural enterprises can benefit from special tax regimes.

Banking

Opening a business bank account in Peru as a foreigner requires patience. Banks will want to see your company registration, RUC, and a clear explanation of your business activities. Anti-money laundering regulations mean that banks scrutinize large deposits and transfers, so maintaining clear documentation of your investment source is essential.

Currency

While Peru's currency is the Sol (PEN), many large transactions, especially in real estate and international business, are conducted in US dollars. Peru's economy is partially dollarized, and maintaining accounts in both currencies is common and straightforward.

The Application Process

1. Establish your business in Peru following the steps above, or identify an acquisition target
2. Transfer investment funds through formal banking channels and document the transfer
3. Hire at least 5 Peruvian employees and register them formally
4. Gather personal documents: passport, criminal background check (apostilled and translated), health certificate, photos
5. Prepare business documents: SUNARP registration, RUC, employee records, bank statements showing investment
6. Submit your application to Migraciones with all supporting documentation
7. Attend biometrics appointment and any requested interviews
8. Receive your Carnet de Extranjeria upon approval

The process typically takes 8-12 weeks due to the additional verification of investment and employment records. Working with a Peruvian immigration attorney is strongly recommended for Investor visa applications.

Long-Term Outlook

After maintaining your investment and employment obligations for 3 consecutive years, you become eligible to apply for permanent residency in Peru. Permanent residency removes many of the conditions tied to the Investor visa and provides greater flexibility.

Peru's economic fundamentals remain strong, with consistent GDP growth, a stable currency, and increasing integration into global trade networks. For investors with a medium to long-term horizon, Peru offers genuine opportunities across multiple sectors.