Peru has Andean peaks, Amazon rainforest, desert coast and the ruins of the Inca Empire, plus one of the world's most celebrated food scenes. Living costs are low, and Lima's Miraflores and Barranco districts have large international communities. Bureaucracy, petty crime and political instability are the main drawbacks.

Visa options

Many nationalities can visit Peru visa-free for up to 183 days a year, but tourist stays cannot be extended and do not allow local work. The main longer-term options, handled by Migraciones, are:

  • Rentista visa: for people with permanent passive income from abroad of at least US$1,000 a month. Pensions, royalties and dividends qualify, but income from remote work, freelancing, rent and interest does not. It has indefinite validity, making it ideal for retirees.
  • Worker visa: for employees of Peruvian companies with an approved contract.
  • Independent worker visa: for self-employed professionals with Peruvian clients.
  • Family residence: for spouses and children of Peruvian citizens.

Peru created a digital nomad residence category in law in 2023, but as of 2026 the application procedure still has not been published, so it cannot be used. Remote workers typically use visa-free stays.

How much does it cost to live in Peru?

Our Peru data puts an average one-bedroom at about $450 a month and a three-bedroom at about $850. Miraflores, San Isidro and Barranco in Lima cost more, while Arequipa and Cusco are cheaper. Groceries cost about $200 a month, and a set lunch menu (menú) costs just a few dollars. Tap water is not safe to drink.

How Peruvian tax works

People who spend more than 183 days in Peru in a 12-month period become tax residents and are taxed on worldwide income at progressive rates of 8% to 30%, according to SUNAT. Non-residents pay a flat 30% on Peruvian-source salary. Employees contribute about 13% of salary to a pension fund. IGV, Peru's VAT, is 18%. Try our tax calculator.

Healthcare

Expats generally use private clinics in Lima, such as Clínica Anglo Americana, Clínica Ricardo Palma and Clínica Internacional, which offer good care at moderate prices. Formal employees are covered by EsSalud, but services are often crowded. Outside Lima, facilities are limited.

Daily life

Peruvian culture blends Indigenous Andean and Amazonian traditions with Spanish, African, Chinese and Japanese influences. Spanish is the main language; Quechua is widely spoken in the highlands. Altitude is a real issue in Cusco (3,400 m) and Puno (3,800 m), so allow time to acclimatise.

Lima's weather is mild but grey and humid from June to October, while Arequipa enjoys sunshine most of the year. Politics has been unstable, with several presidents in recent years, and petty crime is common in cities.

Is Peru a good place to move?

Peru suits retirees with a pension, food lovers and adventurous people who want to learn Spanish and live affordably. Remote workers should note that the digital nomad visa is not yet available. Compare Peru with its neighbours using our comparison tool.