Peruvian Citizenship by Naturalization

Foreigners can apply for Peruvian citizenship through standard naturalization (after two years of legal residency) or through marriage to a Peruvian citizen.

In both cases, you’ll need to meet strict requirements and complete a formal application process, including background checks and an interview.

📄 Legal basis:
Decreto Supremo Nº 010-2002-IN – Reglamento de la Ley de Nacionalidad

1. Standard Naturalization

You may be eligible if you:

  • Are 18 years or older

  • Have lived legally in Peru for at least 2 years, holding a residence permit (Carné de Extranjería)

  • Have not left Peru for more than 183 days per year (unless you received special authorization)

Requirements

  • Application addressed to the President of Peru (we’ll prepare it for you)
  • Valid Carné de Extranjería and passport copy
  • Apostilled or legalized birth certificate
  • Interpol clearance certificate (criminal background check)
  • Proof of legal income (approx. S/ 51,500 per year or ~USD 13,500)
  • Declarations confirming your health, address, and clean criminal record
  • Spanish exam on Peruvian history, geography, and culture
  • Interview with a government official (in Spanish)

Timeline

Once submitted, the process usually takes around 12 months. The final decision is made by the President of Peru.

2. Naturalization by marriage

You can apply if you:

  • Are married to a Peruvian citizen

  • Have been legally residing in Peru with a residence permit for at least 2 years after your marriage

  • Have lived continuously in Peru (minimum 183 days per year)

Requirements

  • Application addressed to the President of Peru

  • Valid Carné de Extranjería and passport copy

  • Interpol clearance certificate

  • Marriage certificate, registered in Peru

  • Birth certificate of the Peruvian spouse

  • Declaration that the couple lives together

  • Declaration about health, address, and no convictions

  • Interview in Spanish (no written test required)

❗ Same-sex marriage:
As of now, Peru does not recognize same-sex marriages, even if legally performed abroad. This unfortunately means no residency or citizenship can be granted based on a same-sex partner at this time.

How we help

  • We support you through the full process:
  • Evaluate your eligibility
  • Prepare and review all documents
  • Handle certified translations and legalizations
  • Book and accompany you to appointments (Interpol, Migraciones, interviews)
  • Support you through the exam and/or interview
  • Regular updates on your application status
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Wondering if you're eligible for Peruvian citizenship?

Peruvian nationality laws can be complex, especially if you were born abroad or have Peruvian parents. The process involves strict documentation and legal criteria that can vary by case.

Book your private consultation with Sergio Vargas to clarify your eligibility and get step-by-step guidance tailored to your background.

The session takes place via Zoom and can be conducted in English or Spanish.

Click here to schedule your consultation