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