Peru to ease entry for some Indian travelers

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? Peru has published a decree that will allow Indian nationals traveling for business or tourism to enter the country without a Peruvian visa, provided they hold permanent residence or a valid visa for Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom, the United States or a Schengen Area country.

What does the change mean? Beginning March 26, qualifying Indian nationals will have an easier time traveling to Peru for business or tourism. Travelers must hold a valid passport and permanent residence or a visa valid for at least six months for one of the countries listed above. They will be able to enter Peru one or more times and will be permitted to remain for up to 180 calendar days in a one-year period.

• Implementation time frame: March 26.
• Visas/permits affected: Business and tourist visas.
• Who is affected: Indian nationals traveling to Peru for business or tourism who hold permanent residence in or a visa for Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom, the United States or a Schengen Area country.
• Impact on processing times: The change will save affected Indian nationals the time it takes to obtain a visa.
• Business impact: Business travelers are among those who will benefit from the new visa liberalization policy for Indian visitors.

Background: The decree was published Monday in Peru’s official gazette, “El Peruano.” Officials hope the change will strengthen business and tourism ties between the two countries. The eased regulations will take effect March 26. Those traveling before then must adhere to regular visa requirements. Peru adopted a similar program for Chinese travelers in September.

BAL Analysis: The program, in some instances, make travel to Peru easier for Indian nationals visiting on business or for tourism. Those intending to conduct work activities in Peru, however, must obtain work authorization.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group and our network provider located in Peru. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.

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