đ”đȘ Ready to start a new adventure across the Channel? If youâre planning a move to Peru, this guide will give you all the practical steps, updated costs, and streamlined advice you need for a smooth transition.
What should I know about living in Peru at a glance?
âą Flag: đ”đȘ
âą Population: ~34.6 million (national, 2025)
âą Currency: Peruvian Sol (PEN) â Prices are usually compared internationally in USD.
âą Average salary: around PEN 24,000 per year (~USD 6,200)
âą Live PEN ââ Dollar: Use dynamic currency converters for the latest exchange rates (National Institute of Statistics and Informatics of Peru, 2025; IMF, 2025; Central Reserve Bank of Peru; XE, 2025)
Reviewed by National Institute of Statistics and Informatics of Peru (INEI), June 2025; Central Reserve Bank of Peru (BCRP), last updated July 2025; XE Financial Data Team, last updated July 2025.
How much does it cost to move door-to-door to Peru?
The cost of moving to Peru depends on shipment size and transport method. Typical market rates as of mid-2025 are:
| Move Type | Time | Cost (EUR or USD) |
| 20 ft container (FCL)âș | ~4â7 weeks | USD 2,100â2,900 (â EUR 1,950â2,700) for a 20-ft FCL from Europe/USA to Peru BR LOGISTICS |
| 40 ft container (FCL)âș | ~4â7 weeks | USD 3,300â6,200 (â EUR 3,000â5,700) depending on origin & route BR LOGISTICS+1 |
| Air freight (~1 mÂł / ~200 kg, door-to-door) | ~5â10 days | Typically significantly more expensive; often several thousand USD depending on urgency & distance (not enough public data for a stable benchmark) |
| Customs & duties fees | â | Peru import duty rates are generally 6% on CIF value, plus 18% VAT (IGV) applied on the import value including duty & shipping costs. DHL+1 |
Reviewed by Freight & Logistics market sources & Peruvian customs/tax guides, last updated mid-2025.
Use a real-time moving cost calculator for tailored quotes with ReloAdvisor.
Real-life case:âI moved to Lima in April 2025 with about 25 cubic meters of personal belongings using a 40-ft container from Los Angeles. The total costâincluding door-to-door pick-up, sea freight, and delivery to my apartment in central Limaâwas around USD 5,300. The relocation company in Peru handled customs clearance at the Port of Callao and arranged final delivery despite urban congestion and narrow access roads.â
â Alejandro M., moved in April 2025
Importantly, many people moving to Peru choose to relocate to one of the five most popular cities, including Lima, Arequipa, Trujillo, Chiclayo, and Cusco.These cities combine strong infrastructure, diverse job markets, and vibrant expat communities.Create hyperlinks for each city name here.
What are the customs and duty rules when moving belongings?
If you’re relocating to Peru, you may qualify for duty-free import of used household goods under Peruvian Customs (SUNAT) regulations. To be eligible:
- Items must have been owned and used for at least 6 months
- Goods must arrive within 120 days after your move
At customs, present:
- Inventory list of goods
- Passport and valid visa/residence permit
- Proof of residency abroad
â ïž New items, vehicles, alcohol, tobacco, or luxury goods may be subject to Peruâs import duties (6â25% depending on category) plus VAT (IGV) of 18% applied on the customs value including freight and insurance.
Reviewed by Peruvian National Customs Authority (SUNAT), last updated mid-2025
What do I need to know about Peru visas and residency?
Most foreigners require a visa or residence permit to live in Peru. Options include: Work Visa, Temporary Resident Visa, Student Visa, Family Reunification Visa, Investor Visa, and the Permanent Residence option after a long-term stay.
- Visa categories and eligibility check: https://www.migraciones.gob.pe/
- Visa/residence permit application portal (for appointments and documents): https://agenciavirtual.migraciones.gob.pe/
Reviewed by Peruvian National Superintendency of Migration (Superintendencia Nacional de Migraciones), last updated in June 2025
Whatâs required to import a car or swap a driving licence?
Vehicles must comply with Peruvian emissions and safety standards. Import duties, VAT (18% IGV), and registration fees apply.
Driverâs licences from certain countries with reciprocity agreements (e.g., Spain, Italy, South Korea, Argentina) can be converted directly. Others (e.g., USA, UK, India, China) generally require passing a local driving test (theory + practical) before a Peruvian licence is issued.
Reviewed by Peruvian Ministry of Transport and Communications (Ministerio de Transportes y Comunicaciones) & Peruvian National Customs Authority (SUNAT), last updated in July 2025
How can I bring pets with me to Peru?
Pets must be microchipped, vaccinated against rabies, and accompanied by a Sanitary Import Certificate issued by the National Agricultural Health Service (SENASA). A valid rabies antibody blood test may be required if coming from non-approved countries. Import requirements vary by species. Entry is permitted only through designated entry points such as Limaâs Jorge ChĂĄvez International Airport.
Reviewed by Peruvian National Agricultural Health Service (SENASA), last updated in March 2025
How do I open a bank account and get Peruâs national identity number (DNI/RUC)?
To open a Peruvian bank account, youâll need:
- Passport and valid visa/residence permit
- Proof of address (rental contract or utility bill)
- Sometimes proof of employment or student enrollment
The DNI (Documento Nacional de Identidad) is Peruâs national identity card for citizens, while foreign residents receive a CE (CarnĂ© de ExtranjerĂa).
For tax and banking purposes, individuals and businesses use a RUC (Registro Ănico de Contribuyentes), issued by SUNAT after registering your residence in Peru.
Reviewed by National Registry of Identification and Civil Status (RENIEC) & National Superintendency of Tax Administration (SUNAT), last updated in November 2024
How to Navigate the Housing Market as a Newcomer to Peru?
In Peru, renting usually requires a security deposit (normally 1 monthâs rent) and proof of stable income. Utilities are often not included in rent.
To rent, youâll need:
- Passport and valid visa/residence permit
- Proof of income or job/study contract
- Peruvian CE (CarnĂ© de ExtranjerĂa) or DNI/RUC (national ID/tax number)
To buy property in Peru, budget an extra 3â5% for legal fees, notary costs, stamp duties, and other transaction-related expenses.
Top areas for newcomers:
- Lima (capital, business and financial hub, large expat community)
- Arequipa (colonial charm, affordable housing, growing tech sector)
- Trujillo (coastal city, cultural and educational hub)
- Cusco (heritage tourism, creative industries, expat-friendly)
- Piura (sunny climate, lower living costs, close to beaches)
Reviewed by the National Institute of Statistics and Informatics (INEI) & Peruvian Real Estate Associations, last updated in March 2025
How to Understand Your Tax and Pension Obligations in Peru?
If youâre a tax resident in Peru (living more than 183 days per year), youâre generally taxed on worldwide income. Contributions to social insurance and pension schemes are mandatory for employees under local contracts.
| Tax Component | Description | Notes |
| Income Tax | Progressive rates: 8%â30% depending on income | Foreigners may be taxed only on Peruvian-sourced income for the first 3 years of residency |
| Social Contributions | Covers pension (ONP or AFP), healthcare (EsSalud), unemployment insurance | Employee share ~13%â15%, employer contributes additional 9% EsSalud |
| Double Tax Treaties | Avoid double taxation | Peru has agreements with 10+ countries, including Brazil, Chile, Canada, Mexico, Switzerland, and South Korea |
Reviewed by the Peruvian National Superintendency of Tax Administration (SUNAT), last updated in 2025
Where can I find tools and more resources before moving?
For further guidance, make use of the volume calculator, book a video survey, or explore comprehensive guides for Colombia and Argentina with ReloAdvisor.
