Peru Working Holiday Visa - The Complete Guide
If you’ve always wanted to travel and experience South America, it may be worth looking into the Working Holiday Visa option available. It’s the perfect blend of travel, earning money, and furthering your career.
There are select countries that have agreements with Peru, but if you’re one of the lucky ones, this could be your ticket to the trip and experience of a lifetime.
Imagine This:
- Hiking Machu Picchu – If you’re a history buff and love a bit of physical adventure, you must take the opportunity to scale one of the world’s most incredible landmarks.
- Stepping back in time on the Inca Trail – The Inca Trail is one of the oldest and most historically significant routes South America has to offer.
- Exploring the famous Mercado Central – Discovering a local treasure just became your new favourite activity as you wander through the colourful and vibrant markets of Mercado Central.
If South America is calling you, it’s worth checking out the eligibility requirements and travel expectations outlined below. In this guide, we explain everything you need to know to determine whether Peru is the right destination for your Working Holiday adventure.
Eligibility Criteria – Who Can Apply?
Before you get the hiking boots ready, you need to ensure you meet the eligibility criteria of Peru’s Working Holiday Visa. It is important to note that Peru has multiple agreements with various countries, so each country may have varying rules, regulations and requirements. This guide has general information that will need to be checked. For the best and most up-to-date information, it is best to check with your country's Peruvian consular mission.
- Age Requirements: Most countries have an age limit between 18 and 30.
- Nationality Restrictions: Peru’s Working Holiday Visa is only open to citizens from Australia, Chile, Colombia, France, Mexico, New Zealand and Portugal.
- Financial Requirements: It is essential you have enough funds to support you on your stay while in Peru. You will be required to have roughly around 2500 EUR, and be able to prove via bank statements.
- Capable of Speaking Functional Spanish: Speaking functional Spanish is a requirement outlined on some countries application pages, so it’s essential to determine whether this is a requirement for your specific country’s location or not.
- Proof of Education: Some countries, such as Australia, it is a requirement to have a minimum of 2 years of higher education under your belt.
Top Tip: Every country has different agreements and arrangements with Peru under its Working Holiday Visa program. It’s essential to cross-check the eligibility requirements with your local government and consulate to ensure they align with your country of origin.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Once you have confirmed that you meet all the eligibility requirements, it’s time to gather your information and documentation and begin the application process. We have put together a general guide outlining the best approach for applying for the Peruvian Working Holiday Visa.
It’s important to note that you can apply for the visa up to six months before your intended travel date, and you do not need to be in the country you are applying from. However, you must submit your application before entering Peru.
Step 1: Confirm You’re Eligible
First, ensure you can apply for the Working Holiday Visa (WHV)
You must:
- Are of the right age/are within the age restrictions (18-30 years of age for most countries)
- You are from either Australia, Chile, Colombia, France, Mexico, New Zealand or Portugal
- Have enough funds for your stay and can prove your savings
Step 2: Prepare Required Documents
Gather these essentials:
- Passport validation for at least 6 months after your intended return date
- Secondary form of identification - birth certificate is preferable
- Completed DGC-005 visa form
- Work and Holiday Summary Sheet
- Proof of funds - printed bank statements
- Plane ticket to and from Peru
- Travel medical insurance
- In the case of countries requiring educational background - evidence of transcripts or completed classes/courses
- Letter of support from your country of residence (applicable to some countries)
- Declaration stating you are not travelling with dependents
Top Tip: The cost and wait times of the visa will vary based on your country of origin, so it;s essential to enquire with your local consulate what the expected wait time will be to ensure you are well prepared before the application process commences.
What Should You Do Upon Arrival?
Follow these steps once you arrive in Singapore:
1. Clear Immigration at the Airport
When you arrive in Peru, you will need to go through immigration and you will need to prove and supply the right documentation to support your Working Holiday Visa travel arrangement. Before you arrive, ensure you have all the right copies of all the documents you will need, and be prepared to supply and answer the following:
- Valid passport
- Working Holiday Visa
- Proof of finances
- Proof of return flight
- Proof of organised and booked accommodation
2. Local Sim Card
Get a Local SIM Card. This will allow you to access the internet and ensure you have access to information to get from the airport to your accommodation. The local companies are Claro, Movistar, and Bitel. All of the following suppliers should be available at the airport on your arrival.
3. Get a Bank Account (Optional but Recommended)
Having a local bank account isn’t essential, but it can make transactions with your employer easier, especially for tax purposes and the general transfer of funds. It also simplifies withdrawing cash from ATMs. In Peru, online and electronic payments aren’t always readily available, so having cash on hand is necessary in some situations.
The top local banks due to ATM availability and reliability:
- BSP Peru's largest bank and has the most widely available ATMs
- Interbank has some of the most modern facilities and accessibility, also great for traveller friendly services
Top Tip: If you want to do cash exchange, you can trade in your local currency at banks, reliable cash exchanges, airports and hotels. It is recommended to only exchange small sums of money to reduce your chances of scams.
Preparing for Your Peruvian Working Holiday
A seamless start to your Singapore adventure depends on thoughtful preparation. You can avoid stress with these tips:
Get Your Finances in Order
One of the perks of traveling to Peru is that most countries with Working Holiday Visa agreements have a strong exchange rate, allowing travelers to get more value when converting their local currency. Additionally, Peru is generally more affordable than major cities like Sydney, New York, and London, meaning the cost of living is lower and your money can go much further.
Packing Essentials
Peru has a diverse climate, so you want to ensure you’re packing for all of the seasons - from the humid Amazon to the chilly Andes.
- A range of lightweight clothing that is comfortable and breathable
- Warm clothing that is compact and durable
- A pair of hiking boots (if you enjoy the outdoors)
- Formal wear
- Swimwear
Health & Safety Prep
It is essential to check with your local country's guide regarding the vaccinations and travel precautions you should consider before embarking on your travels to Peru. When it comes to travel insurance, you should ensure that you have coverage that is adequate and offers comprehensive health insurance for the entirety of your stay and travel period.
Cultural Know-How
When you travel to Peru for your Working Holiday Visa, it’s important to embrace the local culture and customs. This will also increase your cultural immersion during your travels, enhancing your experience and making it a deeper and richer memory. Some of the local customs to be aware of are:
- A kiss on the cheek as a greeting for hello is normal.
- Modest clothing is expected in some areas and establishments.
- Ask for permission before taking pictures.
Working in Peru on a Working Holiday Visa
Deciding to work in Singapore as a Working Holiday Visa holder becomes simpler with proper knowledge about available openings and prohibited avenues.
Here are some tips to help you achieve maximum work experience while avoiding governmental restrictions:
Job Opportunities for Working Holiday Programme Visas
The continuous economic expansion of Singapore provides perfect employment opportunities that match the Working Holiday Programme requirements.
- Entry-level positions within Singapore's hospitality & tourism industry include roles in hotels, or any type of summer or seasonal work.
- Working within a company that is registered with the Accounting & Regulatory Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA).
- Work in a profession which you are qualified for, such as law, medicine, architecture etc. However, you must be registered and qualified.
Attractions and Experiences
Cultural Experience
- Hawker Centers: You can visit Maxwell Food Centre (try Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice) and Lau Pa Sat.
- Neighborhoods:
- Little India: Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple + banana leaf meals at Komala Vilas.
- Kampong Glam: Haji Lane’s street art and Arab Street’s rug shops.
- Free Museums: National Museum of Singapore (free 6 - 9 PM Fridays) and Buddha Tooth Relic Temple.
Nature Escapes
- A must-do is hiking Machu Picchu. You can opt for a one-day trip or tour, or if you’re an avid hiker, you can choose a four-day adventure. If you choose the four-day hiking option, it’s essential to organize and book in advance, as numbers are limited and tours tend to sell out quickly.
- If you love water sports, you can head out for a surf along Peru’s Pacific coastline or jump into white-water rafting in the Andes. These tours and experiences are weather-dependent, so be sure to choose the best time of year to make the most of your adventure.
- Explore the Amazon—whether you’re looking for a boat cruise or a hiking tour, there are plenty of options to suit all experience levels and preferences.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for Peru’s Working Holiday Visa?
To be eligible for Peru’s Working Holiday Visa, you must:
- Be between 18 and 30 years old (age limits may vary by country).
- Hold a passport from one of the eligible countries: Australia, Chile, Colombia, France, Mexico, New Zealand, or Portugal.
- Have sufficient funds (approximately 2,500 EUR) and be able to provide proof via bank statements.
- Check if your country requires you to speak functional Spanish or have a minimum level of education.
When and where can I apply for the visa?
You can apply for the Peruvian Working Holiday Visa up to six months before your intended travel date. You do not need to be in your home country to apply, but you must complete the application process before entering Peru. Check with your local Peruvian consulate for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding processing times and requirements.
What documents do I need for the application?
To apply for the visa, you typically need:
- A valid passport (at least six months beyond your intended return date).
- A completed DGC-005 visa form and Work and Holiday Summary Sheet.
- Proof of funds (bank statements).
- A return flight ticket.
- Travel medical insurance.
- Proof of education (if required by your country).
- A letter of support (if applicable to your country).
- A declaration stating you are not traveling with dependents.
Can I work any job while on a Peruvian Working Holiday Visa?
The visa allows you to work while traveling in Peru, but job opportunities may be limited to certain industries such as tourism, hospitality, and teaching English. Some employers may require you to have functional Spanish skills, so it’s beneficial to improve your language proficiency before arriving.
How much money do I need to have before arriving in Peru?
You must have at least 2,500 EUR (or the equivalent in your local currency) to support yourself during your stay. You will need to provide proof of these funds through recent bank statements as part of your visa application. It’s also recommended to have additional savings for unexpected expenses or initial costs like accommodation and transport upon arrival.
Final Thoughts
A Working Holiday Visa for Peru presents an incredible opportunity to explore South America while gaining work experience and immersing yourself in a rich cultural landscape. From the breathtaking sights of Machu Picchu and the historic Inca Trail to the vibrant local markets, Peru offers a once-in-a-lifetime adventure for those ready to take the leap.
Before embarking on your journey, it’s crucial to ensure you meet the eligibility requirements and have all necessary documents in order. Every country has different agreements with Peru, so checking with your local consulate is key to a smooth application process. Once you arrive, settling in with essentials like a local SIM card and possibly a bank account will help you navigate your stay with ease.
If South America has been calling your name, this could be the perfect chance to experience its wonders while working and traveling. With proper planning and preparation, your Peruvian adventure could be more than just a trip—it could be a transformational experience.
If you want to learn about the working holiday visa’s for other countries, we have extensive guides for countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, United Kingdom, Germany, Spain, Italy, Ireland, Korea, Taiwan, Argentina, Chile, Hong Kong and more coming.