During the APEC forum, Deputy Minister of Foreign Trade Teresa Mera announced that Japan will temporarily lift the visa requirement for Peruvian citizens in specific cases, such as business trips, for three years.
In an interview, Deputy Minister Mera clarified that the visa waiver for Peruvians will apply in three situations: holders of special passports, business travelers, and one additional case that she could not recall during the interview. This agreement, reached at the APEC forum, aims to boost business and trade relations between the two countries over an initial three-year period.
Mera emphasized that this measure “does not apply to Peruvian tourists.” However, she noted that if the implementation proves successful, it could pave the way for considering a visa exemption for Peruvian tourists in the future. “It’s an important step for business, and if it works well, it could set a precedent for future tourism agreements,” she added.
Scope and ease of the agreement
Specific details on verifying the business purpose of travel have not yet been defined, but the process is expected to be more streamlined for Peruvian entrepreneurs, making it easier to access the Japanese market and strengthening economic cooperation between both nations.
The decision highlights the mutual interest of Peru and Japan in deepening their commercial ties. Japan remains one of Peru’s main economic partners in Asia, with agreements spanning sectors such as agribusiness, mining, and technology. The visa waiver for business travelers could enhance investment exchanges and open up new business opportunities.
This visa exemption for Peruvian business travelers will not only streamline commercial activities but also serve as a strategic move to position Peru as a reliable and preferred partner for Japan in the region.
Visa requirements for Japan
- Valid Peruvian passport. If you’ve previously had a Japanese visa or visited Japan, include your previous passport.
- Completed visa application form for Japan.
- Passport-sized photo, recent and taken from the front.
- Flight or transportation itinerary (ship/cruise), showing entry and exit dates.
- Valid ID document (DNI or foreign resident card).
- Travel plan, including accommodation details and contacts during your stay.
- Proof of financial solvency, showing the ability to cover travel expenses.
- Tax report and withholding statement from Sunat for the past year, or a fifth-category income certificate from your employer.
- For self-employed professionals or business owners: submit the latest annual income tax return and/or a bank statement showing the current balance.