Overview: Peru for Remote Workers

Remote work has become a way of life for many professionals, and Peru is positioning itself as an attractive base for digital nomads. With snow‑capped mountains, surfable beaches and world‑class cuisine, the country offers unforgettable experiences alongside affordable living. Peru recently announced a digital nomad visa in November 2023, which, once enacted, will allow foreigners to live in Peru and earn an income from abroad for up to a year. For now, visitors from the US, Canada and many other countries can enter visa‑free and stay up to 183 days per year.

Visas & Legalities

Because the digital nomad visa is still awaiting implementation, remote workers must currently rely on tourist stays. You cannot legally work for a Peruvian company while on a tourist visa, but you may continue working for employers outside Peru as long as you respect the 183‑day limit. Always confirm current rules with the Peruvian consulate before booking a long stay.

Connectivity & Infrastructure

Reliable internet is critical for online work. Major cities such as Lima, Cusco and Arequipa boast modern coworking spaces and trendy cafés that cater to remote workers. Internet speeds are generally adequate in urban areas and allow streaming and video calls, though connections may slow during peak hours or in rural regions. Purchasing a local SIM card or eSIM ensures you have mobile data for hotspot tethering and backup; see our comprehensive SIM guide for more details. Residential broadband plans are available through operators such as Claro and Movistar, with fibre‑optic connections in some districts.

Cost of Living & Accommodation

Peru’s low cost of living makes it appealing for digital nomads. The average cost of living is about 54 % lower than in the United States. Furnished rentals in Lima’s safe districts (Miraflores, Barranco and San Isidro) can start at around US$500 per month. Prices drop in Cusco and Arequipa, where co‑living spaces and long‑stay hotels cater to remote workers. Groceries, transportation and eating out are also affordable compared to North America and Europe.

Time Zone Alignment

Peru operates on Peru Standard Time all year and doesn’t observe daylight saving. This means remote workers align conveniently with Eastern or Central Time in North America depending on the season.

Coworking & Community

Peru’s digital nomad community is growing rapidly. In Lima, neighbourhoods like Miraflores and Barranco host coworking hubs such as Selina, Comunal and Residencia. Cusco’s colonial centre and the artsy San Blas district have small shared offices and cafés ideal for answering emails between explorations. Arequipa’s mild climate and university atmosphere attract long‑term remote workers. Many spaces offer day passes or monthly memberships, high‑speed Wi‑Fi, meeting rooms and networking events.

Practical Tips for Working Online

  • Prepare for altitude: If working from high‑altitude cities like Cusco (3,400 m), give yourself a couple of days to acclimatise and stay hydrated to avoid headaches and fatigue.
  • Secure internet: Use a VPN when connecting to public Wi‑Fi to protect sensitive data. Carry a portable hotspot or download offline files for when connections falter.
  • Learn basic Spanish: While many Peruvians are friendly and welcoming, English is limited outside tourist areas. Knowing simple phrases makes everyday tasks smoother.
  • Choose safe neighbourhoods: For long stays, pick districts with good infrastructure and security such as Miraflores, San Isidro and Barranco in Lima, or San Blas in Cusco. These areas offer modern amenities, easy transport and vibrant food scenes.
  • Balance work and exploration: Plan for weekend trips to Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca or the Amazon. Peru’s diverse geography means you can surf, hike and explore ancient ruins between deadlines.
Visa & Tax Considerations

As regulations evolve, keep abreast of the digital nomad visa’s requirements. Working for Peruvian clients may require additional permits and could trigger local tax obligations. Consult an immigration lawyer or relocation specialist for personalised advice.

Conclusion

Peru provides an enticing blend of affordability, cultural richness and natural beauty for remote workers. While the official digital nomad visa is still pending, travellers can legally stay up to 183 days on a tourist visa and work online for foreign employers. With dependable internet in the cities, growing coworking spaces and a low cost of living, Peru is poised to become one of South America’s most popular remote work destinations.