United States Tourist Visa
B-1/B-2 Visitor Visa · For Peru citizens
Planning a trip to the United States as a Peruvian citizen? This guide covers everything you need for the B1/B2 tourist visa application: required documents, the current $185 fee, interview preparation, and strategies to improve your approval chances. With proper documentation and preparation, Peruvian applicants can successfully navigate the visa process.
USA Tourist Visa for Peruvian Citizens (2025) - Document Checklist
For Peru citizens · VisaBeat.com
Document Checklist
Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the United States
Complete the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application (Form DS-160)
Recent digital photograph meeting US visa specifications
Evidence of sufficient funds to cover your trip expenses
Documentation proving your employment status and income in Peru
Evidence demonstrating strong reasons to return to Peru after your visit
In-person interview at the US Embassy in Lima
Recommended (Optional)
Outline of your planned activities in the United States
Application Process
All US tourist visa applications from Peru require an in-person interview at the US Embassy in Lima.1 The process involves several steps:
1. Complete DS-160 Online Application
Fill out Form DS-160 on the consular electronic application center (ceac.state.gov).2 This comprehensive form requires information about your travel plans, employment history, education, family, and background. Upload a compliant passport photo and save the confirmation page with barcode.
2. Pay the Visa Fee
Pay the US$185 non-refundable application fee through the approved payment methods.3 You can pay via cash at designated banks or by credit card online. Keep your payment receipt as you will need the confirmation number to schedule your interview.
3. Schedule Your Interview
Create an account on ais.usvisa-info.com and schedule your interview appointment at the US Embassy in Lima.3 Current wait times for B1/B2 appointments are approximately 365 days, so plan well in advance.3
4. Attend the Interview
Arrive at the embassy at your scheduled time with all required documents.1 You will go through security screening, submit your fingerprints, and meet with a consular officer who will ask about your travel plans and ties to Peru.
5. Wait for Processing
If approved, your passport with the visa will be ready for pickup or delivery within a few days to 2 weeks.1 If additional administrative processing is required, it may take longer.
Fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| B1/B2 Visa Application | US$185 |
| Visa Issuance (reciprocity) | US$0 |
| Interview Waiver (if eligible) | US$185 |
The application fee is non-refundable regardless of the outcome.4 Additional fees may apply for courier delivery of your passport.
What You Need to Prove
US immigration law requires you to demonstrate that you are a genuine temporary visitor.2 The consular officer must be convinced that you:
- Have a legitimate purpose for visiting the United States2
- Intend to depart at the end of your authorized stay2
- Have strong ties to Peru that will compel your return2
- Can support yourself financially during your visit2
The burden of proof is on you, the applicant. Assume nothing is obvious and prepare evidence for all aspects of your application.
Processing Times
Current wait times at the US Embassy in Lima:3
| Visa Type | Interview Wait | Processing After Interview |
|---|---|---|
| B1/B2 Visitor | ~365 days | Few days to 2 weeks |
| Interview Waiver | ~28 days | 2-3 weeks |
These times can fluctuate based on demand and embassy workload. Check the embassy website for current wait times before planning your application timeline.
After Your Visa is Approved
Once approved, your B1/B2 visa will be placed in your passport. The visa shows validity dates (typically 10 years for Peruvians) and number of entries allowed (usually multiple).
At the US border, the immigration officer determines your actual permitted stay. Be prepared to show:
- Return or onward flight arrangements
- Proof of accommodation
- Evidence of sufficient funds
- Details of your travel itinerary
The officer will stamp your passport with an entry date and “admit until” date, typically allowing stays up to 6 months.
If Your Visa is Refused
Most refusals are under Section 214(b) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, meaning the officer was not convinced of your ties to Peru or your intention to return.2
If refused, you can:
- Reapply with stronger documentation addressing the concerns
- Wait and build stronger ties such as more employment history or property ownership
- Consult an immigration attorney for complex situations
A refusal does not permanently bar you from future applications. Many applicants succeed on subsequent attempts with improved documentation and circumstances.
Common Rejection Reasons
Based on official refusal data for this corridor
Weak Ties to Home Country
Unable to demonstrate strong economic, family, or social ties that would compel return to Peru. This is the most common reason for refusal under Section 214(b).
How to avoid: Show stable employment of 1+ years, property ownership, family dependents, business commitments, or educational enrollment. The more ties you demonstrate, the stronger your case.
Insufficient Financial Evidence
Bank statements do not show enough funds or display suspicious patterns such as large unexplained deposits close to the application date.
How to avoid: Provide 6 months of bank statements showing consistent balance and regular income. Avoid depositing large sums just before applying. Include salary slips that match bank credits.
Unconvincing Interview Responses
Answers during the consular interview were vague, inconsistent, or raised concerns about the true purpose of travel or intention to return.
How to avoid: Practice clear, confident, and honest responses. Be specific about your travel plans. Do not memorize scripted answers. If nervous, take a breath and answer naturally.
Previous Immigration Issues
History of visa refusals, overstays, or violations in the US or other countries creates doubt about compliance with immigration rules.
How to avoid: Be honest about any previous issues. Explain what has changed in your circumstances since then. Provide evidence of compliance with visa rules in subsequent travels.
Incomplete Documentation
Missing required documents or information that does not match across different forms and evidence.
How to avoid: Double-check all documents before your interview. Ensure dates, names, and details are consistent across your DS-160, employment letter, and bank statements.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I stay in the US on a B1/B2 visa?
The B1/B2 visa allows stays of up to 6 months per visit. The immigration officer at entry determines your specific allowed stay, which is stamped in your passport. Overstaying can result in future visa denials and entry bans.
How long is the US tourist visa valid for Peruvians?
B1/B2 visas for Peruvian citizens are typically issued with 10-year validity, allowing multiple entries during this period. However, each stay is limited to 6 months, and frequent long visits may raise concerns at immigration.
What is the current wait time for a US visa interview in Lima?
As of late 2025, the wait time for B1/B2 visa appointments at the US Embassy in Lima is approximately 365 days. Interview waiver (dropbox) appointments for qualified renewals may have shorter wait times of around 28 days.
Can I work on a US tourist visa?
No, the B1/B2 visa does not permit any form of paid or unpaid employment in the United States. Business activities are limited to meetings, conferences, and negotiations. For work, you need an appropriate work visa.
Do I need to show round-trip tickets for the interview?
No, you do not need to book flights before your visa interview. In fact, it is recommended not to make non-refundable travel arrangements until your visa is approved.
What if my US visa is refused?
If refused, you will receive a letter explaining the reason under Section 214(b) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, typically meaning you did not demonstrate strong enough ties to Peru. You can reapply with additional documentation addressing the concerns.
Can I apply for interview waiver (dropbox)?
You may qualify for interview waiver if you previously held a US visa, it expired within the last 48 months, and you are applying for the same visa category. Check the embassy website for current eligibility requirements.