Do you need an onward ticket for Peru?
Peru's immigration authority, Migraciones, grants tourists a stay on arrival and can ask how and when you'll leave. Airlines flying into Lima (LIM) often ask one-way passengers to show an onward or return ticket before boarding.
What counts
A confirmed flight leaving Peru within your expected stay. A domestic flight to Cusco doesn't count - but a flight from Lima to Bogotá, Santiago or Buenos Aires does.
Planning around Machu Picchu
Many travelers fly Lima to Cusco and later continue overland to Bolivia. If your real plan is overland, a flight reservation out of Peru is still the proof airlines recognize at check-in.
Popular onward routes
Lima to Bogotá, Santiago, Buenos Aires or Quito.
Before you fly
- Check the entry rules for your nationality with Migraciones.
- Carry your onward reservation PDF and booking reference.
- Keep your immigration record - Peru issues a digital record of your entry.
How long will you be given?
Peru's officers decide the length of stay on arrival, and visitors can be granted up to 183 days in a year. Many are given 90 days unless they ask for more. If you plan a longer trip, say so - and make sure your onward date is consistent with what you tell the officer.
Arriving overland
Crossing from Ecuador at Tumbes or from Bolivia at Desaguadero or Kasani, officers can also ask about your plans. Land borders tend to be less formal about tickets than airline check-in desks, but carrying an onward reservation keeps your options open.
High season at Lima
Jorge Chávez International handles most international arrivals, and queues at immigration can be long in July and August. Having your documents organized - passport, onward reservation, accommodation address - makes the conversation short if you're asked.
Onward reservations out of Peru
Choose a route, then add your date and passenger names.
Frequently asked questions
I plan to leave Peru by bus to Bolivia. What should I show?
Officers may accept your plans, but airlines checking a one-way flight into Peru usually expect a flight out. A flight reservation covers both.
Does a flight from Lima to Cusco count?
No - it is domestic. Your onward ticket must leave Peru.
How long can I stay in Peru?
The officer decides on arrival - visitors can receive up to 183 days a year, and 90 days is common. Ask for the length you need and keep your onward date consistent with it.
Official sources
Entry requirements can change. The airline and immigration officers make the final decision. Please check official sources before you travel.