Peru's recently-issued biometric passports will be also required for Peruvian citizens’ visa-free entry into the US, if a visa-waiver process consolidates, the Foreign Affairs Ministry affirmed.
"It’s a great advantage to rely on the biometric passport nowadays [...]. This document will be used in case the American visa becomes exempted; that [requirement] is comprised in the process engaging the US," Ambassador Carlos Polo indicated.
Mr. Polo is the head of the General Directorate of Peruvian Communities Abroad and Consular Affairs.
According to the diplomat, such passport ensures a more exhaustive identification of travelers.
Likewise, it guarantees widest security since the holder's personal information is contained inside a chip, which makes the document unforgeable.
"With this passport, Peru will be capable of joining the group of countries displaying greatest security guarantees [...]," Polo affirmed.
"This initiative opens more doors to us [...]. We hope we will be able to rely on this benefit soon: Traveling to a fellow country such as the US, which maintains excellent relations with Peru," the official stressed.
Since February 26th, Peruvian citizens are able to initiate the procedures to obtain the new biometric passport.
Interested citizens can start the application process by signing up to the Migration Agency's webpage. Previously, they must pay a S/98.36 (about US$28.10) fee at Peruvian State-run Bank of the Nation.
(END) MVF/HMC/MVB
Published: 2/28/2016