Peru – Landlines and Mobile Phones

What are the international dialling codes for Peru, and what are the area codes for the most popular expat destinations?

Peru’s assigned country code is +51. To reach a Peruvian number from overseas, dial your country’s international exit code (or use the + symbol), then 51, followed by the relevant area code and local number. When dialling from abroad, the leading zero that precedes the area code in domestic calls should be omitted entirely.

Domestic landline numbers consist of nine digits in total (including the national prefix): 0 + area code (one or two digits) + the local number (six or seven digits). The leading 0 serves as the national trunk prefix for long-distance domestic calls. When calling from outside Peru, drop that initial 0 and dial +51 + area code + local number instead.

Below are the area codes for the Peruvian cities and regions most frequented by expats:

From September 2010, a national Mobile Virtual Area (MVA) was established, meaning all mobile numbers in Peru are non-geographical — they are not tied to any particular region. Every mobile number in the country consists of nine digits in the format 9XX XXX XXX. No area code is required when calling a mobile number; simply dial the nine-digit number when calling domestically, or +51 followed by the nine-digit number when calling from abroad.

For international calls placed from within Peru on a fixed line, the standard format is: 19XX + 00 + country code + area code + phone number. Using a 19XX carrier prefix is mandatory when making international calls from a landline. Calls from a mobile phone to international destinations do not require the 19XX prefix, though it may still be used. Peru operates a “call by call” carrier selection system using four-digit 19XX prefixes: Claro (1912), Movistar (1911), Bitel (1968), Americatel (1977), Entel (1990), IDT (1914), or Convergia (1960).

Who are the major landline providers in Peru, and how can you contact them?

Operating under the Movistar brand, Telefónica del Perú holds the dominant position in Peru’s fixed-line market. Movistar provides a comprehensive suite of services spanning mobile connectivity (3G and 4G LTE), landline telephony, broadband internet, and pay television. Claro is its principal rival, similarly offering bundled fixed and mobile packages. Because plans and pricing evolve regularly, it is always advisable to consult each provider’s official website for up-to-date information.

Peru’s fixed-line penetration ranks among the lowest in South America, surpassed only by Bolivia and Paraguay. Several factors contribute to this situation: widespread economic hardship, the relatively high cost of services, limited genuine competition, and the formidable physical obstacles presented by the Andean mountain ranges and Amazonian rainforest. As a consequence, many residents — including the majority of expats — depend almost entirely on mobile services rather than maintaining a fixed line.

For specific plan pricing and connection fees, visit each provider’s official website directly, as tariffs are subject to change. The national telecommunications regulator, OSIPTEL, publishes consumer guidance and can assist in resolving disputes. Always verify current rates with your chosen provider before entering into any agreement.

Who are the major mobile phone providers in Peru, and how can you contact them?

As of December 2024, Peru’s mobile market is divided among four operators: Claro holds a 30.05% share (12.83 million lines), Movistar accounts for 26.57% (11.35 million lines), Entel commands 22.61% (9.66 million lines), and Bitel takes 20.49% (8.75 million lines). Bitel has recorded the strongest year-on-year growth at 12.39%, while Movistar experienced a decline of 1.95% over the same period.

Movistar and Claro provide the broadest coverage across both urban centres and rural regions, making them the most dependable choice for people who intend to live or travel beyond major cities — including remote destinations such as Machu Picchu or the Amazon basin. If you plan to remain primarily in cities like Lima, Cusco, or Arequipa and want competitively priced data packages, Entel and Bitel deliver strong network performance at attractive price points in those urban settings.

All four operators provide 3G and 4G coverage, with 5G currently confined to larger cities including Lima, Cusco, and Arequipa. Long overland journeys between major cities frequently pass through zones with no signal whatsoever, so reviewing coverage maps before committing to a network is worthwhile. OSIPTEL offers an interactive tool called “Señal OSIPTEL” through which users can check the network coverage of different operators in specific locations.

Beyond the four principal operators, mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs) including Inkacel and Cuy Móvil launched in 2019, providing further budget-friendly alternatives that piggyback on the infrastructure of the main networks. Always compare up-to-date plan pricing directly on each provider’s official website, as promotional offers change frequently.

How do I get a landline connected in Peru?

Depending on the property you move into, a functioning landline connection may already be present. It is worth checking this with your landlord before you relocate, and clarifying whether any telephone costs are included in the rent. If not, arranging the connection yourself will be necessary.

Setting up a fixed landline (línea fija) in Peru requires registering a plan with one of the available providers — this can be done at a local branch, through the provider’s website, or by telephone (though phone applications may involve lengthy hold times and will need to be conducted in Spanish). Providers offer a range of plans tailored to different needs, including options that cover international and long-distance call rates.

The following is a typical step-by-step process for getting a new landline connected:

1. Choose a provider. Movistar and Claro are the two principal fixed-line operators. Browse their official websites or visit a local store to assess available plans and bundle options (packages combining landline, internet, and pay TV are widely available). Always refer to the official websites for current pricing, as tariffs are subject to change.
2. Select your plan. Decide whether a standalone landline suits your needs or whether a bundled package incorporating broadband internet and/or pay TV represents better value. Take note of any minimum contract commitment, which is typically 12 to 24 months.
3. Gather your documents. You will generally need: a valid passport or national identity document; documentary proof of your Peruvian address (for example, a utility bill or a rental agreement in your name); and, for foreign nationals, a residency card (carné de extranjería) if one has been issued to you. As requirements can differ between providers, confirm what is needed in advance.
4. Apply in person or online. You will need to provide your address so that technicians know where the installation is to take place. For newcomers with limited Spanish, applying in person at a store is often the most straightforward route.
5. Await the technician visit. Fixed-line installations generally require a physical visit from a technician to complete the connection. Lead times vary but typically fall between a few days and two weeks, depending on your location and the provider’s current workload.
6. Activate your service. Once the technician has completed the installation, you will receive your account details and start receiving monthly bills. Check with the provider at the time of application whether a security deposit is required, as this varies depending on the provider and the customer’s profile.

Your tenure — whether you are renting or own the property — can influence how the process unfolds. Renters should confirm that their landlord has no objection to a new connection being installed. Where existing infrastructure is already in place at the property, reconnection is generally faster than arranging a brand-new installation from scratch. For the most current requirements and document checklists, speak directly with your chosen provider or contact OSIPTEL, Peru’s national telecoms regulator.

How do I get a mobile phone SIM card or contract in Peru?

Obtaining a mobile SIM in Peru is considerably less complicated than in many other countries. Both prepaid (prepago) and postpaid (pospago) options exist, and recent arrivals who do not yet have permanent residency can access prepaid SIMs immediately upon landing, armed with nothing more than a passport.

Prepaid SIM cards

Foreign nationals can purchase a SIM card at official carrier stores by presenting their passport. The typical process involves: queuing or taking a ticket to speak with a sales agent; the agent making a copy of your passport and completing the required paperwork; settling the cost of the SIM at the cashier; and finally having the SIM activated by the agent. The entire activation and administrative process generally takes around 15 minutes.

SIM cards can be purchased at operator stores in major cities such as Lima, Cusco, and Arequipa, as well as at Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima. Buying from an official store or airport outlet upon arrival is recommended, as it ensures a smooth activation with no unnecessary complications. As of 2025, a Claro prepaid SIM costs S/5 and a Bitel prepaid SIM costs S/10 (approximately US$2.60), the latter including 1.5 GB of data. Prices are subject to change, so always consult the official provider websites for the latest figures.

Postpaid contracts

Postpaid plans are available and frequently include a handset as part of the package, though connection-only plans are also offered for those bringing their own device. Signing up for a postpaid contract requires a residency card and proof of address, and contracts typically run for 18 or 24 months. This means that newly arrived expats who do not yet hold a Peruvian residency card (carné de extranjería) are generally restricted to prepaid options until their legal residency is confirmed — a situation broadly common across Latin America, where postpaid contracts depend on a verifiable local identity and creditworthiness.

What to bring

• Valid passport (essential for both prepaid and postpaid)
• Residency card / carné de extranjería (required for postpaid contracts)
• Proof of address in Peru (required for postpaid)
• An unlocked, compatible handset — bring an unlocked phone to avoid compatibility issues

All operators in Peru support mobile number portability, meaning that if you already hold a Peruvian number with one network, you can transfer to a different provider without losing that number.

How do I pay my telephone bill in Peru?

Telecoms providers in Peru give customers several ways to settle their bills, including: payment through the provider’s official website or mobile application; bank transfer directly from your account to the provider; and in-person payment at an authorised payment outlet such as a bank branch or convenience store.

Bills are generated monthly for both landline services and postpaid mobile contracts. Movistar, Claro, Entel, and Bitel all offer official apps that let you view your current bill, monitor your usage, check your account balance, and make payments — a particularly helpful feature when managing services in a second language.

Prepaid mobile top-ups (recargas) can be completed in a number of ways: at provider stores, or at the numerous kiosks and convenience shops around the country displaying the relevant operator’s branding. Most networks also support top-ups via their apps or websites, though it is worth noting that international credit cards are sometimes declined on local provider platforms. In such cases, paying in cash at a neighbourhood shop or kiosk is the most reliable fallback.

Staying on top of your telephone bill is important, as late payments can attract penalty fees or result in service suspension. Setting up automatic payments or calendar reminders is a practical way to avoid missing due dates. As in much of Latin America, Peruvian providers typically allow a short grace period before suspending service, after which reconnection fees may apply. Direct debit (domiciliación) is offered by most major providers and is an effective safeguard against accidental non-payment.

Cash payments can also be made in person at Agentes BCP, Agentes Scotiabank, and various other banking agent networks and payment counters located in supermarkets and pharmacies across Peru — a convenient option for those who prefer cash transactions or have not yet set up a local bank account.

Are there any practical tips for using phones in Peru as a newcomer?

International roaming

If you anticipate needing international roaming, take the time to compare roaming rates and international partnerships for each operator. Entel has roaming agreements covering more than 130 countries, making it a particularly strong option for frequent travellers. Claro’s prepaid roaming is more limited — it is activated only in 17 Latin American countries plus Canada and Italy, and cannot be used in any other countries. Always review the current roaming terms on each operator’s official website before relying on your Peruvian SIM while overseas.

eSIMs

eSIM technology is growing in prominence in Peru, with leading operators including Movistar, Claro, and Entel now supporting eSIMs — an option particularly well suited to business travellers and international visitors. Activation is handled through an app, removing the need for a physical SIM card entirely. An eSIM provides data connectivity from the moment you arrive in Peru, and since the digital profile is embedded in compatible modern handsets, you can use your original phone number and a local network simultaneously. It should be noted that as of 2024, 5G is not yet available to prepaid customers, meaning eSIM users on prepaid plans will connect via 4G LTE networks.

Number porting

OSIPTEL relaunched mobile number portability in July 2014, cutting the porting period from seven business days down to just 24 hours. Fixed number portability for landlines was also introduced in July 2014. This compares favourably with standards in many European and Latin American markets. To port your existing Peruvian number, simply approach your new provider — they handle the process end-to-end, and your number should transfer within 24 hours. You can monitor portability progress using OSIPTEL’s official portability verification tool.

Coverage quality and reliability

According to OSIPTEL data, Claro currently leads Peru in download speeds, while Entel ranks highest in overall network performance. Bitel is making steady gains with strong results in various regions, and Movistar continues to offer competitive coverage. By late 2024, 4G LTE was available to 93.85% of Peru’s population, with around 56,000 population centres receiving service. That said, signal drops are common when venturing into the Andes or the Amazon, which is an important consideration for anyone planning to live or work in highland or remote areas.

WhatsApp culture

WhatsApp is overwhelmingly the dominant communication channel in Peru. Landlords, businesses, tradespeople, and social contacts alike rely on it far more heavily than on traditional SMS or voice calls. Having an active local Peruvian number linked to WhatsApp from your first day in the country will make a tangible difference to your daily interactions. Getting WhatsApp running with your new local SIM is quick and should be treated as one of the first things you do after arrival.

Checking coverage before you commit

The 4G coverage that operators advertise does not always reflect on-the-ground availability in every neighbourhood or suburb. Before choosing a network, it is worth consulting local expat community groups and asking neighbours about their experiences with specific providers in that area. Each of the four operators also makes interactive coverage maps available on their websites, enabling you to carry out your own checks.

For all regulatory matters, consumer complaints, and rights-related enquiries, the body to approach is OSIPTEL (Organismo Supervisor de la Inversión Privada en Telecomunicaciones), Peru’s official telecommunications regulator. OSIPTEL functions under the Presidency of the Council of Ministers as the Supervisory Agency for Private Investment in Telecommunications.

Frequently asked questions

Can I keep my foreign number when I move to Peru?

It is not possible to port a foreign number into the Peruvian mobile network — number portability in Peru operates only between domestic operators. You can, however, keep your overseas SIM active to receive incoming calls while using a separate Peruvian SIM for local communications. A dual-SIM phone is a practical solution that many newcomers use to manage both numbers side by side during the settling-in period.

Do I need a local address to get a SIM card in Peru?

A valid passport is all that is required to purchase a prepaid SIM card — no local address is necessary. A postpaid contract, by contrast, requires both a residency card and proof of address. This makes the prepaid route by far the most accessible option for newcomers who have not yet built up the necessary documentation.

Can tourists and short-term visitors buy a SIM card in Peru?

For short stays, a prepaid SIM card is the most practical solution. Most operators put together affordable visitor packages that include data, calls, and SMS. Your passport is required for purchase at an official store. SIM cards are available at official operator outlets in major cities and at Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima.

Which mobile provider has the best coverage in rural Peru?

Movistar and Claro provide the widest reach across both urban and rural parts of the country. Outside the Lima and Callao metropolitan area, Bitel is the second-largest player with a 26.5% market share, sitting behind Claro at 28.8%. If you are living in the Amazon lowlands or high Andes, check each operator’s coverage map and ask people familiar with the area before making your choice.

How long does it take to get a landline installed in Peru?

The time required depends on your location and whether the property already has existing telecoms infrastructure. In Lima and other major cities, installation can generally be completed within one to two weeks of submitting your application. In smaller towns or rural localities, the wait may be considerably longer. Ask your chosen provider for an expected timeline at the point of application.

Is number porting free in Peru?

There is no charge for initiating the mobile number portability process in Peru. Since the system was relaunched in 2014, the transfer period has been capped at 24 hours. To begin the process, contact your new provider — they are responsible for coordinating the handover from the previous network.

What should I do if I have a complaint about my phone provider in Peru?

Begin by raising the matter with your provider’s customer service team. If that does not lead to a satisfactory resolution, you can escalate your complaint to OSIPTEL, Peru’s telecoms regulator, which has a dedicated consumer protection and complaints function. OSIPTEL provides both an online portal and a telephone helpline to handle consumer enquiries.

Are eSIMs widely available in Peru?

eSIM support is growing steadily in Peru, with major operators including Movistar, Claro, and Entel having introduced the technology. eSIMs offer a convenient way for new arrivals to get connected immediately without needing to source a physical SIM card first. International third-party eSIM providers also offer data plans compatible with Peru that can be purchased and installed before you board your flight.