Employer of Record in Peru | Culture

Culture and Holidays in Peru

Languages

Peru recognizes Spanish, Quechua, and Aymara as official languages, with usage depending on the region. Other indigenous languages may also be used across industries. While Spanish dominates corporate settings, indigenous languages are widely spoken in government and some business sectors, particularly in the Andean and Amazonian regions. Workplaces often operate in a bilingual or multilingual manner, depending on the industry and region.

In corporate sectors like IT and finance, Spanish is the primary language for communication, documentation, and client interactions, especially in multinational companies (MNCs). Meetings, presentations, and official emails are generally conducted in Spanish, though employees may use indigenous languages informally.

The manufacturing and retail sectors rely on local languages for daily operations, especially in labor-intensive industries. Management-level communication may be in Spanish.

In customer service, language use depends on clientele. Spanish is common for domestic and international customer support, while many companies also hire speakers of Quechua, Aymara, and other indigenous languages to cater to regional customers.

Workplace norms and professional etiquette

Peru’s workplace culture blends a respect for structure and professionalism with a strong emphasis on relationships and open communication. Modern organizations in Peru value approachability, teamwork, and flexibility, especially in sectors such as mining and agriculture.

Workplace hierarchy and authority

While companies maintain clear reporting lines, employees are encouraged to contribute ideas and collaborate across teams. Decision-making may be consensus-driven in progressive workplaces, though senior leadership retains strategic control.

Email and phone etiquette

Business communication is typically professional and courteous. Emails begin with polite greetings and use formal language, while phone calls are respectful and often include brief pleasantries before addressing business topics.

Meeting etiquette and punctuality

Meetings are expected to begin on time, with a structured agenda. Punctuality is valued. Informal conversation at the start is common and helps foster rapport. Contributions from all attendees are encouraged.

Professional dress code

Traditional industries such as banking may require business formal attire. In contrast, start-ups and tech firms often adopt business casual or smart casual dress codes, especially in hybrid and remote environments.

National holidays

Employees are entitled to a number of national holidays.

• Jan. 1: New Year’s Day
• Holy Thursday
• Good Friday
• Easter Sunday
• May 1: Labor Day
• Jun. 29: Day of Saint Peter and Saint Paul
• Jul. 28: Independence Day
• Jul. 29: Feast of Independence of Peru
• Aug. 30: Festivity of Saint Rosa of Lima
• Oct. 8: Celebration of the Battle of Angamos
• Nov. 1: All Saints’ Day
• Dec. 8: Immaculate Conception Day
• Dec. 25: Christmas

Employees may also receive local or sector-specific holidays depending on their region or industry. Bridging days are sometimes granted when holidays fall near weekends.