Peru has a problem with undocumented individuals, and this study reinforces previous research detailing the many barriers to obtaining documentation. Here, particular attention is given to the cultural barriers that arise as individuals negotiate their way to obtaining a birth certificate and the national identify document (DNI). On the one hand, the organizations that process the applications, as well as the rules that govern them, are culturally influenced. The actions and perceptions of those seeking documents while in a cultural setting that is unfamiliar to them, can also be an issue. The goal of the study was to identify the cultural features which might be modified. Data were gathered through in-depth interviews and focus groups in five departments that have significant numbers of undocumented people: Apurimac, Cuzco, Hua nuco, Loreto, and San Marti n.