The present study aims to analyze the influence of shot peening on the residual stress distribution and electrochemical behavior of stainless steel (SS) AISI 316L fabricated through the use of direct metal laser sintering (DMLS) process. Shot peening was performed using conventional peening machine with the use of cast steel shots for 100% coverage. High-magnitude compressive residual stress was observed on the surface layer of SS 316L after shot peening. Further, better electrochemical behavior was observed for the peened sample exhibiting low corrosion current density and higher corrosion potential when compared to the as-built DMLS surface. The outcomes of the present investigation will lead to substantial platform for further research in surface enhancement of additive manufactured stainless steel parts. © 2019, The Indian Institute of Metals - IIM.