Chile immigration has steadily risen in recent years as more people look to build a future in a country known for its stability and natural beauty. With a thriving economy, up-to-date infrastructure, and a high standard of living, Chile appeals to people from all over the world. Professionals, students, and families settle here. You'll find a mix of opportunity and culture in cities like Santiago and ValparaÃso.
And when you're ready for a break from city life, the country's diverse landscapes, from deserts to mountains, offer plenty to explore and enjoy. But before you can enjoy everything the country and the cities have to offer, you need to understand the move and visa process. Different visas allow for various types of entry and residence. While the journey may seem difficult at first, you'll find that with proper planning, the transition to life in Chile can be rewarding.
Chile Entry Requirements
Chile's national immigration policy has undergone significant changes in recent years, impacting immigration procedures and the refugee status determination process. Understanding migration law is crucial for individuals crossing the border, as it informs them about their rights and obligations within the national migration service framework. Certain nationals (USA and the EU countries) can travel to Chile with only their passport (or, in some cases, an ID card) for up to 90 days.
Nationals of those countries do not need to apply for a Chile visa before travelling, but they will get a Tourist Card from immigration upon arrival. Also, Macau, Singapore, and Malaysia citizens can stay in Chile for 30 days without a visa. As for other foreign nationals, they must apply for a visa before entering Chile according to the immigration law. Venezuelan nationals seeking refuge in Chile often rely on immigration consultants to navigate the complex national immigration service and understand the country's migration legislation.
Visas Required for Chile Immigration
The immigration framework in Chile is governed by specific migration policy guidelines, which outline the procedures for obtaining refugee status and navigating border crossing regulations. To ensure compliance with migration legislation, it's essential to familiarize oneself with the national immigration service's requirements and procedures. Here are the different visas required for immigration to Chile:
1. Chile Work Visa
Regardless of nationality, any foreign individual wishing to work in Chile must get a Chile work visa. Some foreign nationals are exempt from the Chile visa requirement for short-term (up to 90 days) travel for tourism or other reasons. However, for work-related reasons lasting more than 90 days, everyone must apply for a visa before arriving in Chile. Foreign nationals may apply for a Chile work visa if they have secured employment with a Chilean company and their contract is for a period longer than a year. However, the company that employs you must:
- Be registered in Chile.
- Prove that your employment will contribute to Chile's development.
- Show documentation that they have paid the necessary VAT over the last three months.
- Provide evidence of their three-month employee insurance payments.
2. Chile Student Visa
If you wish to study in Chile for over 90 days, you must obtain a Chile student visa, regardless of your country of origin. However, citizens of certain countries are permitted to stay in Chile for 90 days without a visa. If you are a citizen of a visa-exempt country (e.g., the United States or the European Union), you do not require a student visa for Chile if your course is shorter than 90 days long. You can just come to the nation and enroll in the course. If you are from a country where a visa is needed, you will need a Chile tourist visa to enroll in a course in Chile that lasts less than ninety days.
3. Temporary Residence Visa
This is given to foreigners who wish to invest in Chile, have family there (family reunification), or are thought to benefit the country's economy. It can only be granted for a maximum of one year. You might meet the requirements for a temporary resident visa to Chile if you:
- Belong to a Chilean citizen's family or possess a Definitive Permanence Permit, which is only granted to parents, spouses, or children.
- are born in Chile (although your parents are not Chilean nationals).
- Are a religious worker
- You are either retired or earn money through real estate or investments.
- Are a businessperson, merchant, or investor positively impacting Chile.
- Are a professional who will be paid by a foreign company while working in Chile, such as journalists, media professionals, or senior technicians.
- Will be in Chile for an internship/academic job.
If you do not fall into any of the categories listed above, contact a Chilean embassy to check if you are eligible for a Chile Temporary Resident Visa.
Documents Required for Chile Visa Application
- A valid passport
- Passport-size photographs
- Proof of legal status in the applicant's country of residence
- Invitation letter
- Flight itinerary
- Proof of accommodation
- Bank statements
- Birth certificate
- Copy of work contract
- Copy of educational degrees
- Certificate of police clearance
- Health certificate
- Application form
- Letter of enrollment in a Chilean institution
When using the online Chile visa application service, you must attach the papers in PDF format. You must properly name the documents. For example, if you're attaching a flight reservation, label it “YourLastNameFlightReservation”. In addition, when you visit the nearest Chilean embassy to secure your visa, you must bring originals of all of the papers you uploaded.
How to Apply for a Chile Visa
The Chilean government has made the visa application process easy. Although the Chilean visa application process has been made digital, you might still be able to apply in person at a Chilean Consulate or Chilean immigration office under certain circumstances. The only way to find out is to get in touch with them. Additionally, foreign nationals must apply in person for diplomatic or official visas in their country of origin. You will be notified where to send your passport during the first stage of the online application process. Here's how you apply for a Chilean visa:
1. Start the Online Application
You must begin applying for a Chile visa on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website 30 days before your planned trip. Once on the Chile visa application page, you can choose which language to use to finish the application. Click “Visa Application” to begin the application process, which will take you to your online application form.
2. Answer the Questions
First, you must register by providing your nationality, age, trip details, and passport type. After completing this application, you will be given a Verification Code, which you can use to return to your application later. The identity information part comes next, where you are asked for your name, gender, birthplace, and other details.
The third section requires you to answer questions about your family, such as your parents' names, address, and nationalities. In the “General Description” section, you must provide information about your height, eyes, skin, hair, and educational and professional experience. After that, you must respond to the relevant inquiries and choose from a drop-down box about the activity you will engage in in Chile.
3. Attach the Documents
Lastly, you will be taken to the “Attach Documents” section, where you will need to upload the electronic files for the necessary papers. Once each area is finished, click “Save and Continue” to move on to the next one. Additionally, you can return and close the program to finish it later. You can get the necessary documents and upload them in the interim, which makes this helpful.
4. Wait for Processing Time
The processing time for a Chile visa is between 15 and 20 working days. However, you should also consider the date of your scheduled visit with the Chilean Consulate. For this reason, it is best to apply for a Chilean visa 30 to 60 days before your intended trip.
5. Go to the Chile Embassy/Consulate
If your visa is granted, you go to the Chilean Consulate where your application is being processed and turn in your passport with the original copies of all the relevant documents. You can always check your migration status on the website. Sometimes you will have to pick up your Chile visa in another country. Confirm if they accept passport applications sent by courier or mail. If they do, mail it using a reliable and secure means.
Chile Visa Fees
Depending on your country and the kind of visa you're asking for, the cost can vary from about $50 to $150 (a single-entry visa is more affordable than a multiple-entry visa). The cost will be disclosed to you during the online application submission.
You can pay with your credit cards too. However, the Chilean authorities do not demand that you pay for the visa in advance. You only need to pay the Chile visa fee at the Chilean Consulate once you have received your visa. The Chile Consulate officers will attach your visa to your passport.
Benefits of Moving to Chile
1. Thriving and Stable Economy
Chile's economy is frequently regarded as one of the most stable in South America. Its pro-business policies attract investors and entrepreneurs, and it is commonly ranked among Latin America's most economically free countries. You can invest in Chile real estate, launch a business, or sit back and enjoy life while confidently sipping pisco sours.
2. Quality of Life
The Chilean society has a higher quality of living than most Latin American countries. Santiago is frequently ranked among the greatest expat towns in South America because of its modern amenities, access to health care, air quality, road safety, efficient transportation, national parks, and cosmopolitan ambiance.
However, for those considering leaving the United States or Europe, Chile provides the benefits of the developed world while maintaining the charm and affordability of Latin America. Many expats believe their quality of life increases dramatically because the cost of living is far lower than in cities like New York or London. At the same time, the infrastructure and services are reliable.
3. Easy Visa Options
We've all heard the terrifying tales about visa papers that make you want to scream. However, the procedure is very easy for Chile immigration. The nation provides different types of visa choices, ranging from work visas for individuals wishing to remain for an extended period to student visas and residency for digital nomads.
Chile's temporary visa is an excellent option for remote workers because it's renewable and allows you to stay for up to a year. Furthermore, if you fall in love with Chile, there is an easy road to permanent residency and citizenship.Â
Conclusion
Chile immigration offers a promising path for those seeking stability, opportunity, and a better quality of life. With the right planning and understanding of the process, starting a new life in Chile can be achievable and deeply rewarding.
