How to Immigrate to Chile
Legal pathways for work authorization, long-term residence, and permanent settlement.
Region: South America
Immigration Overview
Chile offers various immigration pathways for individuals seeking to relocate for work, study, retirement, or investment purposes. Each pathway has specific eligibility criteria, documentation requirements, and processing procedures. Immigration policies can change, so it's essential to verify current requirements through official government channels.
Before selecting a pathway, it is important to understand whether the route grants temporary residence only, leads to permanent residence after a qualifying period, or is structured differently. Work authorization rights, family inclusion rules, and renewal conditions also vary by permit type.
This is a research reference only. Always verify current requirements with the official immigration authority of Chile. This is not legal advice.
Check Entry Visa Requirements
Before relocating to Chile, you must first enter the country under the correct short-term visa or entry permission. Arriving on the wrong visa status — for example a standard tourist entry when you intend to work or enroll in study — can affect your ability to convert to a long-term permit or residency. Visa eligibility depends on:
- Nationality — your passport country determines which bilateral visa-free or visa-on-arrival agreements apply
- Destination country — each country sets its own entry rules, permitted stays, and extension policies
- Length of stay — short-stay rules (30, 60, or 90 days) differ from long-stay immigration permits
- Purpose of travel — tourism, employment, study, and investment each require separate permit categories
Immigration Pathways
Chile "Digital Nomad Visa" — Does Not Exist as Dedicated Category
Chile launched its Digital Nomad Visa in May 2022 as a 1-year temporary residence permit for remote workers employed by foreign companies. The visa is open to nationals of any country and allows remote employees and freelancers to live in Chile while working for clients or employers outside Chile. Key features: 1-year validity, renewable once for additional year total maximum 2 years; can apply from outside Chile or while in Chile on tourist visa; no minimum income requirement specified in law, but applicants must demonstrate sufficient income to support themselves; cannot work for Chilean companies or clients; does not lead directly to permanent residence. Chile also permits MERCOSUR nationals to work remotely on tourist visa under separate framework. The digital nomad visa is processed by Chilean consulates abroad or by Immigration Department PDI if applying from within Chile.
Eligibility
ANY NATIONALITY - NO COUNTRY RESTRICTIONS: Unlike many digital nomad programs that restrict eligibility to certain nationalities, Chile digital nomad visa is open to nationals of any country. REMOTE EMPLOYMENT OR FREELANCING FOR FOREIGN COMPANIES/CLIENTS: Applicants must be working remotely for employer or clients located outside Chile. Can be employed by foreign company, self-employed/freelancing for foreign clients, or operating own business located outside Chile. Cannot work for Chilean companies or accept payment from Chilean clients. NO SPECIFIED MINIMUM INCOME THRESHOLD: Chilean law does not set explicit minimum income requirement for digital nomad visa. However, applicants must demonstrate sufficient financial means to support themselves during stay in Chile. Immigration authorities assess financial documentation to ensure applicant will not become public charge. Recommended income: at least USD 1,500-2,000/month or equivalent in other currency. CLEAN CRIMINAL RECORD AND HEALTH REQUIREMENTS: Clean criminal background home country and Chile. No serious communicable diseases. Must have health insurance valid in Chile for duration of stay. APPLY FROM ABROAD OR FROM WITHIN CHILE: Can apply at Chilean consulate in country of residence, or can enter Chile as tourist and apply from within Chile at Immigration Department PDI. Most applicants enter as tourists and apply from within Chile to avoid consular processing delays.
Requirements
NO MINIMUM INCOME SPECIFIED IN LAW, BUT SUFFICIENT FINANCIAL MEANS REQUIRED: Chilean digital nomad visa regulations do not prescribe specific minimum income threshold, in contrast to programs in countries like Croatia or Portugal. However, applicants must demonstrate sufficient income or savings to support themselves for duration of stay. Recommended documentation: 3-6 months bank statements showing consistent income; employment contract from foreign employer; client contracts for freelancers; proof of business ownership/income for entrepreneurs. Typical assessed threshold: approximately USD 1,500-2,000/month or equivalent. CANNOT WORK FOR CHILEAN COMPANIES OR CLIENTS: Visa condition explicitly prohibits accepting employment from Chilean companies or providing services to Chilean clients. All work must be for foreign companies or clients outside Chile. Violation can result in visa cancellation and deportation. TAX RESIDENCY AFTER 183 DAYS: Individuals physically present in Chile for 183 days or more in calendar year generally become tax residents of Chile for that year. Tax residents are taxed on Chilean-source income only for first 3 years; after 3 years, worldwide income becomes taxable. Digital nomads should consult Chilean tax advisor if staying long-term. HEALTH INSURANCE MANDATORY: Must have health insurance policy valid in Chile covering medical expenses for duration of visa. Can be international travel insurance, private Chilean health insurance, or public Chilean system FONASA if eligible. Proof required with application. RENEWABLE ONCE FOR TOTAL MAXIMUM 2 YEARS: Initial visa granted for 1 year. Renewable once for additional 1 year, for total maximum stay of 2 years on digital nomad visa. After 2 years, must leave Chile or transition to different visa category e.g., work visa, investor visa. DOES NOT LEAD DIRECTLY TO PERMANENT RESIDENCE: Time on digital nomad visa does not count toward permanent residence qualification. Digital nomad visa is explicitly temporary and non-renewable beyond 2 years. Applicants seeking permanent residence must qualify for different visa category with path to PR e.g., work visa with 2-year temporary residence.
Processing Time
SHORT STAYS tourist status: Immediate visa-free entry for most nationalities 90 days granted at border. Extension to 180 days processed approximately 1-2 weeks at SERMIG Santiago offices for approximately USD $100 fee. LONGER STAYS Residencia Temporal for remunerated activities: 6-8 months processing standard, can extend to 10-12 months. Must apply from outside Chile through consulate. Working Holiday program: 2-8 weeks processing depending on nationality and bilateral agreement terms.
Validity Period
SHORT STAYS (tourist): 90 days initial; extendable once to 180 days total. NOT path to permanent residence. LONGER STAYS (Residencia Temporal): Up to 2 years initial; renewable for additional 2 years. Residencia Definitiva (PR) after 2 years with 185+ days/year physical presence. Citizenship after 5 years total legal residency; Spanish proficiency; civics test. Dual citizenship recognized. TAX RESIDENCY THRESHOLD: 183+ days in calendar year triggers Chilean tax resident status. Non-Chilean nationals enjoy 3-year foreign income exemption during first 3 years residency (extendable another 3 years on request). After that, worldwide income may become taxable. Chile has double taxation treaties with US and many European countries. WORKING HOLIDAY: 1-2 years depending on bilateral agreement; open work permit for any Chilean employer; ages 18-30 or 35; eligible countries include Australia, Canada, Germany, Denmark, France, Ireland, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Sweden, South Korea.
Last updated: 3/30/2026
Chile Family Reunification Visa
Join a legally residing family member in Chile.
Eligibility
Spouses and children of Chilean residents or citizens.
Requirements
Marriage/birth certificate, sponsor documents, financial proof, clean criminal record.
Processing Time
4-8 weeks
Validity Period
1 year, renewable
Last updated: 3/30/2026
Chile Family Reunification Visa — Residencia Temporal (Reagrupación Familiar)
Formal name under Law 21.325 is Residencia Temporal de Reagrupación Familiar. Eligibility more specific than any resident - requires family tie to either Chilean citizen or foreigner holding Residencia Definitiva (permanent residence). Family members of holders of temporary residence (not permanent) apply instead under Dependent Status (Calidad de Dependiente) mechanism, not formal family reunification category. Major 2022 improvement: same-sex relationships fully recognized (same-sex marriage since 2022, civil unions since 2015). Dependent permit holders may now work. Uniquely among Residencia Temporal categories, family reunification CAN be applied from within Chile as well as from abroad. ELIGIBILITY PRECISION: Family Reunification (Reagrupación Familiar) specifically requires tie to Chilean citizen or Residencia Definitiva (permanent resident) holder. Family members of temporary residents apply via separate Dependent Status (Dependiente) mechanism, which has different procedural requirements including notarized affidavit of financial support from holder. Confirmed by SERMIG official pages and Chilean immigration law (Law 21.325).
Eligibility
SPONSOR must be: Chilean citizen or Residencia Definitiva (permanent residence) holder. APPLICANT must be: Spouse/civil partner, child <18, disabled child, unmarried child <24 studying, or minor in guardianship. Same-sex: Fully recognized via AUC or marriage. FOR DEPENDENTS OF TEMPORARY RESIDENTS: Sponsor must sign notarized affidavit assuming financial responsibility and demonstrate sufficient economic resources (Ministry of Social Development standards). Application uses Dependent Status mechanism, not Reagrupación Familiar. Qualifying family relationships under Law 21.325: Spouse in official marriage; Civil partner (equivalent to marriage, including AUC same-sex unions); Children under 18; Children with disabilities (any age); Unmarried children under 24 who are studying; Minors under personal care or guardianship. For family members of temporary residents (not PR holders), Dependent Status mechanism also includes parents and other relatives in specific circumstances. Language NOT requirement for family reunification - integration support available via SERMIG.
Requirements
Valid passport (or national ID for Bolivians per bilateral agreement); marriage certificate, civil union certificate, or birth certificate (apostilled/legalized + Spanish translation if not in Spanish); passport photo (color, white background); criminal background certificate for applicants over 18 (apostilled + translated); proof of family relationship between sponsor and applicant; FOR DEPENDIENTE: notarized affidavit from sponsor assuming costs; proof of sponsor sufficient financial resources; application via SERMIG portal (can apply from within Chile for this category). CAN APPLY FROM WITHIN CHILE - IMPORTANT EXCEPTION: Unlike most Residencia Temporal subcategories that require application from outside Chile, family reunification and humanitarian reasons explicitly excepted and may be applied from within Chile (Law 21.325, Article 4, Decree 177). Means family member who is already in Chile as tourist can apply for family reunification status without leaving. Significant practical advantage. SAME-SEX RELATIONSHIPS FULLY RECOGNIZED: Chile recognized same-sex civil unions (Acuerdo de Unión Civil / AUC) since 2015 and same-sex marriage since 2022. Both explicitly recognized for family reunification and dependent status purposes under Law 21.325. Partner in same-sex civil union or marriage from abroad qualifies for sponsorship.
Processing Time
Current reality 2025-2026: Standard processing 6-8 months. Incomplete or incorrect documents: up to 12 months. Expat.cl 2025 reports family reunification visa takes approximately 6-8 months under current SERMIG conditions, extending to 12 months if documents incorrect, missing apostilles, or not properly translated. Older sources cite 30-90 days reflecting pre-2022 timelines. KEY: Ensure all documents correctly apostilled/legalized AND translated into Spanish by sworn oficial translator. Incorrect documents leading cause of delays and rejections.
Validity Period
Initial permit: 1 year (renewable annually until qualifying for PR). Work rights: Permitted for all permit holders (Law 21.325 improvement - under old regime pre-2022, family members on dependent visas prohibited from working. Law 21.325 reversed this entirely. Holders of family reunification permits and dependent status MAY perform remunerated activities without needing independent work permit. Chambers & Partners Chile 2025 confirms as key improvement encouraging family relocation). Permit tied to sponsor: Dependent permit validity conditioned on holder permit; divorce does not automatically affect legal status but may impact renewals. Residencia Definitiva: After 2 years of Residencia Temporal + 185+ days/year physical presence. Citizenship: After 5 years total legal residency; Spanish proficiency; civics knowledge test. Dual citizenship: Recognized - no renunciation of prior nationality required.
Last updated: 3/30/2026
Chile Investor Visa — Residencia Temporal (Subcategoría: Inversionistas y Personal Relacionado)
Under Decree 177 of 2022, Chile investor visa has two distinct tracks with clear criteria. TRACK 1 (Individual Investor): minimum investment of USD $500,000 in active business project, company acquisition, or real estate development with economic activity. Requires endorsement from InvestChile (Chile official FDI promotion agency) before applying to SERMIG. TRACK 2 (Senior Executive/Manager): senior managers, directors, specialized technical staff of foreign companies holding at least 10% voting rights in Chilean subsidiary also qualify under this subcategory, without personal investment threshold. Chile does NOT have traditional golden visa through passive real estate purchase - investment must involve active economic activity. Permit initially lasts 1-2 years with renewals conditioned on demonstrated investment progress; SERMIG actively audits compliance. USD $500,000 MINIMUM INVESTMENT: Threshold under Decree 177 and confirmed by InvestChile website. Applies to business investments, company acquisitions, or real estate development projects with active economic activity - passive real estate purchase (buying apartment) does NOT qualify on its own. Smaller startup investments (USD $60k-$75k) may be considered case-by-case for innovative high-growth startups, but do NOT guarantee approval and provide less clear path to PR.
Eligibility
TRACK 1 (Individual Investor): Minimum investment USD $500,000 in active business project, company acquisition, or real estate development with economic activity in Chile. Obtain Carta de Patrocinio from InvestChile (mandatory pre-approval step). Submit detailed investment project to InvestChile: objectives, business plan, economic benefit for Chile. Valid passport (12+ months validity). Criminal background certificate (apostilled + Spanish translation). Proof of investment capability (bank statements, investment agreements). Apply via SERMIG portal from outside Chile. TRACK 2 (Senior Executive/Manager): Foreign company must control at least 10% voting rights (or equivalent ownership) of Chilean company. Applicant must hold executive, director, or senior management role at Chilean subsidiary. Alternatively: specialized technical personnel contracted to provide services to Chilean entity. No personal USD $500,000 investment required for this track. Same document requirements as Track 1. Employment documentation and proof of ownership link required.
Requirements
TRACK 1: Detailed investment project proposal (objectives, business plan, economic benefit for Chile); Carta de Patrocinio from InvestChile (mandatory); proof of investment capability (bank statements, investment agreements, due diligence documentation); valid passport; criminal background certificate (apostilled + Spanish translation); passport photo; business registration documents; financial projections; application via SERMIG portal from outside Chile. TRACK 2: Employment contract or appointment letter from foreign parent company; documentation proving foreign company controls at least 10% voting rights in Chilean subsidiary; organizational chart; valid passport; criminal background certificate; passport photo. INVESTCHILE ENDORSEMENT MANDATORY: All investor visa applications for Track 1 must first obtain Sponsorship Letter (Carta de Patrocinio) from InvestChile - Chile foreign investment promotion agency. InvestChile evaluates whether investment project aligns with Chile economic interests. Only after receiving InvestChile letter does applicant submit to SERMIG for immigration permit itself. Two-step process adds considerable time. START-UP CHILE (CORFO) ALTERNATIVE: Entrepreneurs accepted into Start-Up Chile - CORFO seed accelerator program for tech startups - qualify for expedited investor/entrepreneur visa track. No USD $500,000 investment required for this path; acceptance into Start-Up Chile program is qualifier. Start-Up Chile has agreement with SERMIG and InvestChile to fast-track immigration processing. Most accessible investor immigration route for early-stage technology entrepreneurs.
Processing Time
InvestChile evaluation: 1-3 months for Carta de Patrocinio approval. SERMIG visa processing after InvestChile endorsement letter: 3-6 months. Total estimated timeline: 4-9 months from project submission to permit. Becker Abogados 2024 confirms SERMIG approval takes 3-6 months after InvestChile endorsement. Initial permit valid for 1 year, then renewable for additional year, then Residencia Definitiva at 2 years. Start-Up Chile fast-track for CORFO program participants: approximately 2-4 months expedited processing.
Validity Period
Initial permit: 1-2 years. Renewal: Subject to demonstrating investment progress; SERMIG audits compliance at each renewal - investors must demonstrate progress on investment project (financial reports, business activity documentation, tax filings via SII). Failure to demonstrate adequate progress can result in permit denial or revocation at renewal. Explicitly confirmed by TheLatinvestor (September 2025) and Expat.cl 2025. Investors who cannot show ongoing business activity will lose residency status. Residencia Definitiva: After 2 years with 185+ days/year presence + demonstrated investment activity. Citizenship: After 5 years total legal residency; Spanish + civics test; dual citizenship recognized. Family: Spouse and dependent children can apply for dependent status and may work under Law 21.325. NOTE: No passive real estate investor (golden visa) route exists. All investment must demonstrate active economic contribution. Chile does NOT have traditional golden visa through passive real estate purchase - investment must involve active economic activity.
Last updated: 3/30/2026
Chile Retirement / Rentista Visa — Residencia Temporal (Jubilados y Rentistas)
Chile DOES have retirement/passive income visa. Formal name under Law 21.325 is Residencia Temporal for Retired Persons or Leasers (Jubilados y Rentistas) - covers two groups: (1) jubilados - persons receiving pension/retirement income, and (2) rentistas - persons with recurring income from real estate, financial investments, dividends, annuities, royalties, or similar passive sources. You do NOT need to be officially retired - many working-age applicants qualify via investment income. This visa ALSO allows work in Chile (separate work permit or notification to SERMIG needed, but not independent visa). Processing in 2025-2026 running 6-12+ months, not 1-3 months cited by older sources. INCOME THRESHOLD: SERMIG does not publish official minimum. Real-world standard approximately USD $1,000/month per applicant (USD $1,500 recommended to reduce scrutiny). Additional USD $500-$600/month per dependent expected. SERMIG evaluates sufficiency relative to intended place of residence. NO MINIMUM AGE REQUIREMENT: Rentista option open to all ages - any person receiving qualifying passive income may apply regardless of age.
Eligibility
Stable, recurring income from pension, investments, real estate, dividends, annuities, royalties, or similar passive sources. Recommended: USD $1,000-$1,500/month (single); USD $500-$600 additional per dependent. No minimum age requirement. No official minimum income threshold - SERMIG evaluates sufficiency based on intended location. Clean criminal record (last 5 years). Valid passport. Apply from outside Chile. WORK PERMITTED: Holders of jubilado/rentista Residencia Temporal MAY work in Chile. Separate work permit or additional notification to SERMIG may be required for some forms of employment, but visa itself does NOT prohibit working. Makes it one of most flexible Chilean visas - retiree or passive-income holder can start business, invest, or take employment without needing separate work visa.
Requirements
FOR PENSIONERS (jubilados): Last 3 monthly pension payment receipts (apostilled/legalized); OR Certificate from home country consul certifying pension amount in CLP or USD. FOR PERSONS OF INDEPENDENT MEANS (rentistas): Lease contracts, investment account statements, dividend records, or similar documents proving recurring income; documents notarized before Chilean notary. BOTH: Valid passport; criminal background certificate (apostilled + Spanish translation); passport photo. Application via SERMIG Portal de Trámites Digitales from outside Chile. PHYSICAL PRESENCE REQUIREMENT FOR RESIDENCIA DEFINITIVA: To qualify for permanent residence after 2 years of Residencia Temporal, must have been physically present in Chile for at least 180-185 days per year. Each day outside Chile reduces eligible residency count. If fail to meet requirement in given year, can apply for 1-year extension once, but must restart if requirement not met. Hard constraint for those who plan to travel extensively during Chilean residency.
Processing Time
Current reality 2025-2026: Standard processing 6-8 months. Complex cases or document issues: 12-14 months. Expat.cl 2025 reports average processing times of 6-8 months, sometimes up to 12-14 months due to SERMIG backlogs since 2022 law transition. Apply well in advance and do not plan to enter Chile on tourist visa and begin process there - this category requires application from outside Chile (unlike family reunification which can apply from within). Older sources citing 1-3 months outdated.
Validity Period
Initial permit: 1 year. Renewal: Up to 2 additional consecutive years. Work rights: Permitted (separate authorization may be needed). Residencia Definitiva: After 2 years of Residencia Temporal + 185 days/year physical presence. Citizenship: After 5 years total legal residency; Spanish proficiency; civics test. Permanent residence: Valid indefinitely as long as not absent from Chile for more than 2 consecutive years. Dual citizenship: Recognized - no need to renounce prior nationality. Family: Spouse and qualifying children can apply for dependent status; dependents may also work under Law 21.325. VALIDITY CORRECTED: Under Decree 177, retirement/rentista Residencia Temporal initially issued for 1 year. Can be extended for additional 1-year increments. After 2 years of holding Residencia Temporal with required physical presence (185+ days/year in Chile), holder can apply for Residencia Definitiva (permanent residence). Note: permit cannot be extended beyond two consecutive renewal years - after that, applicants must demonstrate continued income and restart cycle or move to permanent residence.
Last updated: 3/30/2026
Chile Student Visa — Residencia Temporal (Subcategoría: Estudiantes de Establecimientos Reconocidos por el Estado)
Correct formal name under Law 21.325 is Residencia Temporal for Students from State-Recognized Establishments. Core concept broadly correct, but several important specifics: 90-day threshold for when permit actually required, part-time work allowance (30 hours/week), correct processing time (4-5 months standard, not weeks), and application must be made from outside Chile before traveling. Notable feature for short-term exchanges: programs of 180 days or less may use Permanencia Transitoria (tourist/transitory stay) rather than full student permit, avoiding longer process. Some Chilean universities (e.g., USM, Universidad de Chile) have CRUCH-SERMIG agreements to fast-track processing to 40 working days. 90-DAY THRESHOLD International students whose program is 90 days or less do NOT require student permit at all - enter on Permanencia Transitoria (tourist status, no prior visa for most nationalities). Programs between 91 and 180 days technically require Permanencia Transitoria but can use one-time extension (~USD $100 fee). Programs over 180 days require full Residencia Temporal student permit, which must be obtained before traveling to Chile.
Eligibility
Enrollment or acceptance at State-recognized Chilean educational institution. Program must exceed 180 days (shorter programs = Permanencia Transitoria). Apply from outside Chile, through Chilean consulate before traveling. Must maintain regular student status (revocation if student status lost). Over 18: criminal background certificate required. Sufficient financial means to cover living expenses during study. Institution must be officially recognized by Chilean State (schools, universities, technical institutions accredited by Ministry of Education). All foreign documents must be apostilled or legalized and - if not in Spanish - translated by sworn translator (traductor oficial). Certificado de Alumno Regular (regular student certificate) or Certificado de Matrícula is mandatory document issued by institution.
Requirements
Valid passport; Certificado de Alumno Regular or Certificado de Matrícula from institution; criminal background certificate (applicants over 18; apostilled + translated to Spanish); passport photo (color, white background, JPG/PNG); proof of financial means; health insurance (recommended; sometimes required by institution); application via SERMIG Portal de Trámites Digitales from abroad. CRUCH-SERMIG FAST-TRACK AGREEMENTS: Several Chilean universities part of CRUCH-SERMIG agreement (Council of Chilean Universities + SERMIG) enabling abbreviated processing in no more than 40 working days (approximately 2 months). Students attending these institutions should ask international office to activate this agreement. Institutions include USM, Universidad de Chile, others in CRUCH network. Substantially improves on 4-5 month standard timeline. PART-TIME WORK ALLOWANCE: SERMIG explicitly states on official page - student permit holders are allowed to engage in lawful paid activities for up to 30 hours per week, without requiring additional authorization. Activities can be at institution where they study or for any other employer/contractor. Work rights active without separate work permit.
Processing Time
Standard no university agreement: 4-5 months minimum processing. CRUCH-SERMIG partner universities: Up to 40 working days approximately 2 months. Peak backlog periods: Up to 6-12 months. SERMIG official guidance confirmed by Universidad Técnica Federico Santa María (USM) states standard first-resolution processing takes at least 4 to 5 months. Universidad de Chile reports approximately 2 months at their institution through CRUCH-SERMIG agreement. Students should apply 4-6 months before program start date. Do not rely on tourist status and attempt to convert within Chile - this is NOT permitted for long-term studies.
Validity Period
Duration: Up to 2 years; renewable if still enrolled. Revocation: Permit revoked if regular student status lost (with force majeure exceptions). Work rights: Up to 30 hours/week in any sector - no additional permit needed. Dependents: Spouse and qualifying family may apply for dependent status; they can also work under Law 21.325. After graduation: Apply for work-category Residencia Temporal with job offer → Residencia Definitiva after 2 years → Citizenship after 5 years total. Dual citizenship recognized. Unlike Canada structured PGWP, Chile does NOT have dedicated post-graduation open work permit. However, graduates may apply for Residencia Temporal for lawful remunerated activities if secure job offer, or apply for Residencia Definitiva after meeting 2-year/185 days/year presence requirement.
Last updated: 3/30/2026
Chile Work Authorization — Residencia Temporal (Subcategoría: Actividades Remuneradas Lícitas)
Chile 2022 immigration framework replaced all previous work visa categories with single Residencia Temporal for lawful remunerated activities. Old Visa Sujeta a Contrato (subject-to-contract visa) that tied worker rigidly to specific employer has been DISCONTINUED. New system more flexible: workers no longer required to include return-travel clause in contracts, and contract termination no longer means automatic visa loss. Foreign worker may now change employers freely without notifying SERMIG, while maintaining valid temporary residence. Minimum salary must exceed Chile legal minimum wage (approximately USD $530/month in 2025-2026); in practice, SERMIG verifies offer is market-competitive. No formal academic qualification requirements, though regulated professions (medicine, law) require separate professional authorization. Processing currently running 6-8 months due to backlogs from 2022 law transition. Key 2022 improvement: dependents of temporary residents may now work, reversing old prohibition.
Eligibility
Valid employment offer or contract from Chilean-registered employer. Salary must exceed Chilean minimum wage (~USD $530/month); in practice, market-rate salary expected. No formal academic credential requirement, but regulated professions (medicine, law, engineering) require professional authorization from Chilean authorities. Clean criminal record from country of origin and any country of residence in past 5 years. Valid passport (12+ months validity recommended). Apply from outside Chile (from consulate in country of residence). Exception: family reunification and humanitarian subcategories may apply from within Chile.
Requirements
Signed employment contract (signed before Chilean or foreign notary/attorney); valid passport; criminal background certificate (apostilled/legalized, translated to Spanish); passport photo (color, white background); application submitted through SERMIG Portal de Trámites Digitales; visa fee (varies by nationality: USD $0-$2,700). On arrival in Chile: Register with PDI (border police). Obtain RUT (tax ID) from SII. Register at Civil Registry within 30 days for Cédula de Identidad Extranjera (foreigner ID card). GLOBAL TALENT STREAM EQUIVALENT: Start-Up Chile (CORFO) fast-track - SERMIG, InvestChile, CORFO Start-Up Chile accelerator have agreement to expedite immigration processing for entrepreneurs and highly specialized technical staff accepted into Start-Up Chile programs. Provides materially faster track outside regular backlogged queue. WORK PERMIT AS TOURIST (PET): Chile offers Permiso de Trabajo como Turista (PET) - work authorization for tourists needing to perform specific, sporadic paid activities (advisors, technical experts, public show performers). NOT residence permit. Processing 7-10 business days. Useful for short business trips requiring remunerated activities.
Processing Time
Current reality 2025-2026: Standard processing 6-8 months. Can extend to 10-12+ months in complex cases. Emergency/expedited via CORFO/InvestChile path: 3-4 months. PET tourist work permit short-term: 7-10 business days. Older sources citing 20-30 days or 1-3 months are outdated pre-2022 figures. Workers cannot legally work in Chile until permit approved. Some employers arrange remote work from home country during processing. Apply well in advance.
Validity Period
Residencia Temporal: Up to 2 years, renewable for up to 2 additional consecutive years. Change employer: Freely, without notifying SERMIG - major improvement under Law 21.325. Residencia Definitiva (PR): After 2 years of Residencia Temporal with 185+ days/year physical presence in Chile. Citizenship: After 5 years total legal residency; Spanish language proficiency; civics knowledge; clean record. Process typically takes 1-2 additional years. Dual citizenship recognized. Dependents: Spouse and family members may now work under Law 21.325 (reverses old prohibition). Tax note: Non-Chilean nationals taxed only on Chilean-source income during first 3 years of residency. 3-year extension of foreign-income exemption may be requested. After that, worldwide income may be taxable in Chile.
Last updated: 3/30/2026
How to Apply: General Steps
Most immigration pathways to Chile follow a similar application process:
- 1Choose your pathway: Identify the right immigration route based on your purpose (work, study, retirement, investment) and eligibility.
- 2Check eligibility requirements: Review the specific criteria for your chosen pathway including education, work experience, age, and financial requirements.
- 3Gather supporting documents: Collect passports, certificates, financial records, police clearances, and medical reports as required.
- 4Submit your application: Apply online or in person at the relevant government authority or embassy. Pay all required fees.
- 5Wait for processing: Processing times vary by pathway. Check the timeline for your specific route and respond promptly to any requests for additional information.
- 6Receive your decision: If approved, follow the instructions for next steps including biometrics, entry endorsement, or permit collection.
Explore by Pathway Type
View detailed information for specific immigration pathways to Chile:
Work
Employment-based residence permits and work authorization pathways
Study
Student visas and education-based residence options
Digital Nomad
Remote work visas and digital nomad residence programs
Retirement
Retirement residence permits and long-term stay visas
Investor
Investment-based residence and citizenship by investment programs
Family
Family reunification visas and spouse-dependent residence permits
Common Immigration Pathways
- Employment-based residence permits for skilled workers
- Student visas for enrolled international students
- Digital nomad or remote work visas
- Retirement visas for those with passive income
- Investor or entrepreneur visas
- Family reunification for relatives of citizens or residents
Typical Documents Required
- Valid passport with sufficient validity (typically 6+ months)
- Completed visa application forms
- Recent passport-sized photographs
- Proof of financial means or income
- Criminal background check from country of residence
- Medical examination and health certificates
- Proof of health insurance coverage
- Accommodation proof or address in destination country
- Supporting documents specific to visa category (employment contract, admission letter, investment proof, etc.)
- Application fees and payment receipts
Important Notes
- Always verify current requirements through official government immigration websites
- Processing times can vary significantly based on visa type and application volume
- Some countries require documents to be translated, notarized, or apostilled
- Health insurance requirements vary by country and visa type
- Financial requirements differ by program and family size
- This is informational content only and does not constitute legal advice
- Consider consulting with immigration professionals for complex cases
- Maintain valid immigration status and comply with reporting requirements
Tools & Resources for Chile
Frequently Asked Questions: Immigrating to Chile
What are the main legal immigration pathways to Chile?
Chile typically offers work permits and skilled worker visas, long-term residency permits, digital nomad or remote worker authorizations, student visas, retirement or passive income visas, investor programs, and family reunification routes. Each route grants different rights and has distinct eligibility criteria. Use the pathway explorer above to review the specific options available.
Can I get permanent residence or citizenship in Chile?
Many immigration pathways begin with temporary residence and may lead to permanent residence after a qualifying period — typically two to five years of continuous legal stay, depending on the specific route. Citizenship is a separate application process requiring its own criteria, including language requirements and a longer period of prior residence. Not all routes lead to permanent residence; digital nomad visas and most retirement visas are typically temporary stays only.
Can I work in Chile on a temporary residence permit?
Work authorization depends on your permit type. A work permit or employment visa authorizes both residence and employment. A digital nomad visa authorizes residence but typically only for remote work for foreign clients — not local employment. Retirement and passive income visas generally prohibit local work. Student visas may allow part-time work in specific circumstances. Always confirm work conditions before applying.
Can family members accompany me when I immigrate to Chile?
Most long-term immigration routes allow a principal applicant's spouse and dependent children to apply as dependents. Dependent permits typically mirror the principal applicant's rights and validity period, though work authorization for dependents varies by country and permit type. Family reunification visas are a separate category for bringing family members already living abroad to join a settled resident.
What documents are typically required for immigration to Chile?
Common documentation includes a valid passport, proof of purpose of stay (employment contract, enrollment letter, or proof of income), recent bank statements demonstrating financial sufficiency, medical examination results from an approved physician, police clearance certificates, and passport photographs. Translation and notarization of foreign-language documents is usually required. Exact requirements vary by pathway type and individual circumstances.
Next Steps
This page provides a research overview of immigration pathways to Chile. Use the tools above to explore specific routes, estimate costs, and compare this destination against others. Always confirm current requirements directly with the official immigration authority before submitting an application.
Related Guides & Resources
Explore related immigration routes, costs, and planning guides.
Immigration pathways to Chile
- Work immigration to ChileEmployment-based residence permits and work authorization pathways
- Study immigration to ChileStudent visas and education-based residence options
- Digital Nomad immigration to ChileRemote work visas and digital nomad residence programs
- Retirement immigration to ChileRetirement residence permits and long-term stay visas
- Investor immigration to ChileInvestment-based residence and citizenship by investment programs