Get Your Chile Visa Online
Fast, secure visa processing for tourism, business, and unforgettable adventures in Chile
TrustpilotHow to Get Your Chile Visa
Simple 4-step process — most applications approved within 5-10 business days
1
Complete the online application
Fill out our comprehensive application form with your personal details, travel plans, and purpose of visit. Our intelligent validation system guides you through each section, checking for common errors and ensuring your application meets Chile's Departamento de Extranjeria y Migracion requirements for tourist, business, or other visa categories.
2
Upload your documents
Submit your passport scan (bio page clearly visible), a recent passport-sized photograph, proof of accommodation, return flight booking, and financial documentation. Our visa specialists review every document against Chilean immigration standards before submission, significantly reducing the risk of rejection or delays.
3
We submit to Chilean Immigration
Your verified application is transmitted to Chile's official immigration portal. We monitor processing status in real-time and proactively communicate any updates, requests for additional documentation, or status changes via email and SMS notifications throughout the entire process.
4
Receive your visa approval
Your approved Chile visa arrives as a PDF document or visa sticker notification depending on your nationality. Print any required documents clearly and present them at Chilean immigration along with your passport. Bienvenido a Chile — welcome to the land of stunning landscapes, world-class wine, and warm hospitality!
Chile Visa Requirements & Entry Information
Tourist Visa
Up to 90 days
For leisure travel, sightseeing, and visiting friends or family in Chile
Business Visa
Up to 90 days
For commercial activities, meetings, conferences, and trade exploration
Work Visa
Up to 2 years
For employment with Chilean companies requiring sponsored work permits
Student Visa
Duration of studies
For academic programs at Chilean universities and educational institutions
Essential Requirements
- Passport valid 6+ months with 2 blank pages
- Passport photo 4.5x4.5cm, white background, recent
- Hotel booking or invitation letter from Chilean host
- Round-trip flight itinerary or onward travel proof
- Proof of sufficient funds for your stay
- Travel insurance covering medical emergencies
Visa Policy
Chile maintains a welcoming visa policy that allows citizens of many countries to enter visa-free for tourism and short business visits. Citizens of the United States, Canada, European Union member states, United Kingdom, Australia, and many other countries can enter Chile without a visa for stays up to 90 days.
For nationalities requiring visas, Chile offers several categories through its Departamento de Extranjeria y Migracion. The tourist visa is the most common, allowing visitors to explore Santiago, Valparaiso, the Atacama Desert, Patagonia, and Easter Island. Business visas accommodate professionals attending meetings, conferences, or exploring commercial opportunities. Both visa types typically allow stays of up to 90 days with possible extension.
Chile participates in the Mercosur agreement as an associate member, which provides simplified entry for citizens of Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay. These travelers can enter using only their national ID cards, without requiring a passport for tourism purposes.
Visa Requirements
Essential Documentation
All Chile visa applicants must meet these fundamental requirements:
• Passport validity: Minimum 6 months beyond your intended arrival date with at least two blank pages for stamps
• Photograph specifications: Recent color photo (4.5x4.5cm) with white background, taken within the last 6 months, neutral expression, no glasses
• Proof of accommodation: Hotel reservations, Airbnb booking confirmations, or invitation letter from Chilean host with their RUT number
• Financial documentation: Bank statements from the last 3 months showing sufficient funds, approximately $80-100 USD per day of stay
• Travel itinerary: Round-trip flight bookings or proof of onward travel
• Travel insurance: Policy covering medical emergencies and repatriation valid for your entire stay
Additional Requirements by Visa Type
Business visa applicants need an invitation letter from the Chilean company on official letterhead, company registration documents, and a letter from their employer explaining the business purpose. Work visa applicants require a job offer from a Chilean employer, employment contract, and additional documentation from labor authorities.
Application Process
Step-by-Step Application Guide
The Chile visa application process varies depending on your nationality and the type of visa required. Most applicants will follow these general steps:
1. Determine visa requirements: Check if your nationality requires a visa for Chile. Many countries have visa-free access for stays up to 90 days.
2. Gather required documents: Collect all necessary documentation including passport, photos, financial proof, accommodation booking, and travel insurance.
3. Complete the application form: Fill out the visa application form online or obtain it from the nearest Chilean consulate. Ensure all information matches your passport exactly.
4. Schedule an appointment: Book an appointment at the Chilean consulate in your country. Some consulates accept walk-ins while others require advance scheduling.
5. Attend the interview: Present your documents at the consulate. Some applicants may be asked questions about their travel plans and ties to their home country.
Processing times typically range from 5-15 business days depending on the consulate and visa type. We recommend applying at least 4 weeks before your intended travel date.
Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit Chile
Chile's extreme north-south geography creates dramatically different climates. Santiago and Central Chile (September-November, March-May) offer mild weather perfect for wine tasting in the Maipo and Colchagua valleys. Patagonia and Torres del Paine (November-March) provide optimal conditions for trekking during the southern summer. Atacama Desert is spectacular year-round with clear skies ideal for stargazing. Easter Island (December-March) has the best weather for exploring moai statues.
Currency and Payments
Chile uses the Chilean Peso (CLP). Credit cards are widely accepted in cities, major hotels, and restaurants. ATMs are abundant in urban areas. Carry cash for smaller towns, markets, and Patagonia where card acceptance is limited. US Dollars can be exchanged at casas de cambio for competitive rates.
Getting Around
Domestic flights connect Santiago with major destinations including Punta Arenas, Puerto Montt, and Calama. Long-distance buses are comfortable and affordable. Renting a car offers flexibility for exploring the Carretera Austral and wine regions. In Santiago, the Metro system is efficient and modern.
Why Choose DoVisa?
See the difference between applying yourself vs using our expert service
| Feature | Applying Yourself |  With DoVisa |
|---|---|---|
| Application reviewExpert review before submission | ✗No expert check | ✓100% reviewed by experts |
| Document validationCheck documents meet requirements | ✗Risk of rejection | ✓Pre-checked for errors |
| Customer supportHelp when you have questions | ✗Government offices only | ✓24/7 dedicated support |
| Form guidanceAssistance filling out forms | ✗Complex forms alone | ✓Step-by-step guidance |
| Status trackingKnow where your application is | ✗Manual checking | ✓Real-time updates |
| Refund if deniedProtection if visa is rejected | ✗No refund possible | ✓Money-back guarantee |
1,200+Visas processed
24/7Expert support
4.6Customer rating
98%Approval rate
"DoVisa made my Chile visa process incredibly smooth. Got approved in just 6 days and their document checklist was super helpful. Torres del Paine was breathtaking!"
"First time visiting South America and DoVisa support answered all my questions patiently. The Atacama Desert stargazing was worth every bit of the visa effort!"
"Good service overall. Processing took about 9 days which was within their estimate. Would have appreciated more frequent status updates but visa was approved."
"Business visa sorted quickly for a conference in Santiago. The invitation letter guidance was particularly helpful. Highly recommend DoVisa for Chile!"
"Applied for the whole family and DoVisa handled all three applications together. Everyone approved within a week. Chilean Patagonia here we come!"
"Had to provide some additional bank statements but the support team guided me through it quickly. Visa approved after 11 days. Good experience."
"Second South American trip using DoVisa. They know Chilean immigration requirements inside out. Wine tasting in Maipo Valley was amazing!"
"DoVisa support was fantastic when I had questions about the financial requirements. They explained everything clearly. Visa approved in 5 days!"
"Straightforward process with clear instructions. Took slightly longer than expected but the visa was approved without issues. Would use again."
Chile Visa FAQs
Do I need a visa to visit Chile?
Visa requirements for Chile depend on your nationality. Citizens of the United States, Canada, European Union member states, United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and many other countries can enter Chile visa-free for stays up to 90 days for tourism or business purposes. However, citizens of certain countries in Asia, Africa, and other regions must obtain a visa before travel. Check the Chilean Ministry of Foreign Affairs website or contact the nearest consulate to confirm requirements for your specific nationality. Even visa-exempt travelers must have a passport valid for at least 6 months and may need to show proof of return travel and sufficient funds.
What types of visas are available for Chile?
Chile offers several visa categories to accommodate different travel purposes. Tourist visas allow stays up to 90 days for leisure, sightseeing, and visiting friends or family. Business visas permit commercial activities including meetings, conferences, and trade exploration. Work visas (Visa Sujeta a Contrato) are required for employment with Chilean companies. Student visas accommodate academic programs at Chilean institutions. Temporary residence visas are available for those planning extended stays. Each visa type has specific requirements and validity periods.
How long does Chile visa processing take?
Chile visa processing times vary depending on the visa type, consulate location, and current demand. Tourist and business visas typically take 5-15 business days from the date of application submission. Some consulates may process applications faster during low seasons. Work visas require additional processing through Chilean authorities and can take 4-8 weeks. Recommendations: Apply at least 4 weeks before your intended travel date; ensure all documents are complete and accurate to avoid delays; respond promptly to any requests for additional information.
What documents do I need for a Chile visa application?
Core requirements for all visa types: Valid passport with at least 6 months validity and 2 blank pages; completed visa application form; recent passport-sized photograph (4.5x4.5cm, white background); proof of accommodation in Chile; round-trip flight itinerary; travel insurance with medical coverage; proof of sufficient funds (bank statements). Additional requirements by visa type: Tourist visas may require a detailed travel itinerary. Business visas need an invitation letter from the Chilean company and employer support letter. Work visas require a job offer, employment contract, and documentation from labor authorities.
Can I extend my stay in Chile?
Yes, Chile allows visitors to extend their stay under certain conditions. For visa-free visitors and tourist visa holders, you can request a 90-day extension at the Departamento de Extranjeria y Migracion offices in Santiago or regional capitals. The extension fee is approximately 100 USD equivalent in Chilean Pesos. Extensions are generally approved for tourists with valid reasons. Important: Extension requests should be submitted before your current authorized stay expires. Overstaying can result in fines and may affect future visa applications. For longer stays, consider applying for a temporary residence visa.
What is the Chile Reciprocity Fee?
Chile previously charged a reciprocity fee to citizens of countries that charged Chileans for visas. As of recent years, Chile has eliminated the reciprocity fee for most nationalities including US, Canadian, and Australian citizens arriving at Santiago Airport. This means you no longer need to pay an additional fee upon arrival. The fee elimination makes visiting Chile more accessible and cost-effective. However, visa policies can change, so verify current requirements before your trip through official Chilean government channels.
Do I need travel insurance for Chile?
While travel insurance is not strictly mandatory for all visitors to Chile, it is strongly recommended and may be required for visa applicants from certain countries. Chilean immigration officials may ask to see proof of travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, hospitalization, and medical evacuation. Chile has excellent healthcare in major cities but costs can be significant for foreigners. Recommended coverage: Minimum $50,000 USD medical coverage; emergency medical evacuation; trip cancellation; coverage valid for your entire stay. Many credit cards offer travel insurance — check your card benefits before purchasing additional coverage.
What are the photo requirements for a Chile visa?
Chile has specific requirements for visa photographs: Size: 4.5x4.5 centimeters (approximately 1.8x1.8 inches). Background: Plain white background with no patterns or shadows. Recency: Taken within the last 6 months. Expression: Neutral expression with mouth closed, eyes open and clearly visible. Head position: Face centered, looking directly at camera. Glasses: Remove glasses if possible; if medically necessary, ensure no glare on lenses. Head covering: Only permitted for religious reasons, face must remain fully visible. DoVisa reviews your photo before submission to ensure compliance.
Can I work in Chile with a tourist visa?
No, tourist visas and visa-free entry do not permit employment in Chile. Working without proper authorization is illegal and can result in deportation, fines, and future entry bans. To work legally in Chile, you need a Work Visa (Visa Sujeta a Contrato) which requires: job offer from a Chilean employer; employment contract notarized in Chile; employer sponsorship. The process typically takes 4-8 weeks. Digital nomads: Chile does not have a specific digital nomad visa, but remote workers employed by foreign companies sometimes enter on tourist visas. Consider temporary residence for extended stays.
What vaccinations do I need for Chile?
Chile does not require any specific vaccinations for entry from most countries. However, a Yellow Fever vaccination may be required if you are arriving from a yellow fever endemic country. Recommended vaccinations include: Hepatitis A and B; Typhoid (especially for rural travel); Tetanus-Diphtheria booster if not current. Altitude sickness can be a concern when visiting the Atacama Desert and northern highlands. There is no malaria in Chile. Consult a travel medicine specialist 4-6 weeks before departure for personalized advice based on your specific itinerary and health conditions.
What is the best time to visit Chile?
Chile's extreme length creates diverse climates making different regions optimal at different times. Santiago and Central Chile: Best September-November (spring) and March-May (autumn) for mild weather and wine harvest. Patagonia and Torres del Paine: November-March (summer) for best trekking conditions, though December-February is busiest. Atacama Desert: Year-round destination with 300+ clear days annually, optimal for stargazing. Easter Island: December-March for warmest weather. Lake District: December-March for outdoor activities. Chilean ski resorts: June-September.
How much money do I need to show for a Chile visa?
Chile requires proof of sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay. While there's no official minimum amount, immigration typically expects approximately $80-100 USD per day of your intended stay. Acceptable proof includes: Bank statements from the last 3 months; credit card statements; letter from employer stating salary; sponsorship letter from Chilean host. For a typical 2-week tourist visit, showing approximately $1,500-2,000 USD in available funds is generally sufficient. Business travelers may need to show additional proof that expenses will be covered by their company or Chilean hosts.
What happens if my Chile visa is rejected?
Chile visa rejections are relatively uncommon but can occur. Common rejection reasons include: incomplete documentation; insufficient financial proof; unclear travel purpose; previous immigration violations; concerns about intent to overstay. If rejected: You can reapply with improved documentation addressing the rejection reasons. There is no formal appeals process, but fresh applications are considered on their own merits. Request feedback from the consulate on what was lacking. Prevention tips: Ensure all documents are complete; provide clear travel itinerary; demonstrate strong ties to your home country; include comprehensive financial documentation. DoVisa's pre-submission review helps identify potential issues.
Do children need their own Chile visa?
Yes, every traveler including infants and children requires their own visa or visa-free entry eligibility. Children cannot be included on a parent's visa. Additional requirements for minors: Children traveling with only one parent should carry a notarized authorization letter from the absent parent. Unaccompanied minors need notarized consent from both parents plus additional documentation. Birth certificate may be requested to prove parental relationship. Application process: Parents typically apply for children's visas simultaneously with their own. DoVisa allows group applications for families traveling together.
What currency is used in Chile and can I use credit cards?
Chile's official currency is the Chilean Peso (CLP). Credit cards: Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in cities, hotels, restaurants, and shops. American Express is less common. Some establishments add a surcharge for card payments. ATMs: Available throughout cities with reasonable withdrawal limits. Notify your bank before travel to avoid blocks. BancoEstado ATMs often have lower fees. US Dollars: Can be exchanged at casas de cambio for competitive rates. Recommendations: Carry cash for smaller towns, markets, and Patagonia; have a mix of payment options; inform your bank of travel plans.
Is Chile safe for tourists?
Chile is generally considered one of the safest countries in South America for tourists. Safe areas: Most tourist destinations including Santiago (Providencia, Las Condes, Vitacura), Valparaiso historic areas, Atacama Desert towns, and Patagonia have good security. Areas of caution: Petty theft and pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas, bus stations, and markets. Some Santiago neighborhoods require caution at night. Practical advice: Don't display expensive items; use registered taxis or apps; keep copies of documents; be aware at ATMs. Emergency number: 133 (Carabineros police). Travel insurance is recommended for all visitors.
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