Is a visa required to visit Chile?
With its breathtaking national parks, famous wineries, Andean ski resorts, and pristine surf beaches, Chile is a sought-after destination for travelers worldwide. While deciding to visit is easy, figuring out the logistics can be a bit more complex. This guide outlines Chile’s entry requirements, covering visa types, fees, and all the necessary details for a smooth journey in and out of the country.
Chile's breathtaking scenery draws visitors from across the globe © Jkboy Jatenipat / 500pxTravelers from 95 countries do not need to secure a visa beforehand
Travelers from approximately 95 countries can enter Chile without needing to secure a consular or electronic visa beforehand. This includes citizens from the United States, Japan, Canada, the UK, the European Union, and neighboring South American countries, all of whom receive a stamp that allows them to stay for up to 90 days. Previously, many of these visitors were required to pay significant 'reciprocity fees' to enter Chile, but this requirement has been abolished, with the last fee for Australians lifted in 2020 (although Australians still need an e-visa to enter, available here).
Citizens from numerous other countries, especially in Africa and Asia, will need to visit the nearest embassy to apply for a tourist visa, which can be valid for a minimum of 30 days or a maximum of 90, depending on their nationality. A complete list of who needs a visa and the duration can be found here (in Spanish).
All travelers must ensure their passport is valid for at least 6 months from the date they arrive in Chile.
Every traveler to Chile is issued a Tourist Card, which must be presented to border officers upon departure © FTiare / Getty ImagesEvery traveler receives a Tarjeta de Turismo or Tourist Card upon arrival.
When you enter Chile, you’ll be given a document known as the Tarjeta de Turismo (Tourist Card). It’s essential to keep this card during your visit, as you’ll need to show it to border officials when you leave. This card is particularly beneficial because it allows you to avoid the 19% room tax charged to local tourists at hotels. Many hotels won’t automatically waive this fee, so remember to present both your passport and tourist card at check-in.
If you misplace your tourist card, you can obtain a replacement for free through the website of the Policía de Investigaciones de Chile (PDI), at a local PDI office, or at Santiago airport (but make sure to allocate at least 45 extra minutes for this at the airport). Travelers from visa-exempt countries can extend their tourist card for an additional 90 days by completing an online form (in Spanish) and paying a US$100 fee, although this process can be complex and requires good Spanish skills. A simpler and often cheaper option is to cross into Argentina and return the next day, which will grant you a new tourist card at no cost.
Familiarizing yourself with Chile's visa rules is essential before diving into its diverse flavors and experiences © Getty ImagesWorking visas are offered to citizens from Canada and Australia.
Individuals from 16 countries, including Canada, Ireland, Germany, Australia, and New Zealand, can apply for Working Holiday Visas, allowing them to extend their stay in Chile. Typically, these visas are available to those aged 18 to 30 (up to 35 for Canadians) and permit foreigners to live and work in Chile for up to one year. Entrepreneurs might find the Start-Up Chile program appealing, which provides one-year work visas along with substantial financial incentives in the tens of thousands of dollars. For those wishing to stay longer, collaborating with local language schools can lead to Sujeta a Contrato visas for teaching English in Chile.
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