chile extend tourist visa

How to extend your tourist visa

The most common way in which tourists tend to extend their tourist visas is to travel to one of the neighboring countries, like Argentina, Bolivia or Peru, in order to come back to Chile after a couple of days and obtain a new tourist visa for up to 90 days (at the border or airport). However, not everybody can do it so easily. There are 103 nationalities that require to obtain a tourist visa through a Chilean Consulate overseas before traveling to Chile, which makes it harder (more time, more bureaucracy).

What most of tourists don’t know, is that you can extend your tourist visa without exiting the country in two case, which we will cover next:

1. You were granted a tourist visa for less than 90 days

Sometimes, the authority may limit the stay to an inferior period to the normal 90 days. This will depend on the diplomatic relations between Chile and the country of origin.

However, even if it happens, you still have the chance to apply for an extension of your tourist visa called “ Ampliación de Turismo ”. With it, you will be able to extend your stay for up to 90 days.

In order to do, you need to book an appointment for Extranjería , and select the option called “ Ampliación de Turismo ” (You can read our article on how to book an appointment for Extranjería online: https://immichile.cl/en/how-to-make-an-appointment-for-extranjeria/ ). The day of the appointment you will have to carry with you:

1. Your passport and a copy of the identification pages, including the passport number, grant and expiry dates, and a copy of the page in which the entry was stamped. If you entered using another Identification Document, you will have to present the original and a copy of the same (“ Cédula de Identidad or DNI ”); AND ,

2. Your Tourism Card and a copy of it.

The process is free of charge , and you have to do it within the last 30 days of your tourist visa.

2. You were granted a 90 day tourist visa and you want to extend your stay

If you got a 90 day tourist visa, but you wish to stay longer, you can apply for an extension of your tourist visa called “ Prórroga de Turismo ”. With it, you will be able to extend your stay for up to 180 days (90 days more).

In order to do, you need to book an appointment for  Extranjería , and select the option called “ Prórroga de Turismo ” (You can read our article on how to book an appointment for Extranjería online:  https://immichile.cl/en/how-to-make-an-appointment-for-extranjeria/ ). The day of the appointment you will have to carry with you:

1. Your passport and a copy of the identification pages, including the passport number, grant and expiry dates, and a copy of the page in which the entry was stamped. If you entered using another Identification Document, you will have to present the original and a copy of the same (“ Cédula de Identidad or DNI ”);  AND ,

The process costs  USD$100 , and you have to do it within the last 30 days of your tourist visa.

How many times can you extend your tourist visa?

You can extend it only once. When the extension comes to its end, you will have to leave the country or to apply for a temporary visa, before your tourist visa expires, if you wish to stay in Chile even longer.

You can also leave the country at the end of the extension and come back under a new tourist visa.

Ampliación de Turismo – Requirements : 

https://www.extranjeria.gob.cl/media/2019/01/20.11.18-TouristPermitRequirements.pdf

Prórroga de Turismo – Requirements : 

https://www.extranjeria.gob.cl/media/2019/01/20.11.18-TouristPermitExtensionRequirements.pdf

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How to Extend your Tourist Visa in Chile in 2021

Here is a step by step guide on how to extend your tourist visa in Chile in 2021.

If you are considering moving to Chile check out this blogpost How to Apply to Chile’s Temporary Visa.

Chile is currently in un “Estado de Catástrofe” due to the pandemic and it is not clear for how long. What does that mean for you? One thing, the price . It usually costs 100 USD to get the visa extension, but it is currently ~736 pesos, around 1 USD. 

Step 1: Applying for the Tourist Visa Extension.

Start by going to the tramites website, scroll to the section Otros trámites   and find Prórroga de Turismo it should be in the middle column. 

Proceed to the Identificación del Solicitante page, and you will see a dropdown menu. 

Select Solictar Prorroga . First, fill out all your personal information. Next, you will be required to upload two documents.

You will need to upload:

• Your passport page
• PDI paper, this is the one you receive at immigration. 

Click Submit, and you should get an email confirming your request. 

Six days later, I received an email.

Step 2: Paying for the Tourist Visa Extension. 

You will receive an email saying: Giro del Orden . There should be a PDF document attached that is the giro. 

Unfortunately, there is no online payment option, so you have to pay it in person. 

You first need to print this document. Santiago has printing locations or internet cafes; you can send the document and get it printed. 

Once you complete this step, you need to go to the bank. I went to, Banco Estado.  

There I waited in line and then showed the teller the paper. They knew what to do, so no further explanation on my end was necessary. 

I paid in cash since it only cost 736 pesos. 

The teller will return the paper with a stamp and a receipt attached. 

Step 3: Uploading the Giro.

The next step requires you to go to the same website as when you applied for the extension. You follow the same steps till you get to the dropdown. This time you will select Envio Orden de Pago.

You fill out all your personal info and upload the document you received from the teller. 

Once you complete and submit, you should receive an email confirming your request. 

I received an email my visa was extended three days later. 

Step 4:  The Final Step

Once you received the email, there should be a PDF attached that is your extension document. 

You must print this document and keep it with your passport for it to be valid.

TIPS: 

• Make sure to have a pdf version of your documents. If you have an iPhone, you can use the Notes app to scan the documents. There are also apps you can use. 
• The banks have long lines. Sometimes there are two different entrances for different services. We asked an employee where we had to line up, and she pointed to the short line. Ask, don’t waste time in a long line. 

Final Thought s

The overall process to extend your tourist visa is painless but annoying, especially if you live in a comuna still in fase 1. You will need to use one of your permisos for this. On the bright side, you are paying 99USD less right now. 

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Do you need a visa to go to Chile?

Aug 12, 2023 • 3 min read

Plan ahead with travel to Chile by knowing which particular documents you'll need before departure © Getty Images

With its dazzling national parks, globally-renowned wineries, Andean ski resorts and top-class surf beaches, Chile is an attractive destination for travelers from around the world. Deciding you want to visit is the easy part; navigating the logistics of actually making that trip happen can be a tad trickier. Below is a useful guide to Chile’s entry requirements, including information on visa types, costs and all the details you’ll need to ensure a seamless journey in and out of the country.

Citizens of 95 countries do not need a visa in advance

Citizens of around 95 countries can enter Chile without the need to obtain a consular or electronic visa in advance. These include citizens of the United States, Japan, Canada, the UK, the European Union and Chile’s South American neighbors – all of whom receive a stamp allowing them to stay in the country for up to 90 days. Formerly, the citizens of many of these countries had to pay hefty “reciprocity fees” to enter Chile. These are no longer in place, with the final fee, for Australians, removed in 2020 (though Australians still need an e-visa to enter, which can be found here ).

Citizens of many other countries, particularly in Africa and Asia, will need to visit the closest embassy to apply for a tourist visa, which could last for a minimum of 30 days or a maximum of 90, depending on the nation. You can view the full list here (in Spanish) of who does and doesn’t need a visa and how long these visas last.

Citizens of all countries must ensure that their passport is valid for a minimum of 6 months from the date of arrival.

Everyone gets a Tarjeta de Turismo or Tourist Card when they arrive

 Upon entering the country, you will receive a slip of paper called the Tarjeta de Turismo (Tourist Card). Hold onto it for the duration of your stay as you’ll be required to present this to border officers when you depart. This tourist card is actually quite useful as you can use it to avoid the 19% room tax at hotels, which domestic tourists must pay. Most hotels won’t automatically deduct this, so be sure to show your passport and tourist card at check-in.

If you lose the tourist card, you can request a free copy at the website of the Policía de Investigaciones de Chile (PDI), at the nearest PDI office or at the Santiago airport (though you should allot at least 45 minutes extra at the airport to deal with this). Residents of visa-free countries can extend the tourist card for an additional 90 days by filling out a form online (in Spanish) and then paying a US$100 extension fee, but this requires a high level of Spanish comprehension and the patience to jump through some hoops. It’s often easier (and cheaper) to just hop across the Andes to Argentina and return a day later, at which time you’ll receive a new tourist card free of charge.

Working visas are available for citizens of Canada and Australia 

Citizens of 16 countries – including Canada, Ireland, Germany, Australia and New Zealand – can apply for Working Holiday Visas to extend their stay in Chile even longer. These visas are generally available to those between the ages of 18 and 30 (or up to 35 for Canadians) and allow foreigners to work and live in Chile for up to one year. Entrepreneurs should consider applying to the Start-Up Chile program, which arranges one-year work visas on top of generous monetary incentives in the tens of thousands of dollars. Others who want to stay longer can work with local language schools to arrange Sujeta a Contrato visas for teaching English in Chile.

This article was first published October 2021 and updated August 2023

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Will I need a visa?

You only need a visa, if you have a paid job in Chile. If you attend a language course or you do an (unpaid) internship in Chile, the bureaucratic and financial efforts to apply for a visa are not worth it. If you travel to Chile as tourist, you will receive a tourist card, which allows you to stay for 90 days (can be extended). You could get a student visa, but you will not have any special advantages, except that you won't have to leave the country every 3 months (see below). Exchange students shall apply for a student visa beforehand.

Which documents will I need upon entry?

Citizens of Australia, New Zealand, Great Britain, Canada, the USA, South Africa, as well as most EU countries do not need a visa, just their passport. Upon entry, they will receive a Tarjeta de Turismo (Tourist Card) which is valid for 90 days and has to be presented when leaving the country. Find a safe place for this inconspicuous piece of paper! If you do loose it, get a replacement in plenty of time before your departure ( Policía Internacional in Santiago, Eleuterio Ramírez 852, or at a police station in one of the regions.) Those trying to leave without the card will most likely miss their flight or be kept waiting at the border for a long time.

Citizens of most African, Asian and formerly Soviet States will need a tourist visa that can be applied for at any Chilean Consulate. Citizens of Australia and Mexico have to pay an entry fee when traveling through Santiago airport (not at any other point) that corresponds to the amount Chileans are charged when traveling to the respective country: Australians USD 61.00, Mexicans USD 23.00.

How can I extend my stay in Chile?

The Tourist Card is easiest extended by leaving and re-entering the country (can be done on the same day). Many foreigners use this loophole to extend their stay in Chile by this procedure. However, it is not officially acknowledged by the law and there have been cases in which the border officials became suspicious the third or fourth time. They started asking uncomfortable questions and renewed the Tourist Card only for 30 days.

An official extension through a police station (without leaving the country) is only meant to be done once for another 90 days, and it has to be applied for one month before the card expires from the Extranjería in Santiago or any Regional capital. The price is USD 100.00; Santiago address: San Antonio 580 piso 2, metro stop Plaza de Armas.

What kind of visa will I need?

If you officially want to stay longer than three months in Chile or if you are looking for a paid job, there are various visas . You can obtain more information at the Chilean consulates in your home country or at the Extranjería of each regional capital of Chile.

The most important types of visa are:

• Visa de Estudiante : Student visa, without working permit, it is limited to the duration of your studies
• Visa Sujeto a Contrato : Contract visa, this visa is issued upon presentation of a contract with a Chilean employer
• Visa Temporaria : : Temporary visa (normally 1 year) for "profesionales", i.e. for people with a diploma/title. It is not dependent on one employer, but you have to have your diploma/ title officially acknowledged in Chile, and you need a job offer. Click here for more information about this visa.
• Permanencia Definitiva : Permanent visa for foreigners, who have lived in Chile for 2 years with a temporary visa and who can prove that they earn their own living.

We are pleased to give you advice on the different types of visa and help you with the Chilean bureaucracy. More information under Relocation .

Where can I apply for a visa?

• At a Chilean consulate in your home country before your departure, application procedure: 2-6 weeks. See the list of consulates in your country.
• If you are already in Chile and you want to apply for a visa for a longer stay: Intendencia de Santiago, Departamento de Extranjería , San Antonio 580 piso 2, Santiago Centro, Tel. 600-626-4222, open Mon-Fri 8.30 - 14 h, be prepared for long lines! Application procedure: 3-6 months.

How do I get from the airport to Santiago city?

At the airport counters, you will find authorized taxis and transfers companies. You can pay for a private or shared trip. Avoid those taxi drivers that approach you to offer their services. They are not authorized and is not the safest way to reach your accommodation in Santiago.

What kind of clothes will I need in Santiago?

Of course, this depends first of all on the season (see Climate ). If you are a tourist, informal and comfortable clothes will be just fine. If you are here to work or study, things are different. The appearance is very important to the Chileans. They don't consider long hair and earrings for men appropriate, neither very short skirts for women or if they don't shave their legs and armpits. You should also use deodorant. At work you have to dress formally, men usually need to wear a jacket with tie. Jeans, T-shirts or sandals are out of question. Women should avoid to wear revealing clothes, a bra is a must.

Is Chile safe?

More information in our complete Safety section .

How can I pay in Chile?

The common and almost exclusive means of payment is the Chilean Peso. You can withdraw money at cash points of the Redbanc ATM's with your ATM or EC/Maestro Card in any big city - maximum 200.000 Pesos per day . This costs around 7 USD / 5 EUR per withdrawal with good exchange rates. You can pay with the usual credit cards in most restaurants, shops, supermarkets etc. If you take out money with your credit card, the bank charges are higher. Further information under "Useful Information/ Money" .

What are the living costs in Chile?

More information under Cost of living .

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Chile Tourist Visa

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Traveling to Chile

Who needs a chile visa, chile tourist visa validity, application form, personal photos, accommodation or invitation, financial proof, criminal record, chile visa application steps, chile tourist visa fees, where to apply, chile tourist visa processing time, approved visa applications, chile visa extension, chile tourist visa faq.

Chile is a popular South American destination that attracts millions of visitors each year for its vibrant cities, fascinating history and culture, over 6,000 kilometers of Pacific Ocean coast line, and majestic mountain ranges.

Foreign nationals from the following countries must apply for a Chile visa, before traveling to Chile: Afghanistan, Algeria, Angola, Armenia, Australia, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Belarus, Benin, Bhutan, Botswana, Brunei, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cambodia, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Central African Republic, Chad, China, Comoros, Congo, Congo (Dem. Rep.), Cote d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Cuba, Djibouti, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Egypt, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Haiti, India, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Kiribati, Kosovo, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Lebanon, Lesotho, Liberia, Libya, Madagascar, Malawi, Maldives, Mali, Marshall Islands, Mauritania, Micronesia, Morocco, Mozambique, Myanmar, Namibia, Nauru, Nepal, Niger, Nigeria, North Korea, Oman, Pakistan, Palau, Palestinian Territories, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Qatar, Rwanda, Samoa, Sao Tome and Principe, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Solomon Islands, Somalia, South Sudan, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Suriname, Syria, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Timor-Leste, Togo, Tunisia, Turkmenistan, Tuvalu, Uganda, Uzbekistan, Venezuela, Yemen, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

The Chile Transitory Stay Visa, for tourism purposes, is issued as single or multiple entry and valid for 90 days from the date of entry into Chile, allowing up to a maximum 90-day stay, or in some cases less than 90 days, depending on your nationality and purpose for travel to Chile.

Chile Tourist Visa Requirements

Foreign travelers should meet the following when applying for a Chile tourist visa:

The following are required when applying for a Chile visa:

Fill out a Chile visa application form online .

Copy of passport information page.

One recent, full frontal color photo on white background, 5cm x 5cm.

Valid hotel reservations or a notarized invitation from a Chilean host, complete with host’s contact information

Bank statements for the past 3 months.

Residence visas if applicant resides in a foreign country.

A valid certificate proving clean criminal record.

Please note that applicants may be asked to provide additional information, such as academic letters, work invitations, birth certificates, parental consent letters, or other type of documentation. Required documents should be uploaded in PDF format, while the personal photo should be in JPG format.

Please follow these steps when applying for a Chile tourist visa:

o  Log in to the Chile Consular Attention System (SAC) . o  Fill out a Chile application form online. o  Upload all required documents in the stated format.

If approved, an email will be sent with payment instructions that must be made within 30 days.

o  Pay fee securely online within 30 days. o  Receive proof of payment by email.

o  Applicant will be contacted to visit their nearest Chilean representation office in person. o  Applicant should present all original documentation at the interview.

o  Approved visas will be sent to the email you provided, OR collected from the Chile embassy, consulate, or representation office where your visa application was processed. o  Check all information is correct and matches your passport.

The Chile tourist visa fee depends on the applicant’s nationality and the Chilean embassy or representation office processing the visa application. After the applicant submits their visa application, they will receive an email either approving or denying their visa request. If approved, the email will contain payment instructions, which must be made within 30 days.

Foreign nationals applying for a Chile tourist visa should do so online at the Chile Consular Attention System (SAC) and nearest Chile embassy, consulate, or foreign mission abroad.

Chile tourist visa processing times vary, depending on the applicant’s nationality and the Chile embassy or consulate where the application is being processed.

Approved Chile tourist visas will be sent to the email you provided or collected from the Chile embassy, consulate, or foreign office where the visa application was processed.

You can extend a valid Chile tourist visa only once for up to a maximum of 90 days, by applying to the Chile National Migration Service. Travelers who overstay their Chile visa validity dates will be fined. Requirements include: proof of visa extension payment, reasons and supporting documents for visa extension, and financial proof during applicant’s stay in Chile.

The Chile tourist visa is valid for 90 days from the date of entry into Chile and allows for a maximum 90-day stay, extendable for another 90 days. Depending on your nationality, your Chile tourist visa could be issued for less than 90 days.

The Chile tourist visa fee depends on the applicant’s nationality and the Chilean embassy or representation office processing the visa application. Once the application has been submitted, applicant will receive an email either approving or denying their visa request. If approved, the email will contain payment instructions, which must be made within 30 days.

No, foreign nationals who hold a Chile tourist visa are not permitted to work in Chile or perform any remunerated activities. Foreign nationals wishing to work in Chile should apply for a residency in Chile.

Check if you need a visa for your next destination

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Travel Advisory July 17, 2023

Chile - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution in Chile due to  crime and civil unrest.

Country Summary : Street crime (e.g., muggings, pick-pocketing, theft) is common in Chile. Rates of violent crime, such as assaults, homicide, carjackings, and residential break-ins, are increasing.

Large-scale demonstrations periodically occur in Santiago and other cities in Chile. Demonstrations can take place with little or no notice, and often result in disruptions to transportation, including public bus and Santiago metro services.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Chile.

If you decide to travel to Chile:

• Do not leave luggage unattended, even in locked vehicles.
• Always carry a copy of your U.S. passport and visa (if applicable).  Keep original documents in a secure location.
• Avoid demonstrations.
• Follow the instructions of local authorities including movement restrictions and obey all curfews.
• Find a safe location and shelter in place if in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests.
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Chile.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the U.S. Embassy and Department of State on  Facebook , Instagram,  and  Twitter .
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

For the duration of stay

One page minimum for immigration entry stamp is required

Not required for stays of 90 days or less (tourist passports only)

Covid 19 vaccination is required upon entry. Without proof of vaccination, a negative PCR test issued not more than 48 hours prior to entry to Chile is required.

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy santiago.

Avenida Andres Bello 2800, Las Condes Santiago, Chile Telephone: +(56)(2) 2330-3000 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(56)(2) 2330-3000 (5pm-8am) Emergency Working-Hours Telephone: +(56)(2) 2330-3716 (8am-5pm) Fax: +(56)(2) 2330-3710 Email:   [email protected]

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Your passport must be in good condition and valid for the period of your stay. You do not need a visa for a tourist or business stay of 90 days or fewer (if traveling on a tourist passport). Upon arrival, you will receive a Tourist Card (Tarjeta de Turismo) valid for up to 90 days, which you can extend for another 90-day period by paying $100 US at the  Chilean Immigration Office . You must return the Tourist Card upon departure. Failure to return it may delay your departure from Chile. If the Tourist Card is lost or stolen, you must replace it at an  International Police Office  or at the airport before leaving. You will face a fine if you remain longer than allowed, and you will not be able to leave Chile until the fine is paid. If applicable, pay the fine before your departure by going to the  Chilean Immigration Office  or you may face significant delays. 

Travel on Diplomatic or Official Passports:   U.S. citizens traveling to or through Chile on diplomatic or official passports are required to obtain a visa before travel.

Entry / Exit Requirements for Dual Nationals: Dual nationals must enter and exit Chile using their Chilean passports, and they must enter and exit the United States using their U.S. passports.

Entry / Exit Requirements for Minors (under 18): Parents traveling with a minor must show evidence of their relationship to the child when entering or departing the country. Carry an original apostilled birth certificate.

Minors departing Chile must submit to Chilean airport officials an original notarized authorization from any non-traveling parent(s), a photocopy of the authorization, and an original apostilled birth certificate at the time of departure. For non-traveling parent(s) in Chile, the notarization can be done by a local Chilean notary public. For non-traveling parent(s) in the United States, the notarization can be done at the  Chilean Embassy or a Chilean Consulate . If a U.S. notary executes the authorization, it must be  apostilled  to be valid in Chile. An apostille should be obtained well in advance of travel as the process is lengthy.

• The  Chilean Ministry of Foreign Affairs  provides more information on entry and exit requirements for children. 
• Visit the  Embassy of Chile  website for the most current visa information.
• The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Chile.
• Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction  and  customs regulations  on our websites.

Safety and Security

Demonstrations occur frequently, especially on March 29, May 1 and 21, September 11, and October 18. Although most are peaceful, they can become violent. Avoid demonstrations if possible. Strikes are also common and can cause significant travel delays, especially if you are traveling to remote areas, such as Easter Island, Punta Arenas, or Chiloe.

Anarchist groups have placed explosive and incendiary devices in public spaces throughout Santiago, such as ATMs, metro stations, and government facilities. Remain vigilant and avoid suspicious or unattended packages.

Araucanía Conflict: Some individuals or groups claiming affiliation with the Mapuche indigenous community have sought redress for grievances by burning churches, homes, and pastures, and attacking trucks, buses, and farming/logging equipment, causing property destruction, injuries, and deaths. In 2022, the Government of Chile implemented a State of Emergency in the area that is reevaluated every 15 days. While these groups have mainly targeted forestry corporations and landowners, you should exercise caution in the Araucanía region.

Crime: Street crime, carjackings, telephone scams, credit card fraud, and residential break-ins are common, especially in Santiago, Valparaiso, Viña del Mar, Antofagasta, Calama, and Iquique. Exercise significant caution when touring Cerro Santa Lucia, Cerro San Cristobal, Mercado Central, Plaza de Armas, Bellavista, Yungay, Barrio Lastarria, Persa BioBio, Barrio Meiggs, Patronato, Centro Cultural Estación Mapocho and Los Dominicos in Santiago, or other popular tourist sites as pickpocketing and muggings occur frequently. Small bags and purses have been stolen from hotel lobbies, crowded tourist locations, Santiago’s subway, taxis, and the backs of chairs and floors at bars, restaurants, and cafés. Cell phones are often stolen from restaurant tables. Criminals have drugged and robbed U.S. citizens, leaving them with no memory of events. The murder of a U.S. citizen occurred in 2023 in the neighborhood of Yungay. Carjackings and vehicle thefts are a serious problem in Santiago, Valparaiso, and northern Chile (from Iquique to Arica). Thieves have punctured rental car tires to distract foreigners and steal their belongings from the vehicle.

Additionally, though not typical touring areas, exercise significant caution when traveling through or in Villa Francia, El Castillo, La Victoria, La Pincoya, Bajos de Mena y Mahuidanche, and the municipalities of Cerro Navia, Pudahuel, Quilicura and San Bernardo in Santiago,

In particular:

• Keep all valuables on you when taking buses, especially to or from Calama and San Pedro de Atacama. Thefts are common and are often done by people posing as bus employees. 
• Never allow your credit card to be charged outside of your view.
• Do not accept assistance if your clothes are splashed with a wet, sticky substance - keep moving and do not let go of your bags.
• Do not accept any beverages from strangers.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt. Criminals rarely work alone, and things are not worth the possibility of physical harm or death.
• Do not display signs of wealth, such as expensive watches or jewelry.
• Use caution when walking or driving at night, especially if alone.
• Do not use unauthorized taxi services.  Individuals should use regulated taxis with orange or yellow license plates or ride-share applications. See Travel and Transportation section for more information
• Always carry a copy of your U.S. identification (passport, driver’s license) and visa (if applicable). Keep original documents in a secure location.
• Counterfeit and pirated goods are generally illegal in Chile. Bringing them to the United States may result in forfeitures and/or fines. See the  intellectual property section of the U.S. Department of Justice website  for more information.
• See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information on scams.

Victims of Crime:  Report crimes to the local police at 133 and contact the U.S. Embassy at +(56) 2 2330-3716. Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find appropriate medical care
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• Explain the local criminal justice process in general terms
• Provide a list of local attorneys
• Provide information on  victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• Replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy for assistance or call local police at 149.

Tourism: The tourism industry is generally regulated and rules about best practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand to support organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance.

See our webpage for more  information on insurance providers for overseas coverage .

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the U.S., regardless of local law. For examples, visit our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice   website.

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our  webpage  for further information.

Special Circumstances: Chile is prone to major earthquakes, wildfires, landslides, tsunamis, floods, and volcanic eruptions. The Chilean National Disaster Prevention and Response Service ( SENAPRED ) provides alerts and guidance for these types of events. There are emergency preparedness guides available on the  Ready.gov  and Federal Emergency Management Agency ( FEMA ) websites. It is important to make a plan and to keep emergency supplies accessible. There are recommendations for preparing a disaster supply kit available  here .

Citizens are advised to consult with authorities and/or hotel management if in doubt of the need to leave an area. All U.S. citizens are encouraged to monitor the news closely, including the  SENAPRED website.

There are minefields on Chile's border with Peru and Bolivia, and Argentina in Patagonia. Follow clearly identified roads and trails when in minefield areas. Consult with national park or other local officials concerning minefields.

For outdoor and adventure sports along the border with Argentina, Bolivia or Peru, register with Chile’s  Dirección Nacional de Fronteras y Limites del Estado , which can provide a permit allowing travelers to temporarily cross borders to engage in outdoor activities.

Despite the best efforts of local authorities, assisting persons lost or injured in isolated and wilderness areas is difficult. You should only undertake organized adventure activities with a well-established and insured company. If you intend to hike, never do so alone and always hire an experienced guide from a reputable company. Inform a family member or friend of your itinerary, including when you expect to return. Register with park officials, when available, or the nearest police station when pursuing outdoor activities in remote areas. Obtain detailed information on hiking trails before setting out and do not venture off marked trails. Distances between centers for outdoor sports and top-notch hospital care can be extreme. You should consider getting medical evacuation insurance.

Before you go, consult:

• Chilean Meteorological Service  (weather forecasts)
• SENAPRED (Chilean National Disaster Prevention and Response Service)
• Chilean Forestry Service  (national parks and wilderness areas)
• Federación de Andinismo de Chile  (mountain climbing)
• Chilean National Tourist Office

Under Chilean law, you can be expelled from the country for damaging national heritage objects or places. Travelers should learn and adhere to all the rules of visiting national parks.

Faith-Based Travelers:  See our following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports
• Human Rights Report  – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTQIA+ Travelers: There are no legal restrictions on adult same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTQIA+ events in Chile. Since 2022, under Law 21400, same-sex marriage is legal in Chile. There have been cases of discrimination due to sexual orientation and gender identity, including cases involving violence or death. Laws also prevent transgender persons from changing gender markers on government-issued identity documents.

See our  LGBTQIA+ Travel Information  page and section 6 of our  Human Rights report  for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance: Many public places and transportation are not adapted to accommodate the needs of persons with disabilities. For information on handicap accessible locations in Santiago and other locations, visit the Chilean  National Disability Agency  or  MapCity.com

Students: See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips

Women Travelers: See our travel tips for  Women Travelers

Medical care in Chile is generally good, though it may not meet U.S. standards in remote areas. Major hospitals accept credit cards. Santiago has one private hospital accredited by The American Hospital Association: Clinica Alemana . 

We do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas.

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information insurance coverage overseas. We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation. If traveling with prescription medication, check with the government of  Chile  to ensure the medication is legal in Chile. Always carry a sufficient supply of your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription.

Please note the following health concerns:

• Dengue Fever (endemic to Easter Island but not found on continental Chile).
• Air pollution is a concern in many parts of Chile including Santiago, Rancagua, Talca, Chillan, Los Angeles, Temuco, Osorno, and Coyhaique, and is most severe in winter (May-August).
• The ozone layer is especially thin over parts of Chile. Protect yourself from ultraviolet radiation.

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety: Driving in Chile is relatively safe; road conditions vary from well-paved to gravel and dirt roads in more remote areas. Roadside assistance is widely available with local insurance. In the more remote parts of Chile, roadside assistance and gas stations may be limited; travel with at least one spare tire and extra fuel. Yellow reflective vests are required in all cars in case of a roadside emergency. Vehicular inspections are required yearly to renew your mandatory car insurance.

Traffic Laws:  Driving under the influence of alcohol in Chile is severely punished and can result in incarceration. While in Chile, you may encounter road conditions and traffic laws that differ significantly from those in the United States:

• Right-hand turns are prohibited at red lights unless otherwise posted.
• Major highways in and around Santiago collect tolls with an electronic transmitter (available at  http://www.concesiones.cl/)
• Secondary and mountain roads may be poorly maintained, poorly lit, and may lack guardrails.
• Some primary roads to remote tourist attractions are not paved, but are well maintained, with graded gravel.
• Many drivers do not signal lane changes and rarely yield to merging traffic.
• Many drivers exceed posted speed limits, do not maintain safe distances, and do not observe posted road signs.
• Major traffic arteries in Santiago may switch directions during morning and evening rush hours.
• Drivers must carry sufficient Chilean pesos to pay frequent highway tolls.
• Visitors can drive with a valid U.S. license for the duration of their tourist permit (usually 90 days). Renting a car is also possible, although insurance may not be available in some forms for drivers without a Chilean or international driver’s license. Dual nationals and U.S. citizens residing in Chile should have a Chilean driver’s license.

Public Transportation: Taxis and public transportation are generally safe, plentiful, and relatively inexpensive. Ride-share applications and taxis with orange and yellow license plates are generally safe to use. Avoid using unmetered taxis and unauthorized services outside of airports. Use of unauthorized taxi services has resulted in theft. Chile’s Ministry of Transportation maintains a list of registered taxi companies . To use the public bus system in Santiago, you need to obtain the prepaid “BIP” card, which can also be used on the Santiago  subway .

• Visit Chile’s Ministry of Transportation’s page on how to safely use taxis .
• See our  Road Safety page  for more information.
• Visit the website of Chile’s  National Tourist Office  and national authority responsible for road safety.

Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of Chile’s Civil Aviation Authority as in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Chile’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Chile should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts on the  Maritime Administration  website. Information may also be posted to the websites of the  U.S. Coast Guard  and the  National Geospace Intelligence Agency  (select “broadcast warnings”).

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Chile .  For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.

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Lost in Chile

Tourist visa in Chile

If you are considering visiting Chile, the first thing you should figure out, is to know if you need to get a tourist visa ( Visto Consular de Turismo ) before traveling.

Table of Contents

What countries (passports) need to obtain a tourist visa before traveling to Chile?

If you are going to visit Chile using with one of the following passports, you will need to apply for a Consular Tourist Visa through tramites.minrel.gov.cl before you travel:

AFGHANISTAN, ALGERIA, ANGOLA, ASYLEES, AUSTRALIA (from May 9, 2020), and AZERBAIJAN

BAHRAIN, BANGLADESH, BELARUS, BENIN, BHUTAN, BOTSWANA, BRUNEI DARUSSALAM, BURKINA FASO, and BURUNDI.

CAMBODIA, CAMEROON, CAPE VERDE, CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC, CHAD, CHINA, COMOROS ISLANDS, CONGO (BRAZZAVILLE), CONGO (EX-ZAIRE), and CUBA.

DJIBOUTI, DOMINICA, and DOMINICAN REPUBLIC.

EASTERN TIMOR, EGYPT, EQUATORIAL GUINEA, ERITREA, and ETHIOPIA.

GABON, GAMBIA, GHANA, GUINEA, and GUINEA BISSAU.

INDIA, IRAN, IRAQ, and IVORY COAST.

KAZAKHSTAN, KENYA, KIRIBATI, KOSOVO, KUWAIT and KYRGYZSTAN.

LAOS, LEBANON, LESOTHO, LIBERIA, and LIBYA.

MADAGASCAR, MALAWI, MALDIVES, MALI, MARSHALL ISLANDS, MAURITANIA, MICRONESIA, MOROCCO, MOZAMBIQUE, and MYANMAR.

NAMIBIA, NAURU, NEPAL, NIGER, NIGERIA, and NORTH KOREA.

PAKISTAN, PALAU, PALESTINE, PAPUA NEW GUINEA, and PHILIPPINES.

REFUGEES and RWANDA.

SAMOA, SAO TOME AND PRINCIPE, SAUDI ARABIA, SENEGAL, SEYCHELLES, SIERRA LEONE, SOLOMON ISLANDS, SOMALIA, SOUTH, SUDAN, SRI LANKA, STATELESSNESS, SUDAN, SURINAME, SWAZILAND, and SYRIA.

TAJIKISTAN, TANZANIA, TOGO, TUNISIA, TURKMENISTAN, and TUVALU.

UGANDA and UZBEKISTAN.

VANUATU and VENEZUELA.

ZAMBIA and ZIMBABWE.

If you need to obtain a Consular Tourist Visa ( “Visto Consular de Turismo” ) you must apply for one online with at least 1 month in advance through tramites.minrel.gov.cl .

If your country is not in the list, it means that you don’t need to apply for a tourist visa before traveling to Chile. You will receive one on arrival ( Tarjeta de Turismo ).

How much is a tourist visa to Chile?

The cost of the tourist visa and the length of stay will depend on the nationality (passport). The following table contains the list of nationalities that need to obtain a Consular Tourist Visa, the length of stay and the price to pay:

• SimTouVis: Simple Tourist Visa. Just one entry.
• MulTouVis: Multiple Tourist Visa. Multiple entries during the length of the visa.
• US$: United States Dollar.
• TBA: To be announced.
• N/A: Not applicable. A multiple tourist visa is not available in this case.

You can find the official list published by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Chile containing the type of visas currently available and their cost for 201 countries here .

Can you extend your tourist visa in Chile?

Yes, you can. There are two cases:

• Ampliación de Turismo : In some cases, the authority may decide to grant a tourist visa for less than 90 days. By applying for a “Ampliación de Turismo” you will be able to extend your tourist visa for up to 90 days. This process has no cost; AND,
• Prórroga de Turismo: When you were given a 90 day tourist visa and you want to extend it for another 90 days (180 days in total) . This process has a cost of US$100 .

What are the documents needed to extend a tourist visa in Chile?

Ampliación de turismo.

• Copy of your passport containing the page with the identification details: passport number, date of issue, expiry date; and also the page which has the entry stamp. The date of the appointment (if you live outside the Metropolitan Region) you will need to carry your passport as well; AND,
• Tourism Card (Tarjeta de Turismo) – the original and a copy of the same. You will get this white paper on arrival.

You can check the official list of requirements here .

Prórroga de Turismo

• Tourism Card (Tarjeta de Turismo) – the original and a copy of the same. You will get this white paper on arrival; AND,

How to extend a tourist visa in Chile?

Both the “ Ampliación de Turismo ” and the “ Prórroga de Turismo ” can be obtained through tramites.extranjeria.gob.cl

If you are applying for a “ Prórroga de Turismo ” which has a cost involved, of US$100 , you will have to wait for an email sent by Extranjería with the payment order which you will have to print and pay at any commercial bank or ServiEstado in Chile.

After you pay, you need to go back to tramites.extranjeria.gob.cl , select the same process again (Prórroga de Turismo) , but this time, you will have to choose “ Paso dos: Envío de orden de pago ”.

Then, attach the receipt, complete the form, and then submit the application. After your application gets reviewed you will receive an email with the extension.

What if you overstay your Tourist Visa?

You must pay a penalty (fine) in order to be able to leave Chile.

If you are staying within the Metropolitan Region

You must calculate and pay the fine online through tramites.extranjeria.gob.cl choosing the process named “ Cálculo de Multa Extranjero “:

After you pay and obtain the receipt, you will have 10 days to apply for a residency visa or to leave the country.

Note: You cannot apply for a Tourist Visa within Chile.

If you are staying outside the Metropolitan Region

You must pay the penalty (fine) through the closest Gobernación Provincial or Intendencia .

You can find a map with all the Extranjería offices throughout Chile here .

If you are having troubles communicating with the Gobernación Prinvicial or Intendencia, you can contact them directly through:

• Oficina de Información Reclamos y Sugerencias del Ministerio del Interior: https://siac.interior.gob.cl/formulario.gov?accion=ingresa Select the correspondent authority (Gobernación or Intendencia) and provide them your details. Choose “E-mail” as the way to receive the answer.
• Departamento de Extranjería en Freshdesk: https://extranjeriachile.freshdesk.com/support/tickets/new Create a new ticket, indicating your situation and passport number. Then, wait for the e-mail with the answer.

Can you work under a tourist visa in Chile?

Yes, you can work for periods of 30 days, paying (every 30-day period) 150% of what a work visa cost – based on your nationality – during the length of your tourist visa.

What are the documents you need to gather if you want to work under a tourist visa?

• Copy of your passport containing the page with the identification details: passport number, date of issue, expiry date; and also the page which has the entry stamp. The date of the appointment you will need to carry your passport as well; AND,
• Work contract signed by both parties at any Notary Public; or a letter issued by the company in which you will work, indicating the details of the parties and work to perform (it has to be signed by both parties at any Notary Public as well).

How to apply for a work permit under a tourist visa

Just head over to tramites.extranjeria.gob.cl and select “ Permiso de Trabajo como Turista “:

Once there, you will need to follow 2 steps to obtain the permit:

1) Step one: Apply for the Permit. In the first part you must complete the form with your personal information and attach the documentation required. After this step your application will be analyzed. If you meet all the requirements, you will receive an e-mail with the payment order, which you will have to print and pay at any commercial bank or ServiEstado.

2) Step two: Send the Payment Order. In the second part you must attach the payment order (already paid) and complete the form. As soon as the application it is analyzed, you will receive an e-mail with the permit and the instructions to finish the process.

Can you extend the work permit?

Yes, you can, as many times as you wish during the length of your tourist visa. Bear in mind that each time you apply for an extension you will have to pay the full amount again (150% of the cost of a work visa based on your nationality).

It follows the same process explained before, but this time you have to present the following documentation:

• Your current work permit; AND,
• A document signed before any Notary Public, stating that you continue working for the same company and in which position.

You can check the official list of requirements here (second page).

Can you switch from a tourist visa to a residency visa?

Yes, you can. You need to do so before your tourist visa expires.

You can apply for a:

• Work Visa (Visa Sujeta a Contrato); OR,
• Temporary Visa (Visa de residencia temporaria); OR,
• Student Visa (Visa de estudiante).

You may hear that there’s a new immigration law and because of it you are no longer allowed to make the switch, but is not true.

Yes, there’s a bill being discussed on the Congress which will eventually change the current immigration policy in Chile, BUT it hasn’t been approved yet.

• Departamento de Extranjería y Migración – Visitar Chile: https://www.extranjeria.gob.cl/visitar-chile/
• Trámites en Línea – Departamento de Extranjería y Migración: https://tramites.extranjeria.gob.cl/
• Cuadro de Visas y Aranceles de Chile – Servicios Consulares de Chile: https://serviciosconsulares.cl/tramites/site/artic/20190220/asocfile/20190220161313/version_final_cuadro_de_visas_y_aranceles__2020_publicacion_pagina_web_minrel.pdf

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• September 2023
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Visa Traveler

Exploring the world one country at a time

Chile tourist visa: Requirements and application process

Updated: July 2, 2021

Chile tourist visa requirements are fairly easy to understand. The application process is online. But, you must appear in person to pick up the approved visa.

Chile issues only short-term visas for up to 90 days. The Visa fee can vary greatly depending on your country of passport. Refer to your nearest consulate website for exact and up-to-date information.

CHILE VISA REQUIREMENTS BY NATIONALITY

Visa exempt passport holders, 90-day entry.

• Antigua and Barbuda
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Czech Republic
• El Salvador
• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• Russian Federation
• Saint Kitts And Nevis
• Saint Lucia
• Saint Vincent And Grenadines
• South Africa
• South Korea
• Switzerland
• Trinidad And Tobago
• United Kingdom
• United States Of America
• Vatican City

60-day entry

30-day entry, visa required passport holders, 90-day single entry.

• North Korea
• Cote D’ivoire
• Marshall Islands
• Dominican Republic

60-day SINGLE entry

• United Arab Emirates
• Philippines
• Papua New Guinea

30-day SINGLE entry

• Afghanistan
• Burkina Faso
• Central African Republic
• Guinea Bissau
• Equatorial Guinea
• Solomon Islands
• Sao Tome And Principe
• Saudi Arabia
• Sierra Leone
• Stateless Refugees Seeking Asylum
• Turkmenistan

21-day SINGLE entry

90-day multiple entry.

• Cote d’Ivoire
• Congo, Dem. Rep. Of
• Congo, Rep. Of

60-day MULTIPLE entry

30-day multiple entry, no multiple entry visa is issued for the passport holders of below countries.

• Comoro Islands

Visa EXEMPT for passport holders with legal residency in countries of Pacific Alliance – Colombia, Mexico, and Peru

Visa exempt for passport holders with a valid visa from the usa or canada, chile tourist visa application process.

Check if you need a visitor/tourist visa to travel to Chile in the “Visa Requirements” section above. Alternatively, you can check your visa eligibility and requirements at your nearest consulate of Chile website .

Chile tourist visa application is a two-step process.

• Submit the application online
• Pickup approved visa in person

Documents required

Following documentation is required

• First and last page of your passport
• Copy of the visa/residence permit if applying in a third country (Example: if you hold an India passport and applying in the US, you have to provide a copy of your US visa)
• Signed employment letter
• Proof of economic solvency (bank statement)
• Roundtrip flight tickets
• Hotel reservation confirmations
• Digital photograph

Supporting documents: Scan documents 1 though 7. Combine and create one single PDF file.

Digital photograph: File must be in JPG format and no larger than 100KB.

Online application

The first step in the application process is to fill and submit an online application at SAC (Sistema de Atención Consular) of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Chile website .

• Fill the online application
• Upload the supporting documents PDF
• Upload the digital photo JPG and submit

The Visa fee is based on the country of your passport. In the online application, after selecting your nationality, the fee for your country will be displayed. The Visa fee varies from $5USD to $150USD for both single and multiple entry depending on your country of passport.

NOTE Chile charges a visa fee only if the visa is approved

You have to pay the visa fee only if the visa is approved. You must pay this fee on the day of picking up your approved visa. Chilean consulate usually accepts credit/debit card payments. Call/email your nearest consulate ahead and check what modes of payment are accepted.

NOTE Apply for a multiple entry visa only if your itinerary involves multiple trips to Chile. The reason being, the visa will be issued only for the number of days you have requested. Also, the multiple entry visa fee is much higher than a single entry.

My itinerary was for 20 days. I have applied for a multiple entry visa. I was given only a 20-day multiple entry visa. I was expecting to travel back to Chile at some point in the future.

Priority visa service

There is NO expedited or priority visa service. Make sure to apply for your visa at least 30 days prior to your scheduled travel date.

Visa pickup

After you submit your online application, you can check the status of your application on the SAC website by logging in with the same username and password that you have created during the application submission.

After the visa is approved, you will receive an email with an appointment date. The appointment date is set by the consulate. You are allowed to change the appointment date one time.

On the date of appointment, you should appear in person at the consulate. You must carry your original passport. You must also carry all supporting documents in original.

The visa officer will verify your documents and fix the visa stamp in your passport. You will have to make the visa fee payment. You will then have to give your fingerprints on 3 copies of the approved application. They will retain one copy and you will be given the other two copies.

You will have to submit these two copies at your first port of entry in Chile. Make sure to carry these two copies with you on the day of your travel.

Customer service

There is no dedicated customer service for visa status inquiries. If you need any assistance or have questions, you can email/call your nearest consulate.

Application withdrawal

There is no formal procedure for visa application withdrawal. If you do not intend to continue with the application, you can just abandon your pending application at any stage.

ENTRY AND EXIT PROCEDURE AT THE AIRPORT

Entering Chile by air

At the first port of entry in Chile, the officer will stamp your passport but will not write/mark the number of days you are allowed to stay in the country. You will be given a small receipt that contains the number of days you are allowed to stay. Make sure to check the receipt right away for accuracy.

You must submit the two copies of the approved, fingerprinted and signed visa application that you received at the consulate to the officer at the port of entry.

As always, carry a copy of your return ticket and hotel booking just in case. If you are traveling on a one-way ticket, don’t forget to get proof of onward ticket .

Australia and Mexico passport holders Passport holders of Australia and Mexico have to pay a reciprocity fee. A reciprocity fee must be paid on arrival, before proceeding to immigration/customs. Look for payment counters near or next to immigration/customs counters.

Leaving Chile by air

Nothing needs to be done on exit. Just make sure to stop by the gate to check with the staff if they need to verify your documents.

Chile tourist visa requirements are fairly simple and clear. Application submission is online and processing is much quicker. Chile is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. If you haven’t been to Chile yet, add it to your list and keep it on the top.

WRITTEN BY THIRUMAL MOTATI

Thirumal Motati is an expert in tourist visa matters. He has been traveling the world on tourist visas for more than a decade. With his expertise, he has obtained several tourist visas, including the most strenuous ones such as the US, UK, Canada, and Schengen, some of which were granted multiple times. He has also set foot inside US consulates on numerous occasions. Mr. Motati has uncovered the secrets to successful visa applications. His guidance has enabled countless individuals to obtain their visas and fulfill their travel dreams. His statements have been mentioned in publications like Yahoo, BBC, The Hindu, and Travel Zoo.

PLAN YOUR TRAVEL WITH VISA TRAVELER

I highly recommend using these websites to plan your trip. I use these websites myself to apply for my visas, book my flights and hotels and purchase my travel insurance.

01. Apply for your visa

Get a verifiable flight itinerary for your visa application from DummyTicket247 . DummyTicket247 is a flight search engine to search and book flight itineraries for visas instantly. These flight itineraries are guaranteed to be valid for 2 weeks and work for all visa applications.

02. Book your fight

Find the cheapest flight tickets using Skyscanner . Skyscanner includes all budget airlines and you are guaranteed to find the cheapest flight to your destination.

03. Book your hotel

Book your hotel from Booking.com . Booking.com has pretty much every hotel, hostel and guesthouse from every destination.

04. Get your onward ticket

If traveling on a one-way ticket, use BestOnwardTicket to get proof of onward ticket for just $12, valid for 48 hours.

05. Purchase your insurance

Purchase travel medical insurance for your trip from SafetyWing . Insurance from SafetyWing covers COVID-19 and also comes with a visa letter which you can use for your visas.

06. Get your zero-fee ATM card

You can manage money internationally in over 70 currencies using  Wise . With a Wise card, you can store and withdraw cash in 40 currencies with zero ATM fees. 

Need more? Check out my travel resources page  for the best websites to plan your trip.

LEGAL DISCLAIMER We are not affiliated with immigration, embassies or governments of any country. The content in this article is for educational and general informational purposes only, and shall not be understood or construed as, visa, immigration or legal advice. Your use of information provided in this article is solely at your own risk and you expressly agree not to rely upon any information contained in this article as a substitute for professional visa or immigration advice. Under no circumstance shall be held liable or responsible for any errors or omissions in this article or for any damage you may suffer in respect to any actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the information in this article. Please refer to our full disclaimer for further information.

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please refer to our full disclosure for further information.

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Chile Tourist Visa: Requirements, Application Process, and Important Information

A Chile Tourist Visa is a type of visa that allows foreign nationals to enter Chile for recreational, sports, health, or business purposes without intending to immigrate, reside, or engage in paid activities. The visa is necessary for citizens of countries that require it, and it is issued by the Chilean consulate or embassy in the applicant's country of residence.

To apply for a Chile Tourist Visa, the applicant must first meet certain eligibility criteria. They must have a valid passport with a minimum of six months remaining before it expires. They must also have sufficient financial resources to cover their stay in Chile and a return ticket or proof of onward travel. Additionally, the applicant must not have any prior criminal convictions or be on any international watchlists.

The application process for a Chile Tourist Visa involves submitting an application form, supporting documentation, and paying the visa fee. The application form must be completed accurately and signed by the applicant. Supporting documents may include a copy of the applicant's passport, proof of financial means, and proof of onward travel. The visa fee varies depending on the applicant's country of residence.

Once the application is submitted, it will be reviewed by the Chilean consulate or embassy. The processing time for a Chile Tourist Visa can vary, but it is generally between 3 to 10 business days. The consulate or embassy may request additional documentation or schedule an interview with the applicant before making a decision.

If the Chile Tourist Visa is granted, the applicant will receive a visa stamp in their passport. The validity of the visa depends on the discretion of the consulate or embassy, but it can range from 30 days to 90 days with a single entry.

It is important to note that a Chile Tourist Visa cannot be extended beyond its initial validity period. If an extension is needed, the applicant must leave Chile and apply for a new visa from outside the country. Additionally, visitors to Chile should be aware of the country's customs regulations and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety and security while traveling.

A Chile Tourist Visa is a necessary permit for foreign nationals to enter Chile for recreational, sports, health, or business purposes without intending to immigrate, reside, or engage in paid activities. The application process involves meeting eligibility criteria, submitting an application form and supporting documentation, paying the visa fee, and waiting for a decision from the Chilean consulate or embassy.

Chile Tourist Visa Requirements: What You Need to Apply

To apply for a Chile tourist visa, you will need to provide the following documents:

Valid Passport

The passport must be issued by the corresponding authority of the country of origin or similar document.

Provide a color photograph with a white background, measuring 5x5 cm. The photo must show your full and front face, covering 3/4 of the photograph.

Proof of Financial Means

You must prove that you have sufficient financial means to cover your travel expenses and stay in Chile.

Invitation Letter Authorized Before a Notary or Hotel Reservation.

You must provide an invitation letter authorized before a notary or a hotel reservation.

Return Ticket to Your Country of Origin or Another for which you have Entry Authorization

You must provide proof of a return ticket to your country of origin or another destination for which you have entry authorization.

Proof of Civil Status

Provide certificates to prove your civil status, such as marriage/divorce/death certificate and birth certificates of children.

Criminal Record

You may also be required to provide a criminal record.

*Please note that additional documents may be required by the embassy

Application Process for a Chile Tourist Visa

The application process for a Chile Tourist Visa is as follows:

Gather Required Documents: Collect all the required documents as per the embassy or consulate's guidelines.

Fill in the Application Form : Complete the Chile tourist visa application form accurately and truthfully. Make sure to sign the application form wherever necessary.

Schedule an Appointment: Book an appointment at the Chilean embassy or consulate in your country. Some consulates may also allow online appointments.

Attend the Interview: Attend the interview at the embassy or consulate at the appointed date and time. During the interview, the consulate may ask you questions related to your travel plans, financial status, accommodation, and purpose of visit.

Pay the Visa Fee : You need to pay the visa fee at the time of application submission. The fee varies depending on the type of visa and the embassy or consulate.

Wait for the Visa Processing: The processing time for a Chile tourist visa may vary depending on the embassy or consulate. The visa processing time is usually between 15-20 days.

Collect the Visa : If your visa is approved, you can collect it from the embassy or consulate. Check the validity and other details on the visa to ensure it meets your requirements.

It is recommended to apply for a Chile tourist visa well in advance to avoid any last-minute delays or issues. 

Chile Tourist Visa Processing Time: What to Expect

The processing time for a Chilean tourist visa may vary depending on several factors, such as the volume of applications received by the Chilean embassy or consulate, the completeness and accuracy of the application, and the individual circumstances of the applicant.

However, in general, the processing time for a Chilean tourist visa is usually between 10 to 15 working days from the date the embassy or consulate receives the application. It is important to note that this is just an estimate, and the actual processing time may take longer or shorter than this.

To ensure a smooth and quick visa application process, it is recommended that you submit a complete and accurate application with all the necessary supporting documents. You should also apply for your visa well in advance of your intended travel dates to allow for any potential delays in processing.

Chile Tourist Visa Fees: Understanding the Costs

The Chile Tourist visa fee ranges from 30 to 150 USD and can vary depending on the applicant's nationality or country of submission. This fee must be paid at the time of submitting the visa application and is non-refundable. It is important to note that the visa fee is not a guarantee of visa approval and that additional fees may apply depending on the services requested by the applicant, such as expedited processing or courier services. Applicants should check the specific fee for their nationality or country of submission before beginning the visa application process to ensure they have the necessary funds to cover the cost.

Tips for a Successful Chile Tourist Visa Application

Here are some tips to help you have a successful Chile Tourist Visa application:

Start your application process early: Applying for a visa can take time, so it's essential to start your application process early to avoid any last-minute rush.

Provide complete and accurate information : Ensure that you fill in all the necessary forms and provide all the required documents. Incomplete or inaccurate information can lead to delays or rejection of your visa application.

Be prepared for an interview: Depending on the embassy's requirements, you may be asked to attend an interview. Make sure you are well-prepared for the interview and bring all the necessary documents with you.

Show proof of financial means: It's important to demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover your travel expenses and stay in Chile. This can be done by providing bank statements, a letter from your employer, or other evidence of financial means.

Provide a detailed itinerary: Submitting a detailed travel itinerary can help demonstrate your intent to visit Chile for tourism purposes.

Follow up on your application status: Check the status of your application regularly and follow up with the embassy if there are any delays or issues.

By following these tips, you can increase your chances of a successful Chile Tourist Visa application.

Chile Tourist Visa Extension: How to Extend Your Stay

If you are already in Chile on a tourist visa and wish to extend your stay, you can apply for a visa extension through the Extranjería (Foreigners Office) of the Chilean government. Here are the steps you can follow to extend your stay:

Apply for an extension: You can apply for a visa extension at the Extranjería office in person or through a representative. You will need to provide your passport, a copy of your tourist visa, and any other documents requested by the Extranjería.

Pay the fee: There is a fee for a visa extension, and you will need to pay this fee at the Extranjería office or online.

Wait for a response: Once you have submitted your application, you will need to wait for a response from the Extranjería. The processing time for a visa extension may vary, but it usually takes around 20 to 30 working days.

Collect your passport : If your visa extension is approved, you will need to collect your passport from the Extranjería office or the Chilean embassy or consulate.

It is important to note that a tourist visa can only be extended once, and the maximum length of stay is 90 days. If you wish to stay in Chile for longer than this, you will need to apply for a different type of visa or leave the country and re-enter on a new tourist visa.

Important Information for Chile Tourist Visa Holders

Chile Tourist Visa holders must take note of the following important information:

Length of Stay: The duration of stay permitted with a Chile Tourist Visa is 90 days. It is essential to plan your itinerary accordingly to avoid any overstay.

Multiple Entries: Chile Tourist Visa permits multiple entries during its validity period.

No Employment: A Chile Tourist Visa does not allow employment or any other kind of remunerative activity.

Registration: All foreigners who enter Chile must register with the PDI (Investigation Police Department) within 30 days of arrival.

Health Insurance: It is recommended to have health insurance coverage that includes medical expenses and repatriation for the duration of stay in Chile.

Travel Documents: Tourists must carry their travel documents, including their passport, visa, and tourist card, with them at all times.

Customs Regulations : Tourists must familiarize themselves with the customs regulations of Chile, such as prohibited items and import/export restrictions.

Safety : Tourists must exercise caution and follow the safety guidelines issued by the Chilean government during their stay in Chile.

Extension: In exceptional cases, the tourist visa can be extended for another 90 days at the discretion of the Chilean immigration authorities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Citizens of some countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and the European Union, do not need a tourist visa to enter Chile for tourism purposes. However, citizens of other countries may need to apply for a tourist visa before traveling to Chile.

The requirements for a Chilean tourist visa may vary depending on the country of origin, but typically include a valid passport, a completed visa application form, a recent passport-sized photo, proof of travel arrangements and accommodation, and proof of financial means to cover your stay.

A Chilean tourist visa allows you to stay in the country for up to 90 days.

Yes, you can apply for a visa extension through the Extranjería (Foreigners Office) of the Chilean government. However, a tourist visa can only be extended once, and the maximum length of stay is 90 days.

The processing time for a Chilean tourist visa is usually between 10 to 15 working days from the date the embassy or consulate receives the application.

Yes, some Chilean embassies and consulates allow you to apply for a tourist visa online through their website.

Yes, you will need to show proof of travel arrangements, including a return ticket or onward travel ticket, when applying for a Chilean tourist visa.

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visa extension, tourist card replacement - Chile Forum

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visa extension, tourist card replacement

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https://extranjeriachile.com/oficinas-en-aeropuerto/

Thanks for your reply! It's possible I received it and lost but... well, I checked all my bags and there's no trace. Regardless, I will need it! I've tried calling several PDI numbers, including the airport, and even filled out an application online with no response. I'll try to figure out who to elevate to. My goal is to receive a visa extension but without the card, it doesn't sound like I can even leave on my original date without problems. Ugh!

There is a PDI office in Concón at Magallanes 633, Concón. You could go there and see what they say. Better than phoning. You don't need a permit to go to a police station but you are going into phase 2 on Monday anyway.

Awesome! I'll head there first thing Monday morning. Truly grateful for your advice!

Suerte. Let us know how it goes and congrats for coming out of Paso 1 quarantine.

I'll send an update next week... and thanks! After two months here, I'm excited to finally go outside, lol.

Then I wonder what the lodging industry demands to see if a foreigner asks for the IVA exemption? Do they just look for the stamp? How do they know if it is an extension stamp vs. an entry stamp?

And congrats rsell for navigating the Chilean bureaucracy successfully.

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Visas in Chile: Frequently Asked Questions

Do you have a question about a visa for Chile? You may find the answer here.

• Expat Guide
• Immigration / Chile Visas
• FAQ Visas in Chile

21/12/2018, updated 15/06/2023

Do you have a question about a visa for Chile? You may find the answer here. If not, send us a short email, and we'll try to help if we have the answer.

We have moved most questions to the bottom of each corresponding page. See the links below.

Frequently Asked Questions

• FAQ about temporary residency
• FAQ about permanent residency
• FAQ about the investor visa
• FAQ about the retirement/rentista visa
• FAQ about citizenship

Frequently Asked Questions about immigration fines in Chile

What kind of immigration infractions can be committed.

There are three types of infractions:

• Staying in Chile with an expired visa (tourist, work, temporary) or expired temporary residency.
• Working without permission. Both the foreigner and the employer granting the job might be sanctioned.
• Not requesting an identity card within 30 days after obtaining a temporary visa or the permanent residence.

What is the amount of the sanctions or fines?

It depends on the type of infraction, its duration, if there are previous sanctions, and if there is a report from the International Police.

How do I know the amount I have to pay? Where should I pay the penalty or fine?

Go to the website of the immigration service to calculate and pay your fine.

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Why 'burglary tourists' fly to US and target Indian-Americans

Asian-american communities, especially wealthy neighbourhoods, are being targeted by "burglary tourists" travelling to the us on tourist visas or visa-waiver programmes. these "burglary tourists" often come from south america and target indian-american homes in posh localities due to a perception..

Listen to Story

• Police in the US observed a rise in burglaries targeting Asian-American homes
• These burglars fly in mostly from Chile, Peru, Ecuador and Colombia
• The burglars mostly carry signal-jamming devices to disable security systems

Balakrishna and Rama Sundar built their dream home in California, but now they want to shift out as soon as possible. Their house is in Dana Point, overlooking the ocean.

When burglars shattered the elevator door of their house with a sledgehammer thinking there was a safe behind it, they shattered their sense of safety and security too.

“We want to move away from here and I don’t feel very secure at all,” Rama Sundar told the CNN.

Balakrishna and Rama Sundar are among dozens of Asian Americans, including Indian-American people, who have been targeted by 'burglary tourists' or 'crime tourists'.

Police in April busted such a gang in Seattle and arrested five burglars. They used rental properties and cars and frequently changed their location.

The US police arrested five men in South California who were suspected of committing at least 17 burglaries targeting Indian American and other South Asian residents in Kirkland, a suburb east of Seattle in Washington, and surrounding areas.

In the past five years, police have noticed a rise in burglars from South American countries coming to the US to commit robberies.

Last year, police in Maryland, North Carolina, and New York also made arrests in cases involving Chilean nationals who entered the US on visa waivers and were involved in luxury home burglaries.

While there's no official count of how many crimes have been committed by these "burglary tourists", it's estimated to be at least in the hundreds.

WHY BURGLARY TOURISTS TARGET INDIAN-AMERICAN HOMES

The "burglary tourists" fly in from different South American countries like Chile, Ecuador, Colombia and Peru.

There have been media reports of burglars targeting homes in neighbourhoods with a high concentration of Indian-American families.

The reason behind this targeting can be stereotypes, with criminals believing that these families possess more gold jewellery, expensive items or cash, according to an American news portal.

Additionally, burglars may view Indian-American neighbourhoods as affluent or wealthy areas, assuming that these communities have higher incomes.

As a result, these criminals specifically target Indian-American homes in the hopes of finding valuable items and making a quick getaway.

HOW BURGLARS MISUSE US TOURIST VISAS AND VISA WAIVERS

The idea is that they travel to the US using tourist visas because it does not require a background check for travellers and allows them to visit legally. The problem is, these 'tourists' aren't here for sightseeing.

Some of the burglars are also taking advantage of the US visa waiver programme.

The break-ins are part of a larger issue in which so-called “burglary tourists” enter the US from countries that qualify for visa waivers, prosecutors told CNN. The visa waivers allow a visit to the US for up to 90 days without a traditional tourist visa.

After entering the US, they join gangs that target properties of wealthy people.

These groups have been stealing items such as jewellery, watches, designer goods, cash, and gold. They do this either to send them back to their home country or to sell them while they are in the US before going back home.

The burglars tend not to carry guns. So, they are not charged with any gun-related offences. But sometimes they carry signal jamming devices to disable home security systems, according to the Los Angeles Times.

HOMES OF ASIAN-AMERICAN BUSINESS OWNERS EASY TARGET

Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) Chief Dominic Choi mentioned in a Police Commission meeting that there's been a significant increase in burglaries by organised groups coming from outside the country, targeting wealthy homes.

Last year, Burbank police in California arrested a 33-year-old man from Chile. He was arrested after a woman hiding in her bathroom called the police when four men broke into her house through a sliding door.

Upper-middle-class Asian American neighbourhoods are being affected by this trend. Business owners who are Asian Americans are often targeted by "burglary tourism".

“With a lot of Asian business owners, the whole family works in that business together and so when they are all at work, that leaves the home unattended and these groups will do their research. They may be in town for a few days just specifically looking for targets, and when they know the business owners, which is typically a family, is at work, they’ll burglarise the home,” reported NewsNation, an American news website.

Borders cripple movement, visas and visa waivers enable travel and tourism. However, the US is witnessing "burglary tourism", which is posing a big danger to the safety of Asian-American neighbourhoods. Published By: Girish Kumar Anshul Published On: Apr 5, 2024