chile birth tourism

Andrew Henderson

Founder of Nomad Capitalist and the world’s most sought-after expert on global citizenship.

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Birth Tourism: 31 Countries Giving Birthright Citizenship

Last updated October 28, 2020

Dateline: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

If you have spent any time on our blog, you probably already know that there are a number of ways to get a second passport , depending on how badly you want one.

We recently discussed 13 citizenships you could get rather easily by using one of the oldest tricks in the book: marrying a foreigner .

However, obtaining second citizenship for your children and future generations is just as important – if not more so. 

For years, surveys such as The Best Places to Be Born , the Better Life Index , the Human Development Report , and many Quality o f Life Indices have chronicled where children are likely to have it best.

I recently discussed this in my article on tips for parents-to-be , suggesting that parents who apply our principles of international diversification practice something called “ birth tourism .”

If you live in the United States, you have probably heard the term “anchor baby” – when a non-citizen gives birth to a child in a country with birthright citizenship to gain residence and citizenship advantages – positioned in a bad light. However, there is nothing stopping you from using the same principle to give your kids a head start in other countries around the world.

Parents have a unique opportunity to choose the best country to give birth in. It’s an opportunity even western citizens should consider since even the “first world” United Kingdom failed to crack the top 20 places in which to give birth, falling behind the likes of Montenegro and Lithuania . The study concluded that children born in Britain suffer higher infant mortality rates than many emerging countries.

So, how can you take advantage of the quality of life in other countries to give your child a better future by securing them a second passport just by being born? In this article, we’ll tell you how and where you can take advantage of birthright citizenship to do just that, and maybe even earn a second passport for yourself in the process.

How Does Birth Tourism Work?

When it comes to determining a child’s citizenship at birth, countries usually apply one of two rights: jus soli (right of soil) or jus sanguinis (right of blood).  Jus soli grants citizenship merely on the basis of being born “on the soil” of the country in question.  Jus sanguinis determines the child’s citizenship based on the parents’ nationality.

Birth tourism is simple: give birth in a country that grants citizenship based on  jus soli and provides benefits to all children born there. This will not only give your child a better qualify of life but also entitle them to a second passport immediately from birth. In many cases, parents of such children enjoy a faster naturalization timeline as well.

The process of “ jus soli ” is generally available to anyone who has a child within the territory of a country with birthright citizenship, even if they are a temporary resident or an illegal alien. The only people whose children do not qualify for instant citizenship are diplomats.

These countries offer what is called “ absolute jus soli ,” meaning that the biggest hurdle you’ll face in some countries is having to register your bundle of joy with the local authorities to secure their passport.

The United States and Canada are the only “first world countries” that offer unconditional citizenship to children born in the territory, although there are plenty of other excellent places that I would actually prefer to live in that offer this as well.

Here in Asia, Mainland Chinese parents often seek to give birth in Hong Kong to obtain the “right of abode” for their children. (Hong Kongers are Chinese citizens, but with special privileges to reside in Hong Kong.)

Of course, we know that the United States offers birthright citizenship for the same reasons that ancient Rome did: to increase the number of US tax-payers needed to pay off the country’s catastrophic debts.

Giving birth to a child in the United States is setting them up for a lifetime of taxes which they can’t even get out of without renouncing their citizenship. That means even opening a bank account for their college savings will require you to file paperwork with the US government.

What Countries Offer Birthright Citizenship?

For those who want to bestow their child with a second citizenship outside of the highly taxed western world, there are a number of places that offer “jus soli” or birthright of the soil.

Any child born within that country’s territory becomes a citizen at birth, and there are dozens of countries whose laws allow the practice. So, which countries automatically give a passport and citizenship to children born there, regardless of the nationality of the child’s parents?

Almost two decades ago, Ireland amended its constitution to end their practice as the last European country offering unconditional citizenship rights to children born to two foreign parents. Malta had amended theirs earlier, too. Other countries, such as Australia , have similarly tightened their laws.

But when you follow the birth tourism blueprint, you can forget about dual citizenship and give your child multiple citizenships .

Here is the full list of the best countries in which to give birth when seeking birth tourism options, excluding countries where a ban on the practice is currently underway.

• El Salvador
• St. Kitts and Nevis
• St. Vincent and the Grenadines
• Trinidad and Tobago
• United States

*For a child to become a Chilean citizen at birth, their parents must already have a temporary or permanent residence in Chile at the time of their birth.

**As of September 2020, Portugal is just a few formalities away from expanding its jus soli laws granting birthright citizenship to children born on Portuguese soil. Currently, children born in Portugal to foreign nationals can obtain citizenship at birth if at least one parent has been a resident for two years or more. The new law would reduce that timeline to one year. 

This is an especially attractive change for Golden Visa investors in Portugal as they will now have the opportunity to bestow Portuguese citizenship on their children after just one year of residence.

The Best Birth Tourism Countries

Out of that list are a few gems…

Panama, Brazil, Mexico, and Argentina are particularly noted for their quality medical care , including for world-class facilities that make giving birth there not only easy but much cheaper than any country in the West.

Two of the countries — Dominica and St. Kitts and Nevis — sell economic citizenships for six-figure price tags and even charge for your children to receive a passport, as well. Other countries that used to offer citizenship by investment programs, such as Belize, are also attractive birth tourism options.

Similar to how US persons complain of illegal immigrants getting access to welfare benefits for their US citizen child, several countries on this list offer the ability to fast track your own naturalization as the parent of a local child.

In Brazil, the wait is only one year, prompting my friend Neil Strauss to suggest “knocking up a Brazilian girl” in his book Emergency . But in all seriousness, even foreigners on tourist visas can give birth on Brazilian soil, earning their child immediate Brazilian citizenship and a one-year timeline to their own naturalization. You can learn more about Brazil’s birthright citizenship laws here .

Most other countries will fast track the parents’ naturalization so that you will be able to get citizenship in two to seven years. 

And surprisingly, some of these countries offer remarkably good passports . Holders of passports from Argentina, Costa Rica, Mexico , Panama , St. Kitts and Nevis, Uruguay , and Venezuela enjoy visa-free travel to all of Central and South America as well Europe’s borderless Schengen Area and almost every country in Europe.

Some even offer travel privileges to countries that westerners do not have visa-free access to, like Russia.

Guatemala passport holders enjoy all of these privileges save the right to travel to Mexico. Nicaragua citizens enjoy Schengen area access, but more limited options within the Americas. And even some of the lesser passports here allow for visa-free travel of some sort to the UK, Ireland, Malaysia, and Singapore.

For someone interested in raising their family in the world’s emerging markets, the Peruvian passport allows for more visa-free travel to Southeast Asia and South American countries than most “first world” passports.

Outside of Canada and Chile , none of these citizenships will allow your child to visit the United States visa-free. But if you’re reading this, you might actually view that as an added benefit rather than a detriment.

Keeping your child in a growing, more laissez-faire environment is the best way to make the most of his or her birth tourism citizenship.

Be careful that you have the most up-to-date information before giving birth overseas, as a number of countries have ended their policy of giving citizenship based on birthplace; these include Australia, most recently, as well as New Zealand, Ireland, France, Malta, the Dominican Republic (which led to tens of thousands of deportations ), and India.

Of course, only you can determine how far you want to take the second citizenship and birth tourism game in an effort to bestow as many nationalities on your children as possible.

And if you happen to be pregnant now, you could always book your hospital stay and join us for one of our upcoming events on the beach.

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Childbirth in Chile with registration of citizenship

• Medicine and service of clinics at the level of the USA while the cost is the same as in the CIS countries
• Chilean citizenship for the child and residence permit for both parents IMMEDIATELY after the childbirth
• Visa-free entry to 160+ countries, including the U.S., EU, UK and Japan with a Chilean passport
• Full support of the Spanish/English speaking team at all stages of the program

Leave an application and get a consultation with an immigration specialist

Advantages of the Childbirth in Chile program

Immediately after birth, the child receives one of the strongest passports

The child's parents and grandparents also get Chilean citizenship

The level of equipment, hygiene and service in Chilean clinics is much higher than in the CIS, which makes giving birth on the shores of the Pacific Ocean a safer and more comfortable option

A Chilean passport allows visa-free travel to over 160 countries worldwide, including the United States, Canada, EU countries and Japan

Availability of a well-developed health care system (Chile is ranked 32nd out of 169 countries in the Health Life Expectancy Index)

A Chilean passport is issued for life, and all descendants of a Chilean child will inherit Chilean nationality

Childbirth in Chile is a perfect option for:

Choose one of the prestigious clinics on the Pacific coast to give birth to your baby!

Chile passport ranking

A Chilean passport is issued to a foreigner born in Chile along with a birth certificate. The child's parents first receive a Chilean residence permit, and after one year of living there, they obtain permanent residence. After living in Chile for more than 2 years, the child's parents have the right to apply for Chilean citizenship.

Visa-free areas with a Chilean passport

VISA REQUIREMENTS FOR CITIZENS OF CHILE:

• VISA-FREE ENTRY
• VISA ON ARRIVAL
• STANDARD VISA IS REQUIRED PRIOR TO ARRIVAL

The American Dream

Immigration to the United States with Chilean citizenship means:

• A 100% guarantee of entry into the U.S.
• No need to participate in the Green Card lottery or invest in the U.S. economy
• No U.S. tax residency
• Opportunity to work and conduct business in the U.S.
• The right to visit the U.S. for the whole family

Get a passport of Chile by childbirth and make the American dream come true!

A team of iWorld experts is looking forward to meeting you in Chile

Watch a video 3 min. worth of your time

People choose iWorld as a guarantee of:

Full support

The company's specialists accompany you during your pregnancy and help you with all the legal procedures in Chile. The company consultant provides you with physical, psychological and informational support before and after the birth.

Interpreter services

Feel comfortable in Spanish-speaking Chile with the help of our qualified interpreter.

Working under agreement

Before you start working with us, we sign an official agreement which clearly sets out the obligations of both parties.

A successful result

The experience and high qualifications of our employees guarantee you a successful immigration to Chile.

iWorld provides services on:

• arranging childbirth in the best clinics of Chile;
• support at all stages - from the selection of clinics to the processing of documents.

Over the past year, our team has arranged over 150 comfortable and safe labor for parents from all over the world.

iWorld - provide the best future for your child and your family.

What you need to know about Chile

Moving to the U.S. is much easier with a Chilean passport, since the close economic relations between the countries have a positive impact on immigration policy

The level of safety in Chile is higher than in the U.S.. By this index, the country ranks second among the nations of North and South America

Average life expectancy in Chile is 79 years, which is higher than in any CIS country

Citizens of Chile do not have to be drafted into the Chilean army

The Chilean educational system is considered to be the most developed in Latin America, and 2 of its universities are among the top 300 of the world QS Rankings

By registering a company in Chile, you will be able to do business internationally

Citizenship for parents of a Chilean child

Turnkey support at every stage, right up to getting passports:

• Qualified support in applying for residence permit, permanent residence and citizenship in Chile
• Preparation and submission of the documents to Chilean authorities, tracking the status of submitted applications
• Translation and apostilization of all documents in Spanish

Childbirth in Chile is the key to a calm and peaceful life for your family

Steps of cooperation

Contacting iWorld

You apply through our website. Our manager will contact you within an hour and answer all your questions about childbirth in Chile for free.

Signing the contract and making an advance payment

Before we start working with you, we make an official contract and offer you to pay the deposit for the services. We also coordinate with you the stages of work, choose a clinic and prepare documents.

Getting ready for your trip

You will be assigned a supervisor who will advise you on all issues: help you pack your luggage and first aid kit, talk about life and childbirth in Chile, make a travel plan and select the best clinic.

Choosing airline tickets and apartments

Our manager will choose you airline tickets at favorable prices, and our realtors will find you comfortable apartments in Chile. You can pay for tickets and apartments in any currency.

Pickup at the airport and transfer to the place of accommodation

Our company's transfer guide will meet you at the airport in Santiago, take you to your rented accommodation and help you with check-in.

Accompanying you to the clinic

Our birth supervisor will arrange a tour of the clinic and coordinate an estimate with you. He or she will also take you to doctor's appointments, deliver your baby, and visit a pediatrician after your baby is born.

Assistance with documents

Our lawyers will accompany you to submit the file to the authorized body, where you will receive the Chile passport for your child.

Citizenship processing for parents

After the birth of your child, our specialists will help you obtain a Chilean residence permit and, after three years, Chilean nationality.

You can pay for the services of our company in any way convenient for you

iWorld law firm uses popular payment methods, including cryptocurrencies

Visa and Mastercard bank cards

Bank transfer to the company's account

Payoneer or Stripe payment systems

Any cryptocurrency, preserving confidentiality

Choose the best birth package in Chile!

• Selection and booking of flights as well as consultation in the selection of tickets
• Assistance in registration and collection of all necessary documents
• Preparation for the trip, constant consultations with the company's specialists
• Assistance in choosing a clinic
• Personal accompaniment of the curator in Chile to conclude an individual contract with the clinic
• Turnkey processing of Chilean citizenship and other documents for the baby
• All services of the "Basic" package
• Preparing for the trip, continuous consultations of the company's specialists
• Assistance in preparing and collecting all necessary documents
• Booking and selection of the flights
• Accommodation rent
• Choice of the clinic prior to departure to Chile
• Pickup at the airport, transfer to your place of residence
• Getting a SIM card, connection to cell phones and cellular network
• Help with settling in at your new place of residence
• Contract with the clinic
• Booking and accompaniment to medical appointments
• Childbirth support
• Registration of all documents for the baby on a turnkey basis
• All services of the "Standard" package
• Concierge service
• Accompanying to the consultation with a specialist of the stem cell bank
• 5 consultations with a psychologist for pregnant women
• Assistance in the selection and hiring of house staff (housekeeper or nanny)
• Guided tour of the coastal towns (Concón, Viña del Mar and Valparaíso) with a guide/translator by car
• Assistance in selecting and renting a car
• All services of the "Optimal" package
• 20 extra hours of accompaniment for any outings
• Extra transfers in a comfortable car for visiting the clinic and doing paperwork at the registry office
• Housekeeper - a girl who will do all the housework, get groceries, and help in any way pregnant women throughout their stay in Chile
• Professional family photo session before and after you have your baby
• 7 additional consultations with a psychologist for pregnant women
• 7 consultations with a lawyer who specializes in Chilean law
• Assistance in preparing documents for submission to Chilean government bodies
• Supervision of compliance with all the conditions of the program for the procedure to be 100%
• Accompany to Chilean state authorities with an interpreter for submission of applications and documents
• Comprehensive support and counseling at all stages of residence permit, permanent residence permit, citizenship
• Control and monitoring of the status of submitted applications, notification of the documents readiness

for registration of one parent

for each additional family member

Flight restriction

Don't miss the opportunity to give birth in Chile!

iWorld specialists will take care of all the formalities and accompany the mother-to-be at every step, up to the birth and registration of Chilean citizenship for the baby and parents.

Be advised!

After 36 weeks of pregnancy, airline staff may not allow the mother-to-be on the flight, because of which the long-awaited trip can be disrupted.

Apply now to start preparing for the childbirth!

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FAQs about childbirth in Chile

This section contains answers to frequently asked questions about childbirth in Chile

Yes, you can. The Chilean authorities do not oblige you to renounce your first nationality. Moreover, your child can have three passports at the same time - Chilean and the countries of origin of each parent.

It is best to plan a trip to Chile 2-3 months before your intended date. This way you will have enough time for detailed consultations with your doctor and full preparation for the birth.

It is best to fly to Chile 2-3 months before you give birth. You can return to your country after one month. It is not recommended to come earlier, as the baby needs time to adjust.

A stay in Chile and participation in the program for two people costs 19,800 EUR. That sum includes: package Optimal (6900 EUR), clinic services (6000 EUR), 2- month rent (3000 EUR), air tickets for 2 people (4000 EUR), and payment for ultrasound scan (700 EUR) and application fees (200 EUR).

Your child's passport and ID card will be ready within 10 business days of his birth.

Childbirth in Chile is the best solution for your baby and the whole family

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Citizenship of Argentina and Chile: Pros and cons

How to become an argentine citizen, chilean and argentine citizenship by birth.

• Medical care

BIRTH IN CHILE AND CITIZENSHIP FOR YOUR CHILD

• We select the best clinic and doctor
• We provide turnkey language support
• We get Chilean passport for the baby
• We help parents with Chilean citizenship

Chile passport allows visa-free entry to 161 countries, including the United States, Canada, the European Union, Great Britain and Japan.

the baby receives a passport of Chile immediately by right of soil, and the parents/grandparents of the baby can apply for a passport after 2 years.

citizens of most countries do not need a visa to enter Chile. For citizens from countries where a visa is needed, we are consulting with a tourist visa issue.

Chile is 32nd out of 169 countries on the Healthiest Country Index of Bloomberg. The U.S. is in 34th place.

according to the Crime index and Safe index, the level of safety in Chile is much higher than neighboring Argentina and Brazil

Chile is a high-income country with the highest GDP per capita of any country in South America.

CHILD BIRTHS IN CHILE ON THE OCEANFRONT

You'll spend two months on the ocean, enjoying fresh fruit, delicious seafood, and warm weather.

The clinics are fully facilitated with modern medical equipment. The qualification of doctors corresponds to the European and American level.

The average cost of a contract with a clinic is $6,000. By comparison, a similar clinic in the U.S. would cost $10,000 or $15,000 or more in Canada.

RESULTS OF OUR WORK

Why choose chile kids.

we do everything to make you feel our protection and help in an unknown country 24/7

Spanish is the language of Chile. For all doctor's appointments, the birth itself and the paperwork, you will be accompanied by our specialist with knowledge of the language

we have been working since 2016. 100% of our babies received a passport of Chile due to the high quality of all documents processing

we work under an official contract with payment options from both individuals and legal entities

PRICES FOR SUPPORT

Chilean documents for the baby: birth certificate, ID card, Chilean passport Information support during your stay in Chile on the questions related to Chilean documents and citizenship for newborn Apostille for birth certificate Translating to English the Chilean birth certificate of newborn and apostille Recommended for Spanish speaking

Preparation for arrival in Chile, consultations related to accommodation, childbirth and citizenship for newborn Meeting in airport and transfer Accompanying to medical examinations and to appointments with a gynecologist and pediatrician Accompanying during childbirth Chilean documents for the baby: birth certificate, ID card, Chilean passport Apostille for birth certificate and translating them to English

Extended concierge service for solving non-standard issues Individual transfer for 20 hours to appointments with a doctors, for paperwork, shopping and other matters Additional 20 hours of accompanying and support of our translator for any questions Three sightseeing tours by a guide Return transfer to the airport

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

Yes, two citizenship is allowed in Chile without any restrictions. If you receive a Chilean passport, Chile does not require you to give up your existing citizenship. Even more, some of the newborns received three nationalities (Chilean and of each parent) with our help.

Chilean citizenship is issued upon receipt of a birth certificate. The certificate can be obtained at the registry office (Registro Civil) in a few minutes. And it takes 10 days to get a Chilean passport and ID card.

Lifelong citizen status in Chile, which is guaranteed by the Constitution of the country allows visa-free travel to the USA, Canada, Great Britain, Japan, the European Union (Schengen), and the countries of the former Soviet Union. Visa-free travel with more than 160 countries. In the ranking of “The World’s Most Powerful Passports”, the Chilean passport is in the top 20, and in Latin America it is definitely in first place.

All doctors that our company works with are highly qualified specialists. We select the clinic and doctor considering all the client’s desires. And local private clinics combine North American quality and South American friendliness.

The official language of Chile is Spanish. For all doctor’s appointments, births and paperwork our specialist is there to provide language support. We also cover this issue for rentals and other domestic situations.

Most of our clients fly in a month before the birth date (up to 36 weeks) and leave a month after the birth. This is the time it takes for our specialists to give the baby two passports. In addition, doctors do not recommend flying until the newborn is three weeks old.

The average total budget for a 2 month trip for 2 people is $19,800. This is made up of our Comfort package ($5,900), the contract for the birth with the clinic ($6,000), apartment rent for 2 months ($3,000) and airfare ($2,000/person) as well as the cost of tests and ultrasounds ($700) and document fees ($200).

ONLY 9 STEPS TO BECOME A CHILEAN CITIZEN

Our account manager will contact you within one hour of your online request for a free consultation on the benefits of giving birth in Chile.

You sign a contract and pay 25% in advance. You pay the rest after your arrival in Chile. The contract is concluded with a legal entity in Chile with payment in US dollars.

Our preparation supervisor will create a special Chili Chat to answer all your questions, make a travel plan, select a doctor based on your birth requirements and help you gather everything you need for the trip and arrange your documents for arrival.

Our flight manager will help you to find a cheap flight, and accommodation manager in Chile will find the most comfortable apartments or houses for rent. Airfare and rent can be paid in the currency of your choice.

Our transfer guide will meet you at the airport in Santiago, bring you to your rented apartment and help you with the initial accommodation.

Our birthing supervisor will give you a tour of the clinic, coordinate the estimate for the birth and follow you to all your prenatal appointments, the birth itself, and to the pediatrician with your baby.

Our documentation supervisor will help you submit the necessary documents to the Chilean authorities and obtain Chilean citizenship for the baby, as well as the passport of the parents' country.

Our concierge service will find a nanny or housekeeper, help you choose a rental car, arrange a meeting with a representative of the stem cell bank, and quickly resolve any issues you may have in the Spanish-speaking country.

After your baby receives a Chilean passport, we will help you as parents of a Chilean to apply for a Chilean residence permit. And after two years of residence permit to apply for Chilean citizenship for yourself.

EVERYTHING YOU WANTED TO KNOW ABOUT CHILDBIRTH ABROAD

Every mother wants her child to grow up well, get a great education and a good start in life. Take care of your baby’s well-being before he or she is born! Childbirth abroad with citizenship will give your child the right to live in one of the most prosperous countries in the world – Chile – as well as travel freely around the world. The U.S., Canada, Japan, Latin America and Europe – all of these countries will hospitably open their doors to your baby, making him a true cosmopolitan.

MAKING A DECISION TO HAVE A CHILD ABROAD

HOW TO PLAN A BIRTH ABROAD

The birth of a child is an extremely important and responsible event that requires careful preparation. We recommend that you decide in advance on the budget for the birth and prepare passports for the pregnant woman and her companion. Unlike the U.S. or Canada, you do not need a visa to enter Chile, so you will not need to be interviewed at the embassy and pay a fee. It is worth noting that many airlines do not sell tickets to women late in pregnancy. Therefore, it is also important to plan your departure date correctly.

THE PRICE OF CHILDBIRTH ABROAD — CHILE

At Chile Kids, the price of a birth abroad varies depending on the package you choose. The price includes information support in preparation for your departure, airport pickup, transfer and accommodation assistance, mobile and Internet connection, clinic visits and assistance in concluding the contract, as well as obtaining citizenship and Chilean documents for the newborn baby. In addition, you will receive assistance in processing documents for the child in your country, and round-the-clock phone support. The right choice of package depends not only on the budget, but also on your requirements and preferences. The optimal option is the Comfort package. It contains everything you need for those who want to get high quality service and save as much money as possible. For $5,900 you will receive assistance in preparing for the birth in Chile, paperwork, and shopping for baby supplies. And by choosing the Comfort Plus package, moms-to-be get Concierge Services, a family photo shoot, an escort to a stem cell bank appointment, a tour, and more. It should be noted that both packages include a Russian-speaking birth attendant at all medical appointments and births. There is an expensive Premium Package for VIP women in labor, which also includes a personal chauffeur, excursions, car rental escort, a subscription to a sports club, pilates or yoga.

CHILEAN BIRTH AND CITIZENSHIP

CONTACTS chile kids

• 13 Norte, 853 Viña Del Mar, Chile Kids SpA
• CHILE KIDS SPA, RUT 76.969.435-8

• Português - Brasil

Everything You Need To Know About Birth Tourism To Get You Started

Hidden without your deepest aspirations lies a quiet desire to give your children a future of boundless opportunities. Perhaps you were born and raised in just one country and have experienced the limitations of your passport. 

Obtaining second residencies and citizenship typically demands considerable time and money. However, your children could acquire them simply by being born in another country. What better gift could you give them than a life of increased freedom? You can also benefit from this and expedite your journey toward a second homeland. These are just a few of the benefits birth tourism offers.

Having kids is an important decision, and so is choosing the right place to have them. Birth tourism is based on the jus soli principle or birthright citizenship, meaning that the citizenship of a person is determined by their place of birth. 

In this article, we’re discussing everything you need to know about birth tourism, the legal implications and how your kids and you can benefit from it.

Note that dual citizenship laws might change over time.

Panama is one of the best places to do Birth Tourism

INSTANT CITIZENSHIP AND SECOND CITIZENSHIP ADVANTAGES

It’s common knowledge that parents want to make their children’s lives easier by giving them the best education, housing and opportunities they can afford. That’s why you can see parents working long hours for the sake of their offspring. This noble task, though, can get easier thanks to having kids in countries that offer birthright citizenship.

GRANTING INSTANT CITIZENSHIP TO YOUR CHILDREN

Imagine your child enters the world, their first cry echoes through the air and voilà – they’re already citizens of a new land. This is the power of the jus soli principle, where the place of birth bestows the gift of citizenship. There is no need to jump through hoops for a new passport for your kids.

You might wonder, “Why not just follow the regular path?” Keep this in mind: you have just given your child a wonderful gift that you can't give in your home country. Namely, birth tourism allows them to bypass the lengthy waiting period and residency requirements. Your kid’s future is unlocked with access to education, healthcare and even lower taxes.

ACCELERATED SECOND CITIZENSHIP PATHWAY

Does only your kid benefit from birth tourism? No, because this can also fast-track your future. Consider this: You've chosen a destination renowned for its streamlined citizenship process post-birth. Your child's citizenship opens doors for you, offering a quicker route to your own second citizenship dreams. It’s almost a two-for-one deal, where your child’s place of birth becomes a launchpad for your own global aspirations.

Moreover, by playing your cards right, you can even pass on your own citizenship to your children. How? Using the jus sanguinis principle, people are citizens if their parents are from that country.

Roseau skyline, Dominica

LEGAL AND PRACTICAL ASPECTS

The allure of birth tourism is strong, but the legal landscape can be a maze. While leveraging birth tourism, you must navigate the country's laws carefully. Each jurisdiction has its own set of rules and regulations, and what's legal in one place might not be in another.

NAVIGATING LEGAL BOUNDARIES: A PRACTICAL EXAMPLE

Once parents know that birth tourism is a fast pathway to new residencies and citizenships for them and their children, they must keep dual citizenship in mind. You might want your kids to have two nationalities, but sometimes it’s just not possible. Here’s an example:

Let's consider a scenario where two Japanese parents want to have a child in Canada. This choice would provide the child access to a Canadian passport, known for its global strength and allowance of dual citizenship. On the other hand, Japan doesn't permit dual citizenship , so the child and parents would not be able to hold both Japanese and Canadian citizenship simultaneously.

HEALTHCARE AND FACILITIES

It’s not all sunshine and rainbows, of course. Before having your kid in a country that offers birthright citizenship, you must do some research on the healthcare system and medical professionals. Also, make sure to plan the trip to make the process as smooth as possible. If planned correctly, your journey into parenthood can be comfortable and safe, with state-of-the-art medical facilities ensuring that you and your child receive the best care possible.

Related content: Top Countries For Birth Tourism

Birth tourism in Belize is a peculiar way of establishing connections that span continents, strengthening your network

CULTURAL EXPLORATION AND CONNECTION

Birth tourism isn't just about citizenship; it's about diving headfirst into a cultural adventure. As you await the arrival of your beloved child, you can explore bustling markets, food, and real estate and even get used to the local language . 

BUILDING GLOBAL CONNECTIONS

Now, let’s talk about connections. Imagine you’re sipping coffee with fellow parents, discussing the twists and turns of parenthood across borders. From schooling to lifestyle choices, you can engage in enriching conversations about the topics you care about the most. Birth tourism has a unique way of forging connections that span continents. The people you meet during this journey become a part of your extended global family. 

With the guidance of the Expat Money team, you will gain insights and shortcuts that will make this journey much smoother and faster

OVERCOMING BUREAUCRATIC HURDLES

Bureaucracy is an unavoidable challenge. Paperwork, forms, deadlines, reservations, flights and much more loom like storm clouds. Navigating bureaucratic processes can be cumbersome. Birth tourism comes with its fair share of administrative hurdles, but with the right approach, you can tackle them. 

In this quest for a better life for your children, patience and meticulousness are your allies. Just as you've dealt with challenges before, this is one more obstacle that can be surmounted with a bit of guidance.

PROFESSIONAL GUIDANCE

Dealing with all the bureaucracy necessary to obtain a passport for your child can be quite annoying, isn't it? Reading government websites, laws, regulations and planning everything is a task you can't take lightly. You can easily spend months doing all this without a guide. However, any significant journey requires professional assistance. 

Imagine a knowledgeable consultant who understands the ins and outs of birth tourism. Even though hiring a consultant might not seem necessary, the other alternative you have is to navigate this path on your own – perhaps the most time-consuming and draining option.

In contrast, a consultant can provide shortcuts, insights and peace of mind. You won’t need to read complex legal texts in a foreign language and have sleepless nights because you forgot some documents or didn’t fill in the right application forms. Seasoned consultants have tread this path before, and their expertise can turn a potentially stressful experience into a seamless journey.

From dual citizenship, immediate opportunities, cultural richness, birth tourism in Chile offers a woven tapestry of dreams and potential

In this journey of unlocking a world of possibilities through birth tourism, your aspirations take center stage. As you ponder the path ahead, remember that each step is a testament to your commitment to your family's future. Dual citizenship, immediate opportunities, cultural richness—birth tourism offers a tapestry woven with dreams and potential.

Yet, navigating this intricate journey can be complex. Here's where professional guidance shines, simplifying the complexities and streamlining your efforts. With consultants by your side, you can transform potential roadblocks into smooth paths. 

As an expat with over 20 years of overseas experience and having had one of my kids in Brazil, I know firsthand how to navigate the intricacies of birth tourism. If you plan to give your children this amazing gift of a life of increased freedom, contact me and I’ll help you out.

WORK WITH ME

I help my clients to move offshore for freedom, privacy and autonomy by focusing on the immigration, legal, and tax issues that you will face when becoming an expat. If you would like to work one-on-one with me on getting out of your home country (or setting up a Plan-B location), then read this important letter and fill in an application form to become a Private Client . My fees are not cheap; however, I can assure you that when you work with a professional firm like ours, the results will be worth it.

BEST OF THE EXPAT WORLD

If you want the best intel from the expat world, including profitable offshore opportunities, little-known tax-saving strategies, and hard-won insights on immigration, passports, and Plan-B residencies, all delivered to your inbox every single week, then join our daily correspondence, EMS Pulse ™ . Currently enjoyed by over 37,000 expats and expat-hopefuls worldwide. Fill in the form below to join our newsletter free:

Written by Mikkel Thorup

Mikkel Thorup is the world’s most sought-after expat consultant. He focuses on helping high-net-worth private clients to legally mitigate tax liabilities, obtain a second residency and citizenship, and assemble a portfolio of foreign investments including international real estate, timber plantations, agricultural land and other hard-money tangible assets. Mikkel is the Founder and CEO at Expat Money®, a private consulting firm started in 2017. He hosts the popular weekly podcast, the Expat Money Show, and wrote the definitive #1-Best Selling book Expat Secrets - How To Pay Zero Taxes, Live Overseas And Make Giant Piles Of Money, and his second book: Expats Guide On Moving To Mexico.

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What is birth tourism and is it legal?

Disclaimer: Some posts on Tourism Teacher may contain affiliate links. If you appreciate this content, you can show your support by making a purchase through these links or by buying me a coffee . Thank you for your support!

Birth tourism isn’t a term we hear everyday, but it is in actual fact a real thing! Want to learn all about it? Read on…

What is birth tourism?

Anchor babies, future life improvement, two-child policy, right of abode, birth tourism scrutiny in the us, changing citizenship laws, jus sanguinis , birth tourism in north america, birth tourism in hong kong, birth tourism- further reading.

As the name suggests, birth tourism is the action of travelling to a different destination for the purpose of giving birth. There are various reasons as to why pregnant people decide to take this course of action, which I will go into below. It is not a new phenomenon, nor is it something which people are particularly secretive about when they engage in it. It is more common in the US, Canada and Mexico as these countries famously offer birthright citizenship.

It is worth nothing that birth tourism is completely unrelated to the concept of a babymoon, which you can read about here !

Why does birth tourism happen?

So, why does birth tourism exist? One reason is that people may want to give birth where it’s free or at least much cheaper than their home country. They also may feel like other countries are able to provide better (and/or safer) medical care during and immediately after the birth. Childbirth is a terrifying process for many, and people want to feel as confident as possible as they bring a new life into the world.

But the main reason for birth tourism is citizenship purposes. People will travel to a different country to give birth there so that the child has birthright citizenship, also known as jus soli. There are many reasons why someone may want their child to have citizenship in a different country…

An anchor baby is a child born in this country for the purpose of helping their parents obtain permanent residency in this country. Due to the baby having birthright citizenship, it should then be easier for the parents and other family members such as siblings to gain legal and permanent residency. This term is considered to be offensive by some. It often comes into play during immigration arguments, especially in the US.

Canadians use the term ‘passport baby’ in the same way.

Another reason for giving birth to a child in a foreign country, therefore giving them birthright citizenship, is in order to ensure they have access to solid healthcare and a good education in the future. This is to benefit the child themselves.

In the past, people have engaged in birth tourism to get around the Chinese two-child policy – and the one-child policy before it. China now actually has a three-child policy, due to falling birth rates (presumably because of the two-child policy in place). Iran, Singapore and Vietnam have also all had two-child policies in place at one time or another. Birth tourism was a way of circumventing this issue.

This relates specifically to Chinese citizens travelling to Hong Kong to give birth. Doing so gives the child ‘right of abode’ – also known as permanent residence – to live and work in Hong Kong in the future. They would have all the same rights as anyone else born in Hong Kong. This phenomenon has led to tensions between the people of China and the people of Hong Kong, with the latter even taking to the streets to protest the rise in birth tourism.

Is birth tourism illegal?

For the most part, globally, there are no actual laws against travelling to a different country to give birth there. And the reasons which people do it aren’t technically illegal either. This is not to say that it isn’t legally tricky, or frowned upon by the law…

During the Trump administration in 2020, the president imposed new visa rules for pregnant women travelling to the US to give birth there. This did not stop all heavily pregnant women being able to gain visa entry into the US, because they might be travelling to visit an ‘ailing relative’ or for work purposes. 

The rule will not apply to foreign travelers coming from any of the 39 mainly European and Asian countries enrolled in the Visa Waiver Program, which allows citizens of those countries to come to the U.S. without a visa for temporary stays. The rule will only apply to applicants for so-called “B” class visas that permit short-term stays for business or pleasure, said AP News.

They went on to say: The practice of traveling to the U.S. to give birth is fundamentally legal, although there are scattered cases of authorities arresting operators of birth tourism agencies for visa fraud or tax evasion. And women are often honest about their intentions when applying for visas and even show signed contracts with doctors and hospitals.

The State Department “does not believe that visiting the United States for the primary purpose of obtaining U.S. citizenship for a child, by giving birth in the United States — an activity commonly referred to as ‘birth tourism’ — is a legitimate activity for pleasure or of a recreational nature,” according to the new rules.

Because of the rise in birth tourism, some countries have changed their citizenship laws. Instead of birthright citizenship being offered to anyone born in the country, the following nations only grant this at birth if at least one parent is a citizen themselves or a legal permanent resident who has lived there for a number of years:

• Australia  
• Germany 
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• United Kingdom

As opposed to jus soli, the concept of jus sanguinis relates to citizenship being designated by the nationality or ethnicity of one or both parents – despite where the child is born. So for example, a couple who are British and French respectively could give birth to a child in neither of these countries. If the country of birth operated under jus soli, the baby would automatically be a citizen of this country. However, if the birth country uses the process of jus sanguinis then the child would take either British or French citizenship. Originally this would automatically be the same as the father’s – but with equality on the rise, it is now that of either parent.

Popular birth tourism destinations

I have already touched on some of the common places for birth tourism, but below you’ll find some more detail…

As mentioned earlier, the North American countries all offer automatic birthright citizenship, with dual citizenship also allowed. However, this may not always be a positive thing. For example, citizens of the United States are taxed worldwide even if you are not a resident. So you could be born in the US, either through birth tourism or perhaps a premature birth, then leave as a baby and never set foot in the US. You would, in the future, still be liable to pay taxes in the US unless you pay the eye-watering $2350 renunciation fee.

The Center for Immigration Studies say they estimate that there are 33,000 births annually as a result of birth tourism in the US. They also say that the most common countries people travel from for birth tourism are China, Taiwan, Korea, Nigeria, Turkey, Russia , Brazil, and Mexico.

People also travel to Brazil for birth tourism purposes. Children born here, in the largest country in South America , are granted Brazilian citizenship at birth under jus soli – meaning they are Brazilian regardless of their parents’ nationalities. Parents can then apply for ‘residency of the indefinite term’ due to the child having Brazilian citizenship.

International Wealth say: After obtaining residency by submitting your child’s birth certificate and copies of passports, you will be eligible to apply for citizenship after one year. 

This fast-track naturalization process is desirable for a parent to obtain a relatively “cheap” second citizenship for you and your family. Your child will benefit from being a citizen of the Mercosur region, allowing them to live, study and work anywhere in the area. 

Of course, I touched upon this earlier – but many Chinese parents travel to Hong Kong to give birth so their children can enjoy ‘right of abode’ in the future. This came as a result of the 2003 Individual Visit Scheme which allowed people from Mainland China to visit Hong Kong on an individual basis. Before this, residents could only visit as part of a group tour or on a business visa.

This new rule provided an opportunity for pregnant people to head to Hong Kong and give birth there, thus securing ‘right of abode’ for their offspring. But of course, this resulted in a shortage of resources (hospital beds, midwives, medical equipment and so on) for local residents. They did not take kindly to this, with protests and potential policy changes occurring in more recent years.

If you enjoyed this article I am sure that you will love these too!

• What is special interest tourism and why is it so popular?
• What is alternative tourism and why is it growing so fast?
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Birth Tourism: Everything You Need to Know About Giving Birth in a Foreign Country

What is birth tourism & how does it work.

Birth Tourism in Canada

Birth tourism in the us.

Birth Tourism in Mexico

Other popular birth tourism countries, frequently asked questions about birth tourism, is birth tourism illegal, what are the best places for birth tourism, how much does birth tourism on average cost, which countries have an active birth tourism practice to the us.

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Why give birth in Chile?

Chile is safe, chile is the safest country in latin america, and the second safest in the western hemisphere after canada (according to the united nations office on drugs and crime). it is even safer than the usa when it comes to homicides..

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Chinese families navigate a maze of laws and COVID rules to have babies in the U.S.

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, California — Inside a three-story pastel mansion in this quiet suburb south of Los Angeles, Auntie Wang cradles a 2-week-old baby girl named Echo.

"The more time you spend with her, the more she is attached to you," says Auntie Wang, who moved to the United States seven years ago from China. "You hold her, play with her, engage with her and look, she responds to you."

The 58-year-old clucks and coos at the baby in obvious delight. But for all the affection, she is not the baby's mother or even a relative. She is a hired nanny whose job is to care for Echo and other babies like her born through surrogacy — where a woman carries and gives birth to a baby for another couple or individual.

Auntie Wang does not want to share her full name because of the sensitivity and legal issues around surrogacy in her home country.

The agency she works for, called Fat Daddy, specializes in these services for clients in China — where providing surrogacy is effectively prohibited.

The company is one part of a well-established industry centered in California that also includes the controversial service of bringing Chinese mothers to the U.S. to give birth to their children, known as "birth tourism."

But for nearly three years, the whole industry has been upended by the coronavirus pandemic and China's travel restrictions, which have been among the tightest in the world. In 2020, Beijing completely shut the country's border to contain COVID-19 and has never fully reopened them.

That has meant Chinese parents cannot fly to the U.S. to meet or vet their surrogate in person. Instead, clients have had to send their reproductive samples — eggs, sperm or both — via special delivery to the U.S. so the surrogacy can take place.

China's "zero-COVID" policies and recent passport restrictions have also made it nearly impossible for many Chinese parents to then travel to the U.S. to pick up their newborn babies.

So, for nannies like Auntie Wang, that has meant a lot more work. Whereas before the pandemic, she looked after the babies for up to six weeks, now such care often stretches to several months while the Fat Daddy agency works to arrange flights and the Chinese residency papers required to transport the babies to China.

They're coming to America, where surrogacy is legal in most states

One family caught up in the bureaucracy is 1-year-old Lucy, born in the U.S., and her parents back in China.

"Getting a [U.S.] visa took Lucy's mother four months," explains Sunny, a Fat Daddy employee who manages the house where surrogate babies and their caretakers live. She wants to use only her first name in the story to avoid being identified because providing surrogacy is illegal in China. "But her flights from China keep getting canceled."

In the U.S., Chinese couples can easily pay more than $100,000 for surrogacy — high costs that include lodging, catering and transportation.

Cheaper options exist in Thailand , Cambodia, India and Russia. In recent years, Ukraine had become a major center for the industry, but after Russia invaded the country, at least 19 surrogate babies destined for China were left stranded .

A rescue team evacuates premature American twins from Kyiv in a daring mission

Rather than look abroad, some Chinese parents seek surrogacy services from underground providers in China. One study estimates that a decade ago, up to 500 businesses were operating surreptitiously.

But people using the services had few legal rights if the provider did not hand over the baby — or if the biological parents decided to split custody .

For Chinese parents with the financial means, a popular option remains the U.S., where surrogacy is legal in most states.

"America has everything. America is a good country — as long as you know what you want," says one Chinese birth tourism agent based in California. He does not want to give his name because China bans providing such services. "Having children in the U.S. will always bring advantages, because America is a country for immigrants."

It is difficult to know how many Chinese couples use surrogacy services in California because the state's health department says it does not keep track. But NPR spoke to several agencies that suggested there were hundreds, if not thousands of cases in the state a year.

The co-founder of Fat Daddy, Zheng, says there are many reasons clients want to use his company's services.

Coronavirus Live Updates

Surrogate-born babies wait in ukraine amid coronavirus travel restrictions.

He says China used to limit couples to just one child (now the limit is three ), so wealthy couples used to have their second or even third child in the U.S. Another reason is that unmarried women and non-heterosexual couples often have a hard time having children or adopting legally.

Having a baby, even via surrogate in the U.S., also grants the child coveted American citizenship. Perhaps surprisingly, Zheng says the growing competition between the U.S. and China has actually made American citizenship more attractive to many families.

"In the foreseeable future, China and the U.S. will definitely be the two strongest countries in the world," he says. "If the U.S. is not the first, then China will be and it will definitely be a win-win situation for your children in the future if they have both these nationalities."

Before the pandemic, Zheng says, Chinese demand for surrogacy and birth tourism services was so high he used to rent out entire apartment buildings for Chinese families.

And according to another agent — who only gave her name as Lulu for fear of retribution for speaking frankly about Chinese politics and surrogacy — many of her clients were "high-level Communist Party officials and celebrities" with money and power who wanted their children to have American citizenship. In China it is illegal for citizens to be dual nationals.

Some are going for DIY birth tourism

Only the most determined of prospective Chinese parents are trickling into the U.S. these days.

One of them is Lily, a lawyer from Baotou, Inner Mongolia. She does not want to use her full name because the issue of birth tourism is sensitive in China.

Lily is doing what the industry calls a DIY — do-it-yourself — birth tourism experience; renting her own house and hiring a full-time nanny to look after her toddler Gordon, who was born in the U.S.

When NPR met Lily in May, she was pregnant with a second child. The family planned to spend another six months in the U.S. after the birth before returning home.

"There are all-around advantages in the U.S.; freedom of speech, a sense of security," she says, explaining her decision. "My child is definitely better off if they have these options."

She also half-jokes that she also came to the U.S. because she wanted a pain-free birth. "It is difficult to get full epidurals in China!" she says.

But many aren't as lucky as Lily. Parents using surrogacy will have a long wait before they can see their babies.

Now many of the babies are flown back to China under the supervision of a dedicated nanny provided by the agencies.

For Auntie Wang, seeing the babies she's looked after for many months is always a hugely emotional moment.

"Oh, we cry when we say goodbye to these children! It is painful to part with them. They're like our own," says Auntie Wang. "It is like this for all the nannies. After even just a month you have an emotional bond with them."

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March 16, 2024

Chile Citizenship by Birth

Sergey Voinich

Founder and Managing Partner at Golden Harbors

Chilean citizenship refers to the legal status of being recognized as a member of the nation of Chile. This status signifies a commitment to Chilean values and traditions and offers privileges like access to public services, employment, education, and participation in democratic processes. Among other benefits, a Chilean passport provides visa-free entry to 160+ countries, including the U.S., EU, UK, and Japan. 

Chilean Citizenship by Birth Overview

‍ Chilean citizenship by birth is conferred upon individuals born within the territorial boundaries of Chile. This principle is firmly established in the Chilean Constitution , under Article 10, which states that those born within the national territory automatically acquire Chilean nationality. This legal doctrine, known as jus soli , holds that a person's nationality is determined by the location of their birth. The geographical scope of Chile's territory encompasses the mainland, various islands, and territorial waters, making those born within these areas eligible for Chilean citizenship.

Chile generally recognizes the concept of dual citizenship, allowing individuals born in Chile to hold citizenship from another country concurrently, depending on the laws of that nation. To formalize their Chilean citizenship , individuals may need to obtain an Identity Card ( Cédula de Identidad ) or passport, which serves as official proof of their nationality. Chilean citizens, regardless of how their citizenship is acquired, enjoy certain rights, such as the right to vote and work in the country. They are also subject to the legal responsibilities and obligations outlined by Chilean law. For those seeking citizenship through other means, Chile also provides avenues for naturalization , involving specific criteria like residency and legal compliance.

Chile Citizenship by Birth Requirements

Here are the general requirements for acquiring Chilean citizenship by birth.

Chilean Parents

If at least one of the parents is a Chilean citizen at the time of the child's birth, the child is automatically considered a Chilean citizen.

Foreign Parents 

A child born in Chile receives a Chilean passport as well as a birth certificate right away. The child's parents first obtain a Chilean residence permit , and after 1 year, they are granted permanent residence. Foreign parents can apply for Chilean citizenship in 2 years after the child's birth.

Temporary Foreigners and Parents Serving In The Chilean Government 

Children of foreign parents serving in the government of Chile, or children of temporary foreigners, may apply for Chilean citizenship. 

In order to become a Chilean citizen, you need to submit an application for "Option to Chilean citizenship" within one year of turning 18. This application should be sent to the National Migration Service (SERMIG) if you're in Chile, or to the Chilean consulate or diplomatic mission if you're abroad. Once the authorities confirm that you meet the necessary criteria, either SERMIG or the respective consulate (if you're outside Chile) will instruct you to visit the Civil Registry and Identification Service (Servicio de Registro Civil e Identificación) to obtain your Chilean ID and passport. The supporting documents are as follows:

• Letter addressed to the National Director of SERMIG requesting the opportunity to obtain Chilean citizenship; 
• The applicant's birth certificate or partida de nacimiento must state "Hijo de Extranjero Transente" or "Hijo de extranjero que se encuentran en Chile al servicio de su gobierno”; 
• Copy of your Cédula de Identidad (Chilean ID card), if applicable. 

Chilean Citizenship by Birth Application Process

If you meet the eligibility criteria, you can apply for Chilean citizenship by birth through the following process:

Step 1: Gather the Required Documents and Complete Application 

The first step is to collect the necessary documents, which include your Chilean birth certificate, the birth or residency certificates of your Chilean parent(s) or foreign parent(s) at the time of your birth, your identification documents (such as a passport or ID card), and proof of your parents' relationship, if applicable. Fill out any necessary forms and submit an application to the Chilean consulate or diplomatic mission overseas, or to the National Migration Service (SERMIG) if you are in Chile. 

Step 2: Pay Fees

There may be fees associated with the processing of documents. The amount may vary depending on the situation and your location. Generally, it is $33.026 USD for the option of Chilean citizenship. Please ensure to check the specific fee details and payment instructions provided by the relevant authorities before proceeding with the application process.

Step 3: Receive Confirmation and Documentation

Once your application is approved, you will receive confirmation and your Chilean birth certificate, which confirms your Chilean citizenship. You should keep these documents in a safe and easily accessible place, as they may be required for various official purposes in the future.

Step 4: Apply for a Chilean ID Card (Cédula de Identidad)

You will visit the SRCel to obtain your Chilean ID and passport. If you do not already have one and are over the age of 18, you will undoubtedly need to apply for a Chilean ID card. This is an important identification document in Chile. 

3 Tips How to Get Chilean Citizenship by Birth from Golden Harbors Experts

If you meet the eligibility requirements, obtaining Chilean citizenship by birth is a simple process. Based on our previous successful applications for Chilean citizenship by birth, we have a few suggestions to help you facilitate the process: 

• Up-to-date Documents

To obtain Chilean citizenship by birth, it is imperative to ensure that all your documents are up-to-date and accurate. This includes your birth certificate as well as any documents related to your parents' citizenship status. Make certain that they are in compliance with Chilean legal standards and that there are no discrepancies or errors. If needed, obtain official translations or certifications. Keeping your documents current and in order will not only expedite the application process but also demonstrate your commitment to meeting the legal requirements for acquiring Chilean citizenship by birth.

• Contact the Civil Registry and Identification Service 

To acquire Chilean citizenship by birth, a crucial step is to contact the Civil Registry and Identification Service ( SRCel ). This government agency is responsible for maintaining vital records and managing citizenship matters in Chile. Reach out to them to initiate the process and inquire about the specific requirements and documentation needed to establish your eligibility. They will guide you through the application process, helping you navigate any legal complexities or bureaucratic procedures. 

• Seek Legal Assistance 

Consulting with a knowledgeable immigration lawyer or a legal expert well-versed in Chilean nationality laws can provide invaluable guidance. They will help you gather and prepare all the necessary documentation. Golden Harbors team can advise on specific application procedures and deadlines, ensuring that you follow the correct steps to increase your chances of success in acquiring Chilean citizenship. Remember to stay informed about any changes in the law that may affect your eligibility or application process.

Can I Apply for Chilean Citizenship Later in Life If I Was Not Born in Chile? 

Yes, you can apply for Chilean citizenship through naturalization if you were not born in Chile. This process involves meeting specific residency requirements and demonstrating ties to the country.

Can I Pass Chilean Citizenship on to My Children If I Acquired It by Birth? 

Yes, you can pass on Chilean citizenship to your children if you are a Chilean citizen by birth, regardless of where they are born.

Is There a Time Limit for Claiming Citizenship by Birth in Chile? 

No, there is no time limit for claiming citizenship by birth in Chile. Generally, a person born in Chile to at least one Chilean parent can claim their Chilean citizenship at any time.

Residence Benefits

Fast application processing

Global mobility and freedom

international business expansion, entry into the South American market, and setting up a company in Chile allow you to get a residence permit through a business for the whole family

Access to quality healthcare & education

Residents have access to Chile's healthcare system, which is one of the best in Latin America. Additionally, there are opportunities for quality education, both for the permit holder and their dependents

a residence permit is issued with the rights to work, do business and study in Chile

An opportunity to live in Chile

no residence limits

option to purchase commercial and residential real estate with an annual return of up to 5%

The clear path to citizenship

residents can apply for Chilean citizenship if they have been in Chile for 5 years

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Chilean citizenship

• Last Update: 15 March, 2024
• Chilean Citizenship

What is the carta de Nacionalización ?

The c arta de Nacionalización is a way for foreigners to obtain Chilean citizenship according to article 10 subsection 3 of the Chilean Constitution , which is further developed by a government decree issued by the Ministry of Interior and Public Safety, by order of the President of Chile.

In what cases can I obtain the Chilean citizenship?

If you have reached 18 years of age, you are a holder of a valid Residencia Definitiva permit, and you have five years or more of residence in Chile from the date you obtained the Estampado Electrónico of the Residencia Temporal permit that gave rise to the Residencia Definitiva permit that remains valid.*

If you are the son or daughter of foreigners, and you are 14 years of age or older, you are a holder of a Residencia Definitiva permit, and you have five years or more of residence in Chile (counting from the date you obtained the Residencia Temporal permit that gave rise to the Residencia Definitiva permit that remains valid), and also you have a notarized authorization from your parents or the person in charge of your custody.*

If you are less than 18 years old, and your parents or at least one of them has a refugee status (recognized by Chile), and at least one of them has obtained the Chilean citizenship.

If you are a permanent resident, and you can certify two years of continuous residence in Chilean territory (counting from the date you obtained the Residencia Temporal permit that gave rise to the Residencia Definitiva permit that remains valid), and according to the Law No. 21.325 of Migración y Extranjería , you have any of the following family bonds with a Chilean citizen:

• If you have been the spouse of a Chilean citizen for at least two years, your marriage has been registered in Chile, and you have lived with your Chilean spouse in the same household for at least two years (according to the article 133 of the Chilean Civil Code).
• If you are a relative of a Chilean citizen up to the second degree of consanguinity, or if you have been adopted by Chilean citizens.
• If any of your parents lost their Chilean citizenship before your birthday.

Where can I apply for Chilean citizenship?

You can apply online at the Portal de Trámites Digitales of the Servicio Nacional de Migraciones . You will need a login account or ClaveÚnica for such purposes. You will also have to comply with all the requirements.

Requirements

As an applicant, you must attach the general documentation plus the specific documentation for your application, as shown below:

For people not related to a Chilean citizen

General documentation.

• Scanned image of passport identification sheet (if you do not have a passport, present a national identity document of the country of origin or consular certificate (legalized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Chile), which certifies identity and nationality.)
• Certificate of criminal or judicial record of country of origin apostilled or legalized, and translated if applicable (for people over 18 years old.)
• Travel certificate issued by Policía de Investigaciones (PDI, Chilean Bureau of Investigation) (mandatory only for those who entered Chile as minors and cannot obtain the criminal record certificate of their country of origin.)

Documentation for children between 14 and 17 years of age

• Notarized affidavit of both parents or of who has the custody of the minor, authorizing the application for a Carta de Nacionalización .
• Notarized authorization of the parent who is in Chile and notarized authorization (or the corresponding certifying officer) of the one who is abroad, apostilled, or legalized as appropriate. Or, broad power of attorney of the parent who is abroad that accompanies the power of attorney delivered, where it specifies the authorization to apply for citizenship (apostilled or legalized).
• Death certificate of the deceased parent.

Documentation by employment activity

• Document that certifies the activity performed in Chile.
• To certify that your tax obligations are up to date. You must present the " Carpeta tributaria " (Tax folder), which can be obtained from the website of the Servicio de Impuestos Internos (Chilean IRS), authenticating yourself with RUT (Chilean tax ID number) and Clave Tributaria of SII (taxpayer’s password for Chilean IRS) or Claveúnica , by accessing the following route: SII's website → Servicios online → Situación tributaria → Carpeta tributaria electrónica → Carpeta Tributaria Regular .
• In addition, you must certify that you have no debt, for which you must apply for the Certificado de Deuda  issued by the Tesorería General de la República (TGR), which can be obtained from the TGR website, by authenticating with RUT (Chilean tax ID number) and tax password or ClaveÚnica from the page of Certificado de Deudas Fiscales .
• The same documentation indicated in the previous point ( Carpeta tributaria y Certificado de deuda ) must be submitted for each of the companies in which the applicant participates.

For people related to a Chilean citizen

This family bond may be a spouse, father, mother, child, grandchild, grandparent, sibling, a person adopted by a Chilean, or a child of a father or mother who, having been Chilean, lost his or her nationality before the applicant’s birth.

•  Scanned image of a passport identification sheet (if you do not have a passport, present a national identity card from your country of origin or consular certificate proving your identity and nationality).
• Certificate of criminal or judicial record of country of origin apostilled or legalized, and translated if applicable (for people over 18 years old),
• Travel certificate issued by Policía de Investigaciones (PDI, Chilean Bureau of Investigation); mandatory only for those who entered Chile as minors and cannot obtain the criminal record certificate of their country of origin.

Documentation for children between 14 and 17 years old

• Affidavit authorizing the application for the Carta de Nacionalización from both parents or the person who has custody of the minor.
• Notarized authorization of the father who is in Chile and notarized authorization (or the corresponding certifying officer) of the one who is abroad, apostilled, or legalized as appropriate. Or, broad power of attorney of the parent who is abroad that accompanies the power of attorney delivered, where specified authorizes her or him to apply Citizenship (apostilled or legalized).

Documentation according to the family bond with a Chilean

• Marriage certificate registered in Chile.
• Spouse's birth certificate.
• Documents certifying that they both share a common household today and two years prior to the date of application.
• Birth certificate of your Chilean children.
• Birth certificates that certify the family bond.

Birth Certificate.

Birth certificate of the father or mother with the annotation of loss.

Carta de Nacionalidad of the father or mother, prior to 2005.

• To certify that your tax obligations are up to date. You must present the Carpeta tributaria (Tax folder), which can be obtained from the website of the Servicio de Impuestos Internos (Chilean IRS), authenticating yourself with RUT (Chilean tax ID number) and Clave Tributaria of SII (taxpayer’s password for Chilean IRS) or ClaveÚnica , by accessing the following route: SII's website → Servicios online → Situación tributaria → Carpeta tributaria electrónica → Carpeta Tributaria Regular .
• In addition, you must certify that you have no debt, for which you must apply for the Certificado de Deuda  issued by the Tesorería General de la República (TGR), which can be obtained from the TGR website, by authenticating with RUT (Chilean ID number) and Clave Tributaria of SII (taxpayer’s password for Chilean IRS) or ClaveÚnica from the page of Certificado de Deudas Fiscales .
• The same documentation indicated in the previous point ( Carpeta tributaria and Certificado de deuda ) must be submitted for each of the companies in which the applicant participates.

For refugees

Proof of identity.

• To certify that your tax obligations are up to date. You must present the " Carpeta tributaria " (Tax folder), which can be obtained from the website of the Servicio de Impuestos Internos (Chilean IRS), authenticating yourself with RUT (Chilean tax ID number) and Clave Tributaria of SII (taxpayer’s password for Chilean IRS) or ClaveÚnica , by accessing the following route: SII's website → Servicios online → Situación tributaria → Carpeta tributaria electrónica → Carpeta Tributaria Regular .

For children of refugees with a nationalized Chilean father or mother

How to apply for the chilean citizenship.

Review the step-by-step instructions in the following guide:

• The Portal de Trámites Digitales  will not allow you to submit incomplete applications, so you must upload all the requested documents. Otherwise, you will not be able to proceed or complete your application.
• It is also necessary to keep in mind that if you upload erroneous, incomplete, or incorrect information, you will be notified that your application will not proceed and you will be granted a period of sixty working days, counted from such notification, to rectify the missing information or attach the respective documents.
• If this is not done within the indicated period, the procedure will be considered abandoned and your application will be filed. However, you will have the possibility of submitting a new application once you have all the background information that supports your application: complete, updated, and current documentation as of the date of submission.

+ FAQ about Chilean citizenship

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To schedule an appointment, log in with your username and password from the SERMIG’s Portal de Trámites Digitales . If you don’t have one, you can create it.

Scheduling an appointment is available in all regional offices in Chile. Remember that you can only make one reservation at a time!

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‘A lot of these women had no idea what they got into’: inside the world of birth tourism

A new documentary follows Chinese women who travel to the US to give birth so their children can have citizenship

I t started a decade ago, when Leslie Tai, who lives outside San Francisco, heard from a woman she’d met in Beijing and who told her that she was staying for a few months in Los Angeles. Tai’s friend was evasive about the purpose of her visit, until the pair finally had a video call and Tai watched her friend oil a round belly on camera. “She said, ‘I have a surprise for you,’” Tai recalled. “‘I’m having an American baby.’” Tai, who knew that her friend came from a poor family and was dating a wealthy older artist in China, asked if he had friends in southern California. “And she was like, ‘No, honey, you don’t need friends to do what I’m doing.’”

She was part of the birth tourism industry, which boomed during the Obama years, when scores of pregnant Chinese women of means invested in package deals that cost anywhere from $30,000 to $100,000 and granted buyers the ability to fly across the world and stay for three months at a facility that catered to expectant mothers looking to score US citizenships for their children or skirt the one-child policy that was the law in China until 2015.

Tai, a Chinese American documentary film-maker, wasted no time embedding in the group home where her friend was waiting out the final days of her pregnancy, alongside a handful of other expectant mothers. “I got kind of obsessed with this idea of how on the outside, it’s just nondescript suburban tract housing, with palm trees everywhere, but then behind closed doors there’s this whole world with multiple families living in close quarters and all in this crazy intense situation of waiting to have a baby,” she said.

Securing subjects’ permission was not easy for Tai. “I started asking my aunties and uncles like, do you know anybody who is involved in this industry? They were all like, yeah, actually, my cleaner, or our nanny from when our kids were children ended up working in one of these maternity hotels,” she recalled. Tracking down subjects and winning over their trust took an enormous amount of care and strategy. “Even though what they were doing was not illegal, they had reservations, so it was not like I came in like guns blazing.” Tai’s English fluency proved a valuable resource as she pursued mothers-to-be, nannies, drivers and cooks to grant entry to their private world and anchor the vignettes in her film. “I made myself of service because actually, when they saw me, they were like, ‘Oh my God, you speak English. Can you help me call PG&E?’” She had given similar help to her friend, who did not speak English, in the delivery room.

Nearly 10 years in the making, Tai’s entrancing and heartrending film How to Have an American Baby provides viewers insider access to a phenomenon that took place behind closed doors and on Chinese websites where brokers offered pregnant women package deals as if they were cruise holidays. Money-hungry operators offered help obtaining visas and lining up rooms at specialized facilities. There were enormous industrial maternity hotels, as well as private Beverly Hills homes and boutique group homes where up to five women at a time waited out their births and holed up for the 30-day postpartum quarantine that is a Chinese tradition. Then, more often than not, they returned to China.

“By and large, the majority of the women that were coming were simply coming to evade the one-child policy,” Tai said. Some, though, were mistresses, as Chinese law did not allow unmarried mothers to give birth in public hospitals until earlier this year. Sales agents knew how to tap into maternal anxieties, playing up the supposed advantages of US citizenship. “There’s a lot of misinformation that the customers are receiving,” Tai said. “They think that there’s universal healthcare. They think that there’s universal education. It’s sold as a really good investment, but they’ve been lied to.” Babies born in the US have the right to declare their American citizenship at age 18, and apply for green cards for their families when they turn 21. “There was a sentiment of: who knows what the world is going to look like in 18 years? If China goes to hell, what if America goes to hell, whatever, they have two passports.”

Tai’s film is less concerned with policy than offering a textured portrait of the day-to-day, minute-to-minute experience that the mothers went through. The exteriors are mostly shot at night on suburban streets of southern California and the interiors sit with women bathing their babies or microwaving cups of tea while they wait to go into labor. A meditative quality pervades the work, which weaves several vignettes together into a broader portrait of women navigating a terrifying life phase in a strange land. “A lot of these women had no idea what they got into,” Tai said. “It’s almost like they were sold on the pretty pictures of this vacation and then when they come here, they realize: ‘My family’s not here, and I’m having a baby. Oh, my God, I’m sequestered with a bunch of pregnant women. Plus there’s all the drama living in the suburbs. It’s like Real Housewives from hell.”

While many of the visitors enjoyed daily meal deliveries and shopping excursions, they were surrounded by people who saw them as financial marks. The doctors in the film offer all-cash birthing options (vaginal for $3,000 or caesarean for $5,000) with the tenderness of night market vendors hawking ripoff handbags. Tai captured a maternity hotel worker saying about the residents: “If you become too friendly they will use you. The more you give them, the more they complain.”

The birth tourism world underwent major upheaval over the course of filming and editing, to the point where Tai said her film was “like a time capsule”. With the rise of Trump and the travel restrictions around Covid, and anti-Chinese and anti-American sentiment flying in both directions, the phenomenon has come to a standstill.

Tai had her own changes as well, namely, the birth of a baby this past January, a few weeks before the world premiere of her film at a festival. “I definitely took a lot of lessons from watching all these births, like making sure I was set up with the right support,” she said.

And now she is in what she called “double postpartum mode”, watching both her baby and film find their footing in the world. While the film has a jaw-dropping concept at its core, the bulk of the footage focuses on the mundanity and emotion that color the days leading up to and following childbirth, as well as the terror and ecstasy of labor itself. (There is a birthing scene more honest and beautifully gruesome than any video they’ll show you at birth class.) Tai’s ambition for her movie is strikingly tender. “I want to fight for the moving image that allows you to really sink into the humanity of the people, regardless, and even in spite of, how controversial the situation is,” she said.

How to Have an American Baby airs on PBS on 11 December

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Birth tourism industry: most popular countries

• August 5, 2022
• Citizenship

• Last modified: March 2, 2023

Article Breakdown

What is birthright citizenship.

Birthright citizenship is the practice of granting citizenship to children born in a country , even if their parents are not citizens. The concept is based on the Latin phrase jus soli , which means “right of the soil.”

Birthright citizenship is enshrined in the U.S. Constitution, and it is also practiced in many other places around the world. In most of the Americas, citizenship is automatic for newborns, while in other jurisdictions it may be granted through a formal process. In either case, birthright citizenship ensures that all children have a right to a nationality and the associated protections.

The United States and Canada are the only ones in the “first world” that provide unconditional citizenship to children born in the territory, but a quick search reveals that there are lots of other wonderful places to reside that do as well.

The birth tourism industry

The so called birth tourism industry is a booming business that caters to pregnant women who want to come to the United States or other nations to give birth there, for the primary purpose of obtaining citizenship based on jus soli for their child.

The industry provides everything from travel and accommodation services to guidance on how to obtain a birth certificate and passport for the baby. Birth tourists typically travel to countries with birthright citizenship laws, which grant nationality to babies born on their soil, regardless of the parents’ citizenship status. This is in contrast to most European nations, which only grant citizenship to those born to European citizens.

As a result, these passport seekers see coming to the United States as a way to ensure that their child will have US citizenship and all of the benefits that come with it, including access to education and healthcare. The birth tourism industry has come under scrutiny in recent years, with some critics accusing it of exploiting pregnant women and putting their health at risk. However, there is no evidence that birth tourism is harmful to either mother or child, and the industry continues to grow in popularity.

Is birth tourism a legitimate activity in the US?

Under the modified visa rules for the b nonimmigrant visa regulation, U.S. consular officers overseas will deny any B visa application from an applicant who the consular officer believes is traveling primarily for the intention of giving birth in the United States in order to obtain American citizenship for their newborn.

Visitor visas and tourist visas are not meant for expectant mothers who are coming to the US solely to give birth. However, it is not uncommon for pregnant women to try to enter the country on temporary visas. If they are caught, they can be denied entry and may even be banned from returning to the US in the future. Technically this is seen as visa fraud.

There have been a few high-profile cases of birth tourism involving Chinese citizens in recent years that would pay for a complete package including maternity hotels, which has brought more attention to the issue. In some cases, women have been arrested by officials and deported back to their home countries. Others have been able to give birth in the US without any problems, obtaining U.S. citizenship for their babies.

The issue of birth tourism is a complex one, and there is no easy solution. For now, expectant foreign nationals who are considering traveling to the US for the sole purpose of giving birth should be aware of the risks involved.

What about birth tourism in other countries?

Any child born on that country’s territories becomes a citizen at birth, and the practice is legal in dozens of places. So, which countries automatically issue a passport and citizenship to newborns there, regardless of their parents’ nationality?

Ireland revised its constitution nearly two decades ago to discontinue its habit of becoming the last European country to provide unconditional citizenship to children born to two foreign parents. Malta had already updated theirs as well to end jus soli for births on its soil altogether. Other places, such as Australia , have enacted similar legislation.

However, if you follow present birth tourism options, you can forego dual citizenship and provide your child with numerous citizenships.

Here is the complete list of the finest nations to give birth in if you are looking for birth tourism choices, excluding jurisdictions where the practice is currently prohibited or where nonimmigrant visa regulation makes it practically impossible.

*In order for a child to be born with the Chilean nationality, both parents must have a temporary or permanent residence in Chile at the time of the birth.

**As of September 2020, Portugal is just a few procedures away from expanding its jus soli laws , which award newborns on Portuguese soil birthright citizenship. Children born in Portugal to foreign nationals can currently become Portuguese citizens at birth provided at least one parent has lived in the country for two years or more. The proposed law would shorten that time frame to one year. This is an especially appealing change for Golden Visa investors in Portugal, as they will now be able to give their children Portuguese nationality after only one year of residency once the amended regulation comes into force.

What countries are good options for birth tourism?

This all depends on your current nationalities and which ones you will be able to pass on to your child next to the new citizenship obtained by being born in a birthright country. It also depends on if you need to request an additional visa just to visit the country (in those cases, an advanced pregnancy might be an issue).

Outside of Canada and Chile , none of these citizenships will grant your child visa-free access to the USA. However, since you’re reading this, you might see it as an advantage rather than a disadvantage.

For example, Dominica and St. Kitts and Nevis , charge six-figure fees for their CBI programs and even charge for your children to acquire a passport. Belize used to offer citizenship by investment programs, and is also an appealing birth tourism destination.

Panama , Brazil , Mexico , and Argentina are particularly well-known for their high-quality medical care, featuring world-class facilities that make giving birth not only easy but also significantly cheaper than in any other Western country.

Several nations on this list give the ability to fast track your own citizenship as the parent of a local child. Most other nations will expedite the naturalization of the parents, allowing you to obtain the same citizenship as your child in two to seven years.

Before taking any action, make sure you search for the most up-to-date information from foreign governments, as a number of them have decided to end birthright citizenship, including Australia , New Zealand , Ireland , France , Malta , the Dominican Republic (which resulted in tens of thousands of deportations ), and India. In some places it might be harder to get medical treatment, depending on your insurance coverage.

What are some good passports to obtain via jus soli ?

Some even provide travel benefits to nations where westerners do not have visa-free entry, such as Russia (Brazil and Argentina, including a few others).

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Exploring the Birth, History, Evolution, Influence, Significance, and Lasting Impact of Travel to Santiago, Chile

Santiago, the capital city of Chile, is steeped in a rich history that dates back to the 16th century, when it was founded by Spanish conquistadors. Nestled in the heart of the Andes Mountains, it played a major role in shaping and defining Chile’s cultural heritage. Santiago’s story is one of resilience, cultural diversity, and economic growth, which has made it an increasingly popular tourist destination in Latin America. In this article, we will explore the birth, history, evolution, influence, significance, and lasting impact of travel to Santiago, Chile in exhaustive detail.

The Historical Roots of Santiago, Chile

Santiago was founded in 1541 by Pedro de Valdivia, a Spanish conquistador, who named it after St. James, the patron saint of Spain. The city quickly became the political, cultural, and economic center of colonial Chile, and over the years, it underwent significant transformations in terms of its architecture, social structure, and demographic composition. The city’s historical significance is reflected in its numerous historical landmarks, such as La Moneda Palace, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the Plaza de Armas, which attract millions of tourists every year.

One of the most significant events in Santiago’s history was the 1973 military coup led by General Augusto Pinochet, which overthrew the democratically elected government of Salvador Allende. The coup resulted in a period of political repression and human rights abuses, known as the Pinochet dictatorship, which lasted until 1990. Today, Santiago is a vibrant and modern city, with a rich cultural heritage and a thriving economy, but the scars of its past are still visible in the form of memorials and museums dedicated to the victims of the dictatorship.

The Cultural Significance of Santiago, Chile

Santiago is a vibrant and diverse city that is home to people from all walks of life. From the bustling streets of Bellavista to the affluent neighborhoods of Vitacura and Providencia, Santiago is a melting pot of cultures, cuisines, and artistic expression. The city has a rich artistic and literary history and is known for its thriving music, theatre, and dance scenes. The Museum of Fine Arts, the Museum of Contemporary Art, and the National Museum of History are just a few examples of the city’s cultural landmarks.

In addition to its museums and artistic scenes, Santiago is also known for its traditional festivals and celebrations. One of the most famous is the Fiestas Patrias, which takes place in September and celebrates Chile’s independence. During this time, the city is filled with parades, music, and traditional food such as empanadas and barbecue. Another popular festival is the Carnaval de Santiago, which takes place in January and features colorful costumes, music, and dancing in the streets. These festivals are a reflection of the city’s rich cultural heritage and are a must-see for visitors to Santiago.

The Evolution of Tourism in Santiago, Chile

Tourism has been a major driver of Santiago’s economy in recent years, with the city receiving millions of visitors every year. The increasing popularity of Chile as a travel destination can be attributed to a number of factors, including its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and growing reputation as a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship. To cater to the diverse needs of tourists, Santiago has seen the development of world-class hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues. This has not only boosted tourism but also helped to create jobs and generate revenue for the city.

One of the most popular tourist attractions in Santiago is the Cerro San Cristobal, a hill located in the heart of the city. Visitors can take a funicular or cable car to the top of the hill, where they can enjoy panoramic views of the city and the Andes mountains. The hill is also home to a large statue of the Virgin Mary, which is a popular pilgrimage site for Catholics.

In addition to its natural and cultural attractions, Santiago is also known for its vibrant nightlife. The city has a thriving music scene, with live music venues and clubs catering to a variety of tastes. Visitors can also enjoy traditional Chilean cuisine, which is known for its use of fresh seafood and locally sourced ingredients. Overall, Santiago offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modernity, making it a must-visit destination for travelers to South America.

Santiago’s Architecture: A Reflection of its History and Culture

Santiago’s architecture is a reflection of its rich history and cultural diversity. From colonial-era buildings to modern skyscrapers, the city boasts a range of architectural styles that tell the story of its past and present. Spanish baroque and neoclassical styles dominate the city’s historical center, while modernist and contemporary styles can be seen in the commercial and residential areas. Notable examples of Santiago’s iconic architecture include the Teleférico de Santiago cable car, the iconic Gran Torre Santiago skyscraper, and the ornate Palacio de La Moneda.

One of the most interesting aspects of Santiago’s architecture is the influence of indigenous cultures. The Mapuche people, who have inhabited the region for centuries, have left their mark on the city’s architecture through the use of natural materials such as wood and adobe. This can be seen in the traditional Mapuche houses, known as rukas, which are still found in some parts of the city.

Another important factor in Santiago’s architecture is the city’s seismic activity. Due to its location on the Pacific Ring of Fire, Santiago is prone to earthquakes, and as a result, many buildings are designed to withstand seismic activity. This has led to the development of innovative construction techniques and materials, such as reinforced concrete and steel frames, which have become a hallmark of modern architecture in the city.

Discovering the Unique Cuisine of Santiago, Chile

Santiago’s cuisine is a delicious reflection of its diverse culture and history. From traditional dishes like empanadas and pastel de choclo to modern fusion dishes like Nikkei cuisine and Chilean sushi, Santiago’s culinary scene has something for everyone. Chilean wine is also a major attraction for foodies and wine enthusiasts, with the nation producing some of the world’s finest wine. The Bacán restaurant, the Mercado Central, and the La Vega Central market are just a few places where travelers can discover the unique flavors of Santiago.

One of the most unique aspects of Santiago’s cuisine is its use of indigenous ingredients. The Mapuche people, who are the largest indigenous group in Chile, have a significant influence on the country’s cuisine. Some of the ingredients they use include merkén, a smoked chili pepper, and piñones, which are the seeds of the Araucaria tree. These ingredients can be found in traditional dishes like cazuela and pastel de papas.

In addition to its food, Santiago is also known for its vibrant street art scene. Many of the city’s murals and graffiti pieces are located in neighborhoods that are also home to some of the best food in the city. Travelers can take a street art tour and stop at local food stalls and markets along the way to get a taste of the city’s unique cuisine and culture.

The Natural Wonders Surrounding Santiago, Chile

Santiago’s location in the foothills of the Andes Mountains offers visitors the chance to explore some of the most stunning natural wonders in South America. Tourists can take a scenic cable car ride to the top of the San Cristobal Hill, go skiing in the nearby resort of Valle Nevado, or explore the breathtaking Cajón del Maipo canyon. The city is also just a short drive away from the Pacific coast, where visitors can enjoy the beaches or explore the picturesque towns of Valparaiso and Viña del Mar.

Another natural wonder that visitors can explore near Santiago is the El Morado Natural Monument. This protected area is home to the stunning El Morado glacier, which can be reached by a challenging but rewarding hike through the Andes. The monument also features several other hiking trails that lead to beautiful waterfalls, lakes, and valleys.

For those who prefer a more relaxed outdoor experience, Santiago also has several parks and gardens to explore. The Parque Bicentenario is a popular spot for picnics and outdoor concerts, while the Jardín Japonés offers a peaceful oasis with traditional Japanese landscaping and architecture. The Cerro Santa Lucía park, located in the heart of the city, offers stunning views of Santiago’s skyline and is a great spot for a leisurely stroll.

Uncovering the Art Scene in Santiago, Chile

Santiago’s reputation as a cultural hub extends to the city’s vibrant art scene. From street art to gallery exhibitions, Santiago’s art scene is diverse and dynamic, with both emerging and established artists showcasing their work. The city is home to numerous galleries and museums that showcase a range of art styles, from contemporary to traditional. The Museum of Fine Arts, the Chilean Museum of Pre-Columbian Art, and the National Museum of Contemporary Art are just a few examples of Santiago’s impressive art scene.

One of the unique aspects of Santiago’s art scene is the prevalence of street art. The city is filled with colorful murals and graffiti, which often reflect social and political issues. Many of these street art pieces are created by local artists, who use the city’s walls as their canvas. Santiago even has a street art tour, which takes visitors through some of the city’s most impressive street art pieces.

In addition to galleries and museums, Santiago also hosts numerous art fairs and festivals throughout the year. One of the most popular is the Feria Ch.ACO, which brings together galleries and artists from across Chile and Latin America. The festival showcases a range of contemporary art, including painting, sculpture, and photography. Other notable art events in Santiago include the Santiago a Mil theater festival and the International Film Festival of Santiago.

The Religious Significance of Santiago, Chile

Santiago is a city steeped in religious tradition and is home to some of the most significant religious landmarks in South America. The Metropolitan Cathedral, for example, is one of the largest and most iconic churches in the region, with a neoclassical facade and ornate interior. The Basilica of Our Lady of Mount Carmel is another important religious landmark, which attracts thousands of pilgrims every year. Santiago is also home to a number of other historic churches and chapels that showcase the city’s rich religious heritage.

In addition to its impressive collection of churches and cathedrals, Santiago is also known for its religious festivals and celebrations. One of the most famous is the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, which takes place on December 8th and is celebrated with processions, music, and fireworks. Another important religious event is the Holy Week, which is marked by a series of processions and religious ceremonies that culminate in Easter Sunday.

Despite its strong Catholic heritage, Santiago is also home to a diverse range of religious communities, including Protestant, Jewish, and Muslim groups. This diversity is reflected in the city’s many religious sites, which offer visitors a unique opportunity to explore the rich tapestry of faiths that make up Santiago’s cultural landscape.

A Guide to Exploring the Neighborhoods of Santiago, Chile

Santiago’s neighborhoods are as diverse and interesting as the city itself. From the bohemian streets of Bellavista to the chic boutiques of Providencia, the city’s neighborhoods offer visitors a unique experience of Santiago. Downtown Santiago is home to the city’s most historic landmarks and the government buildings, while Bellas Artes is known for its art galleries and museums. Las Condes is an affluent district with upscale shopping and dining, whereas La Reina is a more residential neighborhood with a relaxed, family-friendly vibe. Whatever your preferences, Santiago has a neighborhood to suit your tastes.

If you’re looking for a more alternative experience, head to the neighborhood of Lastarria. This bohemian area is filled with street art, independent shops, and trendy cafes. It’s a great place to spend an afternoon wandering around and soaking up the creative atmosphere. For a taste of traditional Chilean culture, visit the neighborhood of Patronato. This bustling area is known for its street markets, where you can find everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts.

Another neighborhood worth exploring is Ñuñoa. This up-and-coming area is popular with young professionals and artists, and is home to a variety of independent theaters, music venues, and art galleries. It’s also a great place to try some of Santiago’s best street food, with vendors selling everything from empanadas to churros.

The Impact of Travel on the Economy and Society of Santiago, Chile

Travel is an important driver of Santiago’s economy, with the city generating billions of dollars in revenue every year. Tourism has also had a positive impact on society, creating jobs and opportunities for local residents. Santiago’s tourism industry has contributed to the city’s growing reputation as a center for innovation and entrepreneurship, and has helped to attract investment from around the world. As the city continues to grow and evolve, the impact of travel is likely to play an increasingly significant role in shaping its future.

One of the ways in which travel has impacted Santiago’s economy is through the growth of the hospitality industry. The city has seen a significant increase in the number of hotels, restaurants, and other tourism-related businesses in recent years, providing employment opportunities for thousands of people. Additionally, the influx of tourists has led to increased demand for local goods and services, further boosting the city’s economy.

However, the growth of tourism in Santiago has also brought some challenges. One of the biggest concerns is the impact on the environment, as increased tourism can lead to greater pollution and strain on natural resources. To address this issue, the city has implemented a number of sustainability initiatives, such as promoting eco-friendly tourism and investing in renewable energy sources. By balancing the economic benefits of travel with the need to protect the environment, Santiago can continue to thrive as a top travel destination for years to come.

Tips for Planning Your Trip to Santiago, Chile

When planning your trip to Santiago, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, be sure to book your accommodation in advance, as the city can be very busy during peak tourist seasons. Secondly, familiarize yourself with the local culture and customs, and learn a few basic phrases in Spanish to help you navigate the city. Lastly, be sure to prepare for the altitude if you plan on exploring the mountains. With these tips in mind, you can ensure that your trip to Santiago is a memorable and enjoyable experience.

One of the must-visit places in Santiago is the Cerro San Cristobal, a hill that offers a panoramic view of the city. You can reach the top of the hill by taking a funicular or hiking. Another popular attraction is the Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino, which showcases pre-Columbian art and artifacts from Chile and other South American countries.

When it comes to food, Santiago has a diverse culinary scene that caters to all tastes and budgets. You can try traditional Chilean dishes such as empanadas, pastel de choclo, and cazuela, or explore the city’s international cuisine options. Don’t forget to try the local wine, as Chile is known for producing some of the best wines in the world.

The Best Time to Visit Santiago, Chile

The best time to visit Santiago is during the autumn and winter months, from March to September. The summer months between December and February can be very hot and busy, with large crowds of tourists and locals. The autumn and winter months offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, making it an ideal time to explore the city’s numerous attractions and neighborhoods.

A Comprehensive Guide to Attractions in Santiago, Chile

Santiago is a city with endless attractions to explore, from historical landmarks to cutting-edge modern architecture. Some of the most popular attractions include the Cerro San Cristobal hill, the La Moneda Palace, the Plaza de Armas, and the Mercado Central. The city is also home to numerous museums, galleries, and parks that offer visitors the chance to explore the city’s rich history and culture. With so much to see and do, Santiago is a city that continually surprises and delights visitors.

Making the Most Out of Your Stay in Santiago, Chile

If you want to make the most out of your stay in Santiago, be sure to plan your itinerary carefully and take the time to explore the city’s many neighborhoods, landmarks, and attractions. Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or an art enthusiast, Santiago has something to offer everyone. Take the time to learn about the city’s rich cultural heritage, sample the local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of one of South America’s most exciting cities.

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