Who is eligible to enter or reside in Chile

For short visits, most nationalities may enter Chile visa-free under the Permanencia Transitoria permit for tourism, sport, recreation, business meetings or family reasons, while nationals of certain countries must obtain prior authorisation from a Chilean consulate before travelling. The transitory-stay permit does not allow paid work except for specific, sporadic authorised activities.

For longer stays, you must qualify under one of the Residencia Temporal subcategories - such as remunerated work activities, study, family reunification, investment, retirement or an international agreement. Each subcategory has its own requirements, and applicants over 18 generally need a clean criminal-record certificate.

Permanent residence (Residencia Definitiva) is available only as a follow-on to temporary residence once you meet the minimum residence period, and Chilean nationality can be requested after holding permanent residence for the required number of years.

Verified against official sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.