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How to Get a Chile Visa for Indians: Requirements, Process, and Fees

Last Update: 07-10-2024

Cityscape of Santiago, Chile with Andes mountains

⚡Quick Summary

Processing Time

15 to 20 working days

How to Apply?

Apply online via Chile Online Consular Services

Types of Chile Visa

  • Temporary Stay Visa
  • Temporary Residence Visa
  • Permanent Residence Visa
  • Chile Student Visa

Visa Fees

  • USD 123 (Temporary Stay Visa)
  • USD 128.918 (Permanent Residence Visa)

Stay Duration

  • 90 days (Temporary Stay Visa)
  • 2 years (Temporary Residence Visa)
  • Indefinite (Permanent Residence Visa)

Validity

  • 90 days for Temporary Stay Visa
  • 2 years for Temporary Residence Visa

Introduction

If you’re an Indian citizen planning to visit Chile, whether for tourism, study, or a longer stay, you will need to apply for a Chile visa. Chile does not offer visa-free or visa-on-arrival options for Indian passport holders, so it’s essential to apply in advance. The application process is straightforward and can be done through the Chile visa portal or by visiting the Chilean Embassy in India.


This blog will walk you through the various visa types, Chile visa requirements for Indian citizens, and the steps to ensure a smooth application process.

Table of Contents


  1. Do Indians Need a Chile Visa to Visit Chile?
  2. What are the Types of Chile Visa?
  3. Chile Temporary Stay Visa
  4. Chile Temporary Residence Visa
  5. Chile Student Visa
  6. Chile Permanent Residence Visa
  7. Chile Nationality
  8. What are the Chile Visa Requirements for Indians?
  9. Chile Visa Photo Size Requirements
  10. How to Apply for a Chile Visa from India?
  11. What is the Cost of a Chile Visa for Indian Citizens?
  12. What is the Processing time of a Chile Visa?
  13. What is the Chile Visa Validity for Indians?
  14. How to Check the Status of my Chile Visa?
  15. Embassy of Chile in India
  16. FAQs

Do Indians Need a Chile Visa to Visit Chile?

Yes, Indians need a visa to visit Chile. If you are an Indian citizen planning a trip to Chile, you must apply for a Chilean visa in advance. Chile does not offer visa-free entry or visa-on-arrival for Indian passport holders. The application process can be completed online through the Chile visa portal or by visiting the Chilean Embassy in India.

What are the Types of Chile Visa?

Chile offers different types of visas based on your purpose of visit. These include visas for short stays like tourism or business, visas for those who want to live in Chile temporarily, student visas for education, and permanent residence visas for those looking to settle in Chile long-term. Each visa type has specific requirements depending on the reason for your visit.

Chile Temporary Stay Visa

A Chile Temporary Stay Visa (Permanencia Transitoria) is a short-term permit for foreigners visiting Chile without the intention to settle, allowing a stay of up to 90 days, extendable by another 90 days. The visa's validity cannot exceed the passport or travel document's expiration date.

Who should obtain a Chile Temporary Stay Visa?

A Chile Temporary Stay Visa (Permanencia Transitoria) is required for various categories of foreigners who wish to enter Chile for short-term purposes. These categories include:

  1. Tourism, business, or similar purposes: For individuals entering Chile for recreational activities, sports, family visits, or business-related purposes.
  2. International transport crew members: For foreigners working as crew members in transportation by land, sea, or air.
  3. Individuals covered by international treaties: For nationals of countries with agreements allowing reciprocal entry between Chile and their home country.
  4. Residents of border areas: For residents or permanent residents living in designated border zones, as defined by bilateral agreements.
  5. Foreign officials completing their mission: For those who have completed an official mission in Chile, including their dependents.

This visa is ideal for those intending to stay in Chile for up to 90 days without the intention of settling.


You’re not eligible to work in Chile even if you hold a Chile Temporary Stay Visa, you are not allowed to engage in paid or remunerated activities without specific authorization.


Inorder to work in Chile you need to obtain work authorization for permit holders, you can apply this  through the Servicio Nacional de Migraciones (SERMIG).This permission is required for activities such as:

  • Public shows
  • Sports events
  • Lecturing
  • Consultancy
  • Technical expertise

Once you receive authorization, you can be compensated for these specific activities in Chile.

Chile Temporary Residence Visa

The Chile Temporary residence visa  (Residencia Temporal permit) is a visa issued by Chile's Servicio Nacional de Migraciones for foreigners who intend to live in Chile temporarily for up to 2 years. This permit is ideal for those who plan to reside in Chile for a specific period but do not intend to settle permanently. Exceptions apply for seasonal workers, who may have different conditions.

Who should obtain a Chile Temporary Residence Visa?

Here are the individuals who should apply for the Residencia Temporal permit in Chile:

  1. Those applying for family reunification.
  2. Individuals engaged in lawful paid activities.
  3. Students enrolled in state-recognized institutions.
  4. Seasonal workers.
  5. People under the custody of Gendarmería de Chile.
  6. Foreigners ordered to stay by the National Courts of Justice.
  7. Individuals in Chile for humanitarian reasons.
  8. Those covered by international agreements.
  9. Religious persons from recognized organisations.
  10. People undergoing medical treatment.
  11. Retired persons or leaseholders.
  12. Former holders of Residencia Definitiva permits.
  13. Investors and related personnel.
  14. People involved in multi-entry business management.
  15. Individuals under the international reciprocity principle (e.g., Mercosur agreements).

Note:

The application for a Residencia Temporal permit must be made in the SERMIG’s Portal de Trámites Digitales.

Chile Student Visa

A Chile Student Visa is granted to foreign citizens who wish to travel to Chile to pursue studies as a regular student at a state-recognized academic institution or a private institution for up to a year. If the student has a scholarship, the visa may cover the duration of the scholarship.

Who should apply for a Chile Student Visa?

Indians who are planning to study in Chile as regular students should apply for this visa. It is specifically for individuals enrolling in recognized educational institutions in Chile. This visa allows them to legally stay in Chile for the purpose of completing their studies.

Chile Permanent Residence Visa

A Chile Permanent Residence Visa is a permit that lets foreigners live in Chile permanently. To get this visa, you need to have a Temporary Residence visa first. Once you have it, you can stay in Chile as long as you want and do things like work, study, or run a business. It's perfect for people who want to make Chile their long-term home.

Who should apply for a Chile Permanent Residence Visa?

Chile permanent residence visa is for people who already hold a Temporary Residence visa in Chile and whose immigration category allows them to apply for permanent residence. You need to apply for this visa before your temporary visa is about to expire, specifically no more than 90 days before the expiration date. This visa is ideal for those looking to settle in Chile permanently.


You can apply for a Chile Permanent Residence Visa in the SERMIG Digital Procedures Portal.


When applying for a Chile Permanent Residence visa , keep in mind that you need to:

  • Submit a criminal or judicial records certificate (valid within 90 days).
  • Documents from abroad must be apostilled or legalised.
  • Documents in languages other than Spanish or English must be translated.

Chile Nationality

In order to obtain Chile nationality, you need to obtain a Chile naturalisation letter.


A Naturalization Letter is a document that allows foreigners to become Chilean citizens. It is granted under the rules of Chile’s Political Constitution and is issued through a special decree from the Minister of the Interior and Public Security, with approval from the President of the Republic.

Who can obtain a Chile Nationality?

  • If you're 18 or older: You must have Permanent Residence and have lived in Chile for at least 5 years after getting your Temporary Residence stamp.
  • If you're 14 or older and the child of foreigners: You must have Permanent Residence, lived in Chile for 5 years, and have written permission from your parents or legal guardian.
  • If you're under 18 and your parents are refugees: You can become a citizen if one of your parents has a Naturalization Letter, without needing to meet other requirements.
  • If you're a permanent resident with 2 years of continuous residence: You can apply if you have ties to Chile, such as being the spouse of a Chilean citizen for 2 years, having Chilean relatives up to the second degree, or being the child of a former Chilean citizen.

You can apply for Chile citizenship on the Digital Procedures Portal of the National Migration Service.


When applying for a Chile citizenship, keep in mind that you need to:

  • The SERMIG Digital Portal requires all requested documents to be attached for your application to proceed.
  • If incorrect or incomplete information is submitted, you’ll have 60 business days to correct it.
  • Failure to fix errors within the timeframe will result in the application being archived, and you'll need to submit a new one with complete documentation.

What are the Chile Visa Requirements for Indians?

The documents required for a Chile visa for Indian citizens are mentioned below:

DocumentDetails

Passport

Scanned image of the identification page of your passport or identity document from the country of origin.

Criminal Record Certificate

Current criminal record certificate from the country of origin, apostilled or legalised, and translated if necessary (for applicants over 18).

Recent Photograph

  • In colour with a white background.
  • Face fully visible, neutral expression, and open eyes.
  • No accessories like glasses or hats.
  • Taken recently.
  • Upload in JPG or PNG format.

If Chile Student Visa

  • Certificate of Enrollment or Letter of Acceptance issued by a university or educational institution recognized by the State.
  • To accredit before the Consul economic solvency that allows subsistence during the period of studies.
  • Mical Certificate.
  • 4 passport-sized photos.
  • Background Checking.

Chile Visa Photo Size Requirements

For the Chile visa photo size requirements, follow these guidelines:

  • The photo must be in colour with a white background.
  • Your face should be fully visible, looking directly at the camera.
  • The photo should cover the entire face, with a neutral expression and open eyes.
  • No accessories such as glasses or hats are allowed.
  • The photo must be recent, taken as close as possible to the time of your visa application.
  • The photo should be uploaded in JPG or PNG format on the application platform.

These specifications ensure that your Chile visa photo meets the visa processing standards.

How to Apply for a Chile Visa from India?

Apply for Chile Visa through the Online Consular Services:

  1. Visit the Chile Online Consular Services Website: Go to the official website for Chile visa applications.
  2. Click on "Request a Visa or Prior Authorization": You will find this option on the home page.
  3. Fill in Basic Details: Enter your country of origin, select the consulate where you will submit the application, your birthdate, the number of days you plan to stay in Chile, and your email address.
  4. Click on "Continue": After entering the required details, proceed by clicking "Continue."
  5. Enter Additional Basic Information: Provide more details such as your father’s name, address, and then click on "Save and Continue."
  6. Add Education and Occupation Details: Complete the section on your educational background and occupation. Click on "Save and Continue."
  7. Upload Required Documents: Submit your photograph, passport, police clearance certificate, and provide justification for your trip.
  8. Final Review: Click on "Save and Continue," review all the information you've provided to ensure accuracy. If everything is correct, click on "End." Your Chile visa application will then be processed.
  9. Email Confirmation: Once you complete this process, you will receive an email to the address you provided. This email will contain a code. Using this code and your passport, you need to complete the visa processing steps.
  10. Submit Application: To definitively send your application to the selected Chilean Consulate, pay the visa fee which is 123 USD for Indians you must press the Finish button, available at the end of your application summary.

Chile consular services online


What is the Cost of a Chile Visa for Indian Citizens?

A Chile Temporary Stay Visa typically allows Indian citizens to visit Chile for tourism or other short-term purposes for up to 90 days. The cost of this visa is $123.


For more details on the cost of other Chilean visas, check the information below.

Visa TypeSubcategoryVisa Fee

Temporary Stay Permit

Extension of Permit

USD 100

Work Authorization

150% of Temporary Residence Permit fee

Extension of Crew Member Card

USD 100

Temporary Residence Permit

-

$123

Permanent Residence Permit

For foreigners in general

$128.918

Chilean Citizenship

For foreigners with a Chilean spouse

Exempt from payment

For foreigners under 18 years old

Exempt from payment

For foreigners in general

$35.898

For foreigners with a Chilean spouse

$7.180

For foreigners widowed of a Chilean

$7.180

For foreigners with a Chilean child

$7.180

Option for Chilean Citizenship

-

$35.898

What is the Processing time of a Chile Visa?

The processing time for a Chile visa typically ranges from 15 to 20 working days. This timeframe can vary depending on the type of visa you're applying for, the volume of applications, and other factors. It’s recommended to apply well in advance of your planned travel dates to ensure you receive your visa on time.


Read more about: Maldives Visa for Indians: A Complete Guide to On Arrival Visa, Requirements & Costs

What is the Chile Visa Validity for Indians?

A Chile Temporary Stay Visa allows you to visit Chile for tourism and other short-term activities for up to 90 days. If you need to stay longer, you can apply for a Chile Temporary Residence Visa, which lets you remain in the country for up to 2 years.


Visa TypeDuration

Chile Temporary Stay Visa

Up to 90 days

Chile Temporary Residence Visa

2 years

Chile Permanent Residence

Can reside indefinitely

How to Check the Status of my Chile Visa?

  1. Visit the Official Website: Go to the Chile Online Consular Services website.
  2. Click on "Check Visa Application Status or Prior Authorization": You will find this option on the home page.
  3. Enter the Validation Code: Use the code you received via email when you applied for the visa.
  4. Select Identifier: Choose passport if you used it during your application.
  5. Enter Your Passport Number: Provide the relevant number for identification.
  6. Complete CAPTCHA Verification: Verify the CAPTCHA to proceed and view the status of your Chile visa.

Chile visa status checking portal


Embassy of Chile in India

Below mentioned are the details of the Embassy of Chile located in New Delhi:

DetailInformation

Address

A/16 Poorvi Marg, Vasant Vihar, 110057, New Delhi

Email

echile.india@minrel.gob.cl

Phone

+91 11 43100438

Opening Hours

Monday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Final thought

In summary, whether you're planning a short stay with the Chile Temporary Stay Visa or a longer visit with the Chile Temporary Residence Visa, Indian citizens need to follow specific steps to obtain a visa before travelling to Chile. The application process can be done online, and the required documents must be carefully submitted to avoid delays. Make sure you apply well in advance, as the Chile visa processing time can take 15 to 20 working days.


Whether it's for tourism, studies, or permanent residence, Chile offers various visa options for Indian passport holders, making it an accessible destination for a wide range of purposes.

FAQs

Can I work with a Chile Temporary Stay Visa?

No, you can’t. To work, you’ll need special authorization from SERMIG.

Why might a Residencia Temporal permit be rejected?

It could be denied for not meeting the visa requirements, submitting false documents, or not fulfilling tax/social security obligations.

When does the validity of my Residencia Temporal permit begin?

If applying outside Chile, it starts when you enter the country. If you apply inside Chile, it begins after you download the Estampado Electrónico.

What’s the processing time for a Chile visa?

It usually takes between 15 to 20 working days, so plan ahead!

What documents are required for a Chile visa?

You’ll need your passport, a criminal record certificate, recent photos, and other specific documents depending on your visa type.

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