Chile Digital Nomad Visa
Quick Visa Facts
Visa length 90 days
Possible to extend? Yes
Who can apply? Specific countries (others don’t need a visa)
Minimum Income Requirements Minimum $1,000/month
Time for visa applications 30 days approximately
Want to know if you can apply?
Complete a visa quiz and see if you qualify!
Chile Digital Nomad Visa Overview
Chile is a beautiful country in South America that has a lot to offer to digital nomads and remote workers. In fact, it already is a popular destination for many expats.
Unfortunately, Chile doesn’t have a specific visa for digital nomads. But there are still other visa options that you can choose from in order to live and work comfortably in Chile.
Chile is a captivating country, with natural wonders, stunning towns and cities, and lots of biodiversity. From the Atacama Desert to the Lake District and the city of Santiago. Chile has something for everyone, and you should consider adding it to your digital nomad destinations.
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Types of Chile Digital Nomad Visas Options
Some countries don’t even need a visa to enter Chile, but it all depends on your nationality. Some nationalities can enter and stay for 90 days, while others will need to issue a visa. It all depends on your nationality and the length you wish to stay.
Transitory Stay Visa
The transitory stay visa, also known as the tourist visa, is the most common type of visa for digital nomads. It is valid for 10 years, and it allows a stay of up to 90 days in the country and can be extended for a further 90 days for an additional fee of $100.
The Transitory Stay Visa is an electronic visa, which means you’ll receive the permit to your email and it must be printed before entering Chile.
Bear in mind that with this visa, you’re not allowed to work for a Chilean company or pursue any professional ventures. If you wish to work or study in Chile, then you’ll need a work/study visa.
Working Holiday
Chile is one of the countries participating in the Working Holiday program. This means that young nationals from specific countries can opt to visit Chile to work.
Some participating countries are:
Work Visa
Chile also has a work visa available to foreigners who have found employment in Chile. In order to apply for a Work Visa in Chile, you need to have an already existing work contract with a Chilean company or a foreign company that operates in Chile.
What Chile Visa Type Is the Best for Digital Nomads?
The best type of visa for digital nomads that wish to live and work in Chile is the transitory visa. Most countries don’t need a visa, and anyone who wishes to extend their time may do so for 3 additional months.
Who Can Apply for the Chile Transitory Visa?
You’ll need a transitory visa unless you’re a citizen of the following countries:
Any EU country
To see the full list of countries, check out this document! Keep in mind that it is in Spanish, so you might need to translate it.
If You Are a United States Citizen
If you’re a US Citizen, you do not need a visa to enter Chile. You may stay for 90 days or less. If you wish to extend this time, you’ll need to apply for an extended transitory visa, or other type of official visa.
If You Are an EU Citizen
If you’re a citizen of any EU country, you don’t need to have a visa in order to enter Chile. You’re allowed to stay for 90 days or less. If you want to stay for longer, you’ll need a visa.
If You Are a Citizen of Canada
If you’re a Canadian citizen, then you don’t need a visa to enter Chile. However, you can only stay for 90 days. If you wish to stay for longer, you’ll need to issue a visa.
If You Are a Citizen of Australia or New Zealand
Australian and New Zealand citizens do not need a visa to enter and stay in Chile for 90 days or less. If you wish to extend this time, then you’ll need to apply for an official visa.
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Chile Digital Nomad Visa Requirements
In order to apply for the Transitory Visa for Chile, you’ll need the following documents:
Complete the SAC Ciudadano Form.
Color photograph with white background, passport size (5×5 cm), full face.
Copy of valid passport.
Clean criminal record.
Verifiable hotel/accommodation booking reservation.
Evidence of personal economic income.
Proof Of Accommodation
You will need to show proof of accommodation upon submitting your application. You can show verifiable hotel/accommodation booking reservations or a letter of invitation signed before a Chilean Notary Public. This letter must include the contact number of the person who is issuing the invitation.
The invitation can be made by Chileans, foreigners with valid immigration status in Chile, and companies. They need to detail the reasons, length of stay, and travel conditions of their guest, signed by the Legal Representative.
Check this out: Accommodation Search Tips Every Digital Nomad Needs to Know
Proof of Financial Self-Sufficiency
In order to apply for the Transitory Visa for Chile, you’ll need to show evidence of personal economic income. You’ll have to show the last three salary slips and/or bank statements with their movements. You must prove you have a steady income of at least $1,000 US a month.
Clean Criminal Record
Having proof of a clean criminal is part of the requirements. So make sure you get all the documentation ready before submitting your application.
Full Health Insurance
Having full health insurance is not part of the main requirements for the Transitory Visa. However, it might be requested further down your application. We recommend you get one before applying.
Are you still trying to decide what health insurance you should get? Check this one out!
Minimum Stay Requirement
There is no minimum stay requirement for the Transitory Visa. However, keep in mind you can only stay for 90 days. If you wish to extend this time, you’ll need to pay $100.
How to Apply for the Chile Visa—Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1— Gather Documents
Before you start your application, make sure you have all the documents required. Your application is done completely online, so you’ll have to submit your documents in PDF format.
Step 2— Fill Out Application
In order to start your application, you’ll need to complete the SAC Ciudadano Form. Here, you’ll need to provide the reason for the trip and the length of stay.
The website is available in Spanish and English. Simply click where it says “Apply for visa or prior authorization.” This will take you to a new tab, where you’ll need to provide all your personal information, contact details, and more.
Step 3— Attach Documents
After providing your personal information, contact details, and general description, you’ll be asked to attach your documents. They’ll be uploaded to the portal and afterwards, you can finish your application.
You will receive a validation code, which you’ll need to see the progress of your application.
Step 4— Check Status
If you go back to the homepage, you’ll see another section called “Check status visa application or prior authorization.”
Here, you can check the status of your application. Simply use your validation code and Identifier Number to enter.
Step 5— Receive Confirmation and Make Payment
The Transitory Stay Visa can be rejected or approved. In both cases, you will be notified by email.
If your visa is approved, you will receive instructions on how to make the payment for the visa. You’ll have 30 days after receiving the confirmation to make said payment.
Step 6— Receive Your Permit
You will receive your electronic visa in your email. From that moment, you have 90 days to complete the trip or enter the country. It is your obligation to print the Permit and carry it at the time after entering the country along with your passport.
Timeline for Applying for the Chile Visa
The application process is very straightforward, and it shouldn’t take longer than 30 days for you to receive a confirmation of your permit.
How Much Does Applying for a Chile Visa Cost?
There is no standard visa fee for the Chile visa. The cost will vary depending on your nationality and the type of visa you’re applying for. Usually, the cost ranges from $50-$150.
Chile Visa Denial
If your visa is denied, then you will receive an email with the notification. You only need to pay for the visa fee in case your application is approved, so you won’t have to worry about a refund.
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Living in Chile as a Digital Nomad
Capital Santiago
Form of Government Representative democratic republic
Population 19.49 million
Climate Mediterranean climate, tropical rainforest, low desert, and alpine tundra.
Language Spanish
Currency Chilean Peso (CLP)
4 people in Chile!
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Attractions and Best Places to Visit
Torres Del Paine National Park
This is one of Chile’s most important natural areas. Torres del Paine National Park is situated more than 100 kilometers north of the city of Puerto Natales in southern Patagonia. This beautiful area has mountains, glaciers, and countless lakes and rivers.
Easter Island
Easter Island is 3,500 kilometers away from mainland Chile, and it is the country’s most recognizable attraction. The island has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is home to 887 Moai statues. They were created by the island’s early Rapa Nui population and are truly fascinating.
The Lake District
Stretching for more than 330 kilometers from Temuco to Puerto Montt, the Chilean Lake District resembles the alpine regions of Europe. This beautiful region of the Andean foothills boasts rich farmland at the base of its many snow-capped volcanoes. At the Lake District, you can enjoy endless hiking and biking potential, along with other fun activities such as volcano climbing, white water rafting, kayaking, and much more.
Valparaíso
If you’re looking for beaches and sunny weather, head towards Valparaíso. It is nestled between the sea and the coastal mountain range about 112 kilometers northwest of Santiago, perfect for a day trip. The city offers a great deal of fun things to do with its old cobbled streets and unique architecture, and its lovely harbor and beaches.
Digital Nomad Hotspots
Santiago
City in Chile
Chile’s capital city is a multicultural hub. It is home to endless fun things to do, including visiting its best museums and galleries, along with excellent shopping, dining, and hotel options. Santiago is located in the perfect spot in the country, with plenty of other locations close enough to enjoy amazing day trips. The city is well-connected and it has everything you could ever need to live and work as a digital nomad.
Valparaíso
City in Chile
Another popular destination for digital nomads is Valparaíso. This is another well-connected city that has everything you’ll need to live and work as a digital nomad. Valparaíso is also more affordable than Santiago. While it might not have as many co-working spaces as Santiago, you’ll still find plenty of cute cafés and restaurants with good internet speed. Plus, the city has lots of shops and things to do, you’ll never get bored!
Benefits of Working in Chile as a Digital Nomad
Chile is a fantastic destination with multiple benefits for digital nomads. Chile is very friendly towards digital nomads. You’ll find plenty of co-working spaces, free wifi, and fast internet connection. Even though Spanish is the official language, many locals know English, so you’ll have no problem communicating.
Chile is also considered very affordable. While Santiago is the most expensive city in the country, compared to the standards of US or European cities, Santiago is relatively super affordable. Plus, costs tend to be stable and you won’t have to worry about a volatile currency and exchange rates.
Chile has an amazing creative urban environment. The city has often been compared to many other European cities. You’ll find like-minded people and plenty of things to do.
Additionally, Chile, and Santiago specifically, is very start-up friendly. There are plenty of new businesses growing and developing in Santiago.
Cost of Living
The official currency of Chile is the Chilean Peso. 1 USD = 854 CLP.
The average salary in Chile is approximately 1,870,000 CLP/month ($2,338 USD/month).
Here’s a rundown of what you should expect to pay per month in Santiago:
One-bedroom apartment 445,717.03 CLP ($518.28 USD)
Three-bedroom apartment 852,153.24 CLP ($990.88 USD)
Monthly electricity, water, and related bills 135,935.18 CLP ($158.06 USD)
Meal at a simple restaurant 9,000.00 CLP ($10.47 USD)
Meal for two at a restaurant 40,000.00 CLP ($46.51 USD)
Here’s a rundown of what you should expect to pay per month in Valparaíso:
One-bedroom apartment 327,666.67 CLP ($381.01 USD)
Three-bedroom apartment 573,750.00 CLP ($667.15 USD)
Monthly electricity, water, and related bills 78,241.50 CLP ($90.98 USD)
Meal at a simple restaurant 8,000.00 CLP ($9.30 USD)
Meal for two at a restaurant 40,000.00 CLP ($46.51 USD)
Just for you: How to travel cheap as a digital nomad
Digital Nomad Essentials
Internet (speed) 223.21 Mbps
Time Zone (GMT-4)
Socket Type Types C and L
Calling Code +56
How to Get a SIM Card in Chile
Did you know that you can purchase an eSim card with our digital nomad app?
Our all-in-one app has everything you need. It has a huge range of regional and global provider options that cover all countries, including Chile! Plus, the prices are accessible, and the purchase process is easy.
Ready To Visit Chile?
Do not hesitate to add Chile to your list of destinations as a digital nomad! We can guarantee you will not regret it. Chile is a beautiful country with lots to offer, from a multicultural hub to breathtaking natural landscapes. Chile is your dream come true!
FAQs About Chile Digital Nomad Visa
Does Chile Have a Digital Nomad Visa?
No, Chile does not have a digital nomad visa. However, many remote workers use the Transitory Stay Visa to live and work in Chile, and it works perfectly!
What Is the Length of the Chile Visa?
The Transitory Stay Visa allows you to stay in Chile for 90 days or less.
Is It Possible to Extend the Chile Visa?
Yes! You can extend your time for 90 more days.
Will You Get a Refund for Visa Application If You Are Denied?
You’re only required to pay for the visa if your application is approved, so you don’t have to worry about refunds in case your application is denied.
How Much Money Do You Need per Month in Chile?
You should earn a minimum of $1,000/month.
Is there a Digital Nomad Community In Chile?
Yes! Chile’s capital city, Santiago, is very digital nomad friendly. You’ll find plenty of co-working spaces and other great options to work. You’ll find plenty of remote workers and digital nomads!
What Chile Neighboring Countries Issue Visas for Digital Nomads?
Author
Nadia Dardón is a freelance writer from Guatemala. In early 2022 she embarked as a digital nomad, traveling through Europe, focusing mostly on the literary history of each country. She has worked fully remotely for the past four years as a reader, writer, and content creator with experience creating pieces for different industries. She also has a personal blog where she writes about her cultural and literary travels.