Obtaining a work permit for Chile is relatively straightforward once an expat has an employment offer. It's usually organised and sponsored by the hiring company.
Applications and all supporting documents for a work permit should be submitted to the Ministry of the Interior and Public Security if applying from within Chile, or to the relevant Chilean consulate if from outside the country. The hiring company must also meet certain requirements and demonstrate that the foreigner possesses skills indispensable to the country's development.
Types of work permits in Chile
There are two main types of work permits available: a Visa Subject to Contract and a Work Holiday Visa.
Visa Subject to Contract
This work permit hinges entirely on a contract with a Chilean employer. The permit is normally valid for up to two years, depending on the agreement between employer and employee as stipulated in the contract. After two years, the visa can then be renewed.
If living in Chile on a Visa Subject to Contract, the expat may bring dependants such as children or a spouse into the country. Dependants do not automatically have the right to work in Chile, though they can apply to obtain it. Chilean consulates can provide the most up-to-date information on this.
If a contract ends or the employer changes, expats must obtain a new visa to remain in Chile. There is a 30-day window to obtain a new visa.
Working Holiday Visa
This visa allows nationals of certain countries to travel and study or work in Chile for a year or less. These countries include Germany, Canada, Australia, the Czech Republic and New Zealand, among others. Nationals from countries that are part of the Pacific Alliance may apply for a similar visa. Applicants must be between the ages of 18 and 35.
This visa cannot usually be renewed and has several conditions attached. There are no simple allowances for dependants on this type of visa, and Chilean authorities do not assist in the job search.
Registering work permits in Chile
When applying from outside the country, expats usually have 90 days to enter Chile once the work permit has been approved.
On arrival in Chile, these work permits must be registered with the Polica de Investigaciones (PDI). A Chilean ID must be obtained and registered at the Civil Registry and Identification Service of Chile (Servicio de Registro Civil e Identificación de Chile).
*Visa and work permit requirements are subject to change at short notice, and expats should consult the respective embassy or consulate for the latest details.