Overview
Chile has one of the most open visa policies in South America — most tourists, including citizens of the US, UK, EU, Canada, Australia and much of Latin America, can enter visa-free. Nationalities that do need a visa apply directly at a Chilean embassy or consulate; there's no separate national e-visa system for general tourism. A tourist visa can be extended once at Chile's Extranjería Department for a fee, or renewed by briefly leaving and re-entering the country (permitted up to twice in succession).
Who needs what
| Visa-exempt nationalities | No visa needed for tourism, typically up to 90 days. |
|---|---|
| India and Dominican Republic passport holders | Exempt if holding a valid US visa (6+ months validity, non-"C" category). |
| Visa-required nationalities | Apply at a Chilean embassy or consulate before travel. |
Documents checklist (if a visa is required)
- Passport valid for the duration of your intended stay
- Completed consulate application form
- Recent passport-style photo
- Proof of onward/return travel and accommodation
- Proof of sufficient funds
Step-by-step application process
1. Check your exemption status
Confirm your nationality's visa-free allowance on extranjeria.gob.cl before assuming you need to apply for anything.
2. If exempt, just travel
Your passport is stamped for the standard tourist stay on arrival — no advance application needed.
3. If not exempt, contact your nearest Chilean mission
Apply directly at the embassy or consulate covering your place of residence.
4. Extending your stay
Apply once at Chile's Extranjería Department (a fee applies), or exit and re-enter — permitted up to twice in a row.
Sources reviewed: extranjeria.gob.cl (Departamento de Extranjería y Migración), Wikipedia's Visa policy of Chile. Exempt-country lists change — always confirm current details before travel.