Chile offers 5 visa and residency pathways for foreign nationals. This page compares all available routes side by side with current requirements.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Visa Programme | Min. Income | Savings | Processing | Difficulty | Family |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Employee Work Visa (Residencia Temporal — Employment) | — | — | 28-180d | 5.7/10 | Yes |
| Professional / Independent Worker | €18,000/mo | — | 180-240d | 6.5/10 | Yes |
| Entrepreneur / Investor Visa | — | €500,000 | 180-300d | 8.0/10 | Yes |
| Seasonal / Temporary Work (Permanencia Transitoria) | — | — | 15-30d | 4.5/10 | No |
| Intra-Company Transfer | — | — | 180-240d | 4.7/10 | Yes |
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many visa pathways does Chile offer?
Chile offers 5 distinct visa and residency pathways for foreign nationals, including skilled worker, family, investor, and other categories.
What is the easiest visa to get for Chile?
The easiest pathway depends on your profile. Working holiday visas (if available) have the lowest barriers. For professionals, employer-sponsored visas are the most common route.
How long does it take to get permanent residency in Chile?
The path to permanent residency in Chile typically takes 2-5 years depending on the visa category. Some skilled worker pathways offer faster PR routes.
Can I bring my family to Chile?
Most long-term visa categories in Chile allow family reunification for spouses and dependent children, though specific requirements vary by pathway.
Do I need a job offer to move to Chile?
Not all pathways require a job offer. Chile may offer self-employment, investment, digital nomad, or points-based pathways that don't require employer sponsorship.
Related: Chile Guide · Cost of Living · Salaries · Chile for Software Engineers · Chile for Nurses · Chile for Teachers · All Countries