The Chilean passport (Pasaporte chileno) offers many advantages, including visa-free entry to numerous countries (172 nations), the right to work, tax and social benefits, participation in the country's political life, consular protection abroad, and more. The main difference between obtaining permanent residence (PR) in Chile and having a passport is the ability to leave the country for more than 2 years. PR (without applying for an extension) will be revoked if you leave the country for more than 24 months. However, a passport allows you to remain a citizen for life.
To obtain a Chilean passport, you will need to make an effort. The process is strict. Only after 5 years of continuous residence with permanent residency can you apply for a passport.
How to Obtain a Passport of Chile?
The Chilean "Citizenship Law" requires a permanent resident (citizen) to have lived in the country for at least 5 years. In addition, it is necessary to have a good understanding of Chilean culture and to demonstrate proficiency in the Spanish language. In 2024, a foreigner can apply for a Chilean passport if they meet the following conditions:
- Age of majority.
- Holding a permanent resident visa.
- Having been a resident of Chile for over 5 years, or 2 years if there are family ties with citizens of the Republic.
- No criminal record.
- Proof of regular monthly income to live in Chile through employment or pension.
- Proof of Spanish language proficiency.
- Demonstration of knowledge of Chilean history and constitution.
Foreign citizens who apply for a temporary visa to give birth in local clinics can take advantage of the simplified naturalization procedure. According to Article 10 of the Republic's Constitution, when a child is born in Chile, parents are eligible to obtain a residence permit, and after three years of living in the country, they can apply for a passport. An identity card can be requested by the mother, father, or guardian from the first days of the child's life.
Chilean legislation provides a standard procedure for obtaining a passport. The government of Chile has the exclusive right to conduct background checks, review applications, and give final approval.
Based on the appropriate visa, apply for a residence permit. Submit a document package to the Immigration Department that corresponds to the duration of stay and planned activities.
To obtain permanent resident status after 5 years of permanent residence or 2 years if related to Chilean nationals. No later than 90 days before the end of the temporary authorization.
The procedure involves gathering the necessary documents and submitting a petition to the Chilean Immigration Department. You will need to pass a Spanish language exam and undergo an interview with immigration officials.
Upon receiving approval, submit an application for an identification card at the Civil Registry Service. You will need to take an oath of loyalty to the country upon receipt.
According to local legislation, a foreigner can obtain a Chilean Identity Card (Cédula de Identidad) on one of the following grounds:
- Right of birth or origin.
- By naturalization.
- For special merits.
A regular passport is prepared and issued in Chile. It is provided to the applicant directly after it is made. A biometric passport, on the other hand, is typically prepared at the diplomatic department of the applicant's country (when applying from abroad) and sent via diplomatic mail. Therefore, it will take more time to obtain a biometric passport.
Citizenship Law of the Republic of Chile
The right to obtain a passport is regulated by the Constitution of Chile, the Civil Code, and relevant immigration laws. The Ley de Migraciones (Immigration Law) establishes rules for the entry, exit, and stay of foreigners, and also includes conditions for the issuance of the national identity card.
Foreigners seeking to obtain citizenship must meet strict criteria, the primary one being a minimum period of legal residence in the country. Additionally, clear requirements for integration into society are established.
The application process is also strictly regulated. The application must be submitted to the Department of Migration (Servicio Nacional de Migraciones) if you are in Chile, or to the Chilean embassy abroad. To have your request considered, you need to prepare a set of documents, pay the applicable fees, pass a language proficiency exam, and participate in an interview.
Each application is reviewed individually, and the final decision on granting a passport is made after a multi-step verification process by Chilean authorities.
Documents for Passport
To support the submitted application, a package of documents needs to be gathered. It is important to update and legalize the dossier so that it complies with Chilean immigration rules. In a standard situation, the following supporting documents will be required:
- Application form.
- Valid passport.
- Permanent residence permit.
- Documents confirming legal residence in Chile for the required period (bank statements, utility bills, rental agreements, etc.).
- Certificate of no criminal record.
- Birth certificate.
- Marriage certificate (if applicable).
- Proof of stable income or employment (pay slips, employment contract, tax reports, etc.).
- Medical certificate confirming the absence of dangerous diseases.
The list of documents may be subject to change depending on the applicant's personal situation and the policies in effect at the time of application. Detailed information about the current document requirements is always available on the Immigration Department's portal.
How much does a passport of Chile cost?
The cost of obtaining a Chilean passport can vary depending on the method of application and the applicant's personal circumstances.
When applying, you need to pay the state fees. The following rates apply to citizenship processing:
| General conditions | $33,026 |
| With a Chilean partner | $6,605 |
| For a widowed foreigner who previously had a Chilean spouse. | $6,605 |
| For a foreigner with a child who has Chilean citizenship | $6,605 |
You can find the current fees for each type of procedure on the Department of Immigration’s website.
You should also consider other associated costs related to professional services, document preparation, certification, and legalization.