In 2024, Chile offers several residency programs that are flexibly adapted to various circumstances of applicants. Chilean legislation provides foreigners with two types of permits – temporary and permanent.
Temporary residence(Residencia Temporal) – a legal status allowing individuals to live in the country for a set period with a specific purpose (work, study, family reunification, and other activities).
Permanent residence – a permit issued for unlimited stay with the right to work or conduct business. It is valid for a lifetime.
The right to temporary residence is granted to foreign citizens planning to stay for up to 2 years. For seasonal workers, it applies for up to 5 years.
Types of Residence Permits
All applications are reviewed by the National Migration Service of the Ministry of Internal Affairs (SERMIG). Decree No. 177 of 2022 from the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Public Security defines the following subcategories and establishes various options for residency.
| Subcategories | Description |
| Family reunification | For applicants able to provide proof of family ties to Chileans or persons with residence permits |
| Employment | Work in Chilean companies |
| Education | Academic course in accredited universities |
| Seasonal workers | Work in legislatively defined seasonal positions or for limited periods of time |
| Humanitarian reasons | For foreigners who have become victims of violence/political situations/other reasons |
| International agreements | For citizens of countries participating in international agreements |
| Treatment | Undergoing/continuing treatment |
| Retirees and property owners | For relocants receiving a pension due to old age or having a stable income from real estate/financial assets (income retirees residency). |
| Former holders | For individuals with a revoked permit |
| Investors | For foreigners planning to invest in the country's economy |
| Business | Creating/Managing a business or investments |
| MERCOSUR Agreement | International reciprocity in accordance with the Agreement of the States Parties |
