Chile
Charles Darwin
Chile
a captivating blend of culture and landscapes, making it an appealing destination for those working their way around the world or considering relocation. The country’s rich cultural heritage is paired with stunning natural beauty, from the vibrant city life of Santiago to the awe-inspiring landscapes of the Atacama Desert and Patagonia.
Under President Gabriel Boric, Chile is navigating a period of social and economic reform, focusing on improving equality, fostering growth and promoting sustainability. These changes are modernising the country and creating a more welcoming environment for remote work and investment. With a relatively low cost of living, reliable internet and a friendly population, Chile is increasingly popular among digital nomads, investors and those seeking a balanced, more affordable lifestyle.
English is commonly spoken in urban areas, and visa-free entry for up to 90 days simplifies travel for many visitors. This combination of factors makes Chile an attractive choice for those looking to explore South America while working remotely or considering a longer stay to assess its potential for investment and relocation.
| 🌎 CONTINENT | SOUTH AMERICA |
|---|---|
| 📌COUNTRY | CHILE |
| 👫🏻POPULATION | 19,603,733 |
| 🙏RELIGION | ROMAN CATHOLIC (MAJORITY) |
| 💵CURRENCY | CHILEAN PESO (CLP) |
| 💉C19 VAX REQUIRED | NO |
| 🔌POWER | 220V - 50Hz |
| 💰GDP PER CAPITA | $16,770 PER YEAR |
| ✈️AIRPORT | SANTIAGO - SCL |
|---|---|
| 🪪UK VISA FREE | 90 DAYS |
| 🏝️LAND OWNERSHIP | ALLOWED WITH RESTRICTIONS |
| 🛜AVG INTERNET SPEED | 211.35 MBPS |
| 💧TAP WATER | GENERALLY SAFE |
| 🏧ATM LIMIT | TYPICALLY Cp 200,000 |
| 💳CASHLESS | WIDELY ACCEPTED |
| 💸TIPPING | 10% CUSTOMARY |
TAX FRIENDLINESS
Digital Nomad Tax Friendliness: 70/100
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- Chile does not have a specific digital nomad visa.
- Many remote workers use the Transitory Stay Visa, which allows stays of up to 90 days.
- The visa can be extended for an additional 90 days for a fee of $100.
Expat Tax Friendliness: 65/100
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- Chile has a progressive tax system for residents, with rates ranging from 0% to 40%.
- Non residents are taxed at a flat rate of 35% on Chilean-sourced income.
- Tax residency is established after staying in Chile for more than 183 days in a 12-month period.
Investor Tax Friendliness: 60/100
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- Corporate tax rate is 27% for large companies and 25% for SMEs.
- Capital gains are generally taxed as regular income.
- There are some tax incentives for certain types of investments and industries.
Crypto Tax Friendliness: 55/100
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- Cryptocurrency is treated as an intangible asset in Chile.
- Gains from crypto transactions are subject to income tax.
- There’s a lack of specific regulations for crypto, which creates some uncertainty.
CHILE PRICE REFERENCE
CHILE HOLIDAY LETS
VISA REQUIREMENTS
Chile Tourist Visa
UK citizens can enjoy hassle free travel to Chile with a straightforward visa policy for tourists.
- Visa-Free Entry: UK citizens do not need a visa to enter Chile for tourism purposes. You can stay in the country for up to 90 days without a visa. This period can be extended once for an additional 90 days if needed.
- Passport Requirements: Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry into Chile. Make sure it has at least one blank page for entry stamps.
- Entry and Exit: Upon arrival, you will be given a tourist card (Tarjeta de Turismo), which you must keep safe and present upon departure. This card confirms your legal entry into the country and should be handed back when you leave.
- Extensions: If you wish to stay longer than the initial 90 days, you can apply for an extension at the Chilean Immigration Department before your original stay expires. This can be done online or in person.
- Restrictions: While on a tourist visa, you are not allowed to work or engage in any paid activities in Chile.
Important Links:
- Chilean Immigration Department – for visa extensions and official immigration information.
- Embassy of Chile in the UK – for consular services and additional information.
Chile Digital Nomad Visa
Chile does not currently have a specific digital nomad visa. However, Chile is a popular destination for remote workers due to its robust infrastructure, high-speed internet and vibrant cities. Digital nomads often utilise existing visa options to legally stay in Chile while working remotely.
Key Points:
- Tourist Visa for Remote Work: Many digital nomads enter Chile on the 90-day visa-free entry available to UK citizens and work remotely for their employers or clients abroad. This is a common practice but it’s important to remember that the tourist visa does not technically allow you to engage in work activities within Chile.
- Temporary Resident Visa: A more formal option for longer stays is the Temporary Resident Visa, which can be issued for up to one year and renewed for an additional year. This visa is suitable for those who plan to stay in Chile for an extended period and can be applied for under various categories, including work contracts, investment, or family connections. While not specifically for digital nomads, it can be adapted depending on your circumstances.
- Entrepreneur Visa (Start-Up Chile Program): Chile has a well-known program called Start-Up Chile, which offers visas and funding to entrepreneurs who wish to develop their start-up in the country. While not a digital nomad visa per se, it’s a great option for those looking to start a business in the digital space.
Important Links:
- Chilean Immigration Department – for information on temporary resident visas.
- Start-Up Chile – for entrepreneurs interested in setting up a business in Chile.
Chile Retirement Visa
Chile does not offer a specific retirement visa. However, retirees can still settle in Chile by applying for a Temporary Resident Visa under the “Income and Investments” category, which is suitable for those with a stable income from pensions or savings.
Key Points:
- Temporary Resident Visa (Rentista Visa): Retirees can apply for a Temporary Resident Visa under the Rentista category. This visa is designed for individuals with a stable income from abroad, such as a pension, investments, or savings. It allows you to live in Chile for up to one year and is renewable annually. After two years, you may apply for permanent residency.
- Income Requirement: To qualify, you must demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay in Chile. The amount required varies, but it generally needs to cover your living expenses in Chile.
- Health Insurance: It is advisable to have comprehensive health insurance that covers you in Chile, as access to public healthcare services may be limited for non-residents.
- Path to Permanent Residency: After two years on a Temporary Resident Visa, you can apply for permanent residency in Chile, which allows you to stay indefinitely without needing to renew your visa annually.
Important Links:
- Chilean Immigration Department – for information on the Temporary Resident Visa and permanent residency.
OTHER NOTES
ARE ID CARDS REQUIRED
Are ID Cards Required in Chile?
Overview: In Chile, the use of identification cards (ID cards) is an important part of daily life for citizens and residents. However, as a tourist or foreigner you won’t be required to have a Chilean ID card but carrying valid identification is crucial for various transactions and legal purposes.
Key Points:
- For Citizens and Residents: Chilean citizens and legal residents are required to carry their national ID card (Cédula de Identidad) at all times. This card is essential for voting, accessing healthcare, banking, and other services.
- For Foreigners: If you are a tourist, you are not required to carry a Chilean ID card. However, you should always have your passport or a copy of your passport with you, as you may need it for identification purposes, especially when checking into hotels, making large purchases, or in case of interactions with law enforcement.
- Temporary Residents: If you obtain a temporary resident visa or another long-term visa, you will be issued a Chilean ID card, which you are expected to carry during your stay.
- Police Checks: While police checks are not common, they can happen, and it’s best to have identification on you at all times to avoid complications.
Important Links:
- Chile’s Civil Registry and Identification Service – for more information on ID cards for residents.
- Chilean Consulate in the UK – for guidance on staying compliant with local regulations as a foreigner.
ARE GM FOODS ALLOWED
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Are GM Foods Allowed in Chile?
Chile has a cautious but open approach to genetically modified (GM) foods. While GM crops are not grown for domestic consumption, the country allows the import and sale of GM foods, which are widely available in supermarkets.
Key Points:
- GM Crop Cultivation: Chile allows the cultivation of genetically modified crops, but only for export purposes. GM crops are not grown for the domestic market and the cultivation is strictly regulated by the Chilean Agricultural and Livestock Service (SAG).
- GM Food Imports: Chile imports GM foods, primarily from countries like the United States. These products are available in Chilean supermarkets and are consumed by the public.
- Labeling Requirements: Currently, Chile does not require mandatory labeling of GM foods. This means that consumers may not always be aware if the food they are purchasing contains genetically modified ingredients.
- Public Opinion: There is a growing debate in Chile about the safety and environmental impact of GM foods, but so far, there has been no move towards banning them or requiring stricter labeling.
Important Links:
- Chilean Agricultural and Livestock Service (SAG) – for regulations on GM crops and foods.
- Ministry of Agriculture of Chile – for updates on agricultural policies, including GMOs.
TRESPASSING - RIGHT TO ROAM
Trespassing, Right to Roam, and Wild Camping in Chile
Chile offers a wealth of natural beauty, from the Andes to the Pacific Coast. However, access to land and the rules around trespassing, roaming and wild camping are governed by a mix of public and private land regulations.
Key Points:
- Trespassing: In Chile, trespassing on private land is illegal. Much of the land, especially in rural areas is privately owned and you need the owner’s permission to enter. Signs that say “Propiedad Privada” (Private Property) or “No Pasar” (Do Not Enter) are common and should be respected.
- Right to Roam: Unlike some countries in Europe, Chile does not have a legal “right to roam.” This means that you must be cautious when exploring the countryside to ensure you are not entering private property without permission.
- National Parks and Protected Areas: Chile has numerous national parks and protected areas where roaming and camping are allowed. In these areas, camping is usually permitted in designated campsites and you may need to pay an entrance fee or obtain a permit.
- Wild Camping: Wild camping is generally allowed in some remote areas, especially in regions like Patagonia. However, it’s important to follow the “Leave No Trace” principles, respect private property and avoid making fires in areas where they are prohibited due to the risk of forest fires.
Important Links:
- National Forest Corporation (CONAF) – for information on national parks, permits, and camping regulations.
- Chile’s Ministry of the Environment – for guidelines on environmental protection and responsible tourism.
420 FRIENDLY?
420 Friendly – Cannabis Laws in Chile
Cannabis laws in Chile are somewhat relaxed compared to other countries in the region, but there are still important legal considerations to be aware of, especially for tourists and foreign residents.
Key Points:
- Personal Use: In Chile, the personal use of cannabis in private spaces is decriminalised. This means that you can legally possess small amounts of cannabis for personal use and consumption in private is tolerated.
- Public Use: Smoking cannabis in public spaces is illegal and can result in fines or other legal consequences. Public consumption is not tolerated and can attract unwanted attention from law enforcement.
- Cultivation: The cultivation of cannabis for personal use is also allowed under Chilean law, but it is subject to strict regulations. The number of plants allowed is limited and cultivation must take place in a private space, away from public view.
- Medical Use: Chile has legalized the use of medical cannabis. Patients with a prescription can legally obtain and use cannabis for medicinal purposes and there are specialized dispensaries that provide these products.
- Cannabis Culture: Chile has a growing cannabis culture, with festivals, expos and a community of enthusiasts who advocate for broader legalization. However, the legal framework remains conservative in terms of public use and large scale cultivation.