Embark on a career journey in Chile, one of South America's thriving economies, by understanding the Chile Work Visa Process and securing a work permit. Chile, with a population of 19 million as of 2024, offers competitive salaries, abundant career opportunities, and a low cost of living, making it an attractive destination for job seekers. Here's your comprehensive guide to the Chilean work visa process and job search:
Key Details:
About Chile Work Visa:
Country: Chile
Capital: Santiago
Continent: South America
Visa Type: Work Visa
Types of Chile Work Visa:
1) Temporary Resident Visa: Allows foreign workers to work, study, and do business for up to one year.
2) Chile Work Visa: For employment contracts exceeding one year.
Chile Work Visa Requirements:
- Letter from the Chilean hiring company
- Work contract (translated into Spanish and authenticated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs)
- Educational degrees/diplomas
- Passport picture
- Police clearance certificate
- Minimum age: 18 years
Processing Time: 15-20 days
Visa Duration: Initial validity: two years (renewable for another two years)
Job Scope and Skill Shortages:
Chile faces skill shortages in mining, technology, renewable energy, healthcare, and education sectors.
Companies Hiring Foreign Workers:
Agriculture, mining, tourism, services, and finance sectors offer job opportunities. Explore companies like Agrosuper, BHP, LATAM Airlines, and Accenture.
Popular Job Search Sites:
Trabajando.cl, Laborum.cl, Computrabajo.cl, Indeed.cl
Applying for Chile Permanent Residency:
After five years of residency, you may qualify for permanent residency.
How to Apply for the Chile Work Visa?
Online Application:
Visit the website: Go to the Chilean Ministry of Foreign Affairs website: https://tramites.minrel.gov.cl/
Start application: Select “Visa Application” and choose the appropriate visa type.
Provide information: Fill out the application form with details like your passport information, travel dates, and job offer details.
Upload documents: Submit scanned copies of required documents like passport, job offer, proof of finances, and photos.
Apply: Review and submit your application, paying the processing fee (if applicable).
Visa Issuance:
- Receive notification of visa approval.
- Collect the visa from the consulate/embassy.
Useful Links:
Chilean Ministry of Foreign Affairs: https://tramites.minrel.gov.cl/
Immigration Department of Chile: https://tramites.extranjeria.gob.cl/
Jobs in Chile That Don't Require Spanish:
English teacher, tour guide/receptionist, roles in international companies.
Minimum Wage in Chile:
- Over 18 but under 65 years old: CLP 460,000 (approximately US$515)
- Under 18 or over 65 years old: CLP 343,150 (approximately US$385)
Tips for Job Seekers:
Consider entering Chile on a tourist visa and finding a job locally before applying for a work permit.
Note: This guide provides general information. For personalized assistance, consult official sources or an immigration lawyer.
