Chile Visa and Entry Requirements

Chile has one of the most relaxed entry policies in South America. Most Western passport holders do not need a visa and receive 90 days on arrival. The process at the airport is fast — passport stamp, tourist card, and you are through.

Who Needs a Visa

Citizens of the following countries do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days:

• United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Ireland
• All EU/EEA countries (including post-Brexit UK)
• Australia, New Zealand
• Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia
• Most Latin American countries
• Israel, South Africa

Citizens of some countries — including China, India, Russia, and several African nations — do require a visa. Check with your nearest Chilean consulate or the Chilean Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for the current list.

The Tourist Card (PDI)

On arrival, immigration issues a small white slip called the Tarjeta de Turismo (PDI card). This is your proof of legal entry. Keep it safe — you must return it when you leave Chile. Losing it means a visit to the Policia de Investigaciones office in Santiago (or at the airport) to get a replacement, which involves paperwork and waiting.

Since 2019, the tourist card is increasingly issued electronically at major airports — you may receive it as a stamped QR code or email. Check whether you received a physical slip or electronic version at immigration.

90-Day Limit and Extensions

The standard tourist stay is 90 days. Extensions are possible through the Departamento de Extranjeria in Santiago — the process involves paperwork, fees (around $100), and a wait of several weeks. Most travelers who want to stay longer simply cross the border to Argentina (or Peru/Bolivia) and re-enter Chile for a fresh 90 days. This is legal and widely practiced.

The most common border crossing for this purpose is Santiago to Mendoza, Argentina — a 6-hour bus ride through the Andes via the Cristo Redentor tunnel. Some travelers fly to Buenos Aires for a weekend and return.

Reciprocity Fee

Chile previously charged a reciprocity fee to citizens of countries that charge Chileans for visas (notably the US, Canada, and Australia). This fee has been eliminated for US and Canadian citizens. Australian citizens should check current status — the fee has been on-again off-again. The fee, when applicable, was collected at Santiago airport on arrival.

Entry Requirements

• Passport: Valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure date.
• Return ticket: Immigration may ask for proof of onward travel. In practice this is rarely checked for Western passport holders, but having a booking (even a refundable one) avoids potential issues.
• Proof of funds: Technically required but almost never asked for. A credit card is sufficient.
• No vaccinations required unless arriving from a country with yellow fever risk, in which case proof of yellow fever vaccination may be requested.

Customs

Chile has strict agricultural controls. Fresh fruit, vegetables, meat, dairy products, seeds, and plants are prohibited. Your bags may be X-rayed on arrival and SAG (agricultural service) officers inspect suspicious items. Declare everything food-related on the customs form — the fines for undeclared items are steep. Processed and packaged foods are generally fine.