Chile: National who requires tourist visas face stricter boarder entry requirements

What has changed

Chile is imposing stricter requirements on nationals who require tourist visas at the borders (non-waivered nationals).

What does the change mean

Nationals from non-waiver countries should have a valid entry visa at the border rather than rely on a receipt of a pending visa application.

• Implementation time frame: Immediate.
• Visas/permits affected: Entry visas.
• Business impact: Travel may be delayed for visa-required nationals, which could affect employment start dates.

What you need to do

Employees who require a tourist visa prior to any travel to Chile (non-waiver countries) must be aware that they should have a valid and unexpired entry visa. Previously, if the entry visa had expired, it was sufficient to show a receipt that a visa application was submitted and pending.

Recommendation: Tourist visa-required nationals should anticipate stricter requirements at Chilean borders and make sure that they have a valid visa to enter the country. If the employees are coming for more than 90 days, they can apply for a work visa at the consulate abroad prior to any travel into Chile.