Chile Visa Requirements For British Citizens (2025)

British citizens holding a full UK passport do not need a visa to travel to Chile for tourism, short business trips, attending conferences, or similar activities lasting up to 90 days

Chile Visa Requirements For British Citizens

1. No visa required (visa-waiver):

Entry without a visa for up to 90 days .
You’ll receive a Tarjeta de Turismo (tourist card) upon arrival—keep it safe and surrender it on departure

2. Passport validity & blank page:

Passport must be valid for at least the period of your stay (no extra months required).
Many sources recommend having 6 months validity, but official UK guidance states validity for the duration is sufficient. Still, six months extra helps avoid complications .
Ensure at least one blank page for stamps.

3. Supporting documents (may be checked):

Proof of onward or return ticket.
Evidence of funds (e.g., bank statements, cash).

4. Traveling with children:

Children under 18 travelling with one parent, a guardian, or alone require a notarised letter of consent from the non-travelling parent(s) and the child’s original birth certificate

5. Dual nationality (British–Chilean):

If you also hold Chilean citizenship, you must enter and exit Chile on your Chilean passport

What if I Want to Stay or Work Longer?

For stays longer than 90 days, or if your trip includes work, study, formal volunteering, or other non-tourist reasons, you must apply for a suitable visa before arrival.
Visa options include Temporary Stay, Work Visa, Student Visa, and Contract-based Work Visa—each with its own requirements and length .

Extra Tips

Proof of onward travel: Although not always enforced, it’s wise to carry proof, such as a return or onward bus/flight ticket .
Tourist Card extension: You can request a 90-day extension once for a fee (around USD 100) via Chile’s immigration website—though the process may be Spanish-language heavy
Travel health advice: No vaccines are legally required, but routine immunisations (e.g., tetanus, yellow fever if traveling via endemic areas) are recommended.
Customs: Declare any restricted items and follow Chilean rules to avoid penalties

Quick Summary – Visa Requirements Table

Situation	Visa Requirement
Trip ≤ 90 days (tourism, business, conferences)	No visa required; entry granted with Tarjeta de Turismo
Stay > 90 days; work/study	Visa required before departure; apply via Chilean consulate
Dual UK–Chilean national	Must use Chilean passport to enter/exit Chile
Child travel under 18	Notarised consent + birth certificate required

Does British Citizens Needs Visa To Travel To Chile?

Yes — British citizens do not need a visa to visit Chile for touristic or business trips lasting up to 90 days:

How Long Does It Takes For A British Citizen To Get Chilean Visa?

For a British citizen, the processing time to get a Chilean visa depends on the type of visa being applied for. Here’s a general overview:

Tourist Visa (if required)

British citizens do NOT need a visa for tourist visits up to 90 days in Chile.
You can enter Chile visa-free and receive a Tarjeta de Turismo (Tourist Card) upon arrival.
Processing time: None (entry is granted on arrival with a valid passport).

Temporary Residence Visa (for work, study, family, etc.)

If you’re moving to Chile for work, study, or joining family, you must apply for a Temporary Residency Visa.
This must be done before traveling to Chile.

Processing Time:

Typically takes 30 to 90 days, but may vary depending on:
- The Chilean consulate handling your application.
- Completeness of your documents.
- Type of visa (e.g., work visa, student visa, etc.).

Work Visa

You may apply for a Subject to Contract Visa if you have a Chilean job offer.
Processing time: Usually 1 to 3 months.

Student Visa

Required if you plan to study for more than 90 days.
Processing time: Typically 30 to 60 days

What Do You Need As A British Citizen To Move To Chile

Moving to Chile as a British citizen can be a rewarding and life-changing experience. This long, narrow country on the western edge of South America offers a unique blend of landscapes, from deserts and mountains to lakes and glaciers. Whether you’re seeking a new career, a peaceful retirement, or simply an adventure, Chile has something to offer.

Before relocating, it’s important to immerse yourself in the cultural nuances of Chilean life. Chileans tend to be warm, respectful, and deeply connected to family. Social interactions can be more formal compared to the UK, particularly in professional or initial settings. Understanding and adapting to these norms will help build meaningful relationships. Even a basic effort to speak Spanish, the national language, goes a long way in earning respect and fostering connection.

While many Chileans in urban areas speak some English, Spanish is essential for daily life, especially in smaller towns. Investing time in learning Spanish—even before arriving—can help with everything from renting an apartment to setting up a bank account or understanding public transport. You don’t need to be fluent, but being able to hold basic conversations will make your transition much smoother and more enjoyable.

Chile’s geography offers a wide range of living environments. If you’re looking for urban life, Santiago is the largest and most cosmopolitan city, offering everything from modern conveniences to cultural events. Valparaíso and Viña del Mar offer coastal charm and artistic vibes, while cities like Temuco and Puerto Varas in the south offer quieter living close to nature. Each region has its own pace of life, climate, and character, so exploring your options—either online or by visiting—is a good idea before settling.

Before making the move, consider your financial situation. The cost of living in Chile can vary widely depending on where you live. Santiago and other urban areas tend to be more expensive, particularly for housing. Rural areas can be much more affordable. Make sure you have a financial cushion to cover at least the first few months while you get settled. Also, investigate how you will manage your money—whether through a local Chilean bank, international banking services, or a combination of both.

If you’re not retiring or financially independent, it’s worth considering your career options in advance. Chile’s job market is competitive, and fluency in Spanish is often necessary. However, there are opportunities for English teachers, tech professionals, and those working for multinational companies. Some British citizens move to Chile to work remotely or start their own businesses, especially in the tourism or hospitality industries. Alternatively, some choose to volunteer, study, or simply enjoy a slower pace of life.

Health and Wellbeing

Chile offers both public and private healthcare systems, and the quality is generally high, particularly in major cities. As a newcomer, it’s wise to research healthcare access in the area where you plan to live and explore options for health insurance. Mental wellbeing is also key—moving abroad can be thrilling but also challenging. Keeping connections to home, establishing a support network in Chile, and staying open to new experiences can help maintain your emotional balance.

Making new friends and building a local network is essential for feeling at home. Look for local expat groups, language exchange meetups, or community events. Chileans are generally open and welcoming once you make the effort to connect. Developing relationships with locals can deepen your cultural understanding and make your new life far richer. Maintaining a balance between expat and local communities will help you integrate while also giving you a sense of familiarity.

Life in Chile may be slower and less structured than in the UK. Bureaucracy can be frustrating, and things may not always happen on schedule. Learning to adapt and go with the flow is part of settling in. Embracing this different pace—while staying proactive when needed—is part of the adventure. At the same time, you’ll discover Chile’s relaxed approach to life can be refreshing and deeply satisfying.

Chile’s stunning and diverse landscape is one of its greatest treasures. From the Atacama Desert in the north to the glaciers of Patagonia in the south, there’s endless opportunity for exploration. Living in Chile invites you to spend more time outdoors—whether hiking in the Andes, relaxing by the Pacific, or exploring wine country. Nature is deeply intertwined with Chilean identity, and you’ll soon see why.

Conclusion

Moving to Chile as a British citizen isn’t just about visas and flights—it’s about preparing mentally, emotionally, and socially for a new chapter. It means embracing a new culture, learning a new language, building community, and opening yourself up to both challenges and incredible rewards. With thoughtful preparation and an open mind, the move can be a deeply enriching journey, offering a new home in one of the most fascinating countries in South America