Chile Visa for Indians : Complete Jan 2026 Application Guide (Updated)

Who Qualifies for Visa-Free Entry?

Indian citizens can enter Chile without a visa if they hold:

1. Valid US Visa (any type except C-type transit visa) with minimum 6 months validity remaining
2. US Green Card (Permanent Resident Card) with minimum 6 months validity remaining

Important Conditions for Visa-Free Entry

Validity Requirements:

• Your US visa or Green Card must be valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry into Chile
• The exemption applies to all US visa categories except C-type (transit) visas
• This includes tourist (B1/B2), work (H1B, L1), and student (F1) visas

Stay Duration:

• Maximum stay: 90 days per visit
• Entry type: Multiple entries allowed during the validity period
• No visa fee required

Entry Process: Upon arrival in Chile, you will receive a Tourist Card (Tarjeta de Turismo) valid for up to 90 days. Keep this card safe as you must return it when departing Chile.

What If I Don't Have a US Visa or Green Card?

If you don't qualify for the visa exemption, you must apply for a Chilean visa through the standard application process detailed in this guide.

1. Chile Tourist Visa (Visa de Turismo)

Purpose: Tourism, leisure, visiting family/friends, sightseeing

Two Subtypes Available:

Single Entry Tourist Visa

• Validity: 3 months from date of issue
• Stay Duration: 30 days per visit (extendable to 90 days)
• Processing Time: 6-15 working days
• Fee: USD 42 (approximately ₹3,594)
• Best For: One-time visitors planning a single trip

Multiple Entry Tourist Visa

• Validity: 3 months from date of issue
• Stay Duration: 30 days per visit (extendable to 90 days)
• Multiple Entries: Allowed during validity period
• Processing Time: 6-15 working days
• Fee: USD 76 (approximately ₹6,504)
• Best For: Travelers planning multiple visits or uncertain travel dates

2. Chile Business Visa (Visa de Negocios)

Purpose: Business meetings, conferences, trade fairs, corporate events

Key Features:

• Attend business meetings and conferences
• Explore business opportunities
• Participate in trade exhibitions
• Conduct market research
• Cannot: Engage in paid employment or work for Chilean companies

Requirements: Same as tourist visa plus:

• Business invitation letter from Chilean company
• Company registration documents
• Purpose of visit documentation
• Previous business relationship proof (if applicable)

3. Chile Work Visa (Visa Sujeta a Contrato)

Purpose: Employment with Chilean companies

Requirements:

• Valid employment contract with Chilean employer
• Company registration in Chile
• Professional qualifications
• Background verification
• Processing Time: 20-30 working days
• Validity: Duration of employment contract (up to 2 years)

4. Chile Student Visa (Visa de Estudiante)

Purpose: Academic studies at Chilean educational institutions

Requirements:

• Acceptance letter from recognized Chilean university
• Proof of tuition payment or scholarship
• Financial capability proof
• Academic transcripts
• Validity: Duration of academic program (renewable annually)

5. Chile Temporary Residence Visa

Purpose: Long-term stay for family reunification, investment, or special circumstances

Eligibility:

• Family ties with Chilean nationals
• Investment in Chilean economy
• Retirement with periodic income
• Validity: Up to 1 year (renewable)

Essential Documents Checklist

1. Passport Requirements

• Original passport valid for minimum 6 months beyond intended stay
• At least 2 blank pages for visa stamps
• Good condition (no damage, water marks, or torn pages)
• Photocopies of all passport pages including personal information page

2. Visa Application Form

• Completed online via Chilean Consular Attention System (SAC)
• Signed on first page under photo and second page
• All fields filled accurately
• Personal email address mandatory
• Information must match passport exactly

3. Photographs

• 2 recent passport-size color photographs
• White background
• 35mm x 45mm size
• Professionally taken (studio quality)
• Face clearly visible, no glasses or headwear (except religious reasons)
• Taken within last 6 months

4. Cover Letter

• Addressed to "The Consulate General of Chile"
• Purpose of visit clearly stated
• Detailed travel itinerary
• Duration of stay
• Accommodation details
• Return travel plans
• Signed and dated

5. Flight Reservations

• Round-trip flight tickets (confirmed booking)
• Clearly showing entry and exit dates
• Passenger name matching passport
• Valid for intended travel dates
• Note: Some consulates accept flight reservations instead of confirmed tickets

6. Accommodation Proof

Choose one of the following:

• Hotel reservations for entire stay duration
• Invitation letter from host in Chile (notarized)
• Rental agreement if staying in private accommodation
• Must cover complete stay period

7. Financial Documents

Bank Statements:

• Last 6 months' bank statements
• Minimum balance: USD 500-800 per month of stay
• Clearly showing regular income/transactions
• Bank seal and signature required
• Original statements preferred

Additional Financial Proof:

• Income Tax Returns (ITR) for last 2 years
• Salary slips for last 3 months (if employed)
• Business registration documents (if self-employed)
• Sponsorship letter with sponsor's financial documents (if applicable)

8. Employment/Education Proof

For Employed Individuals:

• Employment certificate on company letterhead
• Leave approval letter from employer
• Company registration certificate
• Salary slips for last 3 months

For Self-Employed:

• Business registration certificate
• GST registration
• Income Tax Returns
• Business bank statements

For Students:

• Student ID card
• College/University enrollment certificate
• Leave approval from institution
• Parent's financial documents (if sponsored)

For Retirees:

• Pension statements
• Retirement proof
• Bank statements showing pension credits

9. Travel Insurance

• Coverage for entire stay duration
• Minimum coverage: USD 30,000
• Must cover medical emergencies, accidents, and repatriation
• Valid for Chile and South America
• Policy document in English or Spanish

10. Additional Documents (If Applicable)

• Marriage certificate (if traveling with spouse)
• Birth certificates (if traveling with children)
• Previous visa copies (if traveled to Chile before)
• Invitation letter (if visiting family/friends)
• No Objection Certificate (NOC) from employer

Special Requirements for Minors (Under 18)

If traveling with children:

• Child's birth certificate (original + photocopy)
• Both parents' passport copies
• Consent letter from non-traveling parent (notarized)
• School leave certificate
• Visa fee exempted for minors

If child traveling alone or with one parent:

• Notarized consent from both parents
• Apostilled authorization (if required)
• Guardian's contact details in Chile

Method 1: Online Application via SAC Portal (Recommended)

Step 1: Check Eligibility

Visit the official Chilean Ministry of Foreign Affairs website and confirm:

• Your nationality requires a visa
• You don't qualify for visa exemption
• You have all required documents

Step 2: Register on SAC Platform

1. Go to Chilean Consular Attention System (SAC): https://tramites.minrel.gov.cl/
2. Click "Register" or "Registrarse"
3. Provide:
• Full name (as per passport)
• Email address
• Phone number
• Create password
4. Verify email address via confirmation link
5. Log in to your account

Step 3: Complete Online Application Form

1. Select "Visa Application" or "Solicitud de Visa"
2. Choose visa type: "Tourist Visa" (Visa de Turismo)
3. Fill all sections accurately:
• Personal information
• Passport details
• Travel information
• Contact details in India
• Emergency contact
• Previous travel history
4. Important: Information must match passport exactly
5. Review all entries carefully before proceeding

Step 4: Upload Required Documents

Upload clear, colored scans in specified formats (PDF or JPG):

• Passport bio-data page
• Passport-size photographs
• Bank statements
• Flight reservations
• Hotel bookings
• Employment certificate
• Travel insurance
• Cover letter

Document Upload Tips:

• File size: Maximum 2MB per document
• Resolution: Minimum 300 DPI
• Format: PDF preferred for documents, JPG for photos
• Ensure all text is clearly readable
• No shadows or glare on documents

Step 5: Review and Submit

1. Review all information and uploaded documents
2. Check for errors or missing information
3. Accept terms and conditions
4. Submit application
5. Note down application reference number
6. Save confirmation email

Step 6: Payment Instructions

1. After submission, you'll receive email with payment instructions
2. Payment deadline: 30 days from approval notification
3. Pay visa fee in Indian Rupees at current exchange rate
4. Payment methods:
• Bank draft
• Money order
• Cash (at consulate)
• Note: Credit cards and personal checks NOT accepted

Step 7: Track Application Status

1. Log in to SAC portal
2. Go to "My Applications" or "Mis Solicitudes"
3. Check status updates:
• Submitted
• Under Review
• Additional Documents Required
• Approved
• Rejected
4. Monitor registered email for notifications

Step 8: Collect Visa

Once approved:

1. You'll receive electronic visa (e-Visa) via email
2. Download and print visa confirmation
3. Carry printed copy during travel
4. Present at immigration upon arrival in Chile

Method 2: In-Person Application at Embassy/Consulate

Chilean Embassy in India

Embassy of Chile in New Delhi

• Address: D-7/4, Vasant Vihar, New Delhi - 110057
• Phone: +91-11-4166-4600
• Email: echile.india@minrel.gob.cl
• Working Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
• Jurisdiction: All of India

In-Person Application Steps:

1. Schedule Appointment
• Call embassy or email to book appointment
• Appointments required for visa submission
• Arrive 15 minutes before scheduled time
2. Prepare Documents
• Collect all physical copies of required documents
• Organize in order as per checklist
• Keep originals and photocopies separate
3. Visit Embassy
• Arrive on time with all documents
• Bring valid passport
• Be prepared for interview (if required)
• Dress formally and professionally
4. Submit Application
• Submit application form and documents
• Pay visa fee (cash or bank draft)
• Collect receipt and acknowledgment
• Note down tracking number
5. Interview (If Required)
• Answer questions honestly
• Provide clear, concise responses
• Maintain professional demeanor
• Carry supporting documents
6. Wait for Processing
• Standard processing: 15-20 working days
• Check status via phone or email
• Respond promptly if additional documents requested
7. Collect Passport
• Collect in person or via courier (if arranged)
• Verify visa details immediately
• Check dates, name spelling, visa type
• Report any errors immediately

Official Visa Fees for Indians (2025-2026)

Note: Exchange rates fluctuate. Pay in Indian Rupees at the rate applicable on payment date.

Payment Methods Accepted

At Embassy/Consulate:

1. Cash (Indian Rupees)
2. Bank Draft payable to "Embassy of Chile"
3. Money Order payable to "Embassy of Chile"

NOT Accepted:

• ❌ Credit cards
• ❌ Debit cards
• ❌ Personal checks
• ❌ Online transfers (for in-person applications)

Additional Costs to Consider

Document Preparation:

• Notarization: ₹50-200 per document
• Translation (if required): ₹500-1,500 per page
• Photocopies: ₹2-5 per page
• Courier charges: ₹100-500

Travel Insurance:

• Basic coverage: ₹500-1,500 per day
• Comprehensive coverage: ₹1,000-3,000 per day

Service Fees (If Using Visa Agency):

• Agency fees: ₹2,000-5,000
• VFS Global charges: ₹1,500-3,000 (if applicable)

Total Estimated Cost:

• Single Entry: ₹5,000-8,000
• Multiple Entry: ₹8,000-12,000

Standard Processing Timeline

Factors Affecting Processing Time

Faster Processing:

• Complete documentation
• Clear, readable documents
• Accurate information
• Previous travel history to Schengen/US
• Strong financial profile
• Off-peak season (January-March, September-November)

Slower Processing:

• Incomplete documents
• Additional verification required
• Peak season (June-August, December)
• First-time travelers
• Complex cases (business visa, work visa)
• Embassy holidays

How to Track Your Application

Online Tracking (SAC Portal):

1. Visit https://tramites.minrel.gov.cl/
2. Log in with credentials
3. Go to "My Applications"
4. View current status
5. Check for messages or document requests

Email Tracking:

• Monitor registered email address
• Check spam/junk folders
• Respond promptly to embassy emails

Phone Tracking:

• Call embassy: +91-11-4166-4600
• Provide application reference number
• Inquire about status
• Best time to call: 10 AM - 4 PM (weekdays)

When to Follow Up

• After 20 working days if no response received
• If status shows "Additional Documents Required"
• If urgent travel plans (with valid reason)
• If application shows "Under Review" for more than 15 days

Important: Do NOT follow up before 15 working days unless specifically requested by the embassy.

Top 10 Reasons for Chile Visa Rejection

1. Insufficient Financial Proof

Why Rejected:

• Bank balance too low
• Irregular transactions
• Sudden large deposits before application
• No proof of income source

How to Avoid:

• Maintain minimum balance of USD 500-800 per month of stay
• Show 6 months consistent banking history
• Provide salary slips and ITR
• Avoid large cash deposits just before application

2. Incomplete Documentation

Why Rejected:

• Missing required documents
• Unclear photocopies
• Expired documents
• Unsigned forms

How to Avoid:

• Use complete checklist
• Submit clear, colored scans
• Verify all documents are current
• Sign all required pages

3. Inconsistent Information

Why Rejected:

• Name mismatch between documents
• Different dates in various documents
• Conflicting information in application and supporting docs

How to Avoid:

• Ensure all names match passport exactly
• Cross-verify dates across all documents
• Review application before submission

4. Weak Travel History

Why Rejected:

• No previous international travel
• Visa overstays in other countries
• Deportation history

How to Avoid:

• Build travel history with easier destinations first
• Provide explanation for any previous visa issues
• Show strong ties to India

5. Unclear Purpose of Visit

Why Rejected:

• Vague travel plans
• No proper itinerary
• Suspicious travel purpose

How to Avoid:

• Provide detailed day-by-day itinerary
• Book hotels for entire stay
• Explain purpose clearly in cover letter

6. Insufficient Ties to India

Why Rejected:

• No proof of return
• Unemployed with no assets
• No family ties in India

How to Avoid:

• Provide employment certificate
• Show property ownership
• Include family ties documentation
• Demonstrate reasons to return

7. Invalid or Expiring Passport

Why Rejected:

• Passport validity less than 6 months
• Damaged passport
• No blank pages

How to Avoid:

• Renew passport if validity less than 9 months
• Ensure passport in good condition
• Have at least 2 blank pages

8. Fraudulent Documents

Why Rejected:

• Fake bank statements
• Forged employment letters
• Manipulated documents

How to Avoid:

• Submit only genuine documents
• Obtain documents from official sources
• Never use agents who promise "guaranteed" visas

9. Previous Visa Violations

Why Rejected:

• Overstayed previous visa
• Worked on tourist visa
• Violated visa conditions

How to Avoid:

• Disclose previous violations honestly
• Provide explanation letter
• Show changed circumstances

10. Inadequate Travel Insurance

Why Rejected:

• No travel insurance
• Insufficient coverage
• Invalid policy

How to Avoid:

• Purchase comprehensive travel insurance
• Minimum USD 30,000 coverage
• Valid for entire stay duration

What to Do If Visa is Rejected

1. Request Rejection Reason
• Contact embassy for detailed explanation
• Understand specific grounds for rejection
2. Review Application
• Identify mistakes or gaps
• Gather missing documents
• Correct errors
3. Reapply
• Wait for appropriate time (usually 3-6 months)
• Address rejection reasons
• Submit stronger application
• Include explanation letter
4. Consider Appeal
• Check if appeal process available
• Provide additional evidence
• Seek legal advice if needed

Maximum Stay Duration

Tourist Visa:

• Initial stay: 30 days per visit
• Maximum stay: 90 days (with extension)
• Multiple entries allowed (for multiple entry visa)

Visa-Free Entry (US Visa/Green Card holders):

• Maximum stay: 90 days
• Extension possible for additional 90 days

How to Extend Your Stay in Chile

Extension Process:

1. Apply Before Expiry
• Apply at least 10 days before visa expiry
• Do NOT overstay
2. Visit Immigration Office
• Departamento de Extranjería y Migración
• Address: San Antonio 580, Santiago, Chile
• Working hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 2:00 PM
3. Required Documents for Extension
• Valid passport
• Current visa
• Tourist Card (Tarjeta de Turismo)
• Proof of sufficient funds
• Return flight ticket
• Accommodation proof
• Extension fee payment
4. Extension Fee
• Approximately USD 100
• Pay in Chilean Pesos
• Payment at immigration office
5. Processing Time
• Same day to 5 working days
• Receive extension stamp in passport

Important Extension Rules

Can Extend:

• Tourist visa from 30 to 90 days
• Visa-free stay for additional 90 days
• Once per entry

Cannot Extend:

• Beyond 90 days total stay
• Multiple times per entry
• After visa has expired

Overstay Penalties:

• Fine: USD 100-500
• Deportation possible
• Future visa ban
• Entry ban to Chile

Before You Travel

1. Currency and Money

• Currency: Chilean Peso (CLP)
• Exchange Rate: 1 USD ≈ 900-950 CLP (December 2025)
• Best Exchange: Exchange at Santiago airport or authorized exchange houses
• ATMs: Widely available, accept international cards
• Credit Cards: Visa and Mastercard widely accepted
• Cash Needed: Carry USD 200-300 for initial expenses

2. Language

• Official Language: Spanish
• English: Limited in tourist areas, rare elsewhere
• Useful Apps: Google Translate, Duolingo
• Learn Basic Spanish: Greetings, numbers, directions
• Carry Translation App: Essential for communication

3. Best Time to Visit

• Summer (December-February): Warm, peak season, higher prices
• Autumn (March-May): Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
• Winter (June-August): Cold, ski season in Andes
• Spring (September-November): Mild weather, good for sightseeing

4. Flights from India

No Direct Flights Available

Common Routes:

• Delhi/Mumbai → Dubai/Doha → São Paulo → Santiago (24-30 hours)
• Delhi/Mumbai → London/Paris → Santiago (22-28 hours)
• Delhi/Mumbai → New York → Santiago (26-32 hours)

Airlines:

• Emirates, Qatar Airways, LATAM, Air France, British Airways

Average Cost:

• Economy: ₹80,000-1,50,000 (round trip)
• Business: ₹2,50,000-4,00,000 (round trip)

Upon Arrival in Chile

1. Immigration Process

• Present passport and visa
• Receive Tourist Card (Tarjeta de Turismo)
• Keep Tourist Card safe - required at exit
• Answer immigration officer's questions
• Declare items if required

2. Customs Regulations

Allowed:

• 400 cigarettes or 50 cigars
• 2.5 liters of alcoholic beverages
• Personal items and gifts up to USD 500

Prohibited:

• Fresh fruits, vegetables, meat products
• Plants and seeds
• Illegal drugs
• Weapons

3. SIM Card and Internet

• Purchase SIM at airport or city
• Providers: Entel, Movistar, Claro, WOM
• Cost: 5,000-15,000 CLP (₹500-1,500)
• Data Plans: 10GB for 7,000-10,000 CLP
• WiFi: Available in hotels, cafes, restaurants

4. Transportation

From Airport to City:

• Taxi: 15,000-20,000 CLP (₹1,500-2,000)
• Uber: Available, slightly cheaper
• Airport Bus: 5,000-8,000 CLP (₹500-800)
• Metro: Cheapest, 800-1,500 CLP (₹80-150)

Within Santiago:

• Metro: Efficient, cheap (800-1,500 CLP per ride)
• Bus: Extensive network (700-1,200 CLP)
• Taxi: Metered, safe
• Uber/Cabify: Widely available

Safety and Health

1. Safety Tips

• Chile is generally safe for tourists
• Avoid displaying expensive items
• Be cautious in crowded areas (pickpockets)
• Use registered taxis or Uber
• Keep copies of important documents
• Emergency number: 133 (Police), 131 (Ambulance)

2. Health Precautions

• No mandatory vaccinations required
• Recommended: Hepatitis A, Typhoid
• Tap water safe to drink in major cities
• Carry basic medications
• Travel insurance mandatory

3. Altitude Sickness

• If visiting Atacama Desert or Andes
• Altitude: 2,400-4,000 meters
• Symptoms: Headache, nausea, fatigue
• Prevention: Acclimatize slowly, stay hydrated
• Medication: Acetazolamide (consult doctor)

Cultural Tips for Indians

1. Dining Etiquette

• Lunch: 1:00-3:00 PM (main meal)
• Dinner: 8:00-10:00 PM (late)
• Tipping: 10% customary
• Vegetarian options limited (inform in advance)

2. Social Customs

• Greet with handshake or kiss on cheek
• Punctuality appreciated
• Dress modestly in religious places
• Respect personal space

3. Shopping

• Bargaining not common (except markets)
• Shops close on Sundays
• Credit cards widely accepted
• VAT refund available for tourists (19%)

Must-Visit Places for Indians

1. Santiago - Capital city, museums, parks
2. Valparaíso - Colorful port city, UNESCO site
3. Atacama Desert - Driest desert, stargazing
4. Torres del Paine - National park, trekking
5. Easter Island - Moai statues, Polynesian culture
6. Chilean Wine Valleys - Casablanca, Maipo, Colchagua

Budget Planning

Daily Budget (Per Person):

• Budget: ₹3,000-5,000 (Hostels, street food, public transport)
• Mid-Range: ₹6,000-10,000 (Hotels, restaurants, tours)
• Luxury: ₹15,000+ (5-star hotels, fine dining, private tours)

Sample 7-Day Trip Cost:

• Flights: ₹1,00,000
• Accommodation: ₹35,000-70,000
• Food: ₹15,000-30,000
• Transport: ₹10,000-20,000
• Activities: ₹20,000-40,000
• Total: ₹1,80,000-2,60,000 per person

Obtaining a Chile visa for Indians in 2026 is a straightforward process when you have complete documentation and follow the proper procedures. Whether you're planning to explore the stunning landscapes of Patagonia, experience the vibrant culture of Santiago, or witness the mysterious Moai statues of Easter Island, proper visa preparation is your first step toward an unforgettable Chilean adventure.

Key Takeaways:

• Indians need a visa unless they have a valid US visa/Green Card
• Apply at least one month before travel
• Ensure all documents are complete and accurate
• Maintain sufficient bank balance
• Purchase comprehensive travel insurance
• Track your application regularly
• Plan your trip during the best season

Ready to Apply? Start your Chile visa application today through the official Chilean Consular Attention System (SAC) or contact the Chilean Embassy in New Delhi for assistance.

Disclaimer: Visa regulations can change without notice. Always verify current requirements through official Chile government sources before applying. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

Content Accuracy: This comprehensive guide has been researched and compiled using official government sources, embassy guidelines, and verified traveler experiences to provide accurate, up-to-date information for Indian travelers planning to visit Chile.

Expert Contributors: BTW Visas experts team with 15+ years of industry experience, with a 99% visa success rate, and have processed more than 4 lakh+ Visas.