Planning a trip to Chile involves understanding its entry rules, gathering the right documents, and learning a few insider tips that most guidebooks overlook. Read on to discover everything you need—from who needs a visa to what happens if you overstay—and get your journey off to a smooth start.

Who Needs a Chile Tourist Visa?

Chile divides travelers into visa-exempt and visa-required categories.

Most Western European, North American, and Australian passport holders can enter Chile without a visa for up to 90 days, while citizens of many Asian, African, and Eastern European countries must apply in advance. For a full list of visa-exempt countries, check the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Chile visa-exempt list.

Special Visa Exemptions

• Chinese and Indian nationals holding a valid U.S. or Canadian visa (with at least six months’ validity) may enter Chile visa-free for up to 90 days under the e-Vistur online system.
• Australian citizens can also apply online under the e-Visa scheme (see next section).

Documents Required for Your Application

Whether you apply at a consulate or online, gather these essentials:

• Valid passport with at least six months until expiry
• One recent passport-style photograph
• Proof of round-trip flight bookings
• Proof of accommodation (hotel reservations or invitation letter)
• Evidence of sufficient funds (see proof-of-funds requirement below)
• Completed visa application form

Some consulates ask for a cover letter explaining your travel purpose or additional financial documents such as bank statements. Originals of all uploaded documents must be presented at your visa appointment. For detailed document guidelines, refer to the Chilean Immigration Department’s requirements.

Applying for a Chile Tourist Visa

You have two main routes: the traditional embassy/consulate application or the e-Visa (e-Vistur) system.

1. Consular Application
2. Fill out the paper form and schedule an appointment.
3. Submit your documents in person.
4. Pay the visa fee (varies by country).

5. Processing: typically 5–15 business days.

6. Chile e-Visa (e-Vistur)

7. Launched in 2020 for eligible nationalities.
8. Apply online at the e-Vistur portal.
9. e-Visa valid for 180 days, extendable by another 90 days.
10. Faster processing and no embassy visit required.

Processing times and fees differ by nationality; always verify at your local consulate or on the e-Vistur portal.

On Arrival: Your Chilean Tourist Card

Most visa-exempt travelers receive a Tarjeta de Turismo (Chilean Tourist Card) at immigration, as noted on the Chile Travel official tourism portal. Keep it safe—Chile’s immigration police require you to surrender it when you leave.

• If lost, you must obtain a replacement from the Carabineros de Chile International Police before departure.
• Replacement can take several hours and may involve additional fees.

Overstaying Your Allowed Period

Chile takes overstays seriously. If you remain beyond your authorized date:

• You will incur daily fines based on the length of your overstay.
• You must settle all fines at designated offices before checking in for your flight.
• Unpaid fines can lead to passport confiscation and significant exit delays, as outlined by the U.S. State Department travel advisory.

Proof of Sufficient Funds

Authorities may ask you to show you can support yourself. You generally need to demonstrate at least USD 46 per day of your stay, according to the Expat.com guide to Chile visa requirements.

• Bank statements from the last three months
• Credit card limits or cash on hand
• Letter from sponsor (if someone else is covering your expenses)

Special Requirement: Rapa Nui (Easter Island) Entry Form

Easter Island (Rapa Nui) enforces its own entry form in addition to Chile’s general tourist rules. Before flying there:

• Complete the Rapa Nui Entry Form on the Rapa Nui Government website.
• Present proof of your mainland arrival flight.

Failing to fill out this form can result in denied boarding or fines on the island.

Your Next Steps Toward Adventure

Armed with these requirements and insider tips, you’re ready to start your Chilean adventure. From the bustling streets of Santiago to the mysteries of Rapa Nui, you’ll navigate entry rules like a pro—no last-minute scrambles necessary.

Safe travels across Chile!