Chile Digital Nomad Visa: Requirements and Application

By Mark 15 February 2024

The world of work has transformed, with more individuals than ever before choosing the freedom of remote work and the digital nomad lifestyle. Gone are days when being present in an office from nine to five was a necessity for many professionals. Technology has made geographical locations less relevant for job performance, giving rise to a movement where work can be done from anywhere—be that a café in Paris, a beach in Bali, or a cozy apartment in Santiago.

Chile has quickly become a sought-after destination for digital nomads. What makes Chile so appealing are its diverse and breathtaking sceneries, from the arid deserts in the north to the glaciers and fjords in the south. Urban areas, especially Santiago, are known for their robust internet connectivity, making it easier for remote workers to stay connected. Moreover, a sense of community among digital nomads and expats in cities such as Valparaiso and Puerto Varas ensures newcomers can find peers and networks swiftly.

With the rise of the nomadic workforce, there’s a growing interest among these professionals and the countries they reside in to create legal pathways that facilitate this modern way of working. Countries worldwide are recognizing the economic contributions of digital nomads and are exploring or implementing visa schemes to attract them. Chile, with its open arms to innovation and global digital workforce, is part of this transformative wave, making it imperative for digital nomads to understand their legal standing and the opportunities available to them.

Main Points

Understanding Chile’s Stance on the Digital Nomad Visa

One of the most frequently asked questions is about the existence of a digital nomad visa specifically for Chile. As of now, Chile does not offer a visa under the title ‘Digital Nomad Visa’. However, this doesn’t mean remote workers don’t have options. The government provides various visa types that might suit the needs of digital nomads, depending on their circumstances.

Requirements and Application Process for Working Remotely in Chile

For those interested in working remotely from Chile, understanding the general requirements for attaining legal status is key. Here’s a brief overview:

Temporary Residence Visa: Often the most suitable for digital nomads, allowing an extended stay with the possibility to work remotely for foreign companies.
Documents: Applicants typically need to provide identification, proof of income, health insurance coverage, and a letter explaining their work situation.
Application Process: Submissions can usually be made both online and at Chilean consulates with processing times varying.

Alternatives for Working Remotely in Chile

Digital nomads in Chile have pursued different paths to legally work in the country:

Tourist Visa: Allows for short stays and is an option for those who wish to try out living in Chile before committing to a longer-term visa.
Temporary Residence Visa: Suits remote workers employed by companies outside of Chile, with a validity of up to one year and the possibility of extension or transition to permanent residency.

Obtaining a Work Visa for the USA from Chile

For Chileans or expats in Chile looking to move to the USA, acquiring a work visa involves several steps:

Visa Types: H-1B (specialty occupations), L-1 (intra-company transfers), O-1 (individuals with extraordinary ability or achievement), and others depending on the specific case.
Requirements: Generally, you will need a job offer from a U.S. employer, relevant qualifications, and to go through the petition approval process by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Application Process: After approval, applicants can apply at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate in Chile. This involves document submission and an interview.

Navigating the legalities of working as a digital nomad or moving to the USA for employment involves a significant amount of preparation and understanding of the respective immigration systems. For those looking to make such moves, keeping abreast of the latest visa information and seeking guidance from official resources or legal experts is advisable.

Understanding Digital Nomad Visas in Chile

What is a Digital Nomad Visa?

A Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) serves as a formal authorization for individuals to live and work in a foreign country while being employed or running a business elsewhere. Its primary purpose is to legally facilitate the lifestyle of digital nomads—professionals who choose to work remotely, often in the technology sector, from locations across the globe. DNVs acknowledge the evolving nature of work and aim to attract skilled workers by offering them the flexibility to explore new countries without compromising their careers.

The Evolution of Remote Work and Its Impact on Visa Policies

The shift towards remote work has been accelerating, with more businesses becoming open to, or even preferring, remote arrangements. This global trend has prompted countries to reconsider their immigration and work visa policies to accommodate these mobile professionals. Recognizing the economic benefits that digital nomads can bring, including increased spending in the local economy and international connections, nations are implementing or considering digital nomad visas to attract this cohort. These visas represent a significant move towards embracing the digital economy and acknowledging the changing dynamics of the workforce.

Chile’s Position on Digital Nomad Visas

Chile is renowned for its forward-thinking approach to technology and entrepreneurship, as seen in its range of initiatives to support startups and tech innovation. Despite this, as of the latest information, the Chilean government does not offer a visa explicitly labeled as a ‘Digital Nomad Visa’. Nevertheless, Chile remains an attractive destination for digital nomads, thanks to its robust internet infrastructure, beautiful settings, and a supportive community of remote workers. Instead of a specialized visa, Chile provides several visa options that can accommodate the needs of digital nomads. Professionals looking to work remotely from Chile must navigate the existing visa framework to identify the best fit for their situation, reflecting on the type of work they do, their income sources, and how long they intend to stay in the country.

Exploring Visa Options for Digital Nomads in Chile

Is There a Specific Visa for Digital Nomads in Chile?

Chile does not currently offer a visa specifically designated as a Digital Nomad Visa. This piece of information is crucial for remote workers who dream of living in Chile while continuing their careers online. Although the concept of digital nomadism has gained global attention, not all countries have established a legal framework tailored to this lifestyle. Chile, known for its welcoming approach to entrepreneurs and tech enthusiasts, still provides viable options for those looking to work within its borders remotely.

Alternatives to the Digital Nomad Visa for Working Remotely in Chile

Given the absence of a specialized visa for digital nomads, exploring alternative visa options becomes necessary for those wishing to work remotely in Chile. Here are some of the categories that might be suitable:

Tourist Visa: While not intended for long-term or permanent work arrangements, the tourist visa allows individuals to stay in Chile for up to 90 days. This can be a suitable short-term solution for digital nomads, especially those who wish to explore the country before making a long-term commitment.
Temporary Residence Visa: This visa category is often the most fitting for digital nomads planning to stay in Chile for more extended periods. Although the application process may require more documentation, including proof of income and health insurance, it provides the legal means to live and work remotely in Chile for up to a year, with the possibility of renewal.
Subject to Contract Visa: For digital nomads who have secured contracts with Chilean companies, this visa permits them to reside and work in Chile. It ties the visa’s validity to the duration of the contract, offering another pathway to working remotely in-country.
Student Visa: While not directly related to working, a student visa can be an option for those who want to study and possibly work part-time in Chile. This could be an indirect route for digital nomads who also have an interest in furthering their education.

Each of these alternatives has its unique requirements, benefits, and limitations. Digital nomads should carefully consider which option aligns best with their circumstances, including their anticipated length of stay, source of income, and whether they plan to work for a Chilean company or continue with their current employer remotely.

Eligibility and Requirements for Chile’s Digital Nomad Visa

General Eligibility Criteria for Applying

Understanding the qualifications necessary for applying is the first step for aspiring digital nomads. While Chile doesn’t have a specific ‘Digital Nomad Visa,’ the Temporary Residence Visa often serves as a suitable alternative. The general eligibility criteria for this visa include:

Being of good moral character, evidenced by a lack of criminal record.
Possessing a valid passport with at least six months before expiration.
Demonstrating the ability to work remotely, typically for a company based outside of Chile.
Meeting financial requirements to sustain living expenses in Chile.

Required Documents and Application Process

The application process for obtaining a visa that allows remote work in Chile involves multiple steps and requires the submission of several key documents:

Completed Application Form: Each applicant must fill out the official visa application form accurately.
Passport Photos: Recent passport-sized photographs are required.
Passport Copy: A clear copy of the passport, showing the applicant’s personal details.
Proof of Income: Documents proving a stable source of income from remote work, such as employment contracts, bank statements, or tax returns.
Criminal Record Certificate: A document ensuring the applicant has no criminal history.
Health Insurance: Proof of international health insurance coverage.
Letter of Intent: A personal statement explaining the purpose of staying in Chile, detailing work arrangements and the duration of the stay.

The step-by-step process generally involves submitting the application and documents online or at a Chilean consulate, then awaiting approval. Upon arrival in Chile, applicants must register their visa at the local police department, the PDI (Policía de Investigaciones de Chile).

Financial Requirements and Health Insurance Coverage

Digital nomads applying for the capability to work remotely in Chile must demonstrate their financial ability to support themselves during their stay. Applicants are required to show proof of a regular income that is deemed sufficient to cover living expenses in Chile. The exact amount is subject to change and can depend on various factors, including the city of residence and personal lifestyle.

Health insurance coverage is equally important. Applicants must have comprehensive international health insurance that covers medical expenses in Chile. This insurance should remain valid throughout the duration of their stay. Submitting proof of this insurance is mandatory during the application process.

How to Apply for Chile’s Digital Nomad Visa

Step-by-Step: The Application Process

For individuals looking to embrace the digital nomad lifestyle in Chile, following a structured approach to applying for the right visa is crucial. While there’s no exclusive ‘Digital Nomad Visa,’ a Temporary Residence Visa can serve digital nomads adequately. Here’s a detailed guide for preparing and submitting your application:

Gather Necessary Information: Research the specific requirements for the Temporary Residence Visa on official Chilean immigration websites to ensure no detail is overlooked.
Prepare Your Documents: Collect all the required documents, including proof of regular income, a criminal record certificate, valid health insurance, and a letter of intent. Make sure these documents are translated into Spanish by a certified translator, if necessary.
Submit Your Application: Depending on your location, submit your application and documentation online through the Chilean government’s immigration portal or in person at the nearest Chilean consulate.
Pay the Visa Fee: Be ready to pay the associated visa application fee. The fee can vary based on nationality and visa type, so confirm the exact amount during your application process.
Consulate Interview (if applicable): Some applicants may be required to attend an interview at the Chilean consulate. During the interview, be prepared to discuss your application and plans in Chile.

Timeline: What to Expect After Submission

After submitting your application for a visa that accommodates remote work, the waiting period begins. Typically, processing times can vary:

Online Applications: These may take anywhere from 2 to 3 months to process. During high-demand periods, the timeline could extend, so patience is key.
Consulate Applications: Times can vary significantly based on the consulate’s workload and specific country regulations.

While waiting, applicants should:

Monitor Their Application Status: Regularly check your application status online if you applied through the digital portal.
Prepare for Your Move: Begin planning your relocation, but avoid making non-refundable bookings until your visa approval is confirmed.

Dealing with Potential Application Challenges

Applicants might encounter a variety of hurdles during their visa application process. Being prepared for these challenges can make navigating them less stressful:

Delays in Processing: Governmental backlog is common, especially during peak periods. Persistently follow up on your application status through official channels.
Document Discrepancies: Ensure all provided documents meet the requirements exactly. Any discrepancies in documentation can lead to delays or denial.
Language Barrier: Non-Spanish speakers might find the process daunting. Consider engaging a translator or an immigration lawyer to assist with application preparation and submission.

Addressing possible setbacks promptly and effectively is key to successfully obtaining a visa to work remotely in Chile.

Working in Chile Without a Digital Nomad Visa

Visa Requirements for Traditional Employment in Chile

For individuals aiming to work in Chile through traditional employment routes, understanding the standard work visa process and requirements is crucial. A typical work visa, or Visa Subject to Contract, is tied to a specific job offer from a Chilean employer. Here’s what the process generally entails:

Job Offer: Before applying, the applicant must secure a formal job offer from a Chilean company.
Documentation: Essential documents include the job contract, a valid passport, photographs, a health certificate, and a police clearance certificate. All foreign documents should be appropriately legalized or apostilled, depending on the country of issue.
Application Submission: Applicants must then submit their visa application, along with all the required documents, either at a Chilean consulate abroad or directly in Chile, if legally permitted.
Payment: A visa fee, which varies depending on the applicant’s nationality, must be paid upon application submission.

Meeting all specified requirements and following the application steps closely are vital for a successful visa application.

Short-Term Work Options Without a Full Work Visa

Digital nomads and remote workers often seek flexible, short-term options that allow them to experience working from Chile without committing to a full work visa. Tourist visas, business visas, and other short-term options are worth considering:

Tourist Visa: Many nationals can enter Chile as tourists without a visa or obtain one upon arrival, allowing stays of up to 90 days. While working for a foreign employer remotely, using a tourist visa is a common practice among digital nomads. However, it’s important to comply with the limitations of tourist visa regulations, which typically do not permit local employment.
Business Visa: Intended for those visiting Chile for short-term business activities such as meetings, conferences, or exploring business opportunities. Although not designed for full-time employment, a business visa can suit digital nomads attending business-related events in Chile. The requirements include an invitation from a Chilean company or a letter from the applicant’s employer detailing the business visit’s purpose.
Temporary Residence Visa: While this option involves a more comprehensive application process, it permits a longer stay and the flexibility to work remotely for a foreign employer. This visa is an excellent alternative for digital nomads planning an extended stay in Chile.

Understanding and choosing the right visa based on the duration of stay and the nature of work is essential for ensuring compliance with Chilean immigration laws and enjoying a productive stay in the country.

The Procedure for Obtaining a Work Visa for the USA from Chile

Types of Work Visas Available for Chileans to Work in the USA

Chileans looking to work in the USA have several visa options, each with its own set of criteria. Some of the most common include:

H-1B Visa (Specialty Occupations): This visa is for individuals employed in specialty occupations that require highly specialized knowledge. A bachelor’s degree or higher in the specific specialty is typically necessary.
L-1 Visa (Intra-company Transferees): Designed for managers, executives, or specialized knowledge employees transferring to the US to work in an office affiliated with the company that employs them outside the US.
O-1 Visa (Individual with Extraordinary Ability or Achievement): This visa category is for individuals with extraordinary abilities in sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics, or who have a demonstrated record of extraordinary achievement in the motion picture or television industry.

Understanding the specific criteria of each visa is essential to identify the most suitable option based on the applicant’s circumstances and career goals.

Requirements and Process for Applying for a US Work Visa from Chile

Navigating the US work visa application process from Chile involves several steps, from the initial USCIS petition to the final embassy interview:

Employer Files Petition: The US employer must first file a petition on behalf of the Chilean applicant with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). For certain visas, like the H-1B, this includes a lottery process due to the cap on the number of visas issued annually.
USCIS Approval: Upon approval of the petition by USCIS, the applicant receives a Form I-797, which is necessary for the next steps of the application.
Complete the Visa Application: The applicant must complete the DS-160 form online, which is the nonimmigrant visa application form, and print the confirmation page.
Schedule and Attend a Visa Interview: With the DS-160 form completed, the applicant then schedules an interview at the US Embassy or Consulate in Chile. At this time, the applicant must pay the applicable visa application fee.
Prepare Documentation: Essential documents for the visa interview include the passport, DS-160 confirmation page, a photograph as per US visa specifications, Form I-797, and any other documents that prove the applicant’s eligibility for the visa category.
Attend the Visa Interview: During the interview, a consular officer will determine whether the applicant is eligible to receive a visa. Being prepared and providing honest, accurate responses is crucial.

Following these steps attentively and preparing thoroughly for the visa interview are key components of successfully obtaining a work visa to enter the United States from Chile.

To Conclude

Navigating through the intricacies of visa requirements is a crucial step for those seeking to work remotely as digital nomads or looking to embark on traditional employment paths in new countries. Understanding and adhering to visa regulations is fundamental not merely to ensure legal compliance but also to secure a hassle-free experience for your professional and personal aspirations abroad.

Chile, with its diverse geography, robust internet infrastructure, and a thriving community of digital nomads and expatriates, presents a compelling case for remote workers seeking new destinations. While the country does not currently offer a visa explicitly labeled for digital nomads, several alternatives cater to the needs of remote workers. These range from tourist and temporary residence visas to more specific options tied to employment contracts with Chilean companies.

For those considering Chile as their next digital nomad base, proper legal preparation cannot be overstressed. From choosing the correct visa type, gathering the necessary documentation, to understanding the financial and health insurance requirements, every step is instrumental in crafting a memorable and productive stay in Chile.

Similarly, for Chileans aiming to explore work opportunities in the USA, familiarizing themselves with the different types of work visas available and the comprehensive process involved—from employer petitions through to consulate interviews—is essential.

In conclusion, whether you’re eyeing Chile for its digital nomad potential or looking outward from Chile to opportunities in the United States, preparation is key. A thorough understanding of visa requirements and a proactive approach to legal compliance lay the foundation for a successful work experience abroad. Chile invites exploration and opportunity, but like any venture to new shores, it demands respect for legal pathways and an embrace of the adventure that comes with living and working in new cultures.

Questions and Answers

Can I work for a Chilean company as a digital nomad?

Working for a Chilean company as a digital nomad involves navigating a set of legal frameworks. While Chile does not specifically prohibit remote workers from foreign countries working for local companies, the key is ensuring compliance with visa and work permit regulations. For instance, if you are on a tourist visa, which many digital nomads might initially use for short stays, you are not legally permitted to enter into a contract with a Chilean employer. To work for a Chilean company legally, securing a work visa—such as the Visa Subject to Contract—is necessary. This visa ties the right to reside in Chile to your employment with a specific company.

Do I need to pay taxes in Chile on income earned as a digital nomad?

Tax liability in Chile for foreign workers, including digital nomads, largely depends on their residency status. Generally, individuals who spend more than 183 days in Chile within a 12-month period are considered residents for tax purposes and are subjected to pay taxes on their worldwide income. However, if you are in Chile for a shorter duration and your income is sourced from outside Chile, you may not be required to pay Chilean income tax. Despite these general rules, tax laws can be complex, and seeking advice from a tax professional is highly recommended to navigate Chile’s tax system effectively.

What are the main benefits of choosing Chile as a destination for digital nomads?

Chile offers numerous advantages for digital nomads, making it an attractive destination. First, Chile’s internet infrastructure is among the best in Latin America, offering reliable and fast connectivity crucial for remote work. The country’s cultural richness provides a vibrant backdrop for living, from its bustling cities to stunning natural landscapes like the Atacama Desert and Patagonia. Lastly, Chile boasts a welcoming expat community, with various social groups and networking opportunities that make settling in easier for digital nomads and expatriates alike.

How does Chile’s Digital Nomad Visa compare with those of other countries?

While Chile doesn’t currently offer a specific “Digital Nomad Visa," many countries have begun introducing dedicated visas to attract remote workers. For example, Estonia’s Digital Nomad Visa allows remote workers to live in Estonia and legally work for their foreign employers. Barbados offers the “Barbados Welcome Stamp," a one-year visa for remote workers, and Portugal has a temporary stay visa for self-employed and remote workers. Chile’s approach, focusing on temporary residence and alternative visa types, offers flexibility but may not provide the same level of specificity or marketing appeal as these dedicated digital nomad visas. Nevertheless, Chile remains a competitive destination due to its infrastructure, culture, and community for digital nomads, despite the absence of a specific visa category.