Can we get a Work Visa in Chile and not only at your consulate in your country

Expert Info

on 10 Sep 2019

Hello everybody,

I’m Canadian and I would like to know if it’s possible to arrive in Chile as a tourist Visa (90 days) and apply directly in Chile for a work Visa ( 2 years ) or a working holiday Visa ( 1 year ) .

I have a notarized contract in my hand from a Chilean employer.

I mean do we absolutely need to be in our country of origin to apply for it ?

Thank you !

Cheers !

Rianca on 10 Sep 2019 - 07:10

Hi JB,

From what I have read, it seems completely possible to apply for a work permit once already in Chile. The main difference seems to be who you submit your paperwork to. Applications and supporting documents for a work permit should be submitted to the Immigration Department of the Ministry of the Interior if applying from within Chile, or the relevant Chilean consulate if from outside the country. You can have a look at our guide on work permits for Chile to get more detail. Have you spoken to your new employer about your application?

Hope this helps! Rianca

Head Brewer on 10 Sep 2019 - 12:10

Thank you for your answer !

Yes I spoke several times to my next employer but he doesn’t really know how it works .

I called the consulate here and they told me it’s impossible to get a Work Visa on the road or when I will be in Chile . According to them I have to apply when I’m in Canada and wait until I get the work visa in Canada and then I have 3 months to arrive in Chile .

On internet , people says different things so I’m confuse .

Cheers !

Rianca on 10 Sep 2019 - 12:24

Hi JB. If you have phoned the consulate and they say you need to do it before you will it would be best to listen to what they say. The rules for visas can change frequently and without warning which makes the consulate and embassy the safest source of information. I'm sure if you do the visa before you move it will also remove a lot of stress from your first few days in your new country. All the best with the move! Rianca

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