Discover Chile’s magnificent 887 sculptures and delve into its vibrant cultural hub, Santiago, while enjoying thrilling adventures like volcano climbing, whitewater rafting, kayaking, or skiing. To explore this incredible country, you’ll need a Chile tourist visa. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the process of obtaining a Chile tourist visa for Indian citizens.

What is a Chile Tourist Visa?

Chile, renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, is a top tourist destination. To visit Chile for tourism purposes, you must obtain a tourist visa, also known as a tourist card. This visa grants you the opportunity to tour the country, visit tourist attractions, or even reunite with friends and family in Chile. It’s the most common type of Chilean visa, with a validity period of approximately 6 months, allowing a stay of up to 90 days. Depending on your circumstances, you may apply for an extension through the Extranjeria – Foreigners’ Office.

How to Apply for a Chile Tourist Visa?

The application process for a Chile tourist visa is primarily offline. However, before applying, ensure you have all the necessary documents and meet the eligibility criteria. Here’s a step-by-step procedure for the application:

1. Visit the embassy website and complete the Chile visa application form online.
2. Provide accurate information consistent with your travel documents.
3. Upload the required documents online.
4. Pay the necessary fee for the permit.
5. Your application will be reviewed by the Chile Immigration authorities.
6. After approval, submit the remaining documents, including your original passport, as requested by Immigration.

Accuracy in your application is crucial, as false or unverifiable information can lead to visa rejection. To ensure a smooth application process, consider consulting with professionals.

Eligibility for Chile Tourist Visa

Before applying for the visa, ensure you meet the eligibility criteria, which include the following parameters:

• Proof of confirmed visit, including round-trip bookings.
• Intention to visit for tourism purposes only, with no intention to seek employment.
• Meeting health requirements, which may include a medical test and relevant documentary proof.
• Demonstrating good character and genuine intentions for your stay in Chile, with relevant documentary proof, such as a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC).
• Possession of sufficient funds to cover your stay and expenses in Chile, supported by bank statements or equivalent documents.

Documents Required for Chile Tourist Visa

Several documents are necessary to apply for a tourist visa to Chile:

• An original passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel date.
• Visa application form, duly signed.
• Colored photographs meeting specific size and format specifications.
• A comprehensive cover letter with all the required details.
• Confirmed flight tickets.
• Proof of accommodation, which can include an invitation letter or hotel reservation.
• Evidence of sufficient funds, such as bank statements or equivalent documents.
• Income Tax Returns as proof of financial stability.
• Proof of identification, such as a PAN card or Aadhar card.
• A letter of recommendation from your current employer.
• Copies of valid older visas (if any) from countries like the USA, UK, Schengen, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Chile.

Chile Tourist Visa Photo Specifications

Ensure your photos for the Chile tourist visa meet the following specifications:

• Two copies of the photo are required.
• Photo size: 35 mm x 45 mm.
• Provide colored copies only.
• The head should occupy approximately 1 to 1.4 inches of the photo frame.
• Ensure a well-centered head in the photo.
• Photos must not be older than 6 months.
• Use a white background.
• Maintain a neutral facial expression.
• Glasses are not permitted in the photos, except for religious reasons.
• Headgear is not allowed, with exceptions made for religious purposes.
• Avoid clothing that matches the background.

Processing Time for Chile Tourist Visa

The processing time for a Chile tourist visa can vary based on factors like visa type, number of entries, embassy workload, and more. Typically, tourist visas are processed within 15 to 20 business days. However, this duration may change based on the specific circumstances.

Chile Tourist Visa Fees

Visa fees for Chile are paid to the embassy and can vary depending on factors such as visa type, embassy requirements, urgency, and more. Pay the fee when submitting the online application form.

• Single entry Normal Tourist Visa: 1-month stay, 3 months validity – INR 5,560.0
• Multiple entry Normal Tourist Visa: 1-month stay, 3 months validity – INR 7,170.0

After Submission

After completing the application process, keep these points in mind:

• Inform the embassy or agency of any additional requirements or changes related to your application.
• If any changes occur, such as a change in marital status or the birth of a child, promptly notify the embassy/agency.
• You can check the status of your application and its processing in the meantime.
• If your plans change, you have the option to withdraw your application, but note that visa fees are generally non-refundable.

Checking Visa Status

To check your visa processing status, wait at least 15 days from the application date. After this period, contact the embassy to inquire about your visa’s status and schedule an appointment to collect your processed visa.

When You Have the Visa

Even after obtaining your visa, you must follow specific formalities and protocols. Be aware that improper conduct could lead to visa cancellation. Here are some important guidelines:

Before You Travel:

• Note the visa’s expiry date and the number of permitted entries.
• Travel to Chile within your visa’s validity period.
• Carry copies of your passport and other travel documents while in Chile.
• Obtain health and travel insurance from a certified company.

At the Border:

• Have your documents checked and your passport verified.
• Obtain an entry stamp on your passport.
• Consult airport authorities for assistance if needed.
• Refer to your visa copy for additional guidelines and rules.

When You Enter Chile:

• Do not engage in any form of employment; however, volunteer work may be allowed.
• Avoid tourist-prohibited areas.
• Ensure you do not overstay your visa and apply for a visa extension if necessary.