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Chile Country Guide
Your Complete Guide to Moving, Living & Working in Chile

Important: This guide provides essential relocation information for individuals and families moving to Chile. Known for its strong institutions, stable economy, modern infrastructure and high quality of life, Chile is one of South America’s most developed countries. Visa rules, residency categories and employment requirements may change — always verify details with official Chilean government sources.

Home To Home Relocations supports clients relocating to Chile from Canada and worldwide, handling export packing, ocean & air freight, customs coordination and final delivery to key urban centres including Santiago, Valparaíso, Viña del Mar, Concepción, Antofagasta and other major destinations.

1. Before You Move to Chile

1.1 Visa Types & Residency Options

Most foreigners require a visa or residency permit to live in Chile. Main options include:

  • Temporary Residence Visa – for employment, investment, retirement, students or family ties
  • Work Contract Visa – dependent on an employment contract with a Chilean employer
  • Permanent Residency – granted after qualifying periods of temporary residency
  • Digital Nomad / Remote Work pathways – emerging options for remote workers
  • Tourist entry – for short stays; does not permit employment
Tip: Many residency applications start online through Chile’s National Immigration Service (Servicio Nacional de Migraciones). Processing times vary by category.

1.2 Working in Chile

Chile’s economy attracts professionals in sectors such as:

  • Mining (copper, lithium, minerals)
  • Renewable energy (solar, hydro, wind)
  • Technology, software and fintech
  • Logistics, port operations and international trade
  • Agriculture, wine production and food exports
  • Tourism and hospitality
  • Education and research

1.3 Housing & Accommodation

Expatriates often choose housing in major urban areas, especially:

  • Santiago: Providencia, Las Condes, Vitacura, Ñuñoa
  • Valparaíso & Viña del Mar: Coastal living with good services
  • Concepción: Industrial and academic hub
  • Antofagasta: Mining and energy industry centre

Common rental requirements:

  • One month’s rent + security deposit
  • Proof of income or work contract
  • RUT tax number (essential for most formal contracts)
  • Lease agreements in Spanish

1.4 Banking & Finances

Chile’s currency is the Chilean Peso (CLP). To open a bank account, you generally need:

  • Passport and Chilean visa/residency card
  • RUT (tax identification number)
  • Proof of address

1.5 Healthcare & Insurance

Chile’s healthcare system includes:

  • FONASA – public health insurance
  • ISAPRE – private health insurance providers
  • Private hospitals and clinics with high-quality services
Important: Many expatriates choose ISAPRE or private insurance for faster access to specialists and private hospitals.

1.6 Key Documents to Prepare Before Moving

  • Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
  • Visas or pre-approval documents
  • Birth & marriage certificates (apostilled)
  • Employment contract and academic certificates
  • Medical and vaccination records
  • International Driving Permit

2. Your First Weeks in Chile

2.1 Immigration Registration

On arrival, temporary residents complete formalities through the National Immigration Service. You may receive a residency card or digital certificate depending on your category.

2.2 RUT Number

The RUT (Rol Único Tributario) is a mandatory tax identification number required for almost all transactions, including employment, renting, banking and utilities.

2.3 Everyday Setup

  • Obtain a local SIM card (Entel, Movistar, WOM, Claro)
  • Set up a bank account and online banking
  • Secure permanent housing
  • Register with local healthcare providers
  • Enroll children in school or international programs
Tip: In Santiago, prepaid transit cards (Bip!) make it easy to access the metro and bus systems.

3. Chile at a Glance

3.1 Geography & Regions

Chile stretches along South America’s Pacific coastline and features diverse climates:

  • Northern Chile: Atacama Desert, mining regions
  • Central Chile: Santiago metropolitan area, Mediterranean climate
  • Southern Chile: Lakes, forests, Patagonia
  • Coastal Chile: Beaches and port cities

3.2 Politics & Economy

Chile is a stable democracy with a strong institutional framework. Key economic sectors include:

  • Mining (world’s largest copper producer)
  • Renewable energy
  • Wine production and agriculture
  • Logistics and global trade
  • Tourism and hospitality
  • Technology and innovation

3.3 Climate & Weather

The climate varies dramatically by region:

  • North – extremely dry desert climate
  • Central – mild, Mediterranean climate
  • South – rainy, cooler climate
  • Far South – cold, windy Patagonia

4. Why Many Newcomers Choose Chile

  • Stable and transparent institutions
  • High quality of life in major cities
  • Strong economy and job opportunities
  • Diverse landscapes and outdoor lifestyle
  • Modern infrastructure and reliable public services

5. Housing, Cost of Living & Daily Life

Chile offers a relatively high standard of living compared to many Latin American nations. Santiago is the most expensive city, while regional cities may offer more affordable living.

  • Rent or mortgage payments
  • Electricity, gas, water and internet
  • Groceries and dining
  • Public transport or fuel
  • Healthcare and insurance
  • School fees for private or international schools
Tip: In Chile, grocery prices and utility costs vary by region. Coastal areas may have higher humidity-related utility costs.

6. Transportation & Getting Around

6.1 Public Transport

Chile has efficient public transport in major cities:

  • Santiago Metro: one of Latin America’s largest and cleanest systems
  • Extensive bus networks
  • Intercity coaches connecting major regions
  • Ride-sharing apps such as Uber, Cabify, Didi

6.2 Driving in Chile

Driving is on the right-hand side. Foreign licences may be valid temporarily depending on country of origin; long-term residents often convert to a Chilean licence.

6.3 Domestic & International Travel

Chile has a strong domestic flight network. Major airports include:

  • Santiago International Airport (SCL)
  • Antofagasta Airport
  • Concepción Airport
  • Punta Arenas Airport

7. Culture, Lifestyle & Places to Visit

7.1 Everyday Culture

  • Spanish is the national language; English is common in business settings.
  • Workplaces value punctuality, professionalism and direct communication.
  • Family life and social gatherings are central to Chilean culture.
  • Chilean cuisine includes seafood, empanadas, pastel de choclo and world-renowned wines.

7.2 Popular Cities & Attractions

  • Santiago: Museums, parks, nightlife and Andes views
  • Valparaíso: Colourful coastal architecture and art
  • Atacama Desert: Stargazing, geysers and salt flats
  • Patagonia: Torres del Paine National Park
  • Lake District: Volcanoes, lakes and outdoor recreation
  • Easter Island (Rapa Nui): UNESCO sites with ancient moai statues

8. Useful Websites for Newcomers