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27/05/2019, updated 11/08/2025
Chilean citizenship applications process vary based on the type of citizenship you qualify for. Some applications must be filed at the Civil Registry, some at a consulate, and some through the immmigration service online platform.
Chilean citizenship offers one of the most valuable passports in Latin America, providing visa-free access to over 170 countries worldwide and full integration into one of the region's most stable democracies. Unlike permanent residency, Chilean citizenship is permanent and cannot be revoked due to extended absences, making it an attractive option for those seeking long-term security and global mobility.
Pathways to Chilean Citizenship
Chilean law provides several pathways to citizenship, each with specific requirements and procedures. Understanding which pathway applies to your situation is crucial for a successful application.
2.1 Citizenship by Birth (Jus Soli)
Chile follows the principle of jus soli (right of soil), granting automatic citizenship to most children born on Chilean territory.
Automatic Citizenship:
- All children born in Chile, regardless of parents' nationality
- Applies to children of tourists, temporary residents, and permanent residents
- Registration occurs automatically through birth registration
Exceptions (Children NOT automatically Chilean):
- Children of foreign diplomats or government officials on official duty
- Children of parents in transit (brief layovers or emergency stops) or illegal in Chile
- Children of parents specifically excluded by diplomatic agreements
The registration process is done at the Chilean Civil Registry, which will issue the birth certificate. You can then apply for a Chilean ID card and a passport if planning to travael abroad.
2.2 Citizenship by Descent (Jus Sanguinis)
Citizenship by descent is available to children and grandchildren of Chilean citizens born in Chile.
Eligibility Criteria:
- At least one parent must be a Chilean citizen
- At least one parent or grandparent must be a Chile and born in Chile
- Parent's Chilean citizenship must be documented and verified
- No age limit for claiming citizenship by descent
You can apply at Chilean consulates abroad or at Civil Registry offices in Chile All the required documentation must be apostilled or legalizated and translated to Spanish. Contrary to visa applications, documents in English are not accepted for citizenship applications.
2.3 Naturalization by Residence
This is the most common pathway for foreign residents seeking Chilean citizenship. You must first obtain permanent residency to qualify, which will take at least 4 years:
- around 6 months application time to obtain your first temporary visa
- 24 months of temporary visa
- around 18 months application time to obtain your permanent residency.
Standard 5-Year Pathway:
- Open to all foreign nationals who meet residence requirements
- No restrictions based on nationality or country of origin
Accelerated 2-Year Pathway: (qualified citizenship) Available for specific categories of applicants:
- Spouse of Chilean citizen (married 2+ years continuously)
- Children, parents, or siblings of Chilean citizens
- Special cases approved by government for exceptional contributions
2.4 Citizenship by Marriage
As this is a recurring question, let's clarify:
Marriage to a Chilean citizen does NOT automatically grant citizenship or create a direct pathway to citizenship. It can speed up obtaining permanent residency and reduce the time to qualify for citizenship (see above), but you are still required to obtain temporary then permanent residency.
What Marriage Actually Provides:
- Eligibility for the accelerated 2-year naturalization pathway (instead of 5 years)
- Easier permanent residency processing (12 months residency instead of 24)
- Family reunification benefits for visa applications
Divorce or separation during the citizenship process may disqualify you from the accelerated pathway and require completing the full 5-year residence requirement.
Eligibility Requirements for Naturalization
Basic Requirements (All Applicants)
Age Requirements:
- Minimum 18 years old at time of application
- Minors aged 14-17 can apply with parental consent and legal guardian approval
- No maximum age limit for citizenship applications
- Age calculated as of application submission date
Legal Status Requirements:
- Must hold valid Residencia Definitiva (permanent residency)
- Permanent residency must be current and in good standing
- No pending immigration violations or legal proceedings
- Compliance with all Chilean immigration laws during residency
Residence Requirements:
- Minimum 5 years continuous residence (or 2 years for qualified applicants)
- Residence time calculated from first temporary residency in Chile
- Maximum absence limitations during qualifying period
- Must be physically present in Chile when applying
Detailed Residence Requirements
Calculating Residence Time:
- Counts from date of first temporary residency approval
- Must maintain legal status throughout entire period
Criminal Record Requirements
Clean Criminal Record Standard:
- No serious criminal convictions in any country
- Minor offenses and traffic violations generally acceptable
Disqualifying Crimes:
- Felony convictions involving violence, drugs, or fraud
- Crimes against national security or public order
- Human trafficking, terrorism, or organized crime involvement
- Tax evasion or major financial crimes
Financial Requirements
Economic Stability Demonstration:
- Stable income meeting minimum living standards in Chile
- Generally requires $1,000+ USD monthly income (varies by family size)
- Can be demonstrated through employment, business ownership, or investments
- Pension or retirement income acceptable for retirees
Integration Requirements
Language Proficiency:
- Basic conversational Spanish required
- Must demonstrate ability to communicate about civic topics
- No formal language test, but assessed during interview process
- Written Spanish proficiency helpful but not strictly required
Civic Knowledge Requirements:
- Understanding of Chilean history, geography, and government structure
- Knowledge of constitutional principles and citizen rights/duties
- Familiarity with Chilean cultural values and social norms
- Awareness of current political and social issues
There is no Chilean culture exam currently, but Chile immigration service is willing to implement such an exam in the near future, according to the Chile immigration policy.
Application Process
The application process depends on the type of citizenship you qualify for:
- Citizenship by Birth are granted automatically. Simply register the birth at the Civil Registry,
- Citizenship by Descent requires application either at a consulate or at the Civil Registry,
- Citizenship by Residence requires application on the Chile Immigration online portal.
As the application process and required documents vary significantly based on your personal and family situation, book a consulation or contact us for a quote for our Chilean citizenship support service. You can also take the citizenship quiz.
Dual Citizenship Considerations
Chilean Dual Citizenship Policy
Chile has one of the most liberal dual citizenship policies in Latin America, generally allowing its citizens to maintain other nationalities without restriction.
Chilean Government Position:
- Chile recognizes and permits dual/multiple citizenship
- No requirement to renounce other nationalities when becoming Chilean
- Chilean citizens can acquire additional nationalities without losing Chilean citizenship
- Equal treatment under Chilean law regardless of other citizenships held
Legal Framework:
- Constitutional guarantee of Chilean citizenship permanence
- Protection against involuntary loss of Chilean nationality
- Right to use Chilean documents and receive consular services
- Obligation to use Chilean documents when entering/exiting Chile
Country-Specific Dual Citizenship Rules
Countries Generally Allowing Dual Citizenship: North America:
- United States: Permits dual citizenship, no renunciation required
- Canada: Allows multiple citizenships, including Chilean
- Mexico: Permits dual nationality with Chile and most countries
Europe:
- Most EU countries allow dual citizenship with Chile
- United Kingdom: Permits dual citizenship without restrictions
- France, Italy, Spain: Generally allow dual citizenship
- Germany: Complex rules, may require renunciation in some cases
- Switzerland: Allows dual citizenship with Chile
Oceania:
- Australia: Permits dual citizenship since 2002
- New Zealand: Allows multiple citizenships
Latin America:
- Most countries allow dual citizenship within the region
- Argentina, Brazil, Colombia: Generally permit dual nationality
- Peru, Ecuador: Allow dual citizenship with Chile
Countries Requiring Renunciation: Asia:
- Japan: Generally requires renunciation of other citizenships
- South Korea: Limited recognition of dual citizenship
- Singapore: Does not permit dual citizenship for most citizens
- China: Does not recognize dual citizenship
Other Restrictions:
- Some countries may not recognize your Chilean citizenship for consular services
- Military service obligations may exist in multiple countries
- Tax obligations can become complex with multiple citizenships
- Voting rights may be restricted in some countries
Tax and Legal Implications
- Chilean citizenship doesn't automatically make you a Chilean tax resident
- Tax residency based on physical presence (183+ days per year in Chile)
- Chilean tax residents pay tax on worldwide income (while foreigners have a 3-year exemption period)
- Tax treaties prevent double taxation with many countries
Practical Considerations for Dual Citizens
When travelling:
- Use your Chilean passport when entering/exiting Chile
- Use your country of origin passport when entering/exiting this country
- You can use either passport for travel to third countries
- Some countries provide better visa-free access than others. For example, Russia grants visa-free entry to Chileans, while most European citizen must request a visa.
- You can request emergency consular assistance from both Chile and your home country
Employment and Professional Licensing:
You may need to declare dual citizenship for certain government positions. In particular for sensitive positions with security clearances, which may have dual citizenship limitations.
After Receiving Citizenship
Once approved, you'll receive official citizenship documentation:
- Decreto Exento (citizenship decree) - legal proof of Chilean nationality, usually sent to the postal address that you indicated
- Digital copy of the decree sent by email by the immigration service
Using Your Citizenship Decree, you must go to the Civil Registry to:
- request a new Chilean ID card
- request a passport if you plan to leave Chile
After becoming a Chilean citizen, you can no longer leave Chile with your foreign passport. Make sure to apply in advance as passport issuance can take 2-3 weeks.
Rights of Chilean Citizens
Voting Rights / Political Participation
You have the right to vote in all Chilean elections:
- Presidential elections every 4 years
- Congressional elections (Senate and Chamber of Deputies)
- Municipal elections for mayors and council members
- Referendum and plebiscite participation
Voting can be mandatory for some elections, unless you can prove you are not able to vote in your usual city. There are fines for not voting, but they are rarely enforced.
Right to vote is also available to Permanent Resident after 5 years in Chile, although there is some debate currently on whether residents should be eligible to vote.
When becoming Chilean, you have right to run for public office, you can be member of a political party membership.
Enhanced Legal Protections
Chileans are granted:
- Diplomatic protection from Chilean embassies worldwide
- Guaranteed right of entry to Chile under all circumstances
- Immunity from deportation or nationality revocation
- Access to Chilean courts and legal system as a national
Please note that, while in Chile, you will no longer benefit from the consular protection of the embassy of your county of origin.
International/Travel Benefits
For some foreigners, the most helpul benefit is the Chilean passport for international travel, as well as access to Chilean international agreements and treaties:
- Working holidays visas
- Right to live and work in Mercosur countries with simplified procedures
Responsibilities of Chilean Citizens
Military Service
Military service is mandatory for Chilean men aged 18-24. Foreign-born naturalized citizens may be exempt depending on age at citizenship. Medical exemptions also exist for some health conditions
Tax Obligations / Retirement pension
Tax residency is determined by physical presence, not citizenship, so becoming a Chilean citizen won't affect much your tax obligations if you are already a resident Citizens residing more than 6 months per year pay tax on their worldwide income.
If you are aon-resident citizen, you may pay tax only on Chilean-source income (real estate), which can differ of what you would pay while not being a citizen.
The major drawback of becoming a Chilean citizen is no longer being able to transfer your retirement contributions to a third-party country, to benefit for a full pension there, taking into consideration the years you worked in Chile. If you don't plan to retire in Chile, and have made significant payments to your retirement funds, you may want to attempt to withdraw them before becoming a Chilean citizen.
Renunciation and Loss of Citizenship in Chile
Voluntary Renunciation
While rare, Chilean citizens can voluntarily renounce their Chilean citizenship under specific circumstances, such as:
- Acquiring nationality of country that prohibits dual citizenship
- Military service obligations in multiple countries
- Personal or family circumstances requiring nationality change
Renunciation Process:
- Submit formal renunciation request to Chilean immigration service
- Provide detailed reasons for renunciation request
- Present evidence of alternative nationality acquisition (you cannot be stateless after renuncing)
- Surrender Chilean passport and identity documents
- Receive official renunciation certificate
As a consequence of renuncing your Chilea citizenship:
- You loose all Chilean citizen rights and benefits
- You no longer have an automatic right to return to Chile or obtain visas
- Your children born after renunciation may not be eligeble for Chilean nationality (unless born in Chile)
Timeline and Cost Analysis
Realistic Timeline Expectations
Pre-Application Phase (6-12 months):
- ClaveÚnica registration and document gathering: 1-2 months
- Home country document requests and apostille: 2-4 months
- Translation and certification: 1-2 months
- Financial and residence documentation compilation: 2-3 months
- Legal consultation and application review: 1 month
Application Processing Phase (24-36 months):
- Initial completeness review: 1-3 months
- Background verification and international checks: 6-18 months
- Interview scheduling and completion: 12-24 months
- Final decision and approval: 3-6 months
- Certificate issuance and document processing: 1 month
Post-Approval Phase (1-2 months):
- Chilean identity card application: 2-3 weeks
- Chilean passport application: 2-4 weeks
- Voter registration and civic integration: 2-4 weeks
Chilean citizenship represents a significant commitment and provides substantial benefits for those seeking long-term integration in Chile. With proper preparation, documentation, and patience, the naturalization process offers a clear pathway to full Chilean nationality and all the rights and responsibilities that come with Chilean citizenship.
Frequently asked questions about Chilean citizenship
Basic Requirements and Eligibility
Key requirements include: Be 18+ years old (or 14+ with parental consent), hold valid permanent residency (Residencia Definitiva), complete 5+ years continuous residence in Chile, maintain a clean criminal record, demonstrate financial stability, and show basic Spanish proficiency and knowledge of Chilean civic principles.
Residence time starts from your first temporary residency, not permanent residency. This includes time on student visas, work visas, and other temporary residence permits. You must hold permanent residency when applying, but previous temporary residence counts toward the 5-year requirement.
Minor offenses typically don't disqualify you, but serious crimes will prevent citizenship approval. Traffic violations and minor misdemeanors are generally acceptable. SERMIG evaluates each case individually, considering the nature and severity of any criminal history.
Basic Spanish proficiency is required along with knowledge of Chilean history, geography, and civic principles. While there's no formal language test, you may be interviewed in Spanish and must demonstrate sufficient comprehension for civic participation.
Application Process and Timeline
The complete process typically takes 2-3 years from application submission to final approval. This includes initial review (6-12 months), background verification and interviews, and final processing. Complex cases or appeals may take longer.
All applications must be submitted online through SERMIG's Digital Procedures Portal at tramites.extranjeria.gob.cl. You'll need your ClaveÚnica digital identity to access the system. No paper applications are accepted.
Interviews are common but not guaranteed for all applicants. SERMIG may request an interview to verify your Spanish proficiency, knowledge of Chilean culture and history, and commitment to Chile. Strong applications with complete documentation may not require interviews.
Yes, you can travel freely as long as you maintain your permanent residency status. However, extended absences may delay processing or raise questions about your commitment to residing in Chile.
Dual Citizenship and Legal Considerations
Yes, Chile permits dual citizenship and doesn't require you to renounce your original nationality. However, your home country's laws determine whether they allow dual citizenship. Some countries may require you to renounce your original citizenship when acquiring Chilean nationality.
Many countries permit dual citizenship including the United States, Canada, most European Union countries, Australia, New Zealand, and most Latin American countries. Countries like Germany, Japan, and Singapore have restrictions that may require renouncing your original citizenship.
Chilean citizens are subject to tax on worldwide income if they're Chilean tax residents (spending 183+ days per year in Chile). However, tax treaties with many countries prevent double taxation. Consult a tax advisor for your specific situation.
After Receiving Citizenship
You'll receive a Decreto Exento (citizenship decree) which serves as official proof of Chilean nationality. With this document, you can apply for a Chilean national identity card and passport at Civil Registry offices.
Citizenship provides additional rights including voting in all elections, running for public office, diplomatic protection from Chilean embassies worldwide, guaranteed right of entry to Chile, and immunity from deportation or residency revocation.
Chilean citizenship is generally permanent and cannot be revoked except in very rare circumstances involving treason or acts against national security. Unlike permanent residency, citizenship doesn't expire due to extended absences from Chile.
You have appeal rights and can reapply after addressing rejection reasons. SERMIG provides detailed explanations for rejections. Common issues include insufficient residence proof, criminal record problems, or incomplete documentation that can be corrected for resubmission.
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