What is the Investor Visa in Chile?
The Chile Investor Visa is tailored for foreign investors and entrepreneurs intending to invest in Chile. It enables foreigners to obtain Chilean citizenship by investment, so they can reside and work in the country while overseeing their investment or business operations. This visa category offers three variations, each differing in duration. Firstly, there is a one-year temporary residence visa that can be extended. Secondly, there is a five-year permanent residence permit available after holding the temporary visa for one year. The Investor Visa allows the holder to live in Chile, conduct business activities, and potentially include dependents such as a spouse and children.
Advantages of having Chile’s Investment Visa
The Investor Visa in Chile offers numerous benefits for foreign individuals, including:
- Pathway to permanent residency and citizenship by investment: The Chilean Investor Visa allows individuals to obtain permanent residency in Chile after one year and citizenship after five years of residency if they meet the requirements.
- Access to a stable and growing economy: Chile boasts a stable and prosperous economy, making it an appealing destination for investment opportunities.
- Visa-free travel: Once Chilean citizenship is acquired, holders of a Chilean passport can enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 171 countries worldwide, including the United States, Russia, and the Schengen Area.
- Recognition of dual citizenship: Chile recognizes dual citizenship, permitting investors to retain their original nationality alongside their new status.
- Inclusion of family members: Dependents such as spouses, children, and parents can be included in the application process.
- Access to social benefits: Permanent residents and citizens have access to healthcare and education systems provided by Chile.
What are the requirements to apply for an Investor Visa in Chile?
Not everyone can apply for the Chile Investor Visa. There are several requirements foreign individuals have to meet, such as a minimum amount of investment and having a clean criminal record. These are all the requirements to apply for an Investor Visa in Chile:
- Demonstrate a significant investment: Applicants must demonstrate that they have invested or plan to invest a substantial amount (typically above $500,000) within the country.
- Business plan or investment plan: A comprehensive plan outlining the intended investment or business venture in Chile is required.
- Proof of sufficient capital: Documentation demonstrating adequate funds to support the investment and the applicant’s stay in Chile is necessary.
- Legal and business documents: Various documents, such as the deed of the constitution of the society, initiation of activities from the Internal Revenue Service, and proof of payment of municipal taxes, among others, must be provided.
- Clean criminal record: Applicants must have a clean criminal background.
You have to submit several documents with your application for the Investment Visa in Chile. Before you start your application for Chilean citizenship by investment, ensure you have these documents in order:
- Passport copy;
- Passport-size photo;
- Proof of income;
- Documents certifying Business Investment;
- Proof of net wealth;
- Certified copy of Business License or Incorporation documents (if applicable);
- Real estate sales and purchase agreement;
- Financial statement;
- Proof of VAT payment (if applicable);
- Employee payroll (if applicable);
- Original or copy of marriage certificate (if applicable);
- Original or copy of the birth certificate (if applicable);
- Affidavit of support for dependents;
- Tourism card.
Can foreigners obtain citizenship or residency through the Investment Visa in Chile?
Foreign individuals can acquire both residency and citizenship in Chile via the Investor Visa. The process begins with obtaining a temporary residence permit, valid for one year. After this period, investors can apply for permanent residency in Chile, which is valid for five years and can be renewed. The journey towards Chilean citizenship commences after maintaining residency for five years, including the time spent under the temporary visa.
The citizenship process is comprehensive and necessitates applicants to demonstrate strong ties to Chile, proficiency in Spanish language skills, as well as a profound understanding of the country’s culture, traditions, values, and history. This progression from an Investor Visa to citizenship offers a structured and transparent route for investors to fully integrate into Chilean society while enjoying the rights and privileges of being a resident, ultimately leading to becoming a citizen.
How to obtain an Investor Visa in Chile?
Foreigners can obtain an Investor Visa in Chile by following these five steps:
- Prepare documentation: Gather all essential documents, such as a business or investment plan, proof of capital, and legal documents.
- Submit the application: Apply through both the Chilean Investment Agency and the Chile Immigration Service.
- Receive a support letter: Obtain a support letter from the Chilean Investment Agency once your project is validated.
- Apply for the Investor Visa: Submit an application for an investment visa on the website of the immigration service.
- Relocate to Chile: After approval of your visa application, relocate to Chile within 30 days upon arrival and register with the civil register.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does Chile allow dual citizenship?
Yes, Chile permits dual citizenship. Individuals who become citizens of Chile are not required to renounce their original nationality, allowing them to hold citizenship in both Chile and their home country simultaneously.
How to get citizenship in Chile?
To obtain Chilean citizenship, one must first reside in the country as a permanent resident for a minimum of five years. Following this period, applicants can apply for Chilean citizenship, which involves passing exams on the Spanish language and Chilean culture and history.
How can foreigners invest in Chile?
Foreigners can invest in Chile through various avenues, such as initiating a business venture, purchasing real estate, or investing in Chilean stocks and local companies. The country offers an investor-friendly environment with policies that encourage foreign investment.
What is the minimum required to apply for an Investor Visa in Chile?
The minimum investment requirement for an Investor Visa in Chile generally exceeds $500,000. This investment can be in the form of business capital, real estate, or other significant economic activities.
Does Chile offer long-term visas for foreigners?
Yes, Chile provides several long-term visa options for foreigners. These include Work Visas for those with employment in Chile, Investor Visas for those who invest in Chile, Student Visas for educational purposes, Retirement Visas for individuals with a steady income or pension, and Family Reunion Visas for joining family members residing in Chile.
Are the Investment Visa and Business Visa in Chile the same?
The Investment Visa and Business Visa in Chile are not the same. The Investment Visa in Chile is primarily for those making a significant financial investment in the country. In contrast, the Business Visa is tailored for individuals who are actively involved in starting or managing a business in Chile. The Business Visa often requires demonstrating the business’s potential impact on the Chilean economy and may apply different application processes and criteria.
Can foreigners buy property in Chile?
Yes, foreigners can buy and own property in Chile without any major restrictions. The process for foreign property ownership is straightforward, allowing non-residents to purchase real estate, which can be a part of their investment strategy in the country.
2 Responses
Can I Get an Investor Visa to Chile by only buying one or more properties
which cost one million US Dollar and not need to submit a business plan for a start up
if i dont have enough experience ?
Hi Peter,
Investing in Chilean property can be part of qualifying for an Investor Visa, but the investment usually needs to be part of a larger economic contribution. A one million US Dollar investment might qualify, but it’s important to verify current regulations and requirements. Submitting a business plan is not always mandatory, especially for real estate investments, but it can strengthen your application. Consulting with a legal expert in Chilean immigration and investment laws is recommended for a successful visa application process.
^ Matt