In recent years, more and more countries have embraced the rise of remote work by introducing special visas for digital nomads. Following the shift in work habits sparked by the global pandemic, nations across the world are now competing to attract international talent. Chile is among them—offering remote professionals a compelling opportunity to live and work legally in South America while enjoying its vibrant culture, natural beauty, and modern infrastructure.
So, does Chile have a digital nomad visa? Here’s everything you need to know.
Digital Nomad Visa in Chile – An Overview
Chile officially launched its Digital Nomad Visa in 2023 as part of broader efforts to modernize its immigration policies and stimulate economic growth through innovation and foreign investment. While the country had long been a favorite among backpackers and entrepreneurs, this new visa category makes it much easier for remote workers to settle in Chile legally.
This visa allows non-Chilean remote workers to live in the country for up to one year, with the option to renew for an additional 12 months. It specifically targets individuals who work for companies outside Chile or who run their own remote businesses.
Who Can Apply for the Digital Nomad Visa in Chile?
To qualify for Chile’s digital nomad visa, applicants must meet several key criteria:
- Be a citizen of a country outside Chile
- Work remotely as an employee, freelancer, or business owner
- Provide proof of remote income from foreign sources (minimum threshold varies but is generally around $1,500–$2,000 per month)
- Have proof of health insurance valid in Chile
- Demonstrate a clean criminal record
- Show at least one year of professional experience in their current field
Applicants may also be asked to provide a letter from their employer, bank statements, a detailed CV, and proof of ongoing work or client contracts.
How to Apply
Applications can be submitted online through Chile’s National Immigration Service portal. The process typically involves:
- Creating an account on the official immigration platform.
- Uploading the required documents (translated into Spanish if needed).
- Waiting for approval (usually between 30–90 days).
- Entering Chile and finalizing the visa at a local immigration office.
Many digital nomads choose to enter Chile as a tourist first, then submit the visa application from within the country.
Taxes for Digital Nomads in Chile
Chile offers favourable tax conditions for remote workers. Under current law, if your income is earned from sources outside of Chile, you may not be required to pay Chilean income tax during your first few years of residence. However, after 183 days in the country, you may be considered a tax resident.
Chile has double taxation treaties with several countries, including the U.S. and many in Europe, which helps prevent you from being taxed twice on the same income.
Always consult a local accountant or immigration lawyer to understand your specific tax obligations.
Benefits of Living in Chile as a Digital Nomad
Chile offers a unique mix of urban life and natural wonders. Whether you’re working from a café in Santiago or taking a Zoom call from the Atacama Desert, the country offers:
- Fast internet and good coworking spaces
- Affordable cost of living in most regions
- Diverse landscapes—from mountains to beaches to deserts
- A stable political and economic climate compared to many neighbours
- Access to modern amenities and excellent healthcare
Moreover, digital nomads are welcome to bring their spouses and children, who may also apply for residence permits under a family reunification policy.
Other Visa Options to Stay in Chile
If you don’t qualify for the digital nomad visa, Chile offers several other immigration pathways:
- Temporary Residence Visa: For professionals, entrepreneurs, or retirees
- Investor Visa: For those looking to start a business or invest in Chile
- Student Visa: For those enrolling in academic institutions
Each visa has its own requirements, but the digital nomad visa is one of the most straightforward for remote workers.
Other Latin American Countries with Digital Nomad Visas
Chile isn’t alone. Several countries in Latin America have launched similar programs, including:
- Costa Rica (Rentista Visa / Digital Nomad Law)
- Mexico (Temporary Resident Visa for freelancers and remote workers)
- Colombia (Digital Nomad Visa launched in 2023)
- Argentina (Digital Nomad Visa with incentives in Buenos Aires)
- Brazil (Official digital nomad visa introduced in 2022)
This makes Latin America one of the most dynamic and attractive regions for remote professionals looking to explore while they work.
Where to Stay in Chile as a Digital Nomad?
One of the biggest challenges for digital nomads is finding the right kind of accommodation—a place that combines comfort, productivity, and community. That’s where Rent Remote comes in. Rent Remote is a platform designed specifically for remote workers, offering fully furnished apartments across Chile that come equipped with dedicated workstations, ergonomic chairs, and high-speed Wi-Fi.
Whether you’re planning to base yourself in a furnished apartment in Santiago, Valparaíso, or a smaller town like Pucón, Rent Remote provides short- and medium-term rentals that meet the needs of digital nomads. You can expect quiet spaces ideal for video calls, smart layouts for focused work sessions, and even curated local guides to help you explore the city after hours. It’s a stress-free way to land in a new country and hit the ground running—without sacrificing your productivity or lifestyle.
Final Thoughts
If you’re a remote worker looking for a vibrant, affordable, and welcoming destination, Chile’s digital nomad visa could be the perfect fit. With its blend of modern infrastructure, natural beauty, and favorable visa terms, Chile is quickly becoming a go-to hub for digital professionals seeking a fresh perspective without sacrificing productivity.
Ready to work remotely from the Andes? Now you can—with a legal, flexible, and inspiring visa path tailored for the future of work.
