Congress Approves Law For New Immigration Framework

• Published date: 16 December 2020
• Subject Matter: Immigration, General Immigration, Work Visas
• Law Firm: Envoy Global, Inc.
• Author: Ms Lucy Halse

Key Points

• Chile has approved a law for a new immigration framework and to restructure visa categories
• The new law creates a short-term work authorization process for foreign nationals
• In-country change of status will no longer be permitted
• The temporary residence category will expand to 13 sub-categories
• A Temporary Residence Visa will be required for foreign nationals to live and work in Chile
• The new law will allow dependents to work in Chile
• Permanent residents will be able to stay outside the country for two years instead of one
• Foreign nationals will have 180 days to regularize their status
• The new regulations will be implemented over the course of a year

Overview

Chile's Congress has approved a law that establishes a new immigration framework and restructures the country's visa categories.

What are the Changes?

The immigration law will establish a new short-term work authorization process. It will also expand the options for Temporary Residence categories, and it will provide dependents with more opportunities for work authorization. Additionally, the law will create stricter rules for in-country change of status.

Chile's new immigration law will create a new short-term work authorization process. To perform short-term work in Chile, foreign nationals must apply for a Special Work Authorization. They will likely be able to apply for the short-term work authorization in the country and through consular processing. The government will provide more details when available.

The new rule will also impact in-country change of status. Under the new role, foreign nationals who entered the country as tourists will not be allowed to change their residence status while in the country. Foreign nationals who want to work and live in Chile must stay outside the country while their work and residence applications are in process.

The category for temporary residence will also be expanded under the new law. Foreign nationals who want to live and work in Chile must obtain a Temporary Residence Visa (TRV). The TRV will now...