Chile Citizenship by Residency (2025)

How to Obtain Chilean Citizenship by Residency in 2025

Chilean citizenship by residency, known as naturalization, allows permanent residents to fully integrate into this stable, scenic South American nation. Administered by the Departamento de Extranjería y Migración (DEM) and the Ministry of the Interior, the process typically requires 5 years of residency, with exceptions for those with close ties to Chile. A Chilean passport ranks 15th globally (174 visa-free destinations in 2025) and offers Mercosur associate benefits, making citizenship highly appealing.

From Santiago’s bustling streets to the Atacama Desert’s otherworldly landscapes, Chile attracts expats, retirees, and professionals. This 2025 guide covers eligibility, residency requirements, application steps, and expert tips to secure your citizenship efficiently.

Who Can Apply for Citizenship by Residency?

Naturalization is open to permanent residents with specific residency durations and conditions. Here’s who qualifies:

Additional Criteria: Must be 18+ (or 14+ with parental consent), have no serious criminal record (e.g., felony convictions), and demonstrate financial stability (e.g., job, savings).

Residency Rules: The 5-Year Pathway

Residency begins with a temporary visa, followed by permanent residency (Permanencia Definitiva), both issued by DEM. Here’s the breakdown:

• Temporary Visa: 1-2 years via Profesional (degree holders), Rentista (~$2,000 USD/month income), or Work (employer-sponsored).
• Permanent Residency: Apply after 1 year temporary residency; requires ~$1,500 USD/month income or stable job.
• Total Time: 5 years combined (e.g., 1 year temporary + 4 years permanent); absences over 1 year reset the clock.

Example: Carlos, a Peruvian, gets a temporary Profesional visa in January 2020. He secures permanent residency in January 2021 and applies for citizenship in January 2025 after 5 total years.

Note: You must spend at least 185 days/year in Chile during permanent residency to prove ties (e.g., leases, taxes).

Step-by-Step Application Process

Naturalization is processed via DEM and finalized by the Ministry of the Interior. Here’s how to apply in 2025:

1. Start with Residency: Obtain a temporary visa, then permanent residency via DEM.
2. Meet Residency Period: Live in Chile for 5 years (or 2 with ties).
3. Gather Documents: Permanent residency card, passport, birth certificate (apostilled/translated), police clearances (Chile + home country), proof of income/residence, 2 photos.
4. Submit Application: File Carta de Nacionalidad at DEM’s online portal or in-person; pay CLP 14,185 (~$15 USD).
5. Background Check: DEM and police verify your record; may require an interview.
6. Await Approval: Processing takes 6-18 months; approved via decree in Diario Oficial.
7. Oath & ID: Register citizenship, get Certificado de Nacionalidad, and apply for a Chilean ID/passport.

Timeline: 5.5-7 years total (residency + processing); faster for 2-year categories.

Costs of Chilean Citizenship

Fees are affordable, with additional costs for documents and residency:

Tips to Ensure Approval

• Start Early: Apply for a temporary visa now to begin the 5-year clock.
• Stay Resident: Spend 185+ days/year in Chile to avoid resets.
• Learn Spanish: Not required, but fluency aids integration and interviews.
• Prove Stability: Show consistent income (e.g., job, pension) to meet financial criteria.
• Hire Help: Use a migration agent for complex cases (e.g., criminal history).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

References & Resources

• DEM - Official residency and citizenship info.
• Servicio Civil - ID/passport services.
• Henley Passport Index - Passport ranking.