How to Move to Chile: Beginner Guide for Expats

By Adda Chile Editorial Team | Published: November 10, 2025 | Updated: July 12, 2026

Moving to Chile involves several layers. The residence application process, housing market, banking system, and cultural adjustment each require preparation, and timelines can vary. This guide covers practical steps from choosing an appropriate immigration status to getting established in the country.

Choosing the Right Immigration Status

Chile distinguishes short stays under Permanencia Transitoria from residence permits. People intending to settle for a limited period generally need to identify the applicable Residencia Temporal subcategory. Common situations include:

• Permanencia Transitoria: Covers tourism, recreation, business visits and similar short stays. It may be granted for up to 90 days and may be extended once for up to 90 additional days. It does not normally authorize paid work, although SERMIG may grant authorization for certain specific and occasional activities.
• Residencia Temporal for lawful paid activities: Covers qualifying employment and certain independent professional or service activities. Requirements differ depending on whether the application is supported by an employment contract, a formal job offer or an eligible services arrangement.
• Residencia Temporal for retirees or people with qualifying rental income: Applies to applicants who can document a pension or regular income derived from real estate or financial assets. Applicants should use SERMIG’s current requirements rather than relying on a fixed unofficial income figure.
• Residencia Temporal for students: Applies to students at educational institutions recognized by the Chilean state, subject to the documentation and conditions established by SERMIG.

Most Residencia Temporal applications must be submitted from outside Chile through SERMIG’s digital procedures, although the law permits applications from within Chile in limited cases. Requirements depend on the selected subcategory and the applicant’s circumstances. Check the current SERMIG instructions before applying, as documents issued abroad may need to be apostilled or legalized and, where required, officially translated.

Arriving and Getting Started

After a residence permit is granted, follow the activation and entry instructions shown in the SERMIG process. Holders of Residencia Temporal receive an electronic permit document known as the Estampado Electrónico. They must arrange their Chilean identity card with the Civil Registry within 30 days from the date their residence permit takes effect. The card carries the holder’s RUN, commonly called a RUT in financial and tax contexts, which is frequently requested for contracts, banking and other services.

Prepare the documents specified for your immigration subcategory and keep them valid while the application is reviewed. Documents issued outside Chile may require an apostille or legalization, and documents in languages other than Spanish or English may require an official translation. Save copies of submissions, notices and the electronic permit document.

Opening a Bank Account

Account requirements vary by bank and product. Many standard accounts require a valid Chilean identity card and may also involve identity, contact, income or address checks. BancoEstado’s CuentaRUT is available to eligible Chileans and foreign nationals who hold a valid Chilean identity card, while other banks apply their own account-opening criteria.

Online banking and electronic transfers are widely available, but fees, limits and international-transfer options depend on the bank and account. Compare each institution’s current tariff and foreign-exchange terms before opening an account or sending money abroad.

Finding Housing

The rental market in Santiago is competitive. Landlords typically require a RUT, proof of income, and sometimes a guarantor. Short-term furnished rentals are easier to secure but cost more. Facebook groups, local real estate sites like Portalinmobiliario, and word of mouth are the main channels.

Outside Santiago, rental availability and application practices vary by city. Landlords may sometimes accept less formal arrangements, but tenants should obtain a written contract that records the rent, deposit, term, responsibilities and notice conditions. Verbal agreements can be difficult to prove if a dispute arises.

Healthcare

Chile has public health coverage through FONASA and private health insurers known as ISAPREs. Eligibility, contributions, coverage, provider networks and treatment of pre-existing conditions depend on the person’s status and the applicable plan. Compare current terms and costs directly with the relevant institution rather than relying on a fixed monthly estimate.

Under Chile’s emergency-care protections, a health provider cannot condition immediate treatment on payment or financial guarantees when a physician certifies an emergency involving a risk of death or serious lasting harm. This protection is not the same as free care, and coverage and later charges depend on the person’s health system and circumstances. People using FONASA should check the registration procedure for their local public primary-care center.

Learning Spanish

English is not widely spoken outside tourist areas and upscale neighborhoods. Basic Spanish is not optional if you plan to live here long-term. Santiago has language schools, but immersion is the fastest method. Practice with neighbors, shopkeepers, and taxi drivers. Chilean Spanish is fast, full of slang, and initially intimidating, but locals are patient with learners who make an effort.

Cultural Adjustment

Chilean culture values personal relationships in business. Cold emails and formal applications often go unanswered. A personal introduction or a face-to-face meeting opens doors faster than any document. Time is flexible. Appointments start late, and deadlines are suggestions more than rules.

The social scene revolves around family, food, and long conversations. Dinner starts late, often after 9:00 PM. Weekends are for asados, family gatherings, and outdoor activities. Integrating takes time, but Chileans are warm once you break through the initial reserve.

First Month Checklist

• Get a local SIM card (Movistar, Entel, or WOM)
• After residence approval, follow SERMIG’s instructions and request an appointment for your identity card at the Civil Registry
• Open a bank account
• Find temporary housing while you search long-term
• Enroll in ISAPRE or FONASA
• Learn the metro system
• Find a local grocery store and pharmacy

Before you commit to a city, understand what it costs to live here. Our guide to Cost of Living in Chile: What Foreigners Should Know breaks down the real monthly expenses across different cities and lifestyles.