Refugee status
Servicio Nacional de Migraciones, Ley 20.430 · Official name: Solicitud de refugio
People fleeing persecution, or generalised violence, foreign aggression, conflict, massive human rights violations or serious disturbance of public order, can ask Chile for refugee status. The claim must be made in person within seven working days of entering Chile, at the Refugee Department in Santiago or a regional office of the National Migration Service (SERMIG). Recognised refugees receive permanent residence (Residencia Definitiva) and a travel document.
Life in Chile
Finance
3
Currency
Chilean Peso
CLP
Chilean Peso
Cost of living
51
Price level · US = 100
World Bank price levels, 2025
Tax
4–40%
Income tax (national)
VAT (IVA) 19%
Monthly second-category tax: exempt up to about CLP 977,940 a month (Nov 2026 table); 40% above about CLP 22.46 million a month.
Living
1
Happiness
#48 of 145 countries
World Happiness Report 2025
Who it’s for
Foreign nationals in Chile who are persecuted for political opinion, race, religion, nationality or membership of a social group, or who flee generalised violence, conflict or massive human rights violations.
Eligibility
Apply within seven working days of entry
SERMIG states the claim must be made within seven working days of entering Chile, in person.
Prove the facts of persecution
The applicant must show the facts and nature of the persecution. Each case is assessed, including whether the state of origin or an intermediate country can protect the person, and the projected risk on return.
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- 2 documents
- 5 steps
- Processing times and conditions
Official sources
Other routes to Chile
- Visit & tourismTourist visa (visa de turismo / prior consular authorisation) for Transitory Stay
- StudyTemporary residence for students
- Work permitsResidencia Temporal – subcategoría Extranjeros que desarrollan actividades lícitas remuneradas
- 3 more routes with Premium
