Can I work in Chile as a foreigner? Which permit you need
The first thing to be clear about before accepting a job: which permit allows you to work and which does not.
Verified on October 13, 2026 against official sources · See sources · Leer en español
In short: With a tourist permit (Permanencia Transitoria) you cannot work, except with a special authorization for specific, occasional activities. To work on a stable basis you need temporary residence for paid activities, which is requested from abroad, or permanent residence.
If you entered as a tourist (Permanencia Transitoria)
- According to SERMIG, holders of a Permanencia Transitoria permit may not carry out paid activities.
- The exception is a special authorization for specific, occasional activities: public shows or sports events, lectures, consulting, or expert technician. It has a fee and is requested online (see the guide on work authorization with Permanencia Transitoria).
- Working without that authorization can be fined: SERMIG indicates an average fine of 5 UTM (article 127 No. 5 of Law 21,325).
If you want to work on a stable basis
- There is a Temporary Residence for foreigners who carry out lawful paid activities: to work under a subordinate relationship with an employer that has a domicile or branch in Chile, or to work independently under the conditions set by SERMIG.
- According to SERMIG, this application is only available from abroad.
- It lasts up to two years and can be extended for another two, by showing that you continue to carry out lawful paid activities.
If you submitted a residence application in Chile
- According to SERMIG, during the reception and review stage of a Temporary Residence application submitted in Chile, people over 18 are allowed to work.
- If the application is accepted, SERMIG sends the "Certificate of Temporary Residence in process". If it expires, you can request an extension.
With permanent residence
Permanent residence allows you to carry out any lawful activity (see the permanent residence guide).
What happens to your contract if you had no authorization
- The Labor Directorate (Dirección del Trabajo, ORD. No. 1404, 2017) concluded that a contract with a foreign worker who has no administrative authorization is valid and effective to govern the employment relationship.
- That lack of authorization cannot be an obstacle to obtaining labor or social security benefits. Administrative liability falls on the employer.
What the official source does not specify
- Fees (amounts) for each permit: SERMIG publishes them in its "Immigration fees" section and they vary by nationality.
- Processing times: the pages consulted do not state them.
- Students, dependents, refugees and other subcategories are not covered in this guide; check with SERMIG.
- If your case is exceptional (for example, bilateral agreements for border zones), check the official page of each permit.
Official sources
- SERMIG: Foreigners engaged in lawful remunerated activities
- SERMIG: Work authorization for Permanencia Transitoria holders
- SERMIG: Status of Temporary Residence requested in Chile (Spanish)
- Dirección del Trabajo: ORD. No. 1404 (2017) (Spanish)
Information verified on October 13, 2026 against the official sources listed. Immigration requirements change: always confirm on the official site before filing. This guide is informational and is not legal advice. It is an English summary of sources published in Spanish.
Frequently asked questions
Can I work on a tourist visa?
No. According to SERMIG, Permanencia Transitoria holders may not carry out paid activities, except with a special authorization for specific, occasional activities.
Can I apply for work residence while I am in Chile?
According to SERMIG, Temporary Residence for paid activities is only available from abroad.
Can I work while my application is being decided?
According to SERMIG, during the reception and review stage of an application submitted in Chile, people over 18 are allowed to work.
Is my contract valid if I worked without a permit?
The Labor Directorate has said the contract is valid and that the lack of authorization does not prevent access to labor and social security benefits. That does not remove immigration penalties that may apply.
Something outdated, wrong or unclear? Tell us (the form is in Spanish; English is fine).