Second Passport Options for Citizens of Chile

1. What countries offer citizenship for Chile passport holders by investment programs?


Some countries that offer citizenship for Chile passport holders through investment programs include:

1. United States: The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program allows foreign investors to obtain a green card and eventual citizenship by investing at least $900,000 in a U.S. business.

2. Canada: The Quebec Immigrant Investor Program allows applicants to obtain Canadian citizenship by investing CAD $1,200,000 in an approved investment fund for five years.

3. Bulgaria: The Bulgarian Investor Program for Residence and Citizenship requires an investment of EUR 1 million in a government-approved project or business.

4. Portugal: The Golden Visa Program allows investors to obtain Portuguese citizenship by investing at least EUR 500,000 in real estate or creating a certain number of jobs.

5. Malta: The Malta Individual Investor Program requires a contribution of EUR 650,000 plus additional investments in real estate and government bonds for individuals seeking Maltese citizenship.

6. Turkey: Turkey offers its Citizenship by Investment program which requires a minimum investment of USD $250,000 in real estate or creating jobs for Turkish citizens.

7. Saint Kitts and Nevis: Its Citizenship by Investment program requires either an investment of USD $150,000 in the Sustainable Growth Fund (SGF) or purchasing property worth at least USD $200,000 to obtain St. Kitts and Nevis citizenship.

8. Antigua and Barbuda: Antigua and Barbuda’s Citizenship by Investment program requires an investment of at least USD $100,000 in the National Development Fund (NDF), property purchase starting from USD $400,000 or donation starting from USD $100,000 to various government projects to become eligible for Antigua and Barbuda passport.

2. Can dual citizenship be obtained in Chile?

Yes, Chile allows for dual citizenship, meaning that an individual can hold citizenship of both Chile and another country.

In order to obtain dual citizenship in Chile, individuals must meet the requirements for naturalization as a foreigner. This includes having legal residence in Chile for at least five years, being of good conduct, and passing a Spanish language and culture exam.

Additionally, individuals must also meet the requirements for maintaining Chilean citizenship, such as not renouncing their Chilean nationality and not obtaining a foreign title or public office without prior authorization from the Ministry of Interior. These requirements may vary depending on the individual’s country of origin.

3. How does one obtain dual citizenship in Chile?

To obtain dual citizenship in Chile, individuals must first meet the requirements for naturalization as a foreigner outlined by the Immigration Department (Departamento de Extranjería y Migración).

This includes having legal residence in Chile for at least five years, being of good conduct, and passing a Spanish language and culture exam. After meeting these requirements, individuals can begin the application process for naturalization as a foreigner.

The application process involves submitting various documents such as birth certificate, passport or ID from their country of origin, criminal record certificates from both countries (Chile and country of origin), proof of residence in Chile, and other relevant documents.

Once approved, individuals will receive their naturalization certificate which confirms their new status as a citizen of Chile. At this point, they are able to apply for a national identity card (RUT) and access all rights afforded to citizens of Chile. As long as they continue to fulfill the requirements for maintaining citizenship in both countries, they can maintain dual citizenship indefinitely.

3. How long does it take to obtain a second passport in Chile?


The process of obtaining a second passport in Chile can take anywhere from 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the specific circumstances and processing times. This includes the time it takes to gather all necessary documents, submit the application, and wait for the passport to be issued. It may also take longer if there are any delays or additional requirements in the application process.

4. Are there any language or residency requirements for obtaining a second passport in Chile?

To obtain a second passport in Chile, the applicant must have permanent residence status in the country. This requires at least two years of residency in Chile and a valid residency card or visa. Additionally, applicants must pass a Spanish language exam or provide evidence of proficiency in Spanish.

5. How long does it take to obtain a second passport in Chile?
The process of obtaining a second passport in Chile can take between 4-6 months from the submission of the application to receiving the physical passport. However, this timeline may vary depending on individual circumstances and any delays in document processing.

5. What is the cost of obtaining a second passport in Chile?


The cost of obtaining a second passport in Chile can vary depending on individual circumstances and the type of passport being applied for. However, as of 2021, the cost for a standard adult passport is approximately 100,000 CLP (about $130 USD), while a child’s passport costs around 75,000 CLP (about $100 USD). Premium or expedited services may come at an additional cost.

6. Can spouses and children also obtain a second passport through citizenship by investment in Chile?


No, citizenship by investment is only available to the applicant. Spouses and children can apply for permanent residency through a separate process. They may be eligible for citizenship through naturalization after meeting certain criteria, such as living in Chile for at least five years or being married to a Chilean citizen for at least one year.

7. Does Chile allow for visa-free travel to popular destinations with a second passport?


Yes, Chile allows for visa-free travel to a number of popular destinations with a second passport. Some of the countries and territories that Chilean citizens can enter without a visa include:

1) European Union member states
2) United States
3) Canada
4) Australia
5) New Zealand
6) Japan
7) South Korea
8) Argentina
9) Brazil
10) Uruguay

It is important to note that the specific duration of stay and purpose of visit may vary depending on the destination country. It is advisable to check with the embassy or consulate of the country you plan to visit for the most up-to-date information.

8. How does the taxation system work for citizens with two passports in Chile?


In Chile, residents are subject to taxation on their worldwide income. This means that if a person holds two passports and is also a resident of Chile, they would be required to declare and pay taxes on their income from both countries. The only exception to this is if the two countries have a tax treaty in place that allows for certain exemptions or reductions in double taxation.

If one of the passports belongs to a country with which Chile has a tax treaty, the resident may be able to claim benefits under the treaty such as exemption or reduction of taxes on certain types of income. However, this will depend on the specific provisions of the tax treaty.

It is important for individuals with dual citizenship in Chile to seek guidance from a professional tax advisor who can help them navigate the complicated taxation system and ensure compliance with all regulations and laws.

9. Are there any restrictions on the types of investments that can lead to citizenship in Chile?

There are no specific restrictions on the types of investments that can lead to citizenship in Chile. As long as the investment meets the minimum requirements and is approved by the government, it can potentially qualify an individual for citizenship. However, investments related to illegal or prohibited activities will not be considered for citizenship purposes.

Potential investors should also note that certain industries may have additional regulations and requirements for foreign investment, such as those related to natural resources or strategic sectors. It is important to research and comply with all relevant laws and regulations before making any investment in Chile.

Additionally, it is worth noting that even if an investment meets the minimum requirements for citizenship, there is no guarantee of approval. The decision ultimately lies with the Chilean government and satisfying the financial criteria does not automatically result in citizenship.

10. Can individuals apply for a second passport without renouncing their current citizenship status in Chile?

Individuals are not allowed to have dual citizenship in Chile, which means that they would need to renounce their Chilean citizenship if they apply for a second passport from another country.

11. Are citizens of certain countries restricted from applying for a second passport in Chile?


Yes, citizens of certain countries may be restricted from applying for a second passport in Chile. Chile has specific requirements for its citizenship and naturalization process, including language proficiency and proof of residency. Additionally, certain applicants may be subject to stricter scrutiny or denied naturalization based on past criminal records or national security concerns. It is recommended to consult with the Chilean Embassy or Consulate in your country for more information about their naturalization requirements and restrictions.

12. Are there any additional benefits to holding a second passport from Chile, such as business opportunities or access to education and healthcare systems?


There are several potential benefits to holding a second passport from Chile, including:

1. Business Opportunities: Holding a second passport from Chile can provide access to the country’s business opportunities and markets. Chile has a stable and growing economy, with a strong focus on international trade and investment. As a holder of a Chilean passport, you may have greater access to these opportunities.

2. Education: Chile is known for its high-quality education system, offering both public and private institutions at all levels. As a citizen of Chile, you may have easier access to education opportunities within the country, including universities and other educational institutions.

3. Healthcare System: Chile has one of the best healthcare systems in Latin America, with universal coverage for its citizens. As a holder of a Chilean passport, you may have access to this quality healthcare system at more affordable rates compared to foreign nationals.

4. Travel Benefits: With a second passport from Chile, you may be able to travel visa-free or obtain visa-on-arrival entry to more countries than your primary passport allows. This can be particularly beneficial if your primary passport restricts your travel options.

5. Retirement Benefits: The Chilean government provides various retirement benefits for its citizens, such as pension plans and health insurance options. By holding citizenship in Chile, you may be eligible for these benefits upon retirement.

6. Dual Citizenship Options: Holding dual citizenship can provide flexibility and security in case of political or economic instability in either country of citizenship.

Overall, holding a second passport from Chile can open up various opportunities not available through your primary passport alone, making it an attractive option for many individuals looking to diversify their citizenship portfolio.

13. Is there an age limit for obtaining a second passport through citizenship by investment in Chile?


Yes, applicants for citizenship by investment in Chile must be at least 18 years old to be eligible.

14. How can I start the process of obtaining a second passport from Chile?


1. Determine your eligibility: To obtain a second passport from Chile, you must fulfill certain criteria such as being a permanent resident for five years, having an investment in the country, or having Chilean ancestry.

2. Prepare necessary documents: Gather all required documents such as identity proof, proof of residence, tax records, work permits, and any other supporting documents depending on your eligibility.

3. Book an appointment with the Civil Registry and Identification Service (Servicio de Registro Civil e Identificación): You can book an appointment online or through the call center for submitting your application and completing the necessary procedures.

4. Submit your application: Attend your appointment at the designated office and submit all required documents along with the completed application form.

5. Undergo background checks: The Chilean government will conduct thorough background checks on all applicants to ensure they meet the eligibility criteria and have no criminal record. This process may take several months.

6. Pay applicable fees: There are certain fees associated with obtaining a second passport from Chile. These include administrative fees, processing fees, and any other applicable charges based on your circumstances.

7. Wait for approval: Once all background checks are complete, you will be notified of the status of your application. If approved, you will receive a notification to collect your new passport.

Note: The process for obtaining a second passport from Chile may vary depending on your individual circumstances and may take anywhere between 6-12 months to complete. It is advisable to consult with a legal professional or contact the nearest Chilean embassy or consulate in your country for more specific guidance on the process.

15. Can naturalized citizens also apply for a second passport in Chile?

Yes, naturalized citizens can also apply for a second passport in Chile. The process and requirements for obtaining a second passport are the same for both naturalized and native citizens of Chile.

16. Is proof of financial stability required when applying for a residency and potential citizenship through an investor program in Chile?

Yes, proof of financial stability is required for most investor programs in Chile. The specific requirements may vary depending on the program, but typically applicants must provide documentation such as bank statements, investment records, and income tax returns to demonstrate their ability to invest in the country. This is important because Chile wants to attract investors who will contribute positively to its economy and society.

17. Are there any special regulations or requirements for individuals who have had previous legal issues seeking a second passport in Chile?

There are no specific regulations or requirements for individuals with previous legal issues seeking a second passport in Chile. However, applicants must still meet the general requirements for obtaining a passport, including providing valid identification and documents proving their citizenship. If the individual has a criminal record, they may be subject to additional background checks before their application is approved. Ultimately, the decision to grant a second passport is at the discretion of the Chilean government.

18. Does possessing dual citizenship of Chile pose any complications when traveling between countries while holding passports from both countries?


It is possible that there may be some complications when traveling between countries while holding passports from both Chile and another country. Some countries have restrictions on dual citizenship, which could result in limitations or difficulties with visa requirements, entry and exit procedures, or military service obligations. It is important to research the specific laws and regulations of both countries involved before traveling to avoid any potential issues. Additionally, it may be helpful to carry both passports when traveling to demonstrate your legal status in each country.

19.Is it possible to transfer my current residency status to my new country if I obtain dual citizenship through an investor program in Chile?

It is not typically possible to transfer residency status from one country to another simply because you obtain dual citizenship through an investor program. Each country has its own set of immigration laws and procedures, and obtaining dual citizenship in one country does not automatically grant you the right to live and work in the other.

You may be able to apply for a resident visa or permit using your new citizenship, but this would likely be subject to the same requirements and processes as any other foreign national seeking residency in Chile. It is recommended that you consult with relevant authorities or a qualified immigration attorney in both countries for more specific information.

20.Can citizens of other countries living and working in Chile also apply for a second passport?


Yes, citizens of other countries living and working in Chile can also apply for a second passport if they meet the eligibility criteria set by the Chilean government. This may include having permanent residency status, fulfilling certain residency requirements, and meeting other specific conditions. The application process may vary depending on their country of origin and individual circumstances. It is recommended to consult with the nearest embassy or consulate of Chile for further information and guidance on how to apply for a second passport.