In the evolving global landscape of 2025, sovereign mobility has become a critical asset for high-net-worth individuals, professionals, and entrepreneurs. Choosing a base of operations is no longer just about lifestyle—it is about strategic access, institutional trust, and economic resilience.
Chile has emerged as a premier destination for those seeking a stable, Western-aligned democracy that offers one of the world’s most powerful travel documents.
A Global Mobility Powerhouse
The Chilean passport is not merely a travel document; it is a high-value mobility asset. In 2025, it holds a prestigious 15th place globally on the Henley Passport Index, providing visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 175 destinations.
What sets Chile apart from its regional peers is its unique diplomatic standing:
- North American Access: Chile is the only Latin American nation in the U.S. Visa Waiver Program (VWP), which allows its citizens to enter the U.S. via an ESTA. It also enjoys streamlined eTA access to Canada.
- The H-1B1 Advantage: A unique treaty with the U.S. reserves 1,400 annual work visa slots specifically for Chilean professionals, bypassing the global H-1B lottery.
- Strategic Bilateralism: In 2025, Chile secured a landmark visa-free trial with China, a privilege that had eluded many Western powers.
- European Flexibility: Beyond standard Schengen rules, Chile has bilateral agreements with countries like the Czech Republic and the Netherlands, allowing for extended stays.
A Bastion of Stability and Opportunity
Chile’s passport power is a direct reflection of its internal health. With a political stability index significantly higher than the global average, the country offers a secure environment for capital and family life.
For entrepreneurs, Chile serves as a gateway to the world. It boasts a network of 33 free trade agreements, the most powerful network globally according to the OECD. This economic openness, combined with a high Quality of Living score, makes it an ideal hub for those who value governance and infrastructure.
The Professionalized Path to Residency and Citizenship
Under Law No. 21.325, Chile has modernized its immigration system to emphasize traceability and genuine civic commitment. The journey begins with Temporary Residence, which must now be applied for from outside the country via a digital portal.
Key Residency Categories:
- Professionals & Employees: A work permit no longer tied to a single employer, offering flexibility in the labor market.
- Investors: A pathway for those investing $500,000 USD or more in projects that generate economic activity.
- Retirees & Rentiers: Aimed at those with a regular passive income.
From Residency to Nationality:
- Permanent Residency: Generally requires 24 months of residence with strict physical presence requirements.
- General Naturalization: Eligible after 5 years of total legal residence.
- Qualified Naturalization: Can be reduced to 2 years for those with specific family bonds to Chileans.
The final step is an interview, in which applicants demonstrate their conversational Spanish and knowledge of Chilean history and civic values.
How Andenhouse Advisors Facilitates Your Transition
Moving to a new country involves complex legal and administrative hurdles. At Andenhouse Advisors, we specialize in bridging the gap between your global ambitions and the realities of Chile. Our bespoke services for individuals and companies include:
- Strategic Immigration Consulting: We guide you through the digital application process for Temporary Residence and ensure your profile aligns with the best subcategory (Investor, Professional, or Rentier).
- Corporate Relocation & Market Entry: For companies looking to establish a presence in Chile, we provide end-to-end support, from legal incorporation to securing visas for your executive team.
- Document Integrity & Legalization: We manage the rigorous “Apostille Mandate” and certified translations required for Chilean residency and citizenship applications.
- Naturalization Roadmap: We provide long-term planning for those seeking the Chilean passport, helping you maintain the physical presence requirements and preparing you for the PDI integration interview.
- Real Estate & Investment Advisory: For those pursuing the Investor pathway, we help identify qualified, high-impact projects and navigate InvestChile’s sponsorship requirements.
Why Choose Chile Now?
While the global environment becomes increasingly complex, Chile remains committed to international integration. It represents more than a place to live—it is a stake in the region’s most stable and institutionally robust democracy.
Andenhouse Advisors is your partner in navigating this journey, ensuring your move to Chile is seamless, compliant, and strategically sound.
