Chile Visa RequirementsFor United Kingdom passport holders
UK passport holders can visit Chile visa-free for up to 90 days. Chile is one of South America's safest and most visited countries, offering diverse landscapes from the Atacama Desert to Patagonia.
Great news! United Kingdom passport holders can enter Chile without a visa for tourism or business purposes. You can stay up to 90 days.
No advance visa application is needed. On arrival at Santiago's Arturo Merino Benitez International Airport or any official border crossing, present your valid UK passport, a return or onward ticket, and details of your accommodation. A tourism entry stamp will be issued. Keep this document safe as you may be asked to present it when departing.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Current Travel Situation
United Kingdom to Chile: What You Need to Know
Chile has long maintained a reciprocal visa-free policy with the UK, reflecting strong trade and diplomatic ties. The 90-day allowance is sufficient for most tourist and short business visits. UK nationals enter as tourists and cannot take up employment or enrol in formal study without the appropriate visa. If you wish to extend your stay or change your immigration status, you must apply through Chile's immigration authority (Servicio Nacional de Migraciones) before your visa-free period expires.
Practical Tips
Chile uses the Chilean peso (CLP). Major credit cards are widely accepted in cities, but cash is useful in rural areas and small towns. Altitude sickness (soroche) can affect visitors to the altiplano regions in northern Chile; acclimatise gradually and stay hydrated. Earthquake preparedness is important: familiarise yourself with local emergency procedures. Tap water is generally safe in cities but check locally in remote areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do UK passport holders need a visa for Chile?
No. UK nationals can visit Chile visa-free for up to 90 days per trip. No prior application is needed; present your passport and onward ticket on arrival.
Can UK travellers extend their stay beyond 90 days in Chile?
Yes, in some circumstances. Extensions can be applied for through Chile's Servicio Nacional de Migraciones before your 90-day period expires. Alternatively, a brief exit to a neighbouring country and re-entry resets the counter, though immigration officers have discretion.
What currency does Chile use?
Chile uses the Chilean peso (CLP). ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Credit cards are broadly accepted. Inform your UK bank before travel to avoid fraud blocks.
Is altitude sickness a concern in Chile?
It can be in the altiplano regions of northern Chile, such as San Pedro de Atacama, which sits at around 2,400 metres, with surrounding areas reaching much higher. Acclimatise gradually, stay hydrated, and avoid strenuous activity on your first day at altitude.