Chile · Citizenship
Naturalization rules: required residence years, language and civics requirements, and each country's dual-citizenship policy.
AI-drafted, editorially reviewed. Confirm specifics with the official authority.
Chile grants nationality by naturalization after 5 years of residence, holding permanent residence, with basic Spanish. Chile permits dual nationality, so you generally need not renounce your original citizenship. Applications are handled by the immigration service and the Civil Registry.
Chilean nationality by naturalisation is generally available after five years of permanent residence, subject to requirements. Those born in Chile are generally Chilean by birth.
- Naturalisation typically requires five years of residence and meeting legal conditions.
- Most people born in Chilean territory acquire Chilean nationality by birth.
- Chile permits dual nationality in most cases.
- 1
Confirm your route and residence
Hold 5 years of residence and permanent residence in Chile before applying.
- 2
Meet language and knowledge tests
Have basic Spanish sufficient for civic life (assessed in the process).
- 3
Meet good-character and other conditions
Be over 18, have a clean record and settled residence in the country.
- 4
Apply to the nationality authority
Apply to the National Migration Service with residence, identity and record documents.
- 5
Attend interview / test and formalities
On approval, the naturalization decree is issued and registered with the Civil Registry.
- 6
Receive citizenship and a passport
You become a Chilean citizen; Chile permits dual nationality. Apply for a Chilean passport and ID card.
- Eligible route + qualifying residence period
- Continuous / legal residence conditions met
- Language + civic knowledge test passed
- Good character / clean record
- Application + documents + fee
- Interview / oath / ceremony completed
- Dual-nationality rule checked
- Citizenship confirmed; passport applied
- Servicio Nacional de Migraciones
National Migration Service — naturalisation information.
Frequently asked questions
How long until Chilean nationality?
Five years of residence, holding permanent residence, before you can apply for naturalization.
Does Chile allow dual nationality?
Yes — Chile permits dual nationality, so you generally keep your original citizenship.
Who processes the application?
The National Migration Service, with registration through the Civil Registry once granted.
Government portals
- National Migration Service — Temporary and permanent residence, work-authorised permits and the RUT for foreigners.
- SII — Internal Revenue Service — Start of activities, electronic invoicing (boleta/factura) and the annual return.
- Registry of Companies — Your Company in One Day — Free online company incorporation and the public register of Chilean companies.
- Labour Directorate (DT) — Employment contracts, minimum wage, working hours and the complaints process.