General program requirements

Though there are no explicit minimum amounts for Chile’s Rentista (rentier) or Pensionado visas, the applicant must, in practice, demonstrate a minimum monthly income of some US$1,500, as well as smaller additional amounts if spouses or children are included. The income should be recurring and come from sources like pensions, dividends, annuities, rental income, salaries, and similar predictable revenue streams.

It is possible to work in Chile while on this type of visa; you need not be retired.

Program benefits

• No investment or donation requirement;
• Path to citizenship;
• Permits dual/multiple citizenship;
• Lower cost of living;
• Warm climate;
• Enhanced business access to large economies;
• Short processing time

Requirements to qualify for citizenship

Those aiming to ultimately obtain Chilean citizenship should follow the below steps.

After holding a temporary Rentista/Pensionado for 2 years, the person may apply for permanent residency. 

Permanent residency is valid indefinitely as long as the individual continues to meet the financial requirement and is not absent from Chile for more than two consecutive years. The PR card itself is valid for five years, but is renewable. 

After five years of residency in Chile, the applicant is eligible for citizenship, subject to proficiency in Spanish language and the passing of a civics exam. In practice, the process to obtain the nationality can take up to 2 years.

Applications for this program may be directed to:

National Migration Service

Legislation upon which this program is based: