Spouse Visa In Chile: All You Need To Know
Navigating the labyrinth of immigration paperwork can feel like trying to salsa dance with two left feet—especially when it’s for something as significant as bringing your better half to Chile. But fear not, lovebirds! We’ve got you covered!
We’re here to demystify the spouse visa process, ensuring you glide through the application with the grace of a Chilean flamingo. Whether you’re a local or an expat, this guide will be your compass in the quest to unite your love under the Southern Cross.
Let’s dive in!
What Is The Spouse Visa In Chile?
The spouse visa in Chile, also known as the Temporary Resident Visa, is required for all foreign nationals traveling to Chile with the purpose of residence based on family ties with Chilean nationals.
This includes individuals who are married to a Chilean citizen.
The visa application process involves presenting a Marriage Certificate by the Chilean spouse, and if the marriage took place outside Chilean territory, it must first be registered at the Chilean Consulate in the country where the marriage took place.
Additionally, a valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity from the expected date of travel is required for the visa application.
The spouse visa allows the foreign national to reside in Chile based on family ties and is an essential step for those seeking to live in Chile with their Chilean spouse.
Temporary Resident Visa For Spouses Of Chilean Citizens
Foreign nationals married to a Chilean citizen can apply for a Temporary Resident Visa based on family ties.
The applicant must present a Marriage Certificate and a letter from the Chilean spouse. If the marriage took place outside Chilean territory, it must first be registered at the Chilean Consulate in the country where the marriage took place.
Dependent Temporary Resident Visa
Spouses of individuals holding a temporary resident visa in Chile can apply for a Dependent Temporary Resident Visa.
This visa allows the spouse to live in Chile, but they are not allowed to work unless they obtain authorization. The spouse must provide a marriage certificate as part of the application.
What Is The Main Difference Between The Two Chilean Resident Visas?
The difference between a Temporary Resident Visa for Spouses of Chilean Citizens and a Dependent Temporary Resident Visa lies primarily in their eligibility criteria and the specific relationship they cater to:
- Temporary Resident Visa For Spouses Of Chilean Citizens: This visa is specifically designed for foreign spouses of Chilean citizens. It allows spouses of Chilean citizens to live in Chile temporarily. The purpose of this visa is to enable spouses to join their Chilean partners and reside with them in Chile for the duration of the visa’s validity. It’s a visa tailored for spouses of Chilean citizens, emphasizing family reunification. They are allowed to find work.
- Dependent Temporary Resident Visa: This visa, on the other hand, is broader in scope and not limited to spouses. It encompasses dependents of individuals who hold a valid temporary residence visa in Chile. Dependents may include spouses, children, or other family members who rely on the primary visa holder for support and residency. It extends beyond just spouses, encompassing a wider range of familial relationships. They are not allowed to find work.
What Are The Requirements For Chile Spouse Visa?
The requirements for obtaining a spouse visa in Chile include the following:
- Marriage Certificate: If the applicant is married to a Chilean citizen, they need to provide a Marriage Certificate issued by the Chilean spouse. If the marriage occurred outside of Chilean territory, it must be registered at the Chilean Consulate in the country where the marriage occurred. Additionally, a letter from the Chilean spouse must be included.
- Valid Passport: A valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity from the expected date of travel is required. A scan of the pages with previous visas is also necessary.
- Proof Of Kinship: If the applicant’s spouse is applying as a dependent, they must attach proof of kinship, such as birth certificates proving family relationship. The spouse should also attach the marriage certificate to his/her application.
These requirements are essential for individuals seeking a spouse visa in Chile. It’s important to ensure that all necessary documentation is provided and that the application process is followed accurately to facilitate a successful visa application.
Are There Specific Language Proficiency Requirements For Chile Spouse Visa?
There are specific language proficiency requirements for the spouse visa in Chile. Applicants are required to have a good knowledge of the English language.
The current minimum standard for someone applying for a spouse visa is a level A1 in speaking and writing, as per the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
Therefore, proficiency in English at a basic level is necessary to satisfy the language requirement for the spouse visa in Chile.
How Long Is The Chile Spouse Visa Valid For?
The Spouse Visa, also known as the Temporary Resident Visa, in Chile is typically valid for a maximum length of one year. This visa allows foreign nationals to reside in Chile based on family ties with Chilean nationals.
The application process involves presenting a Marriage Certificate by the Chilean spouse, and if the marriage took place outside Chilean territory, it must first be registered at the Chilean Consulate in the country where the marriage took place.
Additionally, a valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity from the expected date of travel is required for the visa application
Can The Chile Spouse Visa Be Converted To PR?
Yes, the spouse visa in Chile can be converted to permanent residency. After a certain period of time, typically two years, the spouse visa can be converted to a permanent residency visa.
This conversion process allows the visa holder to apply for permanent residency in Chile, providing a pathway to long-term residence in the country.
How Long Does the PR Conversion Process From Chile Spouse Visa Take?
The conversion process to Permanent Residency involves additional documentation and review by the immigration authorities.
While specific processing times for this conversion are not specified, it’s advisable to consult with the Chilean immigration authorities or a certified immigration expert for accurate information on the PR conversion process timeline.
How To Convert The Spouse Visa To Permanent Residence In Chile?
To convert a Spouse Visa to Permanent Residence in Chile, the following steps are typically involved:
- Reside In Chile: To be eligible for permanent residency, you must have resided in Chile for a specific period, typically at least two years.
- Apply For Permanent Residency: After meeting the residency requirement, you can apply for permanent residency. This process involves submitting the necessary documentation and fulfilling the application requirements.
- Documentation And Application Process: The application process for permanent residency in Chile typically involves providing documentation such as a valid passport, a police clearance certificate, proof of sufficient income, birth certificates for dependents, and a marriage certificate to support the relationship between the dependent and the main applicant by showing they are their spouse.
- Application Renewal (If Necessary): If you have not met the residency requirement, you may need to renew your temporary visa for an additional period before being eligible to apply for permanent residency. It’s important to apply within 90 days before the expiration of your temporary visa.
- Civil Register Office Visit: Once permanent residency is granted, a visit to a Civil Register office is required to obtain an updated ID card.
- Duration And Eligibility: It’s important to note that the duration and eligibility criteria for permanent residency may vary based on individual circumstances and the specific immigration policies of Chile.
It’s essential to consult with the Chilean immigration authorities or legal professionals for the most current and accurate information regarding the process of converting a Spouse Visa to Permanent Residence in Chile.
What Are The Marriage Requirements In Chile?
To get married in Chile, couples must meet certain conditions, such as being of single status up to the minimum legal age and not being blood relatives.
The registry where the couples want to marry will demand documents to prove their identity and eligibility to get married in the country.
These documents include a valid means of identification, such as a national ID or passport, and a divorce or death certificate if either spouse was previously married but is no longer due to separation or the death of the previous spouse.
What Is A Civil Marriage In Chile?
A civil marriage in Chile is performed by an authorized registry officer and is held in the registry. However, couples may be given the opportunity to decide where they want their own marriage to be held, with approval from the officiant.
Some popular destinations that are used include beaches, restaurants, parks, etc., such as Vik Chile, Explora Patagonia, Explora Atacama, and several more.
A civil marriage is legally binding in Chile, and couples who marry civilly in Chile are recognized as married in other countries around the world.
To get married in Chile, there are certain conditions that must be met by both couples, such as single status up to the minimum legal age and no marriage between blood relatives.
The registry where the couples also want to marry will demand documents to prove their identity and show that they are eligible to get married in the country. These are stated below.
Documents Spouses Are Required To Submit Before Marriage
- A valid means of identification, such as a national ID or passport, must be submitted by both spouses.
- A government-issued birth certificate must be provided by the spouses. A foreign spouse may request this certificate from their home country or consulate. All foreign documents must include an apostille to serve as an authorization stamp, and they must be officially translated into Spanish.
- Proof of single status. This paperwork must be submitted by both spouses to show that they are single and not in any relationship or marriage with another person different from their spouse. All previous marriages must have been terminated before entering a new marriage.
- Divorce or death certificate. Spouses must provide either of these documents if they were previously married but are not anymore due to separation or the death of the previous spouse.
Same-Sex And Polygamous Marriages In Chile
Same-sex marriage is legal in Chile. In 2021, a bill to legalize marriage between two people of the same gender was passed.
Previously, the country recognized civil unions between same-sex couples, but now couples are able to lawfully get married and be protected under the laws of the country.
Polygamy is not recognized in Chile. The laws of the country prohibit the marriage of multiple people. Men and women are not allowed to marry more than one partner at a time.
Since the country is dominated by Christians, most couples do not even bother practicing this type of marriage because it is against the laws of marriage in Christianity.
Conclusion
And there you have it—a guide more satisfying than a perfect empanada, designed to help you and your spouse start your Chilean adventure together. Remember, the journey to obtaining a spouse visa in Chile might have more twists and turns than a Pablo Neruda poem, but the destination—a life together in this stunning country—is undoubtedly worth every step.
So arm yourself with patience, a dash of humor, and maybe a glass of superb Chilean wine to celebrate the milestones along the way.
Love Unites!
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