Chile Forum

Anybody know how long time you can be outside of Chile on a permanent residency visa wthout losing it? I think this has been discussed but the search failed to reveal anything. Seems, as always, when you ask questions to those who should know you get different answers. Either you have to be in Chile at least 6 months per year or you cannot be outside Chile for a duration of time longer than 6 months. Would appreciate some hard facts on this. Thanks.

If you already have permanent residency in Chile, you should not leave Chile for more than one year, or else you will loose it. However, if you need to stay abroad for more than one year, you should contact the nearest Chilean consulate while your status is still valid (before one year has passed) and apply for an extension (prorroga). In this case be prepared to explain (and document) why you cannot return to Chile. One extension costs US$75. You can get up to 4 extensions in a row, that is, in theory you can live outside Chile for up to 5 years total, and maintain your immigration status. Suerte!

Don't they know that in Extranjeria???

Thanks Ventisquero ... sounds like the rules are more lax than I feared. I would hate to have to start all over again with a temp visa.

Btw, all these terms and conditions are found on the back of your Certificado de Permanencia Definitiva.
You can find more info at the extranjeria website in the FAQ section.