The Temporary Residence Visa for Job Search (Visa SUJE) is Chile’s official job seeker visa for 2025. Designed for foreign professionals with recognized university degrees, this visa offers a structured way to explore employment opportunities in Chile’s dynamic job market. This guide outlines the eligibility criteria, application process, benefits, and transition to work visas, providing valuable insights for professionals seeking to establish their careers in Chile.

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Why Consider Chile’s Job Seeker Visa (Visa SUJE)?

Chile is known for its stable economy, diverse industries, and expanding job market. The Visa SUJE allows skilled professionals to reside in Chile while actively searching for employment, making it an attractive option for ambitious job seekers.

What is Visa SUJE?

Visa SUJE is a temporary residence permit that allows foreign professionals to legally stay in Chile for up to six months while seeking employment. During this period, visa holders are also permitted to work part-time (up to 20 hours per week), gaining valuable experience and networking opportunities.

Key Benefits:

• No Job Offer Required: Unlike standard work visas, Visa SUJE allows entry without a pre-existing job offer.
• Extended Stay for Job Search: Provides six months to explore job opportunities.
• Pathway to Work Visa: Once employed, holders can transition to a full work visa or a residence permit.
• Access to High-Demand Sectors: Chile’s industries—technology, mining, agriculture, and renewable energy—are experiencing growth, creating numerous job openings.
• Freedom to Travel: Visa holders can travel within Chile while job hunting.
• Networking & Cultural Integration: Build professional relationships and integrate into Chilean society, increasing employment prospects.

Eligibility Criteria for Visa SUJE:

To qualify, applicants must:

1. Hold a university degree equivalent to at least four years of study (bachelor’s or higher).
2. Possess professional licenses or certifications if required (e.g., medicine, law).
3. Demonstrate financial stability, with proof of at least USD 1,500 per month.
4. Have valid health insurance covering their stay in Chile.
5. Present a clean criminal record from their home country.
6. Hold a passport valid for at least six months.

Step-by-Step Application Process:

1. Gather Required Documents: Prepare your passport, financial statements, health insurance, degree certificates, and police clearance certificate.
2. Complete Online Application: Submit the Visa SUJE application through the Chilean Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.
3. Schedule an Interview: After submission, schedule an appointment at the nearest Chilean consulate or embassy.
4. Wait for Processing: Visa processing typically takes 30 days, but this may vary. Applicants should check the official government website for updated timelines.
5. Pay Fees & Collect Visa: Upon approval, pay the visa fees and obtain the visa stamp.

Transitioning from Visa SUJE to a Work Visa:

Once you secure employment in Chile, follow these steps to convert your SUJE visa into a Chilean work visa:

1. Notify your employer and obtain a formal employment contract.
2. Gather necessary documents, including personal identification and employer sponsorship details.
3. Apply online for a work visa through Chile’s Department of Immigration website.
4. Attend an interview if required.
5. Pay applicable fees and await approval.
6. Receive your Chilean work visa, allowing long-term legal employment.

Types of Work Visas in Chile (2025):

Chile offers various work visas depending on your profession and qualifications:

• Subcategory 12 – Profesional Contratado: For university graduates hired by a Chilean company.
• Subcategory 13 – Trabajador Calificado: For highly skilled technical professionals.
• Subcategory 14 – Inversionista: For entrepreneurs and investors establishing businesses in Chile.

Visa holders can transition to any of these categories based on their job profile.

Frequently Asked Questions: