IMPACT – HIGH

What is the change? Authorities have declared a state of emergency amid mass protests in Chile, imposing curfews, closing roads and shutting down public transportation in much of the country.

What does the change mean? Immigration services may be disrupted. Government offices are likely to remain closed or operate on a limited schedule in the coming days. Foreign nationals may not be able to make appointments because of road closures and limited transportation options. Individuals can still submit applications by mail, but processing is likely to be delayed.

  • Implementation time frame: Immediate and ongoing.
  • Processes affected: All immigration services, including registration, visa stamping and appointments for work permits and identification cards.
  • Who is affected: Foreign nationals in need of immigration services in Chile, especially those with pending applications.
  • Impact on processing times: Delays should be expected.
  • Business impact: Companies may need to adjust time lines for employees who are impacted by the limited immigration services.

Background: Authorities declared a state of emergency in Santiago Saturday, as the capital grappled with mass demonstrations. The state of emergency was subsequently expanded to other parts of the country. It is not known, at this point, how long emergency measures will remain in place.

Analysis & Comments: Employers and individuals should anticipate delays while government offices are closed or operating on a limited basis. Individuals who are unable to make a scheduled appointment are encouraged to work with their immigration provider to reschedule the appointment when normal services resume.

Source: Deloitte. Deloitte refers to one or more of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited (“DTTL”), its global network of member firms, and their related entities. DTTL (also referred to as “Deloitte Global”) and each of its member firms are legally separate and independent entities. DTTL does not provide services to clients. Please see www.deloitte.com/about to learn more. Deloitte Legal means the legal practices of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited member firms or their affiliates that provide legal services. For legal, regulatory and other reasons, not all member firms provide legal services. This communication contains general information only, and none of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited, its member firms or their related entities (collectively, the “Deloitte network”) is, by means of this communication, rendering professional advice or services. Before making any decision or taking any action that may affect your finances or your business, you should consult a qualified professional adviser. No entity in the Deloitte network shall be responsible for any loss whatsoever sustained by any person who relies on this communication. © 2019. For information, contact Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited.