IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? After a month-long strike by Civil Registry workers, the government is taking steps to make it easier for foreign nationals who need documents issued by the Civil Registry, including ID cards and police clearance certificates.

What does the change mean? Individuals holding ID cards soon to expire will have their validity extended until the end of the year. Foreign nationals holding valid residence visas or permanent residence who were not able to request their ID card in time or who have expired ID cards, will be able to enter Chile. Foreign nationals do not have to register with the Civil Registry within 30 days of arrival, as long as they fulfill visa or permanent residence registration with the International Police Office within the 30-day period. This measure will be valid for 30 days after the strike has concluded. In addition, immigration authorities will accept police clearance certificates up to 90 days from the date of issuance (instead of 30 days) and will accept applications without police clearance certificates as long as they are provided before the end of the application process.

  • Implementation time frame: Immediate and ongoing.
  • Visas/permits affected: ID cards, police clearance certificates.
  • Who is affected: Foreign nationals in Chile.
  • Impact on processing times: Services at the Civil Registry has stopped since the strike began one month ago.
  • Business impact: The measures should make it easier for foreign nationals during the strike.

Background: Chilean workers at the Civil Registry went on strike Sept. 29 seeking better pay. They have not set a date for an end to the strike. Identity cards are used for daily business activities, such as opening a bank account, obtaining a driver’s license or renting or buying property. Police clearance certificates are required for visa renewals and other processes.

BAL Analysis: The temporary measures will give more flexibility to foreign nationals who are not able to obtain services from the Civil Registry during the strike.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group and our network provider located in Chile. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.

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