Citizenship by Birth in Chile

Under Article 10 of the Chilean Constitution, the following individuals are considered Chilean citizens by birth:

• ✅ Anyone born in Chilean territory, except for children of foreign diplomats or those in transit.
• ✅ Children of Chilean parents born abroad, provided that at least one parent is a Chilean citizen and they register with a Chilean consulate.

Exceptions & Restrictions

• Foreigners in Transit: If a child is born to foreign parents who are considered "in transit" (e.g., tourists or temporary visitors), they do not automatically receive Chilean citizenship.
• Diplomatic Immunity: Children of diplomats or international officials are not eligible for Chilean nationality under Jus Soli.

Jus Soli vs. Jus Sanguinis in Chile

Chile combines Jus Soli (birthright citizenship) with Jus Sanguinis (citizenship by descent) to determine nationality. While most individuals born in Chile are granted citizenship, foreign-born children of Chilean parents can also claim nationality.

1. Citizenship by Birth (Jus Soli) – Born in Chile

If you were born in Chilean territory, you are automatically considered a Chilean citizen, except in cases where:

• Your parents were foreign diplomats
• Your parents were considered "in transit" (e.g., short-term visitors)

Steps to Obtain a Chilean Birth Certificate & ID

1. Register Birth at the Civil Registry (Registro Civil):
   • Parents must register the child’s birth at the local Civil Registry Office within 30 days.
   • Required documents: Hospital-issued birth certificate, Parents’ identification documents (passport/ID)
2. Obtain a Chilean National ID (Cédula de Identidad): Once registered, apply for a Chilean ID card at the Civil Registry.
3. Apply for a Chilean Passport (Optional): If needed, you can apply for a Chilean passport through the Civil Registry.

2. Citizenship by Descent (Jus Sanguinis) – Born Abroad to Chilean Parents

If you were born outside Chile but have at least one Chilean parent, you can apply for Chilean nationality under Jus Sanguinis.

Eligibility Criteria:

• ✅ At least one parent must be a Chilean citizen at the time of your birth.
• ✅ You must be registered at a Chilean Consulate abroad.
• ✅ You must activate your nationality before turning 21 years old.

Application Steps:

1. Register Birth at a Chilean Consulate:
   • Required documents: Foreign birth certificate (translated & legalized), Chilean parent's national ID or passport, Proof of Chilean nationality (e.g., birth certificate of Chilean parent)
2. Obtain a Chilean Nationality Certificate: After registration, you can request a Chilean nationality certificate from the Chilean Civil Registry.
3. Apply for a Chilean ID (Cédula de Identidad) and Passport: Once you turn 18, you must activate your Chilean nationality by obtaining a Chilean ID card and passport. If you do not activate your nationality by age 21, you may need to go through a naturalization process instead.

3. Naturalization – If You Do Not Qualify for Birthright Citizenship

If you were not born in Chile and do not have Chilean parents, you may still apply for Chilean citizenship through naturalization if:

• ✔ You have resided in Chile for at least 5 years (with permanent residency)
• ✔ You have no criminal record
• ✔ You can demonstrate integration into Chilean society

How to Apply for Naturalization:

• Submit an application to the Chilean Ministry of the Interior (Departamento de Extranjería y Migración)
• Provide necessary documents, including proof of residency, employment, and integration
• Processing time varies (usually 6-12 months)