Job Discussion Forums

[apollolight]

Does anyone have any information about BRIDGE in Santiago Chile.

I have just received some information from them but it doesn't add up.

For example, the contract they offer is for only 36 hours a month and state that they 'may' be able to help with visa costs.

Any info would be greatly appreciated. Thanks

[GFish]

I've been in contact with them and have a Skype interview soon.

There are a few things I am curious about as well, but at the very least, they've been both professional and prompt with dealing with me, and that is a good sign.

[lagringalindissima]

First off, if they "might be ale to help you with the visa costs.." you are paying for it. So decide if you can live with that.

But the main issue isn't the cost; it's the proces.

Be 100% sure you know what perwork you need, what they need to file the paperwork spossoring you and the total time frame on each step. Ask them about the process and read the Chilean embassy's website-- NOT "Becky Morgan's blog; the low down on teaching in Chile.. section 3: visa fun"!!-- to mke sure everything adds up and that you will be issued a real work visa if you complete the process.

[hhqassem]

Any updates about Bridge Chile from any of you guys? Any positive or negative feedback?

I see it has been a year almost since this last post and was curious about Bridge Chile. I have my interview with them next week and so far, they seem very prompt and professional. Everything seems to be flowing in the right direction. But I wanted to know what you guys thought of them before I get too excited.

[Emdii]

[hhqassem]

The interview went well. You won't get paid that much (as is the case with most positions in Latin America). Accommodation isn't included, so that will eat up more of your already low salary. But like the person interviewing me said, people go in it for the experience and the richness the country has to offer more than anything else.

The good news is you're not working that many hours, which gives you the time and luxury to make side income by giving private tutoring sessions. So the possibility of making more is there, but you would just have to hustle a bit.

Visa cost for Chile is pretty low ($15). Not sure why covering the visa cost was brought up as an issue.

The guy interviewing you, who will also be your manager (he's from the UK), is very friendly and has a positive and upbeat attitude. He's also very professional and will give you all the details and answers you need.

I see that Bridge Chile just posted a job post here on eslcafe a couple of days ago, so I guess they're definitely in need of some teachers. Good luck.[/quote][/code]

[jachile]

Visa costs have recently skyrocketed here. We were told by both Bridge and Dynamic that, if you're from the USA, expect to pay $500-$800 (depending on how fast you want it processed).

The good news is that it isn't taking as long as it used to but could still be several months.

Our experience so far is that language companies will give you a written offer of employment so you can start the visa process, which you must do in the first week of employment.

As to how much of the cost they will cover, we'll see.

[hhqassem]

That is strange because during the interview, he never mentioned to me that visa costs would be that high. As a matter of fact, he told me that it would exactly be $15. Then again, I'm not from the US, but I'm not sure if it makes a difference visa cost wise. Hmmmmmm......

[jachile]

Where you are from makes a huge difference in the cost - more info here

http://www.extranjeria.gob.cl/media/2015/03/45778.pdf

[hhqassem]

I see in that document "Egipto" (Egypt) is $15 like he said so I guess he ain't lyin