Job Discussion Forums

[EvanCHowell]

I'm a recent college grad with no ESL experience, but I'm heading to Chile at the end of the summer (either Concepcion or Santiago). I plan on finding a job when I get there, instead of setting up something sketchy beforehand. My question: what are the chances of me being able to secure a work visa once I'm in country? Are most employers willing and able to do that? I know that I could do the whole "renew your tourist visa every 3 months thing", but I'd prefer to get a work visa (or a temporary work visa, if such a thing exists.) If anyone with knowledge of this situation could help me out, I would be seriously grateful.

[Bernie]

Hi there,

I think that most reputable employers would help you through the visa process if they were to hire you, though you may have to ask around at different schools and ask the question directly so that you know where you stand. Some schools expect you to do all the paper work and running around for yourself, and some just ask for you passport and do the rest for you.

Another question you should ask is who will pay for your visa and any other paper work you will need to do, and how much they reckon it'll cost. If you are from the states, if I'm not mistaken, there is no visa cost because you have to pay when you enter the country. (not 100% on that one, though.)

Yet another point to clarify is what kind of visa the school will offer you. Most offer a visa subject to contract, which states that you may only work for that one employer and that you need to contribute 20 per cent of your salary towards tax and health insurance. (the tax, apparently, being the only one which you may recover upon leaving the country) Another kind of visa which will enable you to work is a temporary residence visa. With this you may work anywhere in Chile and apply for permanent residence after 1 year. Obviously, fewer schools offer this. And I'm not sure if you even need a contract to obtain this kind of visa.

Well at www.extranjeria.gov.cl you can find info. on visas and visa costs.

Good luck!

[3eyes]

I have been teaching here for 8 months and the vast majority of teachers I've met have work permits. It doesn't seem like the process is all that difficult, although I never did it so I couldn't tell you first hand.

One thing: You're smart to want to get a permit since you'll find that life without the Chilean "carnet" can be difficult sometimes.

[EvanCHowell]

Thanks for the helpful responses.