Chilean Citizenship & Dual Citizenship
Naturalization after permanent residency, or citizenship by descent through a Chilean parent or grandparent — without giving up your US passport.
What this involves
Chile permits dual nationality, so becoming Chilean does not require renouncing your US citizenship — a point that surprises many applicants and stops others from applying at all. There are two distinct routes, and they have almost nothing in common procedurally.
Naturalization is for people who built a life in Chile: it follows a qualifying period of permanent residency and involves a knowledge requirement. Citizenship by descent is a registry matter — if you have a Chilean parent or grandparent, the question is documentary, not residential, and it can often be resolved without you ever having lived in Chile.
What we handle
Route assessment
We establish which of the two routes is open to you — and occasionally both — before any file is opened.
Naturalization file
Preparation and filing of the naturalization application, with the residency evidence, records and certificates the Ministry requires.
Descent and registry work
Locating and legalizing the Chilean ancestor's records, then registering the birth so the citizenship is recognized and a passport can be issued.
Exam preparation guidance
Orientation on the knowledge requirement and the material it covers, so you are not walking in unprepared.
Passport and ID
Once citizenship is granted, we guide the registration steps that lead to a Chilean ID card and passport.
How we run this for a client abroad
Assessment first
You send the documents you have. We tell you what applies, what it costs and how long it takes — before you commit to anything.
Power of attorney
Granted at a Chilean consulate or apostilled where you live. It lets us act for you in Chile without you travelling.
We file, you get updates
Our attorneys handle the filings and appearances in Chile. You get plain-English updates at every stage.
Chilean Citizenship & Dual Citizenship — common questions
What English-speaking clients ask us most about this specific service.
Do I have to give up my US citizenship?
How long after permanent residency can I apply?
My grandparent was Chilean. Do I qualify?
Is there an exam?
Talk to a Chilean lawyer about Chilean citizenship
Get an initial assessment in English — confidential, with no obligation.
Book your consultation now →