Australians can now travel to this South American country without a visa

It’s easier than ever to explore South America’s most diverse destination.

Big news for Aussie travellers: Australians no longer need a visa to visit Chile as tourists. The decision was made official by a decree from Chile’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and removes Australia from the list of countries previously required to apply for a tourist visa in advance.

What’s changed

Australians arriving in Chile can now secure a tourist entry permit on arrival at immigration checkpoints. No advance visa applications are necessary, and travellers will be granted an initial stay of up to 90 days, with the option to extend in line with Chile’s immigration laws.

Even better, the reciprocity fee that was once charged to Australians has been scrapped, reducing both the cost and red tape for travellers.

Why it matters

This update is designed to make Chile more accessible and appealing to Australian visitors while strengthening ties between the two nations. For Australians, it means fewer obstacles, less paperwork and the freedom to plan last-minute trips without worrying about visa processing times.

The move is expected to boost tourism, giving Aussies an easier path to explore one of South America’s most diverse destinations.

What to see in Chile

The Atacama is known as the driest desert on Earth. (Image: Getty Images/Nikada)

Chile is a country of breathtaking contrasts, offering landscapes and experiences you won’t find anywhere else:

• Atacama Desert: Known as the driest desert on Earth, it delivers surreal landscapes of salt flats, geysers, rainbow-coloured valleys and some of the clearest skies in the world for stargazing.
• Patagonia and Torres del Paine: Vast wilderness, glaciers and rugged mountains create one of the most dramatic national parks on the planet.
• Rapa Nui (Easter Island): Famous for its enigmatic moai statues, this remote Polynesian island is a cultural treasure trove.
• Santiago and Valparaíso: Chile’s capital is buzzing with art, food and nightlife, while the coastal city of Valparaíso is a UNESCO-listed wonder of hillside homes and vibrant street art.

With so many climates and terrains, Chile feels like multiple countries in one, from icy peaks to sun-baked deserts and lush forests.

What Australians should know

Planning a trip has never been simpler. Here are a few tips before you go:

1. Book your flights and itinerary knowing you don’t need to apply for a visa.
2. Check standard entry requirements such as passport validity and proof of onward travel.
3. Remember the 90-day entry limit and research extensions if you want to stay longer.
4. Ensure your passport has enough validity and blank pages.

With these changes, Chile just became one of the easiest South American countries for Australians to visit and one of the most rewarding.