Chile

Översikt

Chile is one of the most developed countries in Latin America and by comparison to its neighbours, is considered relatively low risk. Although interstate armed conflict is unlikely, diplomatic tensions with Bolivia and Peru are high. Agitation amongst Chile’s indigenous groups, especially the largest Mapuche community, about uneven social and economic rights threatens to escalate into small-scale insurgency movements or frequent violent protests. Protests by student, teachers and agricultural workers’ unions, among others, are frequent and often turn violent. Although currently less active than in the past, a series of leftist organisations continue to carry out minor bomb attacks on political, diplomatic and business interests. Petty crime is a concern in major cities and tourist areas.

Hälsa, sjukdomar och vaccination

It is essential to check that all vaccinations are up to date including tetanus-diphtheria and measles, mumps and rubella. Vaccinations against hepatitis A&B and typhoid are recommended.

Cases of dengue fever have recently increased in Latin America. No cases have been reported in Chile outside of Easter Island. Although no vaccination for dengue fever is available, you can mitigate the risks of being bitten by mosquitoes by using insect repellent and mosquito nets and wearing long sleeved clothing.

Travellers likely to have direct contact with animals or visit areas without immediate medical access are advised to have the rabies vaccination.

Santiago has a significant problem with air pollution especially between the winter months of June and September. Young children and elderly persons are particularly vulnerable to experience respiratory problems and in these instances it is advisable to stay indoors and drink lots of fluid. The air pollution can also cause eye irritation.

Medical facilities in the major towns and cities are good. They are generally less accessible in rural regions. Private treatment can be expensive and many doctors will require immediate payment in cash, regardless of having health insurance. It is advisable to take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance prior to travel. Chilean towns and cities also have a range of pharmacies that sell American and European medicines.

Some hospitals in Santiago are often considered of high quality and some of the best of Southern America region

Clinica Alemana de Santiago
Av Vitacura 5951
+56 2 2210 1111

Clinica Indisa de Santiago
Sta María 1810
+56 2 2362 5555

Pass

Visitors to Chile must be travelling on a passport that is valid for at least six months from the date of entry into the country.
Members of Mercosul Union can travel with national identification documents. It is however advisable to check which national documents are accepted, and the validity required.

Visum

Most European and US nationals do not require a visa for visits of less than 90 days. Upon arrival in Chile you will be presented with a tourist card (tarjeta de turismo). It is extremely important that you keep this document throughout your trip as it must be presented when leaving the country. Failure to do so will result in a fine or possible detention.

It is however advisable to contact your local Chilean diplomatic mission to learn of specific requirements. This is especially applicable if travelling for non-tourist related purposes as entry requirements do vary.

For additional information visit TLCS at http://www.tlcsvisas.com/tlcs/