PASSPORTS AND VISAS

Except for nationals of Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay and Paraguay, who need only their national identity cards, passports are obligatory. Citizens of Canada, the UK, the USA, Australia, New Zealand and most Western European countries need passports only. US citizens, Canadians, Australians have to pay a reciprocity fee in response to similar fees on Chilean citizens applying for visas.

On arrival, visitors receive a tourist card and entry stamp that allow a stay of up to 90 days but are renewable for an additional 90. If you plan on staying longer than six months, it's simplest to make a brief visit to Argentina, Peru or Bolivia, then return and start your six months all over again. Do not lose your tourist card, which border authorities take very seriously.