If you need to apply for your Chilean passport in the United States but don’t have the required documents, don’t worry—there is a solution. During the process, it’s important to have a debit card, as you will need to make payments for the passport fees and other consular charges. Below, we explain step by step how to obtain your passport at the Chilean Consulate General in Miami without having all the usual documents.
1. Schedule an Appointment at the Consulate
The first step is to schedule an appointment at the Chilean Consulate General in Miami. This procedure is carried out exclusively by appointment. You can book your appointment through the official consulate website at https://tramites.minrel.gov.cl/agenda/agendarcita
Each applicant must have an individual appointment, even if traveling as a family group.
2. Gather Alternative Documentation
If you do not have a valid Chilean ID card or a previous passport, you must provide proof of Chilean nationality. You can do this by presenting:
- Chilean birth certificate: This document proves that you were born in Chile and, therefore, have Chilean nationality.
- RUN (Rol Único Nacional): If you know your RUN number, provide it during the process. This unique identifier is assigned to all Chilean citizens and is required for various procedures.
If you do not have these documents, it is recommended that you contact the consulate in advance for guidance on how to proceed.
3. Attend Your Consular Appointment
On the day of your appointment, go to the consulate with the documents you have gathered. During your appointment, digital photographs, signatures, and fingerprints will be taken electronically. Keep in mind that the process is in-person and individual.
4. Pay the Required Fees
The total cost per applicant is US$149, which includes the passport, ID card, and photograph. Payment must be made in cash and with the exact amount.
It is advisable to check the official consulate website for updated fees before your appointment, as they may be subject to change.
5. Processing Time and Document Delivery
Once the process is complete, the issuance of the passport and ID card can take approximately 25 days. You can choose to pick up the documents in person at the consulate or request delivery by mail.
If you opt for mail delivery, you must provide a prepaid envelope with a tracking number, preferably using USPS Priority Mail. FedEx shipments are not accepted.
Additional Considerations
- Safe-Conduct (Salvoconducto): If you urgently need to travel to Chile but do not have a valid travel document, you can apply for a safe-conduct (salvoconducto) at the consulate. This document is valid for 10 days and will allow you to enter Chile, where you can then apply for a new passport. For more information, you can email [email protected].
- Minors: If the applicant is under 18 years old, both parents must be present at the appointment. If one parent cannot attend, a notarized authorization must be provided.
For additional inquiries or specific information, you can contact the Chilean Consulate General in Miami via email at [email protected] or by calling +1 305-373-8623.
By following these steps, you will be able to obtain your Chilean passport without major issues. Plus, having a debit card will make it easier to pay all the fees associated with the process.