Chile

The Chilean airport sector is spearheaded by the Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCL) in Santiago, which serves as a primary connecting hub in Latin America. Air traffic in Chile has undergone significant modernization, with a focus on the digitalization of customs processes. The primary regulatory body is the Civil Aeronautics Board (JAC), under the Ministry of Transport and Telecommunications, which is responsible for commercial aviation policy. The General Directorate of Civil Aeronautics (DGAC) manages operational safety and airport infrastructure. The Chilean market is highly competitive, characterized by a strong presence of low-cost carriers, which has increased the volume of both domestic and international passengers.

• Passport: must be valid for the whole stay.
• Visa: Citizens from most countries in the Americas and Europe do not require a tourist visa for stays of up to 90 days.
• PDI (Policía de Investigaciones): on arrival, the PDI registers the visitor and issues the digital Tarjeta de Turismo. Keep it: hotels ask for it to exempt foreigners paying in US dollars from VAT (IVA).
• Health: In 2026, no COVID-19 vaccination certificates are required, but it is recommended to check for updates on the Chilean Ministry of Health website before flying. There is no ETIAS or ETA requirement for tourists in Chile; the current visa-exemption regime for passport holders or valid identity documents (for Mercosur/Andean Community members) remains in effect.

In Chile, passenger rights are set out in the Aeronautical Code, updated by Law 20,831 (2015), and in consumer protection law. In case of delays, cancellations or denied boarding (overbooking):

• Information: the airline must tell passengers which rights apply in each case.
• Passenger's choice: for cancellations and long delays, the passenger can choose between boarding the next available flight and a refund of the ticket, plus assistance (communication, meals and a hotel when needed).
• Compensation: overbooking and delays beyond the legal limits give the right to compensation; other damages can be claimed with the help of SERNAC (the National Consumer Service).
• Tip: file the complaint at the airline counter before leaving the airport and keep receipts for your expenses.

Baggage policies in Chile follow a model of fare freedom.

• Allowance: There is no law mandating free checked baggage. Airlines are free to charge for checked bags, provided that the fees are clearly disclosed at the time of purchase.
• Hand baggage: there is no carry-on allowance guaranteed by law: on low-cost airlines' cheapest fares, only a small personal item (that fits under the seat) is free, and the cabin bag is charged separately. Check the fare before you buy.
• Dangerous Goods: The DGAC maintains strict lists of prohibited items; lithium batteries and flammable materials are strictly regulated.

The entry of animals into Chile is controlled by the Agriculture and Livestock Service (SAG).

• Certificate: It is mandatory to present a Zoosanitary Export Certificate issued by the country of origin, validated by the local competent authority.
• Vaccination: The animal must have a valid rabies vaccination (administered at least 21 days and no more than 1 year prior to travel).
• Microchip: Microchip identification is highly recommended and, in many cases, required for international transit processes.
• Quarantine: Chile does not enforce quarantine for domestic pets (dogs and cats) provided all documentation is in order upon arrival.

• Unaccompanied minors: minors under 18 who are Chilean or resident in Chile and travel alone or with only one parent need a notarised (or court) authorisation from the parent who is not travelling. Foreign minors on a tourist trip usually leave with the same documents they entered with; confirm with the PDI.
• Documentation: Foreign minors must carry a valid passport and, if required by their country of origin, a birth certificate or identity document proving the parental relationship.
• Priority: Pregnant women and families with infants have legal priority in check-in and security lines, in accordance with current airport preferential service regulations.

• Accessibility: Chile complies with Law 20.422, which ensures the social inclusion of people with disabilities. Airports feature adapted infrastructure (ramps, elevators, accessible restrooms).
• Special Assistance: Passengers with reduced mobility should request "wheelchair" service at the time of booking, at least 48 hours in advance.
• Seniors: many airlines and airports give priority service to older passengers; request assistance in advance if you need it.

• Civil Aeronautics Board (JAC): https://www.jac.gob.cl
• General Directorate of Civil Aeronautics (DGAC): https://www.dgac.gob.cl
• National Consumer Service (SERNAC) - Passenger Rights: https://www.sernac.cl
• Agriculture and Livestock Service (SAG) - Pet Entry: https://www.sag.gob.cl
• Investigations Police of Chile (PDI) - Entry Requirements: https://www.pdichile.cl
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Visas): https://chile.gob.cl