Chile has enacted legislation that bring changes to foreign nationals’ voting eligibility. From 2026, foreign nationals may vote only if they have been continuously domiciled (“avecindados”) in Chile for more than 10 years, counted from the grant of definitive residence, with no absences over 90 days in any 12-month period. This is a significant change to constitutional law and reflects a broader trend of government policy tightening rules around immigration.
On 7 October 2025 Chile enacted law number 21.773, modifying the constitution. Under this legislation, the new standard residence requirement for foreign nationals to be eligible to vote will be 10+ years of uninterrupted domicile, counted from definitive residence, and <90 days abroad in any 12-month period. The change is due to take effect in 2026.
Before it enters into force, a separate law must establish fines for citizens who fail to vote. The current reform does not address fines for foreign voters.
Due to the fact that entry into force is deferred to 2026, the rules in force prior to this law continue to apply in 2025. This means the existing rules will continue to apply during the general elections that are scheduled for November 16, 2025. For the same reason, no fines will be imposed on foreign nationals who do not exercise their right to vote in this year’s election.
These changes will take effect in 2026 and reflect a broader trend of government policy tightening rules around immigration. While the changes will affect foreign nationals who have resided in Chile for shorter than the required minimum period, the impact on employers will likely remain limited.
For a deeper discussion on the above, please reach out to your Vialto Partners point of contact, or alternatively through the following emails from the Vialto Partners Chile employment immigration team:
Joan Carbonell
Manager
Patricio Treuquemil
Director
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