Departures from the Country of People with Dual Nationality
On November 26, 2025, the Comptroller General of the Republic issued Ruling No. E201730, dismissing a request for reconsideration of Ruling No. E149008 of 2025. The requester questioned the legality of the Chilean Investigative Police (PDI) requiring a Chilean passport for a person with dual nationality to leave the country, arguing that they could identify themselves interchangeably with a foreign passport.
The Comptroller's Office concluded that there was no irregularity in the requirement, reaffirming the application of national regulations to individuals who hold Chilean nationality, even if they also hold one or more other nationalities.
Established Legal Criteria
The ruling specifies the following relevant criteria:
Application of National Regulations
Those who hold Chilean nationality are subject to compliance with current Chilean regulations, including the requirement to carry a Chilean passport to leave the country, unless there is an international agreement that allows the use of another document (for example, a national identity card for countries with an agreement).
Dual Nationality and Use of Foreign Passports
The Comptroller General's Office distinguishes between:
Chileans who reside permanently in Chile: must comply with the requirement of a Chilean passport to leave the country.
Chileans who have become naturalized abroad and reside outside of Chile: may enter the country with a foreign passport, as a temporary resident (tourist), fulfilling the immigration requirements and time limits applicable to nationals of that country.
Practical Implications
This criterion has direct effects on:
International travel by people with dual nationality, especially during peak travel seasons.
Exit controls carried out by the PDI (Chilean Investigative Police) may require Chilean nationals to present a Chilean passport, even if they possess a valid foreign passport.
There is a risk of travel delays or restrictions if the proper documentation is not carried when leaving the country.
Recommendations
Individuals with dual or multiple nationality should verify in advance that they have a valid Chilean passport before traveling from Chile.
If using alternative documents (national identity card), confirm beforehand that there is an applicable international agreement for the destination country.
Seek advice proactively if you have any doubts about your immigration or documentation status to avoid problems at the border.
