The Role of Immigration in Supporting Chile’s Growth and Innovation

As Chile approaches its upcoming presidential elections, national discussions on security and economic recovery increasingly intersect with immigration policy.

These conversations reveal a striking imbalance: while immigration is treated as a matter of control, scant attention is paid to how regulated openness could help attract foreign investment and supply the skilled labor force essential for the industries in which Chile hopes to fuel growth.

If immigration in Chile continues to be discussed primarily from a perspective of restriction and control, the country could limit its ability to utilize immigration as a driver of development. Public debate around security often centers on border control and enforcement, while discussions of economic recovery frequently overlook how regulated immigration can support investment and labor market needs.

A Narrow Lens? Immigration as a Security Issue

Irregular immigration represents a complex challenge that requires sustainable and well-targeted responses. However, measures such as deportations and border closures are unlikely to provide sustainable solutions for the more than 300,000 people currently residing in Chile without regular status. Advancing policies that acknowledge and account for this population can help ensure that immigration management strategies address both security considerations and the principles of the rule of law.

Immigration’s Role in Economic Recovery

Immigration plays an important role in supporting economic growth. International research indicates that countries with well-managed migration systems tend to be more competitive, as migrants contribute to the economy through their work, taxes and consumption. They also help strengthen key sectors such as construction, agriculture and science and technology.

In Chile’s case, economic recovery depends on investment, innovation and a strong, stable labor force. However, presently, there are alarming gaps exemplified in labor shortages in productive regions and for specialized talent in sectors such as agriculture, mining, energy, healthcare, digital and research. When effectively managed, immigration can help address labor shortages by complementing the existing workforce and supporting the continuity of key projects and business growth.

Migrants also contribute significantly to entrepreneurship, creating businesses, generating jobs, expanding consumption and increasing tax revenue. Regularization, therefore, can support economic productivity and regional development by enabling migrants to participate fully and formally in the labor market.

Strengthening Immigration Governance to Support Investment

The attraction of foreign direct investment and the inflow of highly skilled human capital — driven by institutions such as InvestChile and CORFO — are directly strengthened when the immigration system is clear, efficient and predictable. If Chile aims to lead energy transition, deepen digital transformation and harness innovation, it will need to continue opening itself to global talent.

Looking ahead, opportunities exist to enhance the efficiency of work and residence permit processing, improve consular guidance, streamline the recognition of foreign qualifications and strengthen administrative systems to better align labor supply and demand across regions and industries.

A Balanced Path Forward

Approaching immigration primarily as a security matter risks obscuring the underlying economic and social dynamics that shape migration patterns. When properly managed, immigration can contribute to Chile’s economic growth, social cohesion and sustainable development.

An informed, balanced discussion of both security and development perspectives – during the presidential campaign and beyond – can help ensure that immigration continues to support Chile’s growth and social cohesion. 

Need to Know More?

For questions regarding Chile’s immigration system, please contact Chile Country Manager Constanza Herrera Vergara at [email protected].

This blog was published on 26 November 2025, and due to the circumstances, there are frequent changes. To keep up to date with all the latest updates on global immigration, please subscribe to our alerts and follow us on LinkedIn, X, Facebook and Instagram.