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ChileCompare visas
B-1/B-2 vs ESTA
Chile is in the Visa Waiver Program, so for a short tourism or business trip many Chileans only need an ESTA, which is handled online. The ESTA allows stays of up to 90 days with no extension; the B-1/B-2 visa allows longer stays and is the alternative if the ESTA is denied or you do not qualify. Neither one authorises work.
These two categories differ on 4 of 10 criteria. The full table is below, but if you only have a minute, these are the differences that decide a case.
Where they part ways
What it is for
B-1/B-2 Business or tourism, no work
ESTA A short trip without a visa
Prior USCIS petition
B-1/B-2 No, straight to the consulate
ESTA No, resolved online
Duration
B-1/B-2 Visa up to 10 years, 6-month stays
ESTA 90 days per trip, no extension
Chile's position
B-1/B-2 No particular advantage
ESTA The only Latin American country in the programme
Full comparison
| Criterion | B-1/B-2 B-1/B-2 visa | ESTA ESTA / Visa Waiver |
|---|---|---|
| What it is for The activity the category authorises. | Business or tourism, no work | A short trip without a visa |
| Needs a sponsor Whether someone else has to petition for you. | No | No |
| Annual cap How many are issued per fiscal year. | No cap | No cap |
| Lottery Whether access depends on a random selection. | None | None |
| Prior USCIS petition Whether a form must be approved before the consulate. | No, straight to the consulate | No, resolved online |
| Duration Initial term and cumulative ceiling. | Visa up to 10 years, 6-month stays | 90 days per trip, no extension |
| Dual intent Whether you can pursue residence without risking the status. | Not allowed | Not allowed |
| Spouse may work Whether your partner is authorised to work. | Not applicable, one each | Not applicable, one each |
| Path to residence Whether it leads to a green card or is one already. | It does not lead there | It does not lead there |
| Chile's position What being Chilean changes. | No particular advantage | The only Latin American country in the programme |
Figures verified on 2026-09-11
This table is general guidance, not legal advice or an eligibility assessment.
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