On 22 October 2026 the Australian Government refreshed its travel advice for Chile, confirming the existing “Exercise a high degree of caution” rating but adding new operational detail of interest to global mobility teams. DFAT reports a spike in petty crime and violent incidents aimed at tourists, citing fresh intelligence on taxi scams at Santiago’s Arturo Merino Benítez Airport and an increase in drink-spiking cases in nightlife districts. Express kidnappings—short-duration abductions forcing victims to withdraw cash—also remain a threat. Employers sending staff to client sites in Santiago or mining hubs in the north are urged to pre-book reputable transport and include ride-share safety guidelines in their travel policies. Politically charged demonstrations continue across central Santiago and Valparaíso. While protests are a long-standing feature of Chilean civic life, DFAT notes that outbreaks of violence can occur without warning and have recently spread to traditionally quiet suburbs housing diplomatic missions, including the Australian Embassy. Mobility managers should track protest schedules, advise travellers to avoid large gatherings and ensure emergency communication protocols are tested. No visa changes were announced—Australians can still enter visa-free for up to 90 days—but DFAT reminds dual nationals that they must depart Chile on a valid Chilean passport, an issue that has caught out several fly-in-fly-out contractors this year.
Source: Smartraveller (DFAT)
