Illegal immigration to Chile
Illegal immigration to Chile refers to the entry and residence of foreign nationals without legal authorization. The phenomenon grew significantly from the 1990s onward, as Chile's political stability and sustained economic growth made it a major destination for regional migration. Most undocumented immigrants come from neighboring countries such as Peru and Bolivia, as well as from Colombia, Venezuela, and Caribbean nations, particularly Haiti and the Dominican Republic. This migration is driven by economic hardship and insecurity in their countries of origin, Chile's comparatively accessible immigration policies, and the persistence of its outdated 1975 immigration law. The issue has sparked political debate, social tensions, and policy reforms aimed at balancing border control with the protection of migrants' rights.