Pension guidelines for foreigners accessing their pension funds in Chile
If you're a foreigner living outside Chile, you can still access your pension funds held with a Chilean AFP (Pension Fund Administrator) even if your Chilean identity card (RUT) has expired.
You have two primary options to consider:
- Direct Pension Request: Once you reach retirement age (60 for women and 65 for men), you can apply directly to your Chilean AFP company for your pension. Requirements vary by AFP, so it’s important to contact them for specific details on the documents needed and the procedure for verifying your foreign bank account.
- Bilateral Social Security Agreements: Although this route is more time-consuming, it can be less bureaucratic. Chile has bilateral social security agreements with 27 countries (a full list is available on the Superintendency of Pensions in Chile's website). These agreements allow you to request pension payments from abroad (your country of residence). Each agreement establishes the documents necessary to process the pension request according to its legislation. You’ll need to start the process with your social security office (stated in detail at the website), and the Superintendency of Pensions in Chile will facilitate communication with Chile.
For both options, you will need to prepare and submit the following documents at some point:
- Chilean identity card (even expired).
- Valid identity document from your home country (e.g., passport) or social security card.
- The pension application form for Chile (required for bilateral agreements) published at the Superintendency of Pensions in Chile.
- Form detailing you bank account information for pension deposit in your home country.
- Bank certificate proving bank account ownership.
- Residence Certificate from your local Neighborhood Council; or an affidavit confirming your address.
- If applicable, documents such as Marriage Certificate, Birth Certificates of minor children, if you wish to include beneficiaries for survivor pensions.
- Simple sworn declaration affirming not being registered as a pension beneficiary in the Chilean pension system.
Why do we know that?
- Expert Knowledge and Consulting Experience: Our team of experts is well-versed in accessing AFP funds and can guide you through the various options, their implications, and benefits.
- Comprehensive Management: We manage the entire pension process for you (if necessary), handling the paperwork and bureaucratic details to ensure a smooth, stress-free experience.
- Maximized Benefits: Leveraging proven strategies and a thorough understanding of the system, we aim to secure the highest possible pension for you based on your savings and individual situation.
- Integrity and No Upfront Costs: We work on a success-based model, meaning you do not pay anything upfront. Our focus is on delivering results.
If you need further assistance or would like to discuss your options, please feel free to schedule an informational phone call with us.