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I started another thread about what I saw as the bizarre process for applying for a visa for Chile. Starting this new one as I think it best to have a clear explanation of the process post application that I and others have experienced. One was my Travel Agent's boss, who had exactly the same experience as me (even down to payment issue - see below) and someone else here on AFF.
I lodged my application for multiple entry to the Melbourne Consulate on-line in mid-August, for travel in early December. This was probably too early - I'd say 2 months prior would be best. Got an email back acknowledging application's receipt straight away. I managed to talk to them shortly afterwards on the phone (miracle!) as the status on line was "on hold" and was told that visas are not issued until at most the month before the departure date.
On 17 Nov I got a request for visa payment of A$190; it didn't actually say that visa was approved (others have reported that their payment e-mail does say this). Paid immediately, sending a reply e-mail with 'proof of payment', as they requested.
Nothing heard since then.
A week ago (T-2 weeks) I decided to fly to Melbourne from Hobart 1 week prior to leaving and visit the consulate.
Opens 9:00 am (until 2:00pm); I was first in line; 4 people there by 9am. You can check the visa status on-line at the Chile site. Mine was "Validar antecedentes" - 'Validate background' ??
At the counter, I explained the issue (a week to go until departure, catching cruise from Chile); handed over passport and lady went off to check. Came back 15 mins later:
"You haven't paid"
Yes, have, 2 weeks ago - handed over the bank receipt of payment
"Oh my goodness. I'll check the bank account"
10 mins later, I got the visa e-mail, she came back to the window 5 mins later saying I would get 2 e-mails. I only got one (PDF with a QR code and one of the old-fashioned full page vias stickers they put in your passport), but she said that was OK. This was exactly the same experience and discussion by my TA's boss, 2 weeks ago. And I overheard 2 other conversations at the window where the person was told that they hadn't paid, but they had evidence that they did and "we'll check bank account".
While I guess I would have eventually got the visa, my TA's boss said that someone waiting with him did NOT and had to re-book flights, and pay $$$. @muppet here got theirs I think the evening before they departed.
So my advice. When you apply, plan to visit the consulate a week or so before departure, taking passport and your proof of payment. Go there a week prior if nothing received. Arrive before 9 to have minimum wait. Tell them when you inquire that you have paid. Don't leave before you have the e-mail and checked all the details.
I tried to call maybe 10 times over the 4 months. Twice (each time about 9:30am), while I was leaving a message, they called me back.
They were re-assuring but nothing concrete regarding visa status. Couple of other times, left messages, but never returned. Several e-mails ditto. Hence to get any info or to get resolved, you should visit.
Oh, and if you are travelling far, check that its not a public holiday in Chile, when the consulates will be closed
Hope this helps.
I lodged my application for multiple entry to the Melbourne Consulate on-line in mid-August, for travel in early December. This was probably too early - I'd say 2 months prior would be best. Got an email back acknowledging application's receipt straight away. I managed to talk to them shortly afterwards on the phone (miracle!) as the status on line was "on hold" and was told that visas are not issued until at most the month before the departure date.
On 17 Nov I got a request for visa payment of A$190; it didn't actually say that visa was approved (others have reported that their payment e-mail does say this). Paid immediately, sending a reply e-mail with 'proof of payment', as they requested.
Nothing heard since then.
A week ago (T-2 weeks) I decided to fly to Melbourne from Hobart 1 week prior to leaving and visit the consulate.
Opens 9:00 am (until 2:00pm); I was first in line; 4 people there by 9am. You can check the visa status on-line at the Chile site. Mine was "Validar antecedentes" - 'Validate background' ??
At the counter, I explained the issue (a week to go until departure, catching cruise from Chile); handed over passport and lady went off to check. Came back 15 mins later:
"You haven't paid"
Yes, have, 2 weeks ago - handed over the bank receipt of payment
"Oh my goodness. I'll check the bank account"
10 mins later, I got the visa e-mail, she came back to the window 5 mins later saying I would get 2 e-mails. I only got one (PDF with a QR code and one of the old-fashioned full page vias stickers they put in your passport), but she said that was OK. This was exactly the same experience and discussion by my TA's boss, 2 weeks ago. And I overheard 2 other conversations at the window where the person was told that they hadn't paid, but they had evidence that they did and "we'll check bank account".
While I guess I would have eventually got the visa, my TA's boss said that someone waiting with him did NOT and had to re-book flights, and pay $$$. @muppet here got theirs I think the evening before they departed.
So my advice. When you apply, plan to visit the consulate a week or so before departure, taking passport and your proof of payment. Go there a week prior if nothing received. Arrive before 9 to have minimum wait. Tell them when you inquire that you have paid. Don't leave before you have the e-mail and checked all the details.
I tried to call maybe 10 times over the 4 months. Twice (each time about 9:30am), while I was leaving a message, they called me back.
They were re-assuring but nothing concrete regarding visa status. Couple of other times, left messages, but never returned. Several e-mails ditto. Hence to get any info or to get resolved, you should visit.Oh, and if you are travelling far, check that its not a public holiday in Chile, when the consulates will be closed
Hope this helps.
the bizarreness continues with this process!
