Migration's labour habilitation process has exceeded 60 thousand queries and 20 thousand downloads

The Service National de Migraciones (Sernamig) has recorded over 60,000 consultations and more than 20,000 downloads of its new "Habilitación Laboral" tool within a week of its launch. The fully digital and free service allows both foreign workers and employers to verify whether an individual is authorized to work in Chile. The system provides immediate responses indicating whether the person is "habilitado" or "no habilitado," ensuring legal compliance before employment contracts are finalized. The process was introduced through the Migrations' portal, offering users a unique code QR and verification code to confirm the validity of the documentation. As of Friday, August 21, the platform had accumulated 24,444 downloads of the certificate and received 61,104 consultation requests. This data reflects the growing demand for transparency and legality in the workplace, particularly among foreign nationals seeking to contribute to the economy while adhering to national regulations. Frank Sauerbaum, the national director of Migrations, described these figures as "more than favorable." He emphasized that the tool ensures employers, from small businesses to large corporations, can confidently verify the legal status of potential employees. This reduces the risk of penalties for both workers and employers, reinforcing adherence to the law. According to Sauerbaum, the initiative promotes trust and security in the labor market, which is crucial for maintaining economic stability. The authority highlighted that approximately 232,000 foreigners have contributed to Chile’s social security system without being officially authorized to perform paid activities. This underscores the need for clearer mechanisms to regulate employment and prevent unauthorized labor. The Habilitación Laboral tool aims to address this gap by providing real-time validation of work permissions. To qualify for employment in Chile, foreign individuals must hold one of several residency statuses, including Permanent Residence, Temporary Residence, Pending Residence Permit, Temporary Stay with Work Authorization, or Student Temporary Residence. The latter allows up to 30 hours of weekly work, limited to covering personal study-related expenses or practical training. These categories reflect the nuanced approach taken by Chilean immigration authorities to balance labor needs with legal protections. The system's success highlights the increasing reliance on digital tools to manage complex administrative processes. By eliminating bureaucratic delays and reducing the need for physical visits, the tool aligns with broader efforts to modernize public services. It also supports the government’s goal of creating a transparent and efficient labor environment that attracts skilled workers while safeguarding national interests. Looking ahead, officials expect continued growth in usage as awareness spreads. They anticipate further refinements to enhance user experience and expand functionality. The initiative represents a key step toward integrating foreign workers into the formal sector while maintaining strict regulatory oversight. With ongoing support from relevant agencies, the tool could become a cornerstone of Chile’s immigration policy in the coming years.