Language:

The official language is Spanish, but English is spoken in larger business environments.

Cost of Living:   

Chile is more expensive than other Latin American countries; however, it is generally cheaper than the United States.  For more information refer to: http://www.contactchile.cl/en/chile-information.php
and scroll down to the “Cost of Living” section.

Work Permits:  

A work permit is required to work legally in Chile.  The employer or company that is hiring the employee submits the required paperwork to the Ministerio de Realciones Exteriores along with the work contract. 

Job Searching:

El Mercurio is the most important and extensive newspaper in Chile.  Section E, “Artes y Letras” is published every Sunday. It is in this section that private companies and consultant companies advertise their personnel requirements. The Internet has several special websites where people can find jobs, apply to job offers, and register themselves in employment databases.  The most popular are: www.laborum.com, www.trabajando.cl, and www.Vitae.cl.  

            Also, is it fairly easy to obtain a job teaching English in Chile. In fact there are about 30 English language schools in Santiago alone. A good website to check for this would be: http://www.transitionsabroad.com/publications/magazine
/0401/teaching_english_in_chile.shtml

Cultural Differences:

Chilean people like to work on a team. They are very traditional and formal, and foreigners should behave in the same manner.

            Chileans are not punctual, especially in social situations. They believe in hard work, responsibility, and efficiency.  Additionally, they have the ability to overcome diversity and view the future with confidence.  For more information refer to:
http://www.contactchile.cl/en/chile-information.php
and scroll down to the “Customs and Manners” section.
 

Money and Banking:  

For information on the currency and banks in Chile visit:
http://www.contactchile.cl/en/chile-information.php
and scroll to the section of the page entitled “Money”.

Security/Safety:  

For complete safety and security information please visit: http://www.travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1088.html