Digital migration service implementations in Latin America

Migration authorities in the Dominican Republic and Chile have implemented new digital services to manage migrant documentation and labor compliance.

In the Dominican Republic, the General Directorate of Migration transitioned its digital minor exit permit from a free pilot phase to a regular service. Following a trial period that issued 5,603 permits, the service now requires an official fee of RD$6,300 to cover institutional requirements such as notary powers and filial certification.

In Chile, the National Migration Service (SERMIG) launched a digital tool to issue a free ‘Labor Authorization’ certificate. This service allows foreign nationals to verify their legal eligibility to work and provides employers with a QR code for quick verification. The initiative was prompted by data showing that over 232,000 people worked without necessary permits over the last four years, with irregular hiring concentrated in the agro-industry, gastronomy, commerce, and construction sectors. SERMIG Director Frank Sauerbaum stated the tool aims to “reduce labor informality and protect employers from fines.”