If you’re riding from the Carretera Austral to Argentina via Paso Roballos, you may need something called a Salvoconducto. Many riders only hear about it when they reach Cochrane — often from another traveler at a gas station.
Let’s avoid that situation. Here’s exactly what you need to know:
What Is a Salvoconducto?
A Salvoconducto is a certificate issued by the Policía de Investigaciones (PDI) confirming that you have no pending legal issues and are allowed to leave Chile. It is required only when exiting Chile through certain small, remote border crossings that are not connected to the PDI system.
You do not need it:
- When entering Chile
- At major border crossings
- At crossings connected to the PDI system
Border Crossings Where It May Be Required
These are small, remote crossings in Patagonia, some accessible only by gravel roads, horseback, or hiking:
- Las Pampas / Lago Verde
- Río Frías Appegleg / Río Cisnes
- Pampa Alta
- Triana
- Paso Roballos
- Río Mayer
- Río Mosco
- Palavicini
- Lago O’Higgins
- Hito IV 0-B Paso Dos Lagunas
Most relevant for motorcycle travelers: Paso Roballos (near Cochrane).
When Should You Apply?
Officially:
- Apply 2-3 days before your border crossing.
- If you apply earlier, your request may be rejected and you’ll need to reapply.
In practice:
Most travelers receive the certificate within minutes after applying online. But still, don’t leave it to the last second.
How to Apply Online (Step-by-Step)
The process is fully online and free.
Step 1
Go to:
https://pdivirtual.cerofilas.gob.cl
Select:
“Trámites de Migraciones y Policía Internacional”
Step 2
Scroll to “Salvoconducto”
Click:
“Iniciar trámite sin ClaveUnica”
Accept the terms and continue.
Step 3 – Upload Documents
You will need:
- A photo of yourself (passport-style: head and upper body)
- A photo of your passport main page
Select document type:
Pasaporte
Step 4 – Enter Your Details
You will be asked for:
- Passport number
- First name
- Surname
- Email address
- Gender
- Nationality
- Date of birth
- Country of birth
- Phone number (international format, no spaces)
- Address of your last or current accommodation in Chile
- Destination country → Enter: Argentina
- Planned exit region → Región Aysén
- Border crossing → Paso Roballos
- Planned crossing date
Leave “Apellido Materno” blank if not applicable.
Double-check everything carefully before submitting.
Step 5 – Confirmation
After submitting:
- You will receive a confirmation email titled:
“Trámite Salvoconducto Recepcionada” - Shortly after (often within minutes), you should receive:
“Certificado de Salvoconducto Permanencia Transitoria (Turista)”
The certificate will be attached as a PDF.
Important: Download the PDF
- There is no cell reception at Paso Roballos.
- Download the PDF to your phone or bring a printed copy.
- Do not rely on internet access at the border.
Rider Tip
If you’re riding the Carretera Austral southbound, apply before leaving:
- Coyhaique
- Cochrane
Once you’re deep in Patagonia, internet access becomes unreliable.
Is the Salvoconducto Always Required?
- Regulations can change and enforcement may vary.
- If you’re unsure whether your chosen crossing requires it, apply anyway. It’s free and takes only a few minutes.
- Better safe than stuck at a remote border.
Need Help Before Crossing at Paso Roballos?
Remote Patagonia border crossings require preparation — especially when there’s no internet at the border and timing your Salvoconducto correctly matters. If you’re unsure when to apply, your request was rejected, or you simply want peace of mind before riding toward Argentina, I can assist.
Contact me here and I’ll help you sort it out before you head into the mountains.
Prefer Riding Instead of Dealing With Paperwork?
If you’d rather focus on the ride and leave logistics, timing, and local procedures to someone on the ground, I also offer supported and guided motorcycle experiences in Patagonia.
Explore our guided motorcycle tours.
Disclaimer
Information is based on current PDI procedures and rider reports. Regulations may change. Always verify before departure.