- Home
- Expat Guide
- Internet / Phones in Chile
- Mobile Phone Import & IMEI Registration
11/08/2025
Mobile Phone Import Regulations in Chile
Chile has specific regulations governing the importation and use of mobile phones, designed to prevent theft, ensure device compatibility, and collect appropriate taxes. Understanding these rules is crucial for expats bringing phones from abroad or purchasing devices internationally for use in Chile.
Why Import Regulations Exist
- Theft prevention: IMEI registration helps track stolen devices
- Tax collection: Import duties on electronic devices
- Network compatibility: Ensuring devices work with Chilean networks
- Consumer protection: Guaranteeing device quality and warranty coverage
- Market regulation: Controlling unauthorized commercial imports
Key Legal Framework
- Law 20.727: Regulates mobile phone theft and IMEI blocking
- Customs regulations: Import duties and declaration requirements
- SUBTEL oversight: Telecommunications equipment certification
- Consumer protection: Rights and obligations for imported devices
IMEI Registration Requirements
What is IMEI Registration?
IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity): Unique 15-digit identifier for every mobile device Registration purpose: Links device to owner for theft prevention Legal requirement: All phones used in Chile must be registered Database: Maintained by telecommunications providers and authorities
When Registration is Required
Mandatory registration scenarios:
- Bringing phone from another country
- Purchasing phone abroad for Chile use
- Buying second-hand phone without proper registration
- Using phone for more than 30 days on Chilean networks
Automatic registration:
- Phones purchased from authorized Chilean retailers
- Devices included in mobile service contracts
- Phones bought directly from carriers (Entel, Movistar, etc.)
Registration Timeline
- Tourist grace period: 30 days without registration
- Resident requirement: Must register within 30 days of arrival
- Commercial import: 10 days from customs clearance
- Penalty period: After deadline, phone may be blocked from networks
Personal Import Process
Bringing Phone When Moving to Chile
For Tourists (Under 90 Days)
Requirements:
- No formal registration: Can use phone for up to 30 days
- Network compatibility: Verify phone works with Chilean carriers
- Original purchase receipt: Keep as proof of ownership
- Travel documentation: Passport and entry stamp sufficient
Limitations:
- Cannot sell phone during tourist stay
- Must take phone when leaving Chile
- No warranty service from Chilean authorized dealers
For Residents (Temporary or Permanent)
Documentation required:
- Chilean RUT: Required for registration process
- Proof of residence: Address verification in Chile
- Purchase receipt: Original proof of device ownership
- Passport: With resident visa or residency documentation
- IMEI number: Device identifier (found in settings or by dialing *#06#)
IMEI Registration Steps
Step 1: Verify Phone Compatibility
Network frequency compatibility:
- 2G GSM: 850, 1900 MHz
- 3G UMTS: 850, 1900 MHz
- 4G LTE: Bands 2, 4, 7, 28
- 5G: Bands n2, n7, n28 (expanding)
Carrier compatibility check:
- Entel: Check device compatibility on website
- Movistar: Use IMEI checker tool
- Claro: Verify supported devices list
- WOM: Contact customer service for verification
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Essential documentation:
- Original purchase receipt: From authorized retailer
- Invoice or proof of payment: Credit card statement if receipt unavailable
- Passport: With current Chilean visa
- RUT certificate: Chilean tax identification
- Proof of address: Utility bill or rental contract
Document translation:
- Foreign receipts may need official translation
- Apostille may be required for some countries
- Certified copies acceptable for originals
Step 3: Registration Process
Online registration (when available):
- Visit carrier website registration portal
- Upload required documents
- Enter IMEI and personal information
- Pay registration fees if applicable
In-person registration:
- Visit carrier customer service office
- Present original documents
- Complete registration forms
- Receive confirmation receipt
Step 4: Network Activation
- Insert Chilean SIM card
- Wait for network recognition (up to 24 hours)
- Test calls, SMS, and data connectivity
- Contact carrier if activation issues occur
Commercial Import Requirements
Business Import Procedures
Small Quantity Imports (Under 10 Units)
Documentation:
- Commercial invoice: Detailed device specifications
- Packing list: Complete inventory
- Certificate of origin: Country of manufacture
- FCC/CE certifications: Regulatory compliance certificates
Registration requirements:
- SUBTEL authorization: May be required for certain models
- Batch IMEI registration: All devices must be registered
- Distributor license: Required for ongoing commercial activity
Large Scale Imports
Additional requirements:
- Import license: From relevant authorities
- Type approval: SUBTEL certification for device models
- Bank guarantees: For tax and duty obligations
- Authorized dealer agreements: With manufacturers
Tax and Duty Obligations
Import Duties
Standard rates:
- Mobile phones: 6% import duty
- Smartphones: Additional taxes may apply
- Value Added Tax: 19% IVA on total value including duties
- Processing fees: Customs handling charges
Calculation example (for 600 USD phone):
- Phone value: 600 USD
- Import duty (6%): 36 USD
- IVA (19% on total): $120.84 USD
- Total cost: $756.84 USD
Tax Exemptions
Personal use exemptions:
- Resident allowance: First 500 USD duty-free
- Single device: One phone per person typically exempt
- Temporary residents: May qualify for additional exemptions
Registration Fees and Costs
Official Registration Fees
Carrier registration fees:
- Entel: Usually free for customers, $15,000-25,000 CLP for non-customers
- Movistar: $10,000-20,000 CLP depending on service plan
- Claro: Often waived with new service activation
- WOM: $5,000-15,000 CLP registration fee
Additional Costs
Document preparation:
- Translation services: $15,000-30,000 CLP per document
- Apostille services: $25,000-50,000 CLP depending on country
- Notarization: $5,000-15,000 CLP per document
Professional services:
- Import agent: $50,000-150,000 CLP for complex cases
- Legal assistance: $100,000-300,000 CLP for business imports
- Customs broker: $75,000-200,000 CLP for commercial imports
Common Issues and Solutions
Registration Problems
Document Issues
Missing or insufficient documentation:
- Solution: Contact original retailer for proper receipt
- Alternative: Use credit card statement with phone specifications
- Last resort: Statutory declaration of ownership
Invalid IMEI numbers:
- Verification: Double-check IMEI by dialing *#06#
- Blacklisted devices: Cannot be registered if reported stolen
- Duplicate registrations: Previous owner must deregister device
Network Compatibility Problems
Phone doesn't work on Chilean networks:
- Frequency mismatch: Phone may lack required radio bands
- Carrier lock: International phone may be locked to foreign carrier
- Software issues: May need firmware update for Chilean networks
Solutions:
- Unlock service: Professional phone unlocking
- Carrier compatibility check: Before purchase/import
- Network selection: Manual network selection in phone settings
Timing and Deadline Issues
Missing Registration Deadlines
Consequences of late registration:
- Network blocking: Phone may stop working on all networks
- Fines: Potential penalties for residents
- Complications: More documentation required for late registration
Solutions for overdue registration:
- Contact carrier immediately: Explain circumstances
- Provide documentation: Proof of recent arrival or purchase
- Pay additional fees: May be required for late registration
- Legal assistance: For complex cases or disputes
Frequently Asked Questions about Mobile Phone Import and IMEI Registration
General Import Questions
Personal use typically allows one phone per person duty-free. Multiple phones may be subject to commercial import regulations and duties.
No, tourists can use their phones for up to 30 days without registration. Registration is only required for longer stays.
Your phone may be blocked from all Chilean networks. Late registration is possible but may require additional documentation and fees.
Registration requires proof of ownership. You'll need the original purchase receipt or a properly executed transfer document.
Technical Compatibility Questions
Check if your phone supports Chilean network frequencies (2G: 850/1900 MHz, 3G: 850/1900 MHz, 4G: Bands 2,4,7,28). Most modern international phones are compatible.
International warranties typically don't cover service in Chile. You'll need to return to the country of purchase for warranty service or buy from an authorized Chilean dealer.
Yes, if unlocked and compatible with Chilean frequencies. Registration is required for use beyond 30 days.
Cost and Process Questions
Personal import under 500 USD is typically duty-free. Registration fees range from free (with service) to $25,000 CLP. Commercial imports incur 6% duty plus 19% IVA.
Online registration can be immediate, in-person registration typically takes 1-3 business days. Network activation usually occurs within 24 hours.
Residents can sell personally imported phones, but tourists cannot. The buyer will need to verify registration status and may need to re-register the device.
Original purchase receipt, Chilean RUT, passport with visa, proof of address, and the device's IMEI number.
Do you want to go more in detail?
I wrote the Chile Handbook for Foreigners for anyone and everyone looking to move permanently and enjoy life in Chile. It's a 265-page book that goes over all aspects of relocating to Chile. Here is what you get:
✅ Practical tips based on 7-year relocation experience
✅ To-do lists to help you start
✅ Last updated in 2025
