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Updated: December 14, 2025

Guide for Foreign Buyers

Buying property in Chile as a foreigner

Chile allows property purchases by foreigners without special restrictions in most of the country. The process is virtually identical to that of a Chilean buyer.

Basic requirements

To buy a property in Chile, a foreigner needs:

  • RUT (Rol Unico Tributario): Chilean tax identification number. Obtained at the Servicio de Impuestos Internos (SII) with a valid passport.
  • Chilean bank account: Not mandatory but greatly facilitates transactions. Some banks offer accounts for non-resident foreigners.
  • Legal representative (optional): A lawyer can act on your behalf through a notarized power of attorney, which is useful if you cannot be present for all procedures.

Border zones in the Aysen Region

In the Aysen Region, there are border zones where authorization from the Ministry of National Defense is required for purchases by foreign individuals or companies. This is an additional procedure, not a prohibition.

What the authorization involves

  • A formal application is submitted to the Ministry of Defense
  • The process can take between 3 and 6 months
  • The specific location of the property and its proximity to the border are evaluated
  • The vast majority of applications are approved
  • Urban properties in major cities are generally not affected

Typically affected zones

  • Rural properties near the Argentine border
  • Land along the Carretera Austral near border crossings
  • Areas of strategic interest defined by the Armed Forces

Taxes and fiscal obligations

Foreign property owners in Chile should consider:

  • Property tax (contribuciones): Semi-annual payment based on the fiscal appraisal of the property
  • Rental income tax: If you rent out the property, income is subject to tax
  • Capital gains tax: When selling, the profit is taxable. Exemptions exist if it is your primary residence

Practical tips

  1. Hire a Chilean lawyer specializing in real estate, ideally with experience in the Aysen Region.
  2. Conduct a thorough title study, especially for rural properties.
  3. Verify if the property is in a border zone before signing any commitment.
  4. Consider the costs of international fund transfers.
  5. If you plan to build, learn about municipal permits and local regulations.