Property
Chile — Property: Foreign Ownership
Foreigners can generally buy property in Chile, but nationals of neighbouring countries are barred from border areas within 10 km of land borders and 5 km of the coast, and sales need a public deed.
VerifiedGovernment / official sourceChilean Foreign Ministry FAQ and DIFROL — border areasLast reviewed: 2026-10-23
Key facts
- Nationals of neighbouring countries, and companies they control, cannot acquire property in declared border areas of 10 km from land borders and 5 km from the coast, unless the President grants an exception.
- State land within 10 km of the borders can only be held by Chilean individuals or legal entities.
- Foreigners domiciled in Chile can obtain rights over coastal state land after a favourable Navy report.
- Sales of Chilean real estate require a public deed, and deeds signed abroad must go through the Chilean consulate and be legalised.
Steps
- Step 1: Determine Eligibility — Determine if the desired property type is eligible for foreign ownership and if any special permits or licenses are required.
- Step 2: Register the Property — Register the property with the Registro de Propiedad (Property Registry) and obtain a certificate of ownership.
- Step 3: Transfer Ownership (if applicable) — Transfer ownership of the property through a public deed, if applicable.