Chilean customs regulations

Evan Kingsley wrote on 9/24/2023. Last updated: 6/20/2024

Duty Free allowances

Stack of suitcases
A stack of vintage suitcases sits against a window with a view of an airplane taking off into the sky, symbolizing travel and the anticipation of a journey.

Well now, buckle up and let's embark on an adventure to unravel the duty-free allowances in Chile! Like a hidden stash of jewels, each country has its own unique set of duty-free allowances – and discovering them can be surprisingly fascinating.

In Chile, you're entitled to bring in certain goods without paying taxes, as long as they are for personal use, not for commercial purposes. Here's where it gets exciting: the duty-free allowance for personal items such as clothes, books, and electronics, when arriving by air, is up to a whopping $500! But don't forget, the value of your personal effects is assessed by the Chilean customs officers and their decision is final.

Tax Free allowances

Traveling with luggage
A mother and child, preparing to board a train, exemplify the customs of travel with their suitcases in tow.

Why, it tastes all the sweeter when it's tax-free, doesn't it? Most products in Chile are subject to VAT - Value Added Tax - at a rate of 19%. However, hold your breath for some fantastic news: tourists aren't left out in the cold. In fact, they enjoy some warmer, tax-free treatment!

Tourists are exempt from VAT on hotels - so you can snuggle into your suite knowing you've saved yourself a pretty penny. Plus, when you leave Chile, if you've got yourself some goods like a Chilean alpaca sweater or delightful Chilean wine, be sure to ask for your Tax Free receipt. You can claim your tax refund at the airport - like getting a parting gift from Chile!

Alcohol allowance

Ah, the intoxicating topic of alcohol allowances! In our bon voyage through Chile's custom policies, the cap on alcoholic beverages is a crucial one. Imported alcoholic beverages, you'll discover, follow their own merry path.

As a traveler flying into Chile, you're permitted to bring up to 2.5 liters of alcohol. Whether it's a good old Chardonnay, a highlight from your wine adventures, or a bottle of Baileys to enjoy in the chilly Andean evenings, keep it within this limit to ensure a smooth passage through customs.

As our thrilling journey comes to a close, remember to carry this nugget of wisdom: tax laws and allowances may change over time, and it's always wise to double-check the current guidelines before you embark. For the most comprehensive and recent information, please visit the National Customs Service of Chile's official website.

Pack your bags and your knowledge, and get ready for an adventure like no other in the stunning landscape of Chile! Happy travels, dear friend; may you find what you seek and more!

Evan Kingsley

Evan Kingsley

Hey, I’m Evan! Even though I’ve been bitten by a piranha, left stranded in the Sahara when my camel ditched me, and even spent a night in a Bhutanese jail over a supposedly stolen fruit (I swear I didn’t take it!), I still love traveling so much I don’t think I’ll ever stop. With over 130 countries under my belt, I’m always on the lookout for the next wild adventure… hopefully with fewer bites, camel betrayals, and misunderstandings over fruit!

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