To legally import and commercialize telecom and electronic equipment in Chile, companies must comply with local regulations established by SUBTEL (Subsecretaría de Telecomunicaciones) and SEC (Superintendencia de Electricidad y Combustibles). These bodies regulate wireless communication and electrical safety, respectively.
The certification requirements generally fall under two frameworks:
- SUBTEL Type Approval – for RF and telecom devices
- SEC Electrical Safety Certification – for selected electrical/electronic products
1. SUBTEL Type Approval (Wireless and Telecom Equipment)
The Subsecretaría de Telecomunicaciones (SUBTEL) is the authority responsible for approving radio frequency and telecommunications devices in Chile. Any product that uses radio, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or connects to telecom networks must be approved before importation and sale.
Products requiring SUBTEL approval include mobile phones, RF modules, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth devices, two-way radios, and other wireless equipment.
The approval process involves:
- Verifying if the product uses frequencies regulated by SUBTEL
- Submitting an application through a local legal representative based in Chile
- Providing international test reports (FCC or CE reports are typically accepted) and technical documentation (user manual, frequency tables, circuit diagrams, etc.)
- Evaluation by SUBTEL engineers to confirm that the product complies with local frequency and power limits
- Receiving a Type Approval Certificate or homologation resolution
Once approved, the product can be imported, distributed, and sold legally. SUBTEL does not currently mandate a specific compliance label, but documentation must be available for inspection.
In some cases, spectrum coordination or additional permits may be needed for specialized equipment such as satellite devices or public network terminals.
2. SEC Electrical Safety Certification
The Superintendencia de Electricidad y Combustibles (SEC) oversees electrical safety for household and industrial equipment in Chile. Specific products, particularly those operating on AC power, must be certified by SEC before they can be imported or sold.
Products typically requiring SEC certification include power adapters, chargers, lighting products, appliances, and electrical tools.
The process includes:
- Determining whether the product is listed in the SEC mandatory product list
- Conducting product testing in a recognized laboratory (international reports may be accepted, but local validation is sometimes required)
- Appointing a local Chilean representative or importer
- Submitting the technical file and application through SEC's online platform
- Receiving a Certificate of Approval (Resolución de Aprobación)
Approved products must be registered in SEC’s public database and labeled with the SEC compliance mark. This mark must be visible on the product or its packaging.
Certificates remain valid as long as the product design does not change, but SEC may audit products already on the market.
Customs and Market Control
Customs authorities (Servicio Nacional de Aduanas) work closely with SUBTEL and SEC to enforce compliance. Non-certified products may be withheld at the border, especially if they fall under mandatory approval categories. Importers must be prepared to present certificates and technical documentation upon request.
Market surveillance is active, and non-compliant products can be fined or withdrawn from sale.
Closing Remarks
Certification ensures not only regulatory compliance but also consumer trust and market access. Companies planning to enter the Chilean market should budget time and resources for these approvals early in their go-to-market process. Getting certified in Chile can feel complex, but it’s essential for legal market entry and consumer safety. Whether you're launching smart devices, network equipment, or household electronics—compliance is your passport to Chile.
Need help managing Chilean approvals? We are happy to guide you through it!
