Chile customs rules & duty-free allowances

Last reviewed July 2, 2026

In 2026, non-resident travellers entering Chile can bring up to USD 800 in personal goods duty-free, plus 1 liter of spirits (or 2 liters of wine/beer) and 400 cigarettes (or 50 cigars or 500g of tobacco). Cash amounts of USD 10,000 or more must be declared. Strict bans apply to fresh produce, meat, and dairy products without sanitary certificates.

Duty-free allowances

Alcohol
1.0 L
1 liter of spirits (over 22% ABV) OR 2 liters of wine/beer. Traveller must be 18+.
Tobacco
400 cigarettes
or 50 cigars / 500 g
Cash to declare
$10,000
Amounts of USD 10,000 or more (or equivalent in any currency) must be declared on the Customs Declaration Form (Form 443).
Goods duty-free
$800
Personal goods and gifts up to USD 800 are duty-free. For goods exceeding USD 800, duty applies on the full value. This allowance applies per person, not per family.

Prohibited — banned from import

  • Narcotics and psychotropic substances (except with a medical prescription authorized by the Chilean Ministry of Health)
  • Fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy products, and animal-derived products (unless accompanied by a sanitary certificate)
  • Endangered species products (CITES-listed items, e.g., ivory, sea turtle shells, certain woods)
  • Firearms and ammunition without prior authorization from the Chilean Ministry of Defense
  • Counterfeit goods and pirated materials
  • Pornographic material (defined as obscene or offensive to public morals)

Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration

  • Medicines for personal use: must be in original packaging with a doctor's prescription (in Spanish or English) for quantities exceeding a 30-day supply
  • Drones: require authorization from the Chilean Civil Aviation Authority (DGAC) for import or operation
  • Satellite phones: require a permit from the Chilean telecommunications regulator (SUBTEL)
  • Pets (dogs and cats): must have an international health certificate, rabies vaccination proof, and be microchipped; entry via approved airports only
  • Cultural artifacts and antiques: require an export permit from the National Monuments Council (CMN) if leaving Chile, but import may require documentation of origin

Rules worth knowing

Duty-free allowance is per person, not per family

Each adult traveller has an individual USD 800 duty-free allowance. Families cannot combine allowances. Children under 18 have a reduced allowance of USD 400.

Temporary import of vehicles

If arriving by land with a vehicle, you must obtain a Temporary Import Permit (TIP) at the border. The permit is valid for up to 90 days and requires a deposit or bond. The vehicle cannot be sold or left in Chile.

Strict agricultural controls at all entry points

Chile has a rigorous agricultural inspection program. All luggage is subject to X-ray or sniffer dog checks for prohibited plant and animal products. Failure to declare can result in fines of up to USD 1,000.

Frequently asked questions

You may bring 1 liter of spirits (over 22% ABV) OR 2 liters of wine/beer. For tobacco, you can choose 400 cigarettes OR 50 cigars OR 500g of tobacco. You cannot combine categories. You must be 18 or older.
You can bring up to USD 9,999 (or equivalent in any currency) without declaring. If you carry USD 10,000 or more, you must fill out the Customs Declaration Form (Form 443) and declare the exact amount.
Yes, for personal use. Keep medicines in original packaging and carry a doctor's prescription in Spanish or English. For quantities exceeding a 30-day supply, you may need prior authorization from the Chilean Institute of Public Health (ISP).
You must pay duty on the full value of the goods, not just the excess. The duty rate varies by product (typically 6% to 30%). You can pay at the customs counter with cash (CLP) or credit card.
Yes. Fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy, and animal products are strictly prohibited unless you have a sanitary certificate from the origin country. Processed and packaged foods (e.g., chocolates, canned goods) are generally allowed in small quantities for personal use.
Yes, but you need prior authorization from the Chilean Civil Aviation Authority (DGAC) if the drone weighs more than 500 grams. You must also register the drone with DGAC. For recreational use, you can apply online at least 15 days before travel.

Official source

Servicio Nacional de Aduanas de Chile (Chilean Customs Service)

For guidance only. Customs allowances and prohibited-item lists change without notice — always confirm with Servicio Nacional de Aduanas de Chile (Chilean Customs Service) before travelling.