Chile – Landlines and Mobile Phones

What are the international dialling codes for Chile, and what are the area codes for the most popular expat destinations?

Chile’s assigned country code is +56. To reach a Chilean number from outside the country, you enter your international exit code (typically 00 or +), followed by 56, then the area code and subscriber number. When dialling a Chilean landline from another country’s landline, you use your own international exit code, Chile’s country code (56), the area code without any leading zero, and finally the local subscriber number.

Every Chilean phone number — whether landline, mobile, or VoIP — is nine digits in length, and the format is consistent across all number types. Mobile numbers always begin with the digit 9, so when calling a Chilean mobile from abroad you simply dial +56 and then the complete nine-digit number starting with 9. No zero is omitted because Chilean mobile numbers do not carry a leading zero to begin with.

During 2012 and 2013, all Chilean landline numbers were renumbered through the addition of an extra digit (2) at the front. The rollout was phased — Santiago and Arica were migrated in late 2012, and the remaining regions followed between March and July 2013. A previously seven-digit Santiago number formatted as (02) XXX XXXX became 22X XXX XXX, while a formerly six-digit Punta Arenas number formatted as (061) YYY YYY became 612 YYY YYY. If you come across an old contact number that appears shorter than nine digits, it has almost certainly been updated — verify the current number directly with the contact.

The table below shows the regional area codes associated with Chile’s most popular expat destinations. These codes form part of the nine-digit number and are not dialled as separate geographic prefixes for domestic calls — within Chile, all calls are treated as local regardless of distance.

For international long-distance calls originating from Chilean landlines, callers must select a carrier each time by dialling a carrier prefix, then 0, the destination country code, the area code, and the subscriber number. In practice, most people making international calls simply use a mobile phone with the + prefix or opt for internet-based calling applications such as WhatsApp, which removes the need to select a carrier prefix altogether.

For emergency services: dial 131 for an ambulance, 132 for the fire service, and 133 for the police. Store these numbers before you need them.

For the most current information on Chile’s numbering plan, refer to Subtel, the country’s national telecommunications regulator.

Who are the major landline providers in Chile, and how can you contact them?

Chile’s principal fixed-line operators are Telefónica Chile (branded as Movistar), VTR Globalcom (VTR), the GTD Group, Entel, Claro, and WOM. The market is genuinely competitive, and most providers offer bundled packages combining fixed telephony with broadband internet and television — these bundles often represent considerably better value than purchasing a voice-only landline subscription on its own.

As of June 2024, Telefónica (Movistar) held the top position among fixed-line internet providers in Chile, accounting for close to 30 percent of all subscribers. VTR ranked second with a market share of 23.3 percent. Both operators have strong national reach, although certain regional providers offer better infrastructure in specific parts of the country.

Movistar is Chile’s dominant landline operator, providing fixed telephone lines, broadband internet, and television services across an extensive national network at competitive prices. Entel also operates as a major fixed-line provider, combining telephony, broadband, and television services with a solid reputation for reliable connectivity and a broad customer base throughout the country.

GTD/Telsur deserves particular consideration for anyone relocating to southern or rural Chile, where its regional infrastructure frequently outperforms that of national competitors. Always verify current plan pricing and availability directly with providers or through the Subtel website, as tariffs are revised regularly and figures from third-party sources may be outdated.

Who are the major mobile phone providers in Chile, and how can you contact them?

Chile’s four principal mobile network operators are Entel, Movistar, Claro, and WOM. By March 2024, the total number of mobile subscribers in the country had reached 26.22 million — spanning both prepaid and postpaid customers — producing a penetration rate of 132.92%. The vigorous rivalry between the four operators works in consumers’ favour through competitive tariffs and sustained investment in network infrastructure.

Entel leads the market with close to 9 million subscribers and consistently tops network performance rankings, claiming all 5G experience award categories in 2024 — nine major awards in total. It maintains the most extensive national coverage and the most dependable signal quality, making it the recommended choice for anyone settling in rural or remote locations.

Movistar is the second largest operator with roughly 8 million subscribers, and demonstrated impressive 5G momentum in 2024 by reaching 1 million 5G subscribers within just four months of launch. It holds a particularly strong position in major urban centres. WOM has carved out a role as the market disruptor, pursuing aggressive pricing to capture market share — reaching 22 percent by 2024 — while delivering strong 5G coverage.

Claro serves more than 6 million subscribers across 3G and 4G networks, with its coverage weighted toward urban zones. If you are planning to live in or travel through areas beyond the main cities — such as the Lake District, Patagonia, or the Atacama Desert — Entel’s network is the most likely to keep you reliably connected.

Several Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) also operate in Chile. VTR Móvil runs on Movistar’s infrastructure and focuses on budget-friendly prepaid plans. Virgin Mobile is an Entel subsidiary that targets younger and student demographics. Netline, a smaller MVNO using Entel’s network, emphasises affordable international calling options.

All provider websites are in Spanish. In-store staff at major carrier outlets often have at least basic conversational ability in other languages, and online chat options are becoming more common — translation tools such as Google Translate or DeepL can assist if you need to manage things remotely. Always check each provider’s official website for current plan pricing, as tariffs are updated frequently.

How do I get a landline connected in Chile?

Setting up a fixed-line telephone connection in Chile follows a familiar pattern: select a provider, submit your application with the required documents, and schedule a technician visit. The essential paperwork consists of proof of identity and a Chilean address; a deposit may also be required in some circumstances.

1. Choose your provider. Review the plans offered by Movistar, Entel, VTR, GTD, and Claro in your area. Voice-only landline plans are increasingly uncommon; most providers package fixed telephony with broadband internet. Verify each provider’s coverage at your postcode before making a decision, as availability differs across regions.
2. Contact the provider. Applications can be submitted online via the provider’s website, by calling their customer service line, or in person at a retail outlet. Movistar can be reached on 105; Entel on 103; VTR on 600 900 1500. You will be asked to supply personal details including your name, address, and identification documents.
3. Provide identity and address documents. You will normally need a valid passport or your Chilean RUT (Rol Único Tributario — Chile’s national tax and identity number), together with evidence of your Chilean address such as a tenancy agreement or utility bill. Renters and homeowners are generally treated the same, although some providers may request the rental contract when the property is leased.
4. Pay any required deposit. A refundable deposit may be requested, particularly from customers who do not yet hold a Chilean RUT or have no local credit history. Confirm the deposit amount with your chosen provider before proceeding.
5. Await installation. After your account is created, the provider will arrange for a technician to visit your property and install the relevant equipment — this may include a telephone handset, modem, or router depending on the services included — and will carry out testing to confirm everything is functioning correctly.
6. Confirm your line is active. Installation timescales vary by provider and service type. Same-day connection is possible in some cases; in others, it may take several days. Ask your provider for an estimated timeline at the point of application.

For the most current documentation requirements and applicable tariffs, confirm directly with your chosen provider or visit Subtel, Chile’s national telecoms regulator, which also handles consumer complaints about fixed-line services.

How do I get a mobile phone SIM card or contract in Chile?

Obtaining mobile service in Chile is a relatively uncomplicated process. Prepaid (prepago) SIM cards are available to almost anyone — including tourists and new arrivals — whereas postpaid contracts (planes) typically demand a Chilean RUT and, in most cases, a local bank account. This mirrors the postpaid contract requirements found in many countries, where proof of residence and creditworthiness are standard prerequisites; what makes Chile distinctive is the central role played by the RUT.

Prepaid SIM cards

SIM cards can be bought at Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCL), where operators frequently maintain stores or kiosks selling travel and tourist SIMs. The major carriers — Entel, Movistar, WOM, and Claro — all have branded outlets in most towns and shopping centres. Bring your passport as proof of identity.

For tourist stays of under 30 days, documentation is unlikely to be required for a prepaid SIM or eSIM. However, foreigners intending to use a Chilean SIM or eSIM for more than 30 days must register their device within that period or risk being blocked from the network. Mobile providers often handle this registration process — known as Homologación Multibanda/SAE — on your behalf. If they do not, you must complete the registration through a certifying company approved by Subtel. The purpose of the registration is to ensure your handset can receive emergency broadcast messages sent by SENAPRED, Chile’s National Service for Disaster Prevention and Response.

You will need a copy of your passport, your PDI Tarjeta de Turismo (the Tourist Card — the small receipt issued by immigration on entry to Chile), and a screenshot showing your device’s IMEI number.

Postpaid contracts

Signing up for a postpaid mobile plan generally requires a Chilean RUT (available from the Registro Civil), a valid identity document (passport or Chilean cédula de identidad), and in most cases a Chilean bank account for automatic payment. Newcomers without a RUT are therefore limited to prepaid options in the initial period. Virgin Mobile stands out as the sole operator willing to offer a monthly plan without a RUT, which can prove particularly useful during the early weeks after arrival.

Since 2015, mobile phones sold in Chile have no longer been locked to individual operators, so an unlocked handset brought from abroad can simply be loaded with a Chilean SIM. Bundled phone-with-subscription offers will not be accessible to you until you hold a RUT and a bank account, however.

Prepaid top-up quirks

It is worth noting that prepaid credit cannot be purchased at the operators’ own retail shops — Entel, Movistar, and Claro stores exclusively sell monthly plans and packages rather than top-up credit. Top-ups are sold at convenience stores, pharmacies, supermarkets, and ChileExpress branches. After loading credit, you can make voice calls, but mobile data access requires the separate purchase of a “bolsa” (data bundle), which can be done directly from your handset using the loaded credit.

How do I pay my telephone bill in Chile?

Both fixed-line and postpaid mobile customers in Chile receive monthly invoices. The range of payment methods available is broad and similar to what you would find in any country with a developed telecoms market — online payment, bank transfer, direct debit, and cash payment in person are all well-established options.

Most providers support online payment via their websites, allowing customers to settle their bill by credit or debit card from any internet-connected device at any time. Simply log in to your account on the provider’s site to complete the transaction.

In-person payments can be made at the provider’s own offices or designated payment centres, with cash, cheque, or credit/debit card all accepted. Third-party payment locations are also widely available, including supermarkets such as Líder and Jumbo, pharmacies including Cruz Verde and Salcobrand, and payment platforms such as Servipag and Khipu, which have branches across the country.

Many providers offer automatic payment (débito automático), whereby the bill amount is debited directly from your bank account each month — an arrangement that eliminates the risk of missed payments and late fees. Setting this up requires a Chilean bank account and is strongly recommended once you have one established.

If a bill goes unpaid, most providers will issue a notice before suspending service, but reconnection fees may apply once a line has been cut. If you anticipate difficulty meeting a payment, contact your provider as early as possible to discuss available options and minimise the risk of a service interruption.

Billing disputes can be escalated to Subtel or to Chile’s consumer protection authority, SERNAC (Servicio Nacional del Consumidor), which has jurisdiction over telecoms-related consumer matters.

Are there any practical tips for using phones in Chile as a newcomer?

Urban telecommunications infrastructure in Chile is modern and dependable, but the country’s geography introduces some important variations in service quality. The following practical points are among the most useful things to know before you arrive.

Service quality by region

Valparaíso, recording an average download speed of 321.85 Mbps, was ranked the world’s fastest city for fixed internet by the Speedtest Global Index in its late 2024 assessment of 200 cities. In areas where connectivity is present, service is stable and reliable. That said, Patagonia and the Atacama Desert represent significant coverage gaps. Anyone relocating to these regions should plan for limited connectivity and consider Entel, which offers the strongest rural network reach.

International roaming

Chile operates on the GSM standard, meaning all GSM-compatible handsets will function in the country. If you intend to use your existing phone on international roaming before purchasing a local SIM, be aware that charges from your home network provider can be substantial. Some Chilean operators offer reduced-rate international roaming packages for neighbouring countries — review the specific terms of any such deal carefully before using your phone outside Chile.

eSIMs

All major operators — Entel and Movistar among them — sell eSIM data plans online to customers in more than 100 countries, enabling you to activate a Chilean eSIM before you even board your flight. This is especially practical for compatible handsets. International eSIM providers such as Holafly also offer coverage in Chile, though local operator eSIMs tend to be more cost-effective for longer stays. Check provider websites for current eSIM availability and pricing.

Number portability

Mobile number portability has played an important role in stimulating competition and reducing prices for consumers in Chile. Intermodal portability — permitting transfers between fixed and mobile networks — was introduced in September 2016. Unlike some markets where porting completes within a single working day, the process in Chile can take several days; ask your new provider for the current estimated processing time when you initiate the transfer. It is not possible to port a foreign number to a Chilean network; a new Chilean number will be required.

Local phone culture

Regarding mobile phone etiquette in Chile, there is essentially none — Chileans take a relaxed, anything-goes approach. One habit worth noting is a strong preference for voice messages over text messages, so bear this in mind when communicating with locals. WhatsApp is overwhelmingly the dominant messaging platform across all age groups and demographics, and you can expect businesses, landlords, and even government offices to use it as a primary communication channel.

Internet freedom and reliability

Chile’s internet infrastructure is privately owned and operated, and there are no government-imposed restrictions on access to online content or social media. Political, religious, or social content is not subject to censorship, placing Chile among the world’s most open online environments. The use of VPNs is both legal and unrestricted.

Language of service

Provider websites and customer service channels operate almost exclusively in Spanish. Having even a basic grasp of Spanish telecoms terminology — or a reliable translation tool — will make navigating contracts, invoices, and support interactions considerably easier. Keep your account number and contract details to hand whenever you contact customer service, as these will speed up the process significantly.

For official guidance on consumer rights in the Chilean telecoms sector, refer to Subtel and SERNAC.

Frequently asked questions about telephone services in Chile

Can I keep my foreign number when I move to Chile?

No. Number portability in Chile operates only between Chilean operators — transferring a number from an overseas network to a Chilean one is not possible. You will need to acquire a new Chilean number. You can, however, retain your foreign SIM in a dual-SIM handset or use a VoIP service to keep your old number accessible for incoming calls while conducting local communications through a Chilean number.

Do I need a local address to get a SIM card in Chile?

For a prepaid SIM, a local address is not generally required — your passport is ordinarily sufficient as identification. For a postpaid contract, you will typically need a Chilean address, a RUT, and usually a local bank account as well. Newcomers are therefore generally best advised to begin with a prepaid SIM while their residency documentation is being established.

Do I need a RUT to get a mobile phone plan in Chile?

Virgin Mobile is the only operator offering a monthly plan to customers without a RUT. All other major operators — Entel, Movistar, Claro, and WOM — require a RUT to sign up for a postpaid contract. Until you have obtained your RUT from the Registro Civil, a prepaid (prepago) SIM is the most practical route to mobile service.

What is the Homologación SAE and do I need to do it?

Foreigners who use a Chilean SIM or eSIM for more than 30 days are required to register their device within that window or face being blocked from the network. This registration process — known as Homologación Multibanda/SAE — is frequently completed by mobile service providers on your behalf. If your provider does not do this, you must register through a certifying company validated by Subtel. The registration enables your device to receive emergency alerts broadcast by SENAPRED, Chile’s National Service for Disaster Prevention and Response.

Is 5G available in Chile?

Chile launched 5G services in late December 2021, with three national operators — Entel, Movistar, and WOM — among the initial providers. 4G/LTE delivers strong coverage nationwide, while 5G is active in major metropolitan areas and continues to expand. For those who prioritise 5G access, Entel and WOM currently demonstrate the strongest performance in this area.

How do I top up a prepaid mobile in Chile?

Prepaid credit cannot be purchased at the operators’ own retail stores — Entel, Movistar, and Claro outlets sell monthly plans and packages exclusively, not top-up credit. Top-ups are available at supermarkets, pharmacies, convenience stores, ChileExpress branches, and through the operator’s own app or website. Once credit has been loaded, a separate data “bolsa” must also be purchased to enable mobile internet access.

Can I use an eSIM in Chile?

All major operators — including Entel and Movistar — offer online eSIM purchasing for customers in over 100 countries, making it possible to set up a Chilean data plan before departure, though this is not always the cheapest approach. International eSIM providers also cover Chile and may suit short-stay visitors. For longer-term residents, acquiring a physical SIM on arrival and graduating to a postpaid plan once you have a RUT will usually prove the more economical option.

Who regulates telephone services in Chile, and what can I do if I have a complaint?

The national body responsible for overseeing Chile’s telecommunications sector is the Subsecretaría de Telecomunicaciones (Subtel), which manages licensing, service quality standards, and consumer rights. Complaints and regulatory resources are accessible at subtel.gob.cl. For billing disputes and broader consumer protection concerns, you may also approach SERNAC at sernac.cl, Chile’s national consumer protection authority.