Chile – Internet

Who are the major internet service providers in Chile?

Chile’s broadband market is competitive, with a number of well-established operators vying for customers. Based on fixed broadband market shares recorded in December 2023, Movistar held 30.7%, VTR 23.9%, Mundo Pacífico 18.4%, Entel 7.1%, GTD 7.0%, and Claro 6.8%. What follows is an overview of each key player.

Movistar Chile (a subsidiary of Telefónica) holds the largest share of the fixed broadband market at around 30%. The company has been investing heavily in fibre-optic infrastructure, with approximately 2.9 million premises connected to or passed by its fibre-to-the-home (FTTH) network, while continuing the process of retiring its legacy copper lines. Movistar’s service portfolio spans fibre optic, cable, and DSL internet, with nationwide reach and frequent bundle offers combining internet, mobile, and TV services. Details of current plans and coverage can be found at movistar.cl.

VTR (owned by Liberty Latin America) commands the second-largest share of the fixed broadband market at around 24%. Long established as a cable internet operator, VTR has a solid urban presence and also offers fibre in selected areas, with many customers taking bundled internet and cable television packages. Its hybrid fibre-coaxial (HFC) footprint is extensive, and FTTH rollout is ongoing. Current plans and coverage information are available at vtr.com.

Mundo (run by Pacifico Cable) has grown rapidly to reach an 18% market share, driven by a decisive shift to fibre optics. By early 2023, Mundo had completed the migration of its entire customer base away from cable infrastructure to full FTTH, and continues to extend its network reach. Visit mundo.cl for further details.

Entel is a significant Chilean operator with a presence in both fixed and mobile broadband. It holds around 6% of the fixed broadband market and has committed substantial investment to FTTH deployment and fixed wireless technologies, including active participation in government-backed rural connectivity initiatives. More information is available at entel.cl.

Claro Chile (part of América Móvil) delivers fibre, cable, and mobile internet services across the country. Known for competitive pricing and frequent promotional campaigns, Claro is a recognisable name throughout Chile. Further information is available at clarochile.cl.

WOM is a newer entrant to the fixed broadband space that has grown quickly since launching its FTTH offering in 2020. Now holding roughly 5% of market subscribers, WOM has been aggressively expanding its fibre footprint with attractive high-speed packages. Visit wom.cl to review available plans.

Gtd / Telsur serves customers primarily in southern Chile. Gtd operates under the Telsur brand in the south and provides a combination of fibre and DSL services. Together the two brands account for around 6% of the national subscriber market.

Starlink provides satellite broadband coverage across the entirety of Chile, making it particularly significant for remote and rural communities. As of early 2025, Starlink controls approximately 58% of Chile’s satellite internet market, offering speeds of 50–150 Mbps and latency of 20–40 ms. Residential pricing stands at around CLP 47,000 per month (~USD 59), with a one-time equipment cost of approximately CLP 430,000. Current pricing should always be confirmed at starlink.com, and all provider tariffs should be verified directly, as they are subject to frequent change.

What types of internet connection are available in Chile?

Chile’s internet infrastructure is diverse and, by the standards of the region, remarkably mature. All connectivity is delivered by private-sector operators across a range of technologies — including hybrid fibre-coaxial (HFC), full fibre to the home, mobile broadband, satellite internet, and xDSL — spanning a broad spectrum of speeds and price points.

Fibre to the Home (FTTH) has become the dominant connection type in Chile. By December 2023, more than two thirds of all fixed-line internet subscriptions were running on optical fibre, with HFC accounting for close to 27% as the next most common technology. Chile has moved decisively toward pure-fibre infrastructure, in contrast to the fibre-copper hybrid models still prevalent in many countries. This shift was underlined when Movistar Chile announced at Mobile World Congress 2024 that it intended to complete the full migration of its fixed broadband network to fibre optic by the end of 2024, covering all of its more than 1.3 million connected homes.

Cable (HFC) broadband remains the second most widely used technology, delivered chiefly by VTR and Claro over hybrid fibre-coaxial networks. It accounts for roughly 25–27% of fixed connections, concentrated in urban centres where cable television networks established the underlying infrastructure. Speeds typically range from 100 to 500 Mbps, though many HFC customers have already transitioned to fibre as it has become available in their areas.

DSL is now effectively a legacy technology in Chile. Based on the copper telephone network, xDSL had fallen to just 0.55% of residential fixed connections by the end of 2024, and is being retired in most areas, with a theoretical ceiling of around 50 Mbit/s download and 15 Mbit/s upload depending on line conditions.

4G/5G mobile broadband plays a meaningful role, particularly outside the major urban centres. Mobile internet accounts for a significant proportion of total broadband connections nationally, especially in rural communities. The four main operators — WOM (3G, 4G, 5G), Claro Chile (2G, 3G, 4G), Entel Chile (2G, 3G, 4G, 5G), and Movistar Chile (2G, 3G, 4G, 5G) — all participate in this space. Chile launched 5G commercially in December 2021, and by late 2024 the country had surpassed 5.3 million 5G users, with around 40% of all mobile subscriptions being 5G-capable.

Satellite internet is increasingly important for communities in remote and difficult-to-reach locations. Starlink has been expanding rapidly, using satellite technology to bring high-speed connectivity to regions where laying traditional infrastructure is challenging or uneconomical. HughesNet also operates in the Chilean market. The growth of satellite adoption has been dramatic: SUBTEL recorded a 72.7% year-on-year increase in satellite connections as of late 2024.

How fast and reliable is the internet in Chile?

Chile’s fixed broadband performance is exceptional — not merely within Latin America, but by global standards. According to the Ookla Speedtest Global Index, Chile ranked 5th worldwide for fastest fixed broadband as of May 2025, recording an average download speed of 297.75 Mbps and a latency of just 5 ms. An average speed of around 277 Mbps places Chile ahead of economies including the United States, Spain, and Switzerland.

Performance at the city level is particularly striking. Valparaíso has been ranked by the Speedtest Global Index as the city with the fastest fixed broadband in the world, recording an average download speed of 398.21 Mbps — outpacing cities such as Abu Dhabi and Lyon. Valparaíso’s status as a landing point for several international submarine cables contributes significantly to this performance.

At the provider level, Movistar leads on average download speed at 129.1 Mbps and also tops upload speed at 84.1 Mbps, based on Opensignal user measurements taken across Chile between April and July 2024. For peak download speeds, Mundo leads the field at close to 500 Mbps.

Mobile internet speeds, while solid, fall considerably short of fixed broadband performance. Ookla Speedtest data from June 2024 shows a median fixed broadband download speed of 263.32 Mbps versus 39.91 Mbps on mobile — a gap that reflects the maturity of Chile’s fibre network relative to its still-developing 5G rollout.

Reliability is generally strong throughout urban and suburban areas. That said, Patagonia and the Atacama Desert continue to represent significant connectivity gaps. Natural disasters can also cause widespread disruption: the 2024 wildfires in the Valparaíso region destroyed mobile antennas, satellite backup infrastructure, and several kilometres of fibre cabling, resulting in extensive service outages. For the most up-to-date speed benchmarks, consult Ookla’s Speedtest Global Index and the Subtel statistics portal.

How do I get an internet connection set up in Chile?

Arranging a residential internet connection in Chile is generally a manageable process, though there are aspects that require particular attention from foreign nationals — most notably the need for a RUT (Rol Único Tributario), Chile’s national tax identification number, which nearly all providers require before any contract can be signed.

It is worth noting that not every provider operates in every building. Many residential properties already have specific ISPs connected to their internal infrastructure, so it is advisable to speak with your building concierge about which operators are already present before beginning the sign-up process.

1. Obtain your RUT. Securing a Chilean RUT is the first step before contacting any ISP. Foreign residents are issued a RUT as part of the residency or temporary residence permit process. While some providers such as VTR may accept a passport number for short-term or prepaid arrangements, a RUT is the standard requirement for monthly contracts. For guidance on obtaining one, contact the Servicio de Registro Civil e Identificación (registrocivil.cl) or the Chilean Internal Revenue Service (sii.cl).
2. Check coverage at your address. Use the coverage checker on your chosen provider’s website (for example movistar.cl, vtr.com, or mundo.cl) to confirm that service is available at your specific address. Your building concierge is also a useful source of information on which ISPs are already connected to the property.
3. Select a plan and get in touch with the provider. Most operators make online sign-up available, and you can also visit a retail store or contact customer service by phone. Provider websites and support teams typically operate in Spanish, though many high-street carrier stores offer at least basic bilingual assistance, and online chat tools are compatible with translation software.
4. Provide the required documents. You will usually need to supply your RUT, a valid form of identification (passport or Chilean identity card), and proof of address such as a utility bill or rental agreement. Some providers — particularly those with stronger value-for-money propositions — may also request a Chilean work contract. Others will activate a line on the strength of a RUT alone, making them more accessible to recent arrivals.
5. Sign the contract. Contracts can generally be executed digitally or face to face. The standard term is 12 months, though month-to-month plans are sometimes offered at a higher per-month rate. Take time to review the terms carefully, paying particular attention to early cancellation penalties.
6. Book an installation appointment. Once the contract is in place, the provider will schedule a technician visit to install your router and connect the line. In most areas, appointments are available within a few days to two weeks of signing up.
7. Go live. The technician will complete the installation and carry out connection testing. A typical installation takes between one and two hours. Router equipment is provided and is usually included as a rental within your monthly plan fee, although some providers offer the option to purchase it outright.

Having a Chilean bank account makes setting up direct debit payments straightforward, and this is the most common payment method. That said, many providers also accept cash payments at service points or through online payment portals, so a bank account is not strictly essential to get started. A Chilean mobile number is handy for account verification and service alerts, but is not always a firm requirement at the point of sign-up.

Can I get internet access before my permanent connection is installed in Chile?

Getting online from the moment you arrive in Chile is straightforward. Several practical options exist for bridging the gap between your arrival date and the installation of a permanent home broadband connection.

Prepaid SIM cards with mobile data represent the easiest and most immediate solution. SIMs from all four major operators — Entel, Movistar, WOM, and Claro — are widely available at airports, supermarkets, pharmacies, and mobile operator outlets throughout the country. Data costs are very affordable: some prepaid plans offer rates as low as US$0.12 per GB on Movistar’s 40 GB monthly option. For the broadest coverage, including in less populated areas, Entel is generally considered the strongest network operator.

eSIMs provide an especially smooth experience for travellers arriving with compatible devices. Entel, Movistar, and WOM all offer eSIMs as of early 2025. Chile also supports international eSIM providers, meaning it is entirely feasible to arrive with a pre-installed eSIM from an overseas service and be connected from the moment you land.

Portable Wi-Fi devices (Mi-Fi / pocket routers) are another option, available for rental or purchase from mobile operators and consumer electronics shops. These devices use a SIM card to generate a personal Wi-Fi hotspot, which is particularly convenient when you need to connect several devices simultaneously during the transitional period.

Co-working spaces and cafés are plentiful in Santiago, Valparaíso, and other major urban centres, offering reliable Wi-Fi for day-to-day work needs. Wi-Fi is less commonly found at tourist sites outside of select museums in Santiago, but mobile data coverage is effective in virtually all areas. Santiago in particular has a well-developed co-working sector catering to a range of budgets and working styles.

What does internet service typically cost in Chile?

Internet service in Chile is widely considered to represent good value given the speeds and reliability delivered. Pricing differs according to provider, technology, speed tier, and whether services such as mobile or television are bundled. The figures below are indicative only — always consult the provider’s official website or Subtel for up-to-date pricing.

Starlink’s residential pricing had fallen to approximately CLP 47,000 per month (~USD 59) by early 2025, with a one-time hardware cost of around CLP 430,000 (~USD 500). These figures should be verified at starlink.com, as satellite pricing is subject to change.

For mobile data, prepaid rates in Chile can be as low as US$0.12 per GB on Movistar’s most competitive plans, while Entel, Claro, and WOM prepaid rates tend to be higher — typically around US$2 per GB. Monthly postpaid mobile plans generally bundle calls, SMS, and data from around CLP 9,000–15,000 for entry-level packages, with unlimited or high-volume data options available at higher price points. Always check provider websites for the latest plan details.

Installation and activation fees vary: promotional offers frequently waive them entirely, while standard sign-ups may incur a one-off charge. Router rental is typically included in the monthly plan fee, though some providers allow outright purchase of equipment. Twelve-month contracts are the norm, and early termination fees apply; month-to-month plans are available but generally carry a premium. The Subtel comparison tool at subtel.gob.cl allows you to compare current offerings from all registered providers.

Are there any restrictions or censorship affecting internet use in Chile?

Chile operates one of the most open internet environments anywhere in the world — something newcomers from more restrictive countries tend to notice immediately. The country’s internet infrastructure is entirely privately owned and operated, and there are no government-imposed blocks on internet access, social media, or online platforms of any kind. Political, religious, and social content is not subject to any form of state censorship.

Chile holds a particularly notable place in the history of internet regulation as a global pioneer of net neutrality legislation. On 13 June 2010, Chile’s National Congress amended the national telecommunications law to enshrine network neutrality, making Chile the first country in the world to pass such legislation. The law prohibits ISPs from arbitrarily blocking, interfering with, discriminating against, or restricting any user’s right to access, transmit, receive, or offer any lawful content, application, or service. Crucially, this protection is written directly into telecommunications law rather than delegated to secondary regulation or guidelines, giving it considerable legal weight and durability.

The use of virtual private networks (VPNs) is entirely legal and subject to no restrictions in Chile. No platforms or services are blocked, and streaming services, social media, and messaging applications all function without impediment. In April 2024, Chile reinforced its commitment to open connectivity by enacting legislation declaring internet access a public telecommunications service in support of universal access. For expats relocating from countries with more restricted online environments, Chile’s digital openness will be a notable and welcome contrast.

What should I know about mobile data and SIM cards in Chile?

Mobile connectivity in Chile is excellent in urban areas and improving steadily in rural ones. Mobile market shares as of December 2023 were as follows: Entel 34.6%, WOM 25.7%, Movistar 20.9%, and Claro 16.7%. Entel is widely regarded as the top performer for coverage outside cities and in regional areas; WOM competes strongly on price and speed in urban settings; Movistar and Claro maintain broad nationwide footprints.

Prepaid SIM cards can be purchased without registration requirements at most shops and supermarkets. To take out a postpaid (contract-based) plan, a RUT and valid identification are typically required. Foreign nationals can generally buy a prepaid SIM with a passport alone, making it immediately accessible upon arrival. Chile’s wireless network infrastructure — spanning 4G LTE and 5G — achieves 91% national 5G coverage as of 2025, establishing Chile as a regional frontrunner in mobile broadband.

eSIMs are becoming increasingly accessible. As of early 2025, Entel, Movistar, and WOM all offer eSIM functionality; Claro, while offering eSIM technology in other South American markets, was still completing its Chilean rollout at that time. For those with compatible devices, downloading an eSIM from Entel or Movistar before or shortly after arrival delivers a seamless connectivity experience. The flexibility of eSIMs is particularly convenient — it is possible to keep a physical home-country SIM active while adding a Chilean eSIM, with most devices supporting multiple profiles that can be switched easily.

International roaming into Chile on a home-country SIM is technically straightforward, but is rarely economical for stays of more than a few days. The cost differential between roaming and a local prepaid SIM is substantial, and given how quickly and cheaply a local SIM can be obtained on arrival, most newcomers switch promptly. It is worth reviewing your home carrier’s international roaming rates before departure to understand what costs you would incur.

Who regulates internet and telecoms services in Chile?

The principal regulatory authority for internet and telecommunications in Chile is the Subsecretaría de Telecomunicaciones, universally referred to as Subtel. Operating under the Chilean Ministry of Transport and Telecommunications, Subtel is the government body charged with planning, regulating, and overseeing all telecommunications services in the country — including fixed broadband, mobile networks, and satellite communications.

Subtel publishes comprehensive market statistics, coverage maps, and quarterly reports on broadband penetration and speed performance, all of which are valuable for anyone researching connectivity conditions before or after relocating to Chile. Its data forms the basis for most national and international assessments of Chilean internet performance, including the Statista and Ookla figures referenced throughout this article.

For expats, Subtel is especially useful as a reference point for:

• Comparing official ISP coverage across different regions and specific addresses
• Reviewing current provider market data and technology breakdowns
• Understanding consumer rights under Chile’s net neutrality legislation
• Lodging a formal complaint if a provider fails to deliver the contracted standard of service

The official Subtel website is subtel.gob.cl. Chile also has a general consumer protection body, SERNAC (Servicio Nacional del Consumidor), accessible at sernac.cl, which handles consumer complaints across all sectors including telecommunications. If a dispute with your ISP cannot be resolved through direct engagement with the company, escalating to SERNAC is the recommended course of action. Bear in mind that Subtel’s published data may lag behind the current market by several months, so provider websites should always be consulted directly for the latest pricing and plan information.

Frequently asked questions: internet in Chile for expats

Do I need a RUT to sign up for internet service in Chile?

In almost all circumstances, yes. A RUT (Rol Único Tributario) is required to enter into a contract with the vast majority of fixed broadband providers in Chile. Foreign residents are assigned a RUT as part of the residency permit process. Certain providers may accept a passport number for prepaid or temporary arrangements, but a RUT is the standard requirement for monthly contracts. Obtaining your RUT should be a priority shortly after arriving in the country.

How long does it take to get broadband installed after signing up?

Timelines differ depending on the provider and the location. In major cities, a technician appointment is usually available within a few days to two weeks of signing the contract. In areas with lower population density or less established infrastructure, the wait may be somewhat longer. When signing up, ask your provider for a specific estimate and make sure your installation date is confirmed in writing.

Is internet in rural Chile reliable enough for remote work?

The answer depends heavily on where you are located. Urban and suburban areas across Chile generally offer excellent, stable fibre connections that are well suited to remote working. Historically underserved regions such as Patagonia and the Atacama Desert have had limited coverage, although satellite services — particularly Starlink — are increasingly bridging these gaps with speeds of 50–150 Mbps. If you intend to live or work in a rural setting, consult Subtel’s coverage maps and verify Starlink availability for your precise address before committing.

Can I watch international streaming services (Netflix, YouTube, etc.) without restrictions?

Yes, without any limitations. Chile imposes no censorship and places no restrictions on streaming platforms or international online services. All major global streaming services, social media platforms, and video-calling applications function freely and without interference. Chile’s net neutrality law, which has been in force since 2010, legally prohibits ISPs from throttling or blocking any lawful content or service.

What is the best mobile network for coverage across Chile?

Entel is generally recognised as the operator with the most comprehensive coverage, especially in rural and regional areas. WOM provides competitive speeds and pricing within urban environments. Movistar and Claro offer broad national footprints. If you expect to spend time outside major cities, Entel is typically the most reliable choice. Before committing to any plan, review each operator’s official coverage map for the specific areas where you will be living or travelling.

Are there data caps or fair usage limits on fixed broadband plans?

The majority of residential fibre and cable plans in Chile are marketed as unlimited data plans with no hard data caps. Some entry-level plans may apply speed throttling beyond a defined usage threshold — it is important to check your contract terms carefully before signing. Chile’s net neutrality law also places constraints on how ISPs can implement traffic management policies, providing an additional layer of consumer protection. Verify the specific conditions with your chosen provider prior to signing up.

Can I use a VPN in Chile?

Yes, entirely. VPN use is legal and subject to no government restrictions in Chile. All mainstream commercial VPN services operate without limitation, and there are no state-imposed constraints on their use. Many expats and remote workers rely on VPNs to access content from their home countries or to add an extra layer of security to their internet connections.

How do I complain if my internet provider is not delivering the service I am paying for?

The first step is to contact your ISP directly through its customer service channels. If the matter remains unresolved to your satisfaction, you can submit a formal complaint to Subtel (the telecoms regulator) at subtel.gob.cl or to the national consumer protection agency SERNAC at sernac.cl. Both bodies provide online complaint portals. Gathering evidence — including screenshots, speed test results, and records of your written communications with the provider — will help substantiate any complaint you make.