Regional Information - Foreign Ownership > Chile, South America

Feature Island

Regional Information

Chile is the longest country in the world, stretching almost 5000 kilometres down the western coast of South America. This narrow country encompasses some very diverse landscapes including volcanoes, lakes, mountains, geysers and beaches. The southern coast is a labyrinth of fjords, twisting peninsulas, and of course, islands, extending all the way into Antarctica. Chile lays claim to a couple of very famous islands. Easter Island in the South Pacific is one of the most isolated inhabited islands in the world. The island’s large and world famous stone statues (moai) reveal a past still steeped in mystery. Chile is also home to the world’s most famous island, Robinson Crusoe Island. Sailor Alexander Selkirk was marooned on the island in 1705 and lived there alone for over four years. He inspired Daniel Dafoe’s forever famous novel, Robinson Crusoe. Today, Chile still promises enough adventure to keep explorers busy for a lifetime.

Chile, South America

Foreign Ownership of Islands in Chile, South America

In Chile, there are no restrictions on foreign ownership except on real estate that is close to national borders. A private island buyer should obtain specific legal advice concerning the island in question. It is necessary to hire a good lawyer in Chile, one with expertise in title reports. Chile’s laws can be unclear, especially in rural areas. Most real estate brokers have their own legal team, but watch out for conflicts of interest if you’re using an agent’s lawyer.

To buy property in Chile, you must apply at the National Tax office for a RUT (Rol Único Tributario). This is a number issued for tax purposes, required by all foreigners without legal residency in Chile who wish to acquire real estate.

Regional Statistics for Chile, South America

Location:: Southern South America, bordering the South Pacific Ocean, between Argentina and Peru
Population:: 16,134,219
Languages:: Spanish
Capital:: Santiago
Currency:: Chilean Peso
Climate:: temperate; desert in north; Mediterranean in central region; cool and damp in south
Temperature Range:: 0 to +30
Terrain:: low coastal mountains; fertile central valley; rugged Andes in east
Natural Hazards:: severe earthquakes; active volcanism; tsunamis