Procedure for Buying a New or Used Car in Chile
Buying a new or used car in Chile can be a relatively simple process, but there are some important things to keep in mind. The following steps outline the typical procedure for buying a car in Chile:
Step 1: Determine Your Budget
Before starting the car buying process, it is essential to determine your budget. This includes deciding how much you can afford to spend on the car itself, as well as any associated costs such as insurance, registration, and maintenance.
Step 2: Research Vehicles
Research the vehicles that fit your budget and needs. You can start by looking at online car marketplaces or visit car dealerships in person. It is important to read reviews and compare prices of different vehicles to find the one that suits you the best.
Step 3: Test Drive
It is always recommended to test drive the car before making a final decision. During the test drive, check for any unusual noises, vibrations, or warning lights.
Step 4: Negotiate Price
After you have found the car you want to buy, negotiate the price with the seller. You can also check the prices of similar vehicles in the market to make sure you are getting a fair deal.
Step 5: Secure Financing
If you need financing to buy the car, you can either get a loan from a bank or finance through the dealership. Make sure to compare the interest rates and terms of the loan to find the best option for you.
Step 6: Complete the Transaction
Once you have agreed on the price and secured financing, you can complete the transaction. This includes signing the purchase agreement, registering the vehicle, and obtaining insurance.
Information Specifically Relevant to Foreign Nationals
Foreign nationals can buy a car in Chile, but there are some additional steps they need to take. Firstly, they need to have a valid driver’s license from their home country. However, it is recommended to get an International Driving Permit (IDP) before coming to Chile, as it makes the process of renting or buying a car easier.
Secondly, foreign nationals need to provide proof of insurance to register the vehicle. This can be obtained from an insurance company in Chile, but it is recommended to get a quote before arriving in Chile to avoid any surprises.
Lastly, foreign nationals need to pay all applicable taxes and fees when registering the vehicle. These fees vary depending on the type and age of the vehicle.
Procedure for Importing a Vehicle in Chile
Importing a vehicle into Chile can be a complex process, but it is necessary if you want to bring a car from another country and register it in Chile. The following steps outline the process of importing a vehicle in Chile:
Step 1: Determine Eligibility
Before importing a vehicle into Chile, you need to determine if it is eligible. Vehicles that are eligible for importation include those manufactured for use in North America or Europe, as well as vehicles that are 3 years or older.
Step 2: Check Vehicle Admissibility
Once you have determined that the vehicle is eligible, you need to check its admissibility. This includes checking for any safety standards or emissions requirements that need to be met. You can check the admissibility of the vehicle on the official website of the Chilean Automotive Association (ANAC).
Step 3: Get Vehicle History Report
You also need to get a vehicle history report before importing the vehicle into Chile. This report will show the vehicle’s accident and maintenance history, as well as any liens or outstanding loans.
Step 4: Pay Taxes and Fees
Importing a vehicle into Chile requires paying taxes and fees. These include the Import Tax (DGA), which is a percentage of the vehicle’s value, as well as the Value-Added Tax (VAT), which is a 19% tax on the value of the vehicle. The taxes and fees vary depending on the value of the vehicle and its age.
Step 5: Inspect Vehicle
Before registering the vehicle, it needs to be inspected to ensure it meets Chilean safety and emissions standards. This inspection can be done by an authorized inspection station.
Step 6: Register Vehicle
Once the vehicle has passed the inspection, you can register it with the Registro Nacional de Vehículos Motorizados (RNTV) and obtain a Chilean license plate. You will need to provide the necessary paperwork, including proof of ownership, the vehicle history report, and proof of insurance.
Step 7: Obtain a Circulation Permit
After registering the vehicle, you will need to obtain a Circulation Permit (Permiso de Circulación) from the municipality where the vehicle will be used. This permit is renewable annually and includes a fee based on the vehicle’s age and engine size.
Relevant Government Departments and Contacts
Importing a vehicle into Chile requires dealing with several government departments and agencies. The following are some of the relevant contacts and links for importing a vehicle into Chile:
- Chilean Automotive Association (ANAC): responsible for vehicle admissibility and inspection. Website: www.anac.cl
- Servicio Nacional de Aduanas (SNA): responsible for collecting import taxes and fees. Website: www.aduana.cl
- Registro Nacional de Vehículos Motorizados (RNTV): responsible for vehicle registration and licensing. Website: www.rntv.cl
Procedure for Selling a Car in Chile
Selling a car in Chile requires specific paperwork and procedures. The following steps outline the typical procedure for selling a car in Chile:
Step 1: Gather Necessary Documents
Before selling a car, you need to gather the necessary documents, including the vehicle registration, proof of ownership, and any maintenance or repair records.
Step 2: Determine the Selling Price
Once you have the necessary documents, determine the selling price of the car. You can check the prices of similar vehicles in the market to ensure that you are pricing it correctly.
Step 3: Advertise the Car
Advertise the car to potential buyers through online car marketplaces, classified ads, or social media. Make sure to include relevant details about the car, such as the make, model, year, mileage, and condition.
Step 4: Complete the Sale
Once you have found a buyer, complete the sale by signing the bill of sale, transferring the ownership, and transferring the license plates. Make sure to cancel your insurance policy and remove any personal belongings from the car.
Buying, importing, or selling a car in Chile requires specific paperwork and procedures. Whether you are a resident or a foreign national, it is important to understand the process and the relevant contacts and links for each step. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure a smooth and successful car buying, importing, or selling experience in Chile.