ES
ENLegal source: Código de Comercio; Código del Trabajo
The legal representative is the person domiciled in Chile who signs corporate and labor documents and deals with the tax authority, labor authority, and other agencies on the company’s behalf. They don’t need to be a shareholder or director — a lawyer or local manager can be appointed via a specific power of attorney.
Every company incorporated in Chile by foreign investors needs a legal representative domiciled in the country — a role that carries concrete obligations, not just a signature on documents.
What does being a legal representative involve?
The legal representative deals with public agencies (the tax authority, labor authority, municipality), signs corporate and labor documents, and is the company’s formal point of contact in Chile.
What labor and tax responsibilities does it carry?
If the company hires employees, the legal representative is usually the one who answers operationally during labor inspections. On tax matters, it is common — though not always mandatory depending on the structure — for the representative to also act as the responsible party before the tax authority for certain procedures.
Can the legal representative be a hired third party?
The legal representative does not need to be a shareholder or director of the company. Many foreign investors without residency in Chile delegate this role to a trusted local lawyer or manager, formalized through a specific power of attorney.
What doesn’t appointing a legal representative resolve?
Appointing a legal representative does not transfer all corporate liability to that person — directors and shareholders retain their own legal obligations, regardless of who signs day to day.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, they can be a hired third party, such as a lawyer or local manager.
The legal representative usually answers operationally during labor inspections.
No, directors and shareholders retain their own legal obligations.
How Izquierdo Deramond Consultores Can Help
At IDC we provide legal representation and company incorporation for foreign investors in Chile, coordinating every step from signing the bylaws to your company’s day-to-day operation. If you’re evaluating this process, let’s talk or reach us on WhatsApp.
Legal notice: This article is provided for general informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal, tax, accounting, or other professional advice, and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional advice tailored to your specific situation. Cited rules may change; always verify the current version. To discuss your case, please contact Izquierdo Deramond Consultores.