ES
ENLegal source: Ley N° 20.848 (2015)
Law 20.848, in force since 2015, is Chile’s legal framework for foreign direct investment. A foreign investor is any individual or entity without domicile or residence in Chile that transfers capital, assets, or technology into the country. It requires no contract with the State and no minimum amount to access the general regime.
Law 20.848, in force since 2015, is the legal framework that currently governs foreign direct investment in Chile. It replaced the former Foreign Investment Statute (Decree Law 600) and created the Foreign Investment Promotion Agency (InvestChile) as successor to the former Foreign Investment Committee.
Who qualifies as a foreign investor?
The law defines a foreign investor as any foreign individual or entity, without domicile or residence in Chile, who transfers capital or other assets into the country. The transfer can take the form of freely convertible foreign currency, physical assets, reinvestment of profits, capitalization of credits, or technology, among other forms recognized by law.
What changed from the prior regime?
Unlike the former Decree Law 600, Law 20.848 does not require an investment contract with the State or a minimum amount to access the basic rights of the general regime. Investors holding contracts still in force under Decree Law 600, signed before January 1, 2016, retain their original rights and obligations.
Why does this matter from day one?
Understanding which regime applies to your investment determines which rights you can exercise — access to the formal exchange market, repatriation of capital and profits — from the moment you set up your company in Chile, not afterward.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, Law 20.848 doesn't require a minimum amount to access the general regime.
Only for contracts signed before January 1, 2016; new investors fall under Law 20.848.
The Foreign Investment Promotion Agency (InvestChile).
How Izquierdo Deramond Consultores Can Help
At IDC we guide foreign investors through the entire process of entering Chile — legal, tax, accounting, and operational structure — as a single local team. If you’re evaluating an investment in Chile, 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.