Every property transaction in Chile runs through a single number: the RUT (Rol Único Tributario). It’s Chile’s national tax and identity number — roughly equivalent to a US SSN or a UK National Insurance number, but required for nearly every formal legal or financial act in the country. If you want to buy land in Chile as a foreigner, getting a RUT is step one.
Who Needs a RUT?
Any foreigner who wants to:
- Sign a purchase deed (escritura pública)
- Open a Chilean bank account
- Pay Chilean taxes on the property
- Hire a Chilean lawyer or notary
- Register a company in Chile
In short: if you’re buying land in Chile, you need a RUT.
How to Get One
The process changed significantly in recent years. You no longer need to be physically present in Chile to apply, although in-person applications at the SII (Servicio de Impuestos Internos — Chile’s tax authority) are still the most reliable path.
Option 1: Apply at a Chilean consulate
Some Chilean consulates abroad process RUT applications. Availability varies by country — check with the consulate in your city. You’ll need your passport and proof of the purpose of the application (e.g. a letter from your Chilean lawyer describing the pending transaction).
Option 2: Apply in person at the SII in Chile
If you’re visiting Chile as part of your property search — which we strongly recommend — you can apply directly at any SII office. Bring your passport. The number is typically issued the same day. This is the fastest and most reliable method.
Option 3: Have your Chilean lawyer apply on your behalf
With a notarised power of attorney, a Chilean lawyer can apply for your RUT on your behalf while you remain in your home country. This is common for buyers who have already identified a property and want to proceed without a preliminary trip.
What the RUT Looks Like
A Chilean RUT for individuals takes the format XX.XXX.XXX-X — seven or eight digits followed by a verification digit. For foreign individuals, it usually starts with 4X or 5X. Keep it safe: you’ll use it for every formal step of your property purchase and for any subsequent tax filings.
What Comes Next
Once you have your RUT, you can open a Chilean bank account (useful for transferring purchase funds), engage a notary directly, and be named as buyer on the deed. Read our full Buying Process guide for the complete step-by-step from property search to registered title.