What is the age limit for importing Japanese cars to Chile?

No national age limit. Emission standards (Euro 4/5) apply.

Import Japanese Car to Chile — Complete Guide 2026

Q: What documents do I need to import a car from Japan to Chile?

Export Certificate, Bill of Lading, Commercial Invoice, Insurance, Technical specification document

Age Limit

No limit

Import Duty

~25% total

6% + 19% IVA (VAT). Free Trade Zone in Iquique has reduced rates.

Steering Side

LHD

LHD required for national registration. RHD vehicles can only be used in the Iquique Free Trade Zone.

Transit Time

18–22 days

From Japanese port to Chile

✅ Age Check — No Restriction

Chile has no strict age limit on Japanese car imports. Any year vehicle can be imported (subject to emissions and roadworthy standards).

📍 Entry Ports

🚢 Iquique (Free Trade Zone) 🚢 Valparaíso

📋 Required Documents

📄Export Certificate

📄Bill of Lading

📄Commercial Invoice

📄Insurance

📄Technical specification document

🗂 Step-by-Step Import Process

Select LHD vehicle (or accept Iquique-only use)

Ship to Iquique or Valparaíso

Clear customs — pay 6% duty + 19% VAT

Convert to meet Chilean safety standards if needed

Pass revisión técnica inspection

💰 Import Duty & Taxes

6% + 19% IVA (VAT). Free Trade Zone in Iquique has reduced rates.

⚠️ Important: Duty rates change regularly. The figures above are based on 2026 rates and are for guidance only. Always confirm current rates with a licensed customs agent or freight forwarder in Chile before committing to a purchase.

🚫 Restrictions & Banned Vehicles

⛔RHD vehicles cannot be registered nationally — only in Iquique free zone

⛔Must convert to LHD OR import as LHD Japanese domestic market vehicle

🔍 Pre-shipment Inspection

Technical inspection (revisión técnica) required after import

🛡️ Safety Guide — Before You Buy

Always verify the auction sheet first. Get the original JP Sheet verification report before committing to any vehicle — confirms grade, mileage, accident history and all damage marks.
Check for flood damage. The Japanese inspector notes the word 冠水 (flood) in the auction sheet notes section. This is only visible with a full translation — never skip translation if buying for an important purpose.
Use a licensed freight forwarder who specifically handles Japan-to-Chile imports. They know local customs requirements, common delays and documentation pitfalls.
Verify the exporter. Check the company is registered, has verifiable reviews, and provides a full paper trail including export certificate and shipping documents.
Never pay full price before the car ships. A deposit is normal — paying 100% before shipping is a major fraud risk.
Check the chassis number matches across all documents — auction sheet, export certificate, bill of lading and invoice must all carry the same number.

💡 Import Tips for Chile

The Iquique Free Trade Zone (ZOFRI) is a major hub where many RHD Japanese vehicles are sold without being registered nationally. If you want to drive elsewhere in Chile, you need a LHD or converted vehicle.