Importing and marketing wireless devices in Chile requires strict compliance with local telecommunications regulations. Under the modernized framework established by Resolution Exenta Nº 737 (2025), manufacturers and importers must now follow the Declaration of Conformity (DoC) model to demonstrate compliance.
This system places responsibility directly on the company declaring conformity rather than on SUBTEL to review or approve applications.
The updated process supports faster market access while ensuring transparency and accountability through QR‑based traceability.
What the Declaration of Conformity Means
The Declaration of Conformity (DoC) is a formal statement by the manufacturer or importer confirming that a device meets all technical and regulatory requirements defined by the Subsecretaría de Telecomunicaciones (SUBTEL).
Instead of SUBTEL issuing certificates, the DoC serves as the legal basis for marketing and importing a product in Chile.
The company declaring compliance must retain test reports, datasheets, and supporting documentation and make them available to SUBTEL upon request for audit or inspection.
Legal Foundations
Two primary regulations govern device compliance and frequency use in Chile:
• Resolution Exenta Nº 737 (2025) – Introduces QR labeling, verification webpages, and local representative requirements under the DoC model.
• Resolution Exenta Nº 1985 (2017) – Specifies authorized frequency bands and maximum transmission power for wireless technologies and Short Range Devices (SRDs).
Together, these resolutions form the framework that importers and manufacturers must follow to maintain compliance and market authorization in Chile.
How the Declaration of Conformity Process Works
1. Prepare Technical Documentation. Compile test reports and product information confirming that the device meets the requirements outlined in Resolution 1985.
Documentation should include frequency and power data, safety evaluations, and manufacturer specifications.
2. Appoint a Chilean Representative. Foreign manufacturers must designate a registered local representative to act as their point of contact for regulatory matters and audits.
3. Issue the Declaration of Conformity. The manufacturer or importer signs a formal DoC confirming that the device complies with all applicable rules. There is no need to submit this document to SUBTEL for approval; however, it must be retained and produced upon request.
4. Create a Verification Webpage. Publish the DoC details, device identification, and representative information on a publicly accessible webpage. This page must be linked through a QR code placed on the product or packaging.
5. Apply QR Labeling. Ensure that the QR code is visible, durable, and leads to the correct verification page. The label must remain legible throughout the product’s market lifecycle.
Why the DoC Matters for Importers
For importers, the Declaration of Conformity serves as the primary document demonstrating that a device is authorized for sale in Chile. Customs officials may request evidence of compliance through the DoC and the corresponding QR verification page. Maintaining accurate records protects importers from delays, fines, or product seizure at the border.
The DoC also ensures legal traceability by linking each device to its manufacturer and local representative. This makes importers accountable for ensuring that only compliant devices are distributed within Chile.
Ongoing Responsibilities
Compliance does not end with the initial DoC issuance. Importers must monitor changes to device hardware, firmware, or labeling that could impact compliance. Any modification requires a new Declaration of Conformity and updated QR verification page. Additionally, if the Chilean representative changes, the webpage must be updated immediately to reflect the current responsible party.
Best Practices for Importers
To maintain continuous compliance and smooth customs clearance, importers should:
• Keep copies of all Declarations of Conformity and supporting technical files for each product.
• Verify QR codes regularly to ensure they link to valid and updated webpages.
• Coordinate with manufacturers to update webpages when device specifications change.
• Confirm that frequency bands and output power comply with Resolution 1985 limits.
• Ensure that product labeling and documentation match the data on the verification page.
Following these practices reduces the risk of non‑compliance and simplifies potential audits by SUBTEL or customs officials.
Preparing for the 2026 Enforcement Date
The DoC and QR requirements become mandatory on February 22, 2026. Importers should work with their suppliers to confirm that all products imported after this date include compliant QR labels and active verification webpages. Early coordination with manufacturers and representatives will ensure that documentation is ready and traceable when requested.
Conclusion
The Declaration of Conformity model shifts compliance responsibility from SUBTEL to the companies bringing products into the market. By issuing accurate DoCs, implementing QR‑based traceability, and maintaining updated records, importers can ensure uninterrupted market access and demonstrate due diligence under Resolution Exenta Nº 737 (2025) and Resolution Exenta Nº 1985 (2017). Proactive preparation ahead of the February 2026 deadline will help importers avoid penalties and maintain a strong reputation for regulatory compliance in Chile.
