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How to Certify Short-Range Devices in Chile [2025 Guide]

📅 September 20, 2025 ⏱️ 12 min read 📚 Practical Guide

Need to import or commercialize WiFi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, or RFID devices in Chile? This comprehensive guide explains step-by-step how to certify short-range devices under SUBTEL regulations, including the new Resolution 737 coming into effect in February 2026.

With 21 years of experience and over 1,500 completed certifications, at Certificación Telecom we've helped hundreds of companies navigate this process. Here we share everything you need to know.

⚠️ Important change with Resolution 737

Starting February 2026, most short-range devices no longer require formal SUBTEL certification. Instead, you need to generate a QR code with technical documentation for your packaging. This article covers both processes: the traditional one (for medical devices that still require it) and the new QR code system.

What are short-range devices?

Short-range devices are equipment that use radiofrequency to communicate wirelessly over short distances (generally less than 100 meters). They include:

If your device transmits radio signals and operates in ISM bands (Industrial, Scientific and Medical), it probably needs to comply with SUBTEL regulations.

Why certify devices in Chile?

Telecommunications equipment certification in Chile is mandatory by law. The Subsecretariat of Telecommunications (SUBTEL) regulates the use of radio spectrum to:

⚠️ Consequences of not certifying

Not certifying your equipment can result in:

  • Fines of up to 1,000 UTM (approximately $60 million CLP)
  • Seizure of merchandise at customs
  • Prohibition of commercialization
  • Civil liability for interference
  • Reputational damage to your company

Complete certification process: step by step

Below, we explain the updated process under SUBTEL Resolution 737.

New process under Resolution 737 (effective February 2026)

For most short-range devices, the process has been dramatically simplified:

  1. Gather your technical documentation

    Prepare the required documents (see complete list below). Include FCC, CE, or similar certificates if your device has them.

  2. Create your compliance page

    Generate a web page with the device's technical information, declaration of conformity, and supporting documents according to SUBTEL specifications.

  3. Generate the QR code

    Create a QR code that points to your compliance page. The code must meet size and format specifications.

  4. Include the QR on your packaging

    Incorporate the QR code in your box or packaging design, in a visible and scannable location.

  5. Commercialize in compliance with regulations

    With the QR on your packaging, you can legally import and sell in Chile.

Sounds complicated? At Certificación Telecom we do all this for you. Just send us your documentation and we take care of the rest: we create your page, generate the QR, and deliver files ready for printing.

Traditional process (only medical devices under sections g and h)

If your device falls under special medical categories (sections g and h of Resolution 737), it still requires formal SUBTEL certification:

  1. Initial evaluation

    We determine if your device requires formal certification and which category applies.

  2. Documentation preparation

    We gather and validate all necessary technical documents.

  3. Laboratory testing (if applicable)

    Some devices require tests in accredited laboratories in Chile.

  4. Submission to SUBTEL

    We submit the formal application with all documentation.

  5. Review and responses

    SUBTEL reviews the application and may request clarifications or additional documentation.

  6. Certificate issuance

    Once approved, SUBTEL issues the official homologation certificate.

Required documents: complete checklist

To certify short-range devices in Chile, you need to prepare the following documents:

Technical device documents

Manufacturer/importer documents

💡 Professional tip

Don't have all the documents? Don't worry. At Certificación Telecom we help you obtain missing documentation, translate documents, and prepare declarations of conformity. 80% of our clients don't have all documentation at the start.

Timeframes and costs: what to expect

Certification timeframes

Process type Estimated time Influencing factors
QR code system (new) 1-2 weeks Documentation completeness
Traditional certification 2-4 weeks SUBTEL workload, complete documentation
With laboratory testing 4-8 weeks Laboratory availability, device complexity
Complex devices 8-12 weeks Multiple RF modules, new technologies

Our record: With complete documentation and using the new QR code system, we've completed certifications in as little as 5 business days.

Cost structure

Certification costs vary based on several factors:

💰 Approximate price ranges

  • Basic QR code system: From $300,000 CLP
  • Standard traditional certification: $800,000 - $2,000,000 CLP
  • With laboratory testing: $2,500,000 - $5,000,000 CLP
  • Complex medical devices: $5,000,000+ CLP

Note: These are reference ranges. Contact us for an exact quote according to your specific case.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

In 21 years certifying devices, we've seen these mistakes again and again. Learn from others' experience:

1. Waiting until the last moment

The mistake: Importing devices without certification and only then starting the process, leaving merchandise stuck at customs.

The solution: Start the certification process 3-6 months before your first import. With Resolution 737, you can have the QR code ready even before manufacturing your packaging.

2. Incomplete or incorrect documentation

The mistake: Submitting laboratory reports that don't meet Chilean standards, or documents in English without translation.

The solution: Work with an experienced agent who reviews your documentation BEFORE submitting it. 60% of SUBTEL rejections are due to deficient documentation.

3. Not considering design modifications

The mistake: Certifying a device and then changing antenna, RF module, or firmware without updating the certification.

The solution: Any change affecting RF requires re-certification. Consult BEFORE modifying already certified devices.

4. Ignoring QR code requirements

The mistake: Creating a generic QR code without meeting Resolution 737 technical specifications (size, location, content).

The solution: QR codes must meet specific standards. SUBTEL can inspect and sanction incorrect codes.

5. Not planning for renewals

The mistake: Thinking certification is "once and done". Some certificates have limited validity.

The solution: Maintain a renewal calendar and update when SUBTEL issues new resolutions.

6. Importing without verifying frequency band

The mistake: Importing devices operating in bands not permitted in Chile (e.g., WiFi 5.8 GHz on unauthorized channels).

The solution: Verify your device operates in Chilean authorized bands BEFORE importing. Not all FCC or CE certified devices work in Chile.

Frequently asked questions

Can I import devices without certification if they're for internal use?

No. All devices operating with radiofrequency in Chile must comply with regulations, regardless of whether they're for commercial or internal company use.

Are FCC or CE certified devices valid in Chile?

Not automatically, but they facilitate the process. FCC or CE certificates demonstrate technical compliance, but you still must comply with the Chilean process (traditional certification or QR code according to Resolution 737).

What happens with devices already imported before February 2026?

Devices with traditional certification prior to Resolution 737 can continue to be commercialized. But new imports must comply with the new system starting February 2026.

Do I need to certify each color variant of my product?

No. If only color or exterior design changes (without affecting RF), a single certification covers all variants. But if internal modules change, each variant requires certification.

Can I certify devices manufactured in China?

Yes, absolutely. 80% of our certifications are for devices manufactured in Asia. The manufacturer's nationality doesn't affect the process.

Do I need an office in Chile to certify?

Not necessarily. You can designate Certificación Telecom (or any agent) as your legal representative in Chile through a power of attorney.

Next steps: start your certification

Now that you know the complete process for certifying short-range devices in Chile, it's time to act.

📋 Immediate action checklist

  • Identify which devices you need to certify
  • Gather available technical documentation
  • Verify if your devices are in the frequency bands authorized in Chile
  • Calculate your timeline (ideally 3-6 months before first import)
  • Contact an experienced agent to evaluate your case

Don't wait until February 2026 to comply with Resolution 737. Companies that get ahead have competitive advantage and avoid last-minute headaches.

Need to certify WiFi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, or RFID devices?

With 21 years of experience and over 1,500 completed certifications, we help you certify quickly, professionally, and without complications.

Request free quote Inquire via WhatsApp

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Last updated: September 20, 2025
Author: Certificación Telecom - SUBTEL certification specialists since 2004