Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is SOAPex?

SOAPex is a mandatory insurance for foreign vehicles that covers personal accidents (injury or death) caused by vehicles with foreign registration in Chile. It is an indispensable requirement to circulate in the country.

Is it really mandatory to have SOAPex insurance?

Yes, according to article 60 of the Chilean Transit Law Nº 18.290, it is mandatory for all vehicles with foreign license plates that wish to transit through Chile, either temporarily or provisionally.

When was SOAPex made mandatory?

Since November 6, 2013, all foreign-registered vehicles entering Chile, even on a temporary basis, must contract SOAPex insurance, unless they are covered by special insurance treaties.

What is the purpose of SOAPex insurance?

The purpose of SOAPex insurance is to provide coverage to third parties in case of traffic accidents caused by foreign vehicles in Chilean territory.

Is SOAPex insurance required at Chile's border crossings?

Yes, at Chilean border crossings, personal identification documents will be requested and mandatory SOAPex insurance will be required. Compliance with this obligation is part of the traffic law and applies to all vehicles with foreign license plates entering the country.

Why is it important to have SOAPex insurance?

It is important to take out SOAPex insurance because it is a legal requirement in Chile. In addition, it provides coverage for death and bodily injury risks that are a direct consequence of accidents occurring within Chilean territory, involving vehicles with foreign registration plates.

What happens if I do not have SOAPex insurance?

If a vehicle without SOAPex insurance is stopped at a police checkpoint or is involved in an accident, the insurance will be requested. In case of not having it, the driver’s license may be withheld, a fine of up to $110 may be imposed and the vehicle may be impounded until payment of compensation is made.

What is the cost of SOAPex insurance?

The cost of SOAPex insurance depends on the length of stay in Chile. It can be contracted according to the number of days you plan to be in the country.

What are the available payment methods for SOAPex insurance?

It is recommended to purchase SOAPex insurance online, where payments can be made in dollars through platforms such as PayPal. It is important to verify the payment options offered by insurance companies or brokers.

Where can I buy SOAPex insurance to travel to Chile by car?

It is recommended to purchase SOAPex insurance online through the Internet. In just a few steps, you can obtain the policy and receive it by e-mail. It is important to purchase insurance only from insurers operating in Chile.

What information should I provide when purchasing SOAPex insurance?

When purchasing SOAPex insurance, personal data, vehicle details and length of stay in Chile must be provided.

How do I receive the SOAPex insurance certificate?

The SOAPex insurance certificate will be sent by e-mail to the address provided during the insurance purchase process. It is an electronic certificate that serves as proof that you have the required coverage.

What coverage does SOAPex insurance include?

SOAPex insurance covers expenses and provides indemnities in case of accidents. Coverages include:

Hospitalization and medical care expenses.
Surgical expenses of any complexity.
Pharmacy expenses.
Dental expenses.
Post-accident rehabilitation treatments.
Compensation for temporary or permanent disability.
Compensation for death.
The amounts covered vary, being UF 300 for accidental death and UF 300 for total permanent disability, with lower amounts in case of partial permanent disability, depending on its degree.

Who are the beneficiaries of SOAPex insurance?

In case of death of the insured, the indemnity shall be granted to:

Spouse.
Minor children.
Older children.
Mother of the children.
In the absence of these, the indemnity will be granted to the legal heirs.

What is not covered by SOAPex insurance?

The SOAPex insurance does not cover material damages caused to the vehicle in case of an accident. Its focus is on the protection of people and not on damage to the vehicle.

Does the SOAPex insurance cover damages to the foreign vehicle in case of an accident?

No, the SOAPex insurance does not cover damages to the foreign vehicle in case of an accident. It only provides coverage to third parties affected by the accident.

Does SOAPex insurance cover accidents occurring outside Chile?

No, SOAPex insurance only covers accidents occurring within Chilean territory. To be covered in other countries, it is necessary to have international liability insurance.

Is SOAPex insurance valid for any type of foreign vehicle?

Yes, SOAPex insurance is valid for all types of foreign vehicles, including cars, motorcycles, vans, trucks, among others.

What happens if the SOAPex insurance expires during my stay in Chile?

If the SOAPex insurance expires during your stay in Chile, it is necessary to renew it before the expiration date in order to keep the coverage in force.

What should be done in case of an accident?

In the event of an accident, the following steps should be followed:

Immediately report the incident to a nearby carabineros unit, providing information on the vehicles and persons involved.
Obtain the police report from the Local Police Court or the Public Prosecutor’s Office, according to Carabineros’ instructions.
Report to the insurance company and file a report with the police report, medical expenses, medical order and death or disability certificates, if applicable. This procedure must be carried out within 10 days after the accident.

What are the requirements to enter Chile from Argentina?

Requirements include:

Take out SOAPex insurance.
Valid driver’s license.
Vehicle identification card (blue or green).
Up to date MOT certificate and wafer.
Proof of current mandatory insurance policy.
Both license plates placed in good condition and in the corresponding place.
Proof of payment of the vehicle registration tax (patent).
Proof and valid wafer for CNG vehicles.

What items should be carried in the car when traveling to Chile from Argentina?

It is recommended to carry the following items in the vehicle:

Fire extinguisher (charged and within reach of the driver).
Signaling triangles.
First aid kit.
Hydraulic jack or crique.
Basic tools.
Cables to charge the battery.
Wheel chains (depending on the time of year and type of vehicle).
Blankets.
Shovels.
Strings.

What are the border crossings to cross from Argentina to Chile?

It is important to note that some border crossings may be closed during the winter due to adverse weather conditions. Some of the border crossings available are:

Agua Negra Pass.
Los Libertadores Pass.
Paso de Jama.
Sico Pass.
Socompa Pass.
San Francisco Pass.
Pircas Negras Pass.
Pichachén Pass.
Pino Hachado Pass.
Mamuil Malal Pass.
Carirriñe Pass.
Pehuenche Pass.
In addition, there are specific border crossings through Patagonia, including:

Cardenal Samore Pass.
Hua Hum Pass.
Mamuil Malal Pass.
Icalma Pass.
Pino Hachado Pass.
Huemules Pass.
Futaleufú Pass.
Coyhaique Pass.
Perez Rosales Pass.
Manso River Pass.
Paso Internacional Integración Austral.

Remember to check the availability and conditions of the border crossings before your trip.

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