Minimum Wage in Chile: Rates, Trends & Compliance

What Is the Minimum Wage in Chile

Chile’s minimum wage is set by the government and adjusted periodically based on inflation and broader economic conditions. As of 2026, the monthly minimum wage for a full-time worker aged 18 to under 65 is CLP 539,000, which is approximately USD 560–575, depending on the exchange rate. For workers under 18 or over 65, the monthly minimum wage is CLP 402,082, equivalent to approximately USD 415–430.

These rates reflect the most recent statutory adjustment and are not contingent on further inflation triggers.

Minimum Wage in Chile Based on Region

Chile does not have region-specific minimum wage rates. The same national minimum wage applies uniformly across all regions, regardless of geographic location or cost-of-living differences.

Average vs Reasonable vs Typical Minimum Wages

When discussing minimum wages in Chile, it’s helpful to distinguish between the statutory minimum, what might be considered a reasonable wage based on living costs, and the typical wages actually paid in practice across different sectors.

Average Minimum Wage: The average minimum wage refers to the statutory national minimum wage set by the government. As of 2026, this is CLP 539,000 per month for employees aged 18 to under 65, and CLP 402,082 for workers under 18 or over 65.

Reasonable Minimum Wage: A reasonable minimum wage takes into account cost-of-living factors, household needs, and local economic conditions. Based on common living cost estimates, a reasonable wage in Chile is often cited at around CLP 600,000 or more, particularly in metropolitan areas such as Santiago, where housing, transport, and daily expenses are higher.

Typical Minimum Wage: In practice, typical wages for minimum-wage roles tend to align closely with the statutory minimum. However, in certain sectors – such as retail, hospitality, or unionised industries – actual pay may be slightly higher due to collective bargaining agreements, labour shortages, or sector-specific practices.

How Does Minimum Wage Apply to Different Workers in Chile?

In Chile, minimum wage laws apply equally to full-time, part-time, and other types of workers, although certain conditions may vary slightly depending on employment status.

Full-Time Employee Wages

Full-time employees in Chile are guaranteed the minimum wage of CLP 539,000 per month unless specified otherwise in a collective bargaining agreement or employment contract.

Part-Time Employee Wages

Part-time employees in Chile are entitled to the same hourly minimum wage as full-time workers, but their overall earnings will be proportionally less depending on their working hours. Part-time employees are not discriminated against in terms of wage rates.

Interns and Trainees

Interns and trainees are generally not entitled to the statutory minimum wage in Chile, as internships are often unpaid or offer only a stipend. However, if an internship is part of a formal educational program, it may come with compensation. Companies must ensure that the conditions of internships align with the Labor Code, particularly in regards to labor rights and health insurance.

Expats

Expatriates working in Chile are subject to the same minimum wage laws as local employees. However, their compensation packages may include additional benefits like housing allowances, which are not included in the minimum wage calculations.

Minimum Wage for Top Paying Roles in Chile

 
• Corporate Executives: Salaries for top executives such as CEOs are significantly higher than the minimum wage, typically ranging from CLP 75,000,000 to CLP 207,000,000 per year, depending on the company.
 
• Doctors and Specialists: Medical professionals, particularly specialists, may earn between CLP 2,000,000 and CLP 4,000,000 per month.
 
• Lawyers: Senior lawyers in Chile can earn between CLP 35,000,000 and CLP 52,000,000 annually, with an average salary of approximately CLP 50,400,000 per year plus bonuses averaging CLP 3,400,000.

Factors Influencing Minimum Wage in Chile

The determination of Chile's minimum wage is influenced by multiple factors, including economic conditions, inflation, and government policies.

Industry-Specific Variations

In certain sectors, such as technology and financial services, wages tend to be higher than the minimum wage due to the specialized skills required. Conversely, industries like agriculture may have wages closer to the minimum wage due to lower skill requirements.

Economic Conditions

Economic factors such as inflation, unemployment, and national economic growth play a crucial role in determining minimum wage adjustments. Chile's inflation rate in recent years has influenced the adjustments to the minimum wage to ensure that workers' purchasing power is maintained.

Government Policies and Legislation

The Chilean government reviews and adjusts the minimum wage annually based on economic performance and inflation. This process is done through negotiations with labor unions, business leaders, and other stakeholders.

Tax Implications of Minimum Wage

For employees earning the minimum wage, there are minimal tax obligations due to the lower earnings. However, the employer still has to pay social security contributions, health insurance, and other mandatory payroll taxes.