SUBTEL QR Code Compliance Requirements
Overview — From Type Approval to QR-Based Compliance
As of 22 February 2026, all Short Range Devices (SRDs) and radio equipment sold or imported into Chile must comply with SUBTEL’s new QR code and compliance webpage framework established under Resolution 737 (2025).
This modernized system replaces the traditional type approval certificate process with a self-declaration model that requires a QR code and a public webpage displaying official product compliance details.
Need help aligning your models with the new SUBTEL rules?
Key Requirements at a Glance
1
Elimination of Individual Type Approvals
Most SRDs (except medical-use) will no longer receive individual SUBTEL type-approval certificates.
2
Mandatory QR Code Labeling
A QR code (minimum 1 cm × 1 cm) must be printed on the packaging—borderless, visible, and easily scannable.
3
Direct Webpage Linking Requirement
The QR must link directly to a Spanish-language webpage dedicated to that model—no redirections or generic sites.
4
Required Webpage Information
The webpage must display: manufacturer, Chilean importer/representative, technical specifications, Declaration of Conformity, and reference to test reports.
5
SUBTEL Oversight and Enforcement
SUBTEL retains oversight authority and may suspend sales or display of non-compliant products.
6
Medical SRD Exception
Medical SRDs remain subject to SUBTEL certification.
QR Code & Compliance Webpage Specifications
1
Placement:
on visible packaging surface.
2
Language:
Spanish (required).
3
Destination:
HTTPS URL linking directly to the model-specific compliance page.
4
size:
at least 1 cm × 1 cm; high contrast; no border; classic black QR style.
5
Page content:
brand, model, frequency/power, antenna data, manufacturer, Chilean importer/representative, Declaration of Conformity, and reference to test evidence.
6
Public access and updates:
page must be publicly accessible with no login barriers; updates are mandatory whenever technical, importer, or representative data changes.
Old vs New Compliance Framework
Previously, SUBTEL issued type-approval certificates for each model—usually PDF files with limited public visibility. Under Resolution 737 (which modifies Resolution 1985), compliance shifts to public, QR-linked webpages, enhancing transparency and traceability.
Why This Matters
The QR model improves market oversight and consumer confidence by allowing instant verification of legitimate devices. It reduces counterfeit imports and aligns Chile with international traceability trends such as the EU’s digital labeling initiatives.
The February 2026 deadline is approaching fast.
Who Must Comply
1
Manufacturers exporting SRDs to Chile
2
Importers and distributors placing products on the Chilean market
3
OEM/ODM partners providing local brands
After February 22, 2026, non-compliant models may be denied import or sale authorization.
Role of the Local Representative
Each model webpage must identify a Chilean importer and/or representative. The representative acts as the local contact for authorities and retains compliance documentation. iCertifi SpA, headquartered in Viña del Mar, provides authorized representation under the SUBTELink system.
Guidance for Manufacturers
Verify operation within SUBTEL-authorized SRD frequency bands and power limits.
Prepare a Chile-specific Declaration of Conformity citing test evidence.
Maintain secure, permanent URLs for model pages.
Update records and webpages as product or importer details change.
How to Comply via SUBTELink
Data Collection
Collect model data and documentation (test reports, Declaration of Conformity).
Representative Assignment
Assign your Chilean importer or appoint iCertifi SpA as representative.
Compliance Webpage Creation
Generate the model-specific compliance webpage in Spanish.
QR Code
Produce and apply a compliant QR code on packaging.
Validation Before Distribution
Validate functionality and documentation before distribution.
Global Context
Chile’s transition mirrors international moves toward digital compliance transparency, comparable to the EU Digital Product Passport and FCC smart labeling frameworks. Manufacturers can leverage existing test data while adding Chile-specific disclosures.
References
- Biblioteca del Congreso Nacional (BCN) – Resolución Exenta No. 737 (2025)
- Biblioteca del Congreso Nacional (BCN) – Resolución Exenta No. 1985 (2017)
- SUBTEL 2024 Draft QR specifications (minimum 1 cm, borderless, black QR)
Quick Answers
Does Resolution 737 eliminate type approval for all SRDs?
It replaces certification for most non-medical SRDs with QR-linked compliance webpages.
Where must the QR code appear?
On the outer packaging, minimum 1 cm × 1 cm, borderless, high contrast.
What must the webpage include?
Manufacturer/importer details, technical specifications, DoC, and reference to test reports. The page must be in Spanish.
Can we use our company’s marketing site?
No. Each model must have a dedicated compliance page accessible directly from the QR.
What if a product is sold without the QR?
SUBTEL may prohibit sale or display and can request audit documentation.
Process & Timeline
Why Use SUBTELink
SUBTELink provides a standardized Chilean compliance webpage per model, integrates representative details, and generates compliant QR codes. This ensures quick deployment and guaranteed traceability.
Resumen en Español
La Subsecretaría de Telecomunicaciones (SUBTEL) emitió la Resolución Exenta N° 737 (22 de mayo de 2025), que modifica la Resolución N° 1.985 (2017) para equipos SRD. A partir del 22 de febrero de 2026, la mayoría de estos equipos deberán exhibir un código QR (mínimo 1 cm × 1 cm, sin bordes) en el empaque, que redirija a una página en español con información técnica, fabricante e importador/representante, Declaración de Conformidad y evidencia de ensayo.