Is Chile cashless?
Mostly cashless#35 of 197 in The Cashlessy Index 2026 · #3 of 35 in Americas
Short answer: Pay by card, but carry a little local cash for small places.
Cards are accepted almost everywhere in Santiago and tourist areas. Carry some cash for markets, small towns and Patagonian refugios.
Will my card work?
Yes. Visa and Mastercard are accepted almost everywhere in Chile, and contactless is common.
Do I need cash?
A little. Cards cover most spending in Chile, but carry some cash for small places.
Local currency: Chilean peso (CLP)
How does tipping work?
10% is suggested on restaurant bills ("propina sugerida").
Mobile payments
Local apps often need a local bank account or phone number.
Frequently asked questions
Is Chile cashless?
Chile scores 80/100 on Cashlessy (mostly cashless), ranking #35 of 197 countries. Cards are accepted almost everywhere in Santiago and tourist areas. Carry some cash for markets, small towns and Patagonian refugios.
Do I need cash in Chile?
A little. Cards cover most spending in Chile, but carry some cash for small places.
Are credit cards accepted in Chile?
Yes. Visa and Mastercard are accepted almost everywhere in Chile, and contactless is common.
Do you tip in Chile?
10% is suggested on restaurant bills ("propina sugerida").
Can I use Apple Pay or Google Pay in Chile?
Yes. Phone wallets work at most terminals that accept contactless cards in Chile.
Compare with Americas
Editorial estimate, last reviewed September 2026. Payment habits change quickly; see how we score.