Quarantine in Santiago

The Ministry of Health has declared a total quarantine for seven districts of the Metropolitan Region, starting Thursday, March 26th at 10:00 p.m. This restriction applies to Santiago, Independencia, Ñuñoa, Providencia, Las Condes, Vitacura and Lo Barnechea. The idea is to isolate people in the most affected areas in order to contain the spread of COVID-19.

This measure does not mean that people cannot go out to get supplies, go to a doctor's appointment or run other important errands. However, a special permit must be obtained to leave the house.

How do I get permission to leave?

Permits can be obtained at www.comisariavirtual.cl using the password (Clave Única) of the Civil Register or directly at a police station. If you do not have this password, you can get the permit on the same website with the identification number that appears on your Chilean identity document if you have it or your passport number. Permits can be displayed from the cell phone, there is no need to print them out.

The permits are personal (non-transferable) and valid only for the time indicated in the request.  

Can I go to work?

Only those who provide essential services for the operation of the city (workers in supermarkets, public services, transportation, health, etc.) may go to work.

Can I go grocery shopping?

Yes, with the proper permission that will be granted for three hours. Supermarkets, pharmacies and other places that sell basic supplies will be open. Free trade fairs (fruits and vegetables) will continue to operate, but greater precautions will be taken to avoid crowding.

Is the permit valid during the curfew?

No, it only applies during the day. The curfew is maintained from 10pm  hrs until 5am.

How will public transport work?

Buses and subway will operate as usual in the affected districts. The bus system will be enabled between 5:30am and 10pm, while the subway will operate between 6:30am and 7:30 pm. Passengers entering the quarantine zones will be asked for the corresponding permit.

Will delivery apps work?

Yes, the delivery apps will work during the day, until the curfew that starts at 10 pm.

Can I take my pet out or go for jogging?

If you ask for permission to do so, you can walk your dog for 30 minutes, and not further than two blocks from your home. It is not allowed to practice sports in the streets.

In addition, it was established that there will be "sanitary customs posts" (aduanas sanitarias) at the main access and exit points of the city of Santiago, where health controls and verification of quarantine compliance will be made.

For all details, please check the instructions (Spanish version) issued by the Chilean Government.  

Updated as of March 26.