Chilean workers saw a direct increase in income at the beginning of 2026, as a new minimum wage took effect. As of January 1, the minimum wage rose to $539,000 Chilean pesos per month for those between the ages of 18 and 65, an increase of $10,000 pesos from the previous rate. The change impacts nearly 900,000 workers nationwide.
The increase is part of a phased series of adjustments designed to bolster workers’ purchasing power amid the current economic climate, continuing an upward trend that began in 2022. This move underscores the government’s commitment to supporting its workforce.
Wage Adjustments for Different Age Groups
The adjustment wasn’t limited to the primary wage bracket. Workers under 18 and those over 65 too saw their minimum wages updated. For this segment, the minimum monthly income was set at $402,082 Chilean pesos, an increase of $7,460 pesos.
With these figures, the minimum wage continues to move away from the $350,000 Chilean pesos that was in effect in May 2022, reflecting agreements reached between the government and the Central Unitaria de Trabajadores (CUT) in recent years.
Future Minimum Wage Increases
Although the latest increase went into effect just weeks ago, another date is already set on the legislative agenda. According to Law 21.751, the President of the Republic must submit a new bill to the National Congress by April 2026, proposing another adjustment to the minimum monthly income.
The initiative will also include updates to family and maternal allowances, as well as the family subsidy, with the goal of having the new values take effect on May 1, 2026. To determine the amounts, the Executive Branch must consider the guidelines of the Superior Labor Council, seeking consistency between wage growth and the country’s economic situation.
This upcoming process will be key for nearly 900,000 workers nationwide, who could see their incomes adjusted again during the first half of the year.
