Moving to Argentina
Step-by-step Immigration Guide

Argentina, situated at the southernmost point of South America, is a country of captivating beauty, offering vast coastlines, expansive prairies, and towering Andes Mountains. Known for its superb wine, lively nightlife, and the birthplace of Tango, Argentina is a nation rich in cultural heritage and natural wonders.
This land of contrasts combines a relaxed and hospitable atmosphere with modern infrastructure, embracing both tradition and innovation. Argentina is renowned for its affordability, providing a high-quality lifestyle for residents.
While millions of tourists visit Argentina each year to experience its vibrant culture and stunning landscapes, choosing to live in this unique country allows for a deeper immersion into its way of life.

If your plan is to reside in Argentina for more than three months (90 days), you will need an Argentina visa. Argentina offers various visa options based on your purpose of travel. Additionally, you must apply for residency or a long-term visa to establish yourself in the country.

To move to Argentina, you must obtain a long-term (residency) visa, which is granted to foreigners seeking to live, work, study, or retire in the country. Along with the visa, any foreign national planning to stay in Argentina for more than three months must register with the authorities at the Registro Nacional de las Personas and acquire a residence permit.
Here are the ways to move to Argentina for an extended stay:

If your intention is to work in Argentina, you'll need to apply for a work permit and a long-term work visa. Your Argentine employer must be registered with the National Immigrant Sponsors Register and apply for your work permit on your behalf.

If you're planning to pursue your studies in Argentina, you should apply for a student visa. This visa is typically valid for six months and can be renewed if your study program extends beyond that period.

To join a family member living in Argentina, you can apply for a family reunification visa. Eligible family relationships include being a parent, spouse, or child of an Argentine citizen or permanent resident.

Retirees can obtain an Argentine retirement visa (Pensionado visa) if they receive a pension of at least 30,000 Argentine pesos. This visa can be applied for within Argentina and is equivalent to a temporary residence permit, initially valid for one year and renewable.

Argentina offers numerous advantages and some challenges:

Bringing your pets to Argentina is possible, but you must meet specific requirements:

• Pets must have a microchip.
• Rabies vaccination is required, administered at least 21 days and no more than 36 months before entering Argentina (exceptions for puppies and kittens under three months).
• All pets must possess a health certificate.
• A licensed veterinarian should complete the Veterinary Certificate for Argentina within ten days of entry.
• Pets must be treated for internal and external parasites 15 days before traveling.
• If entering by air, notify veterinary officials.
• For other animals besides cats and dogs, an import permit and health certificate are necessary.
• Verify that turtles or parrots are not protected under CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora).

By following these guidelines, you can ensure a smooth transition when moving your belongings and pets to Argentina.

Argentina, the second-largest country in South America, is known for its diverse landscapes and rich culture. Here are some of the most popular cities in Argentina for expats:

Buenos Aires, the vibrant capital of Argentina, is a captivating blend of European and Latin American influences. The city is famous for its centuries-old architecture, lively street art, and an exceptional culinary scene. While it may not be the most budget-friendly city, Buenos Aires welcomes expats with its diverse communities and international schools, making it an attractive destination for those looking to settle down.

Nestled in the picturesque Andes Mountains, Mendoza is Argentina's largest wine-producing region, making it a paradise for wine enthusiasts. The city offers a year-round playground for outdoor enthusiasts, with activities such as climbing, hiking, skiing, and rafting. Additionally, Mendoza provides opportunities for entrepreneurs in its current economic climate, making it an appealing choice for expats seeking both adventure and business prospects.

Known as the "Heartland of Argentina," Cordoba boasts a rich colonial history that seamlessly blends with modern tourism. The city is adorned with historical monuments dating back to the Spanish colonial era. Cordoba's vibrant nightlife, lively bars, and restaurants attract a significant student population, creating a unique fusion of traditional and contemporary influences. With a relatively low crime rate, Cordoba offers a safe environment for expats to enjoy its cultural and historical treasures.

Rosario, Argentina's third-largest city, is renowned as the birthplace of iconic figures like Lionel Messi and Che Guevara. Steeped in historical significance, the city is home to the impressive National Flag Monument and numerous art museums. Rosario surprises visitors with its charming ambiance and vibrant nightlife, often overlooked in favor of the capital but consistently impressing those who explore its offerings.

Ushuaia, often referred to as the "End of the World," is one of the world's southernmost cities, located in Tierra del Fuego. Surrounded by the awe-inspiring snow-capped peaks of the Martial Range, this city boasts a stunning backdrop for its low-lying buildings along the coastline. Ushuaia offers a range of attractions, including museums, restaurants, a casino, and outdoor activities like kayaking, hiking, sailing, scuba diving, and skiing. It serves as an ideal starting point for expeditions to Antarctica and the Andes, making it a unique and adventurous destination for expats.

When relocating your belongings to Argentina, you have several transportation options, including air, land, or sea. The choice depends on your budget and how quickly you need your belongings. It's essential to adhere to customs regulations, which include:

1. Presence during Customs Clearance: You must be present when customs officials clear all the necessary documents.
2. Shipment Timing: Your shipment should arrive within six months of your arrival in Argentina or up to three months before your arrival.
3. Ownership and Usage: All items must be owned and used by you for at least one year. New items may incur higher duties and customs clearance delays.

To bring your belongings into Argentina, you'll need the following documents:

• Valid passport.
• Visa.
• Detailed shipment inventory in Spanish.
• Proof of depositing a "Guarantee" based on the value of your goods.
• Declare on your passport that you're expecting a household goods shipment.

However, there are items you are prohibited from shipping, such as illegal drugs, explosives, weapons, counterfeit goods, pornographic material, and various agricultural products.

Permanent residency in Argentina can be obtained after a specified period of legal residence. For example, you can become a permanent resident after residing in the country for three years on a temporary residence permit. However, citizens of MERCOSUR (The Southern Common Market) member countries can qualify for permanent residency after just two years of living in Argentina.

Argentine citizenship can be acquired through various avenues:

• Citizenship by Birth: Individuals born in Argentina automatically become citizens, except for those born to foreign diplomats.
• Citizenship by Naturalization: You can attain citizenship by naturalization if you are 18 years or older and have legally resided in Argentina for a minimum of two years.
• Citizenship by Descent: Citizenship by descent is granted if at least one of your parents is an Argentine citizen.
• Citizenship by Marriage: Marrying an Argentine citizen makes you eligible for citizenship. Argentina recognizes same-sex marriages as well.

Argentine citizenship can be acquired through various avenues:

• Citizenship by Birth: Individuals born in Argentina automatically become citizens, except for those born to foreign diplomats.
• Citizenship by Naturalization: You can attain citizenship by naturalization if you are 18 years or older and have legally resided in Argentina for a minimum of two years.
• Citizenship by Descent: Citizenship by descent is granted if at least one of your parents is an Argentine citizen.
• Citizenship by Marriage: Marrying an Argentine citizen makes you eligible for citizenship. Argentina recognizes same-sex marriages as well.