Phone: WA: +54 9 3814 45-9254
📅 Post Date: December 29, 2025 | 🔄 Updated: December 29, 2025
Move to the United Kingdom Legally
This article is for people who already hold an Argentine passport and want to understand the benefits it provides when moving to the United Kingdom legally. It explains the main legal options available to Argentine nationals for visiting, working, studying, or settling in the UK.
The United Kingdom attracts thousands of international migrants each year for work, study, family life, and long-term settlement. For Argentine nationals interested in relocating to the UK, understanding the legal pathways and requirements is essential. This article outlines the main immigration routes available, what Argentinians need to know about permissions like ETA and visas, and how to navigate the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) process effectively.
Who Is UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI)?
UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) is the UK government agency responsible for deciding who can enter, live, work, study, or settle in the UK. It handles visa applications, immigration status decisions, and citizenship applications. Its guiding priorities include secure borders and efficient services for those applying to enter or remain in the United Kingdom legally.
Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)
From recent changes to the UK entry system, Argentine passport holders who do not need a visa to travel can now use the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before visiting. An ETA is an advance travel permission required to enter the UK for short stays such as tourism, visiting family and friends, business trips, short courses, or transit. An ETA does not allow long-term residency or visa switching. UK immigration rules require you to leave the UK and apply for any long-term residency status from outside the country.
Applicants must apply before travel. It supports multiple entries, and each visit can typically be up to 6 months, usually valid for up to 2 years or until the passport expires.
Long-Term Moves: Visa Routes for Argentinians
Argentinians who want to move to the UK lawfully for work, study, or family life must generally apply for an appropriate visa before travelling. UKVI offers multiple visa categories depending on purpose and circumstances.
1. UK Work Visas
If your goal is to work in the UK, the most common options include:
Skilled Worker Visa:
For individuals with a job offer from a UK employer approved as a sponsor.
The job must meet the minimum skill and salary threshold.
The employer provides a Certificate of Sponsorship.
Applicants must prove they meet salary and financial requirements.
This visa can be extended and may lead to settlement after qualifying years of work.
Other routes include Global Business Mobility visas for intra-company transfers or experienced professionals, and Temporary Worker categories for short-term work placements.
2. Study Visas
Student Visa:
Argentinians accepted onto a course at a licensed UK educational institution can apply for a Student visa.
Student visas permit study for the duration of the course, with options to work limited hours during term and longer hours during breaks. Many beneficiaries can later switch to work visas or a post-study work route like the Graduate visa.
3. Family Visas
Argentinians with close family members permanently living in the UK (such as a spouse or partner who is a British citizen or settled person) may be eligible to apply for a Family visa to join them.
4. Other Long-Term Routes
Additional pathways may exist, including visas for entrepreneurs, investors, or many others.
Indefinite Leave and Settlement
After legally living in the UK for a certain period under qualifying visa categories (such as work or family visas), Argentinians may apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain, commonly known as UK permanent residency. This status allows living, working, and studying in the UK without time limits and often precedes British citizenship.
Application Process and Practical Steps
Online Application
Most UK visas and the ETA are applied for online through the UKVI service portal. Applicants upload documents, pay fees, and schedule appointments to provide biometric information (fingerprints and photographs).
Biometric Information
Biometrics are generally provided at a visa application centre (for example, in Buenos Aires through VFS Global). This step is required for most long-term visa categories.
Documentation
Typical documents required may include:
Valid Argentine passport.
Proof of financial means.
English language certificates (if applicable).
Sponsorship details (for work or study).
Evidence of relationship (for family visas).
Conclusion
Moving to the United Kingdom legally requires clear planning and an understanding of UKVI’s immigration pathways. Whether you plan a short visit using the new ETA system or aim for a long-term move via work, study, or family visas, the UK government provides structured routes to help individuals meet legal requirements. Selecting the correct visa type, gathering the appropriate documentation, and following the UKVI application process carefully are the keys to a successful transition to life in the United Kingdom.
