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Argentine Citizenship
How to Obtain Argentine Citizenship?
Argentine Citizenship offers numerous benefits, including access to one of the world’s most powerful passports. Argentine citizenship is increasingly valued for its global mobility benefits. Currently ranked 20th globally, the Argentine passport allows holders to travel to 170 destinations without needing a traditional visa. This includes 130 visa-free countries, 35 that offer visas on arrival, and five destinations requiring only an electronic travel authorization (eTA). Among these are highly desirable locations such as the United Kingdom and all European Union member states. Foreigners can obtain Argentine nationality through multiple options.
Suppose you reside in the Republic of Argentina for two years or invest in the country. In that case, a significant advantage of acquiring Argentine Citizenship is that Argentina does not require individuals to renounce their original nationality, allowing for dual citizenship. This makes Argentine nationality more attractive option for those seeking global mobility and a second passport.
Does Argentina Allow Dual Citizenship?
In a nutshell, if you’re a foreigner, you can become an Argentine citizen in four main ways:
1) by Birthright
2) by Choice or Citizenship by Option
3) by naturalization, living for two years
4) by Investment
If you already have one or more other nationalities, that’s not a problem. Argentina allows dual and multiple citizenships so that you can retain your other passports as well. You can be Argentine and simultaneously hold citizenship in many different countries.
Argentine Nationality by Blood or By Soil
According to Citizenship Law No. 346, Title 1, Article 1, the following individuals are eligible for Argentine nationality by Blood or by Soil:
1° Option; Citizenship by Birthright (Jus Soli-By Soil): All individuals born or to be born in the territory of the Argentine Republic (Jus soli) are eligible to obtain Argentine passport directly, regardless of the nationality of their parents, except for the children of foreign Ministers and members of the Legation residing in the Republic (Children of Diplomats are not eligible).
2° Option; Citizenship by Choice or Citizenship by Option (Jus Sanguinis-By Blood): The children of native Argentines born in a foreign country can opt for citizenship of origin (Jus sanguinis) and are eligible to process Argentine citizenship without two years of required residency. Those with at least one Argentine parent may qualify for Argentine citizenship by blood (jus sanguinis), even if born outside Argentina. In other words, individuals with at least one Argentine parent can apply for citizenship through the federal court for Argentine nationality by descent, based on the principle of jus sanguinis (right of blood). This law enables individuals to claim Argentine citizenship by blood through their native parents, even if they were born outside the country.
3° Option: Argentine Nationality by Naturalization
Apart from Argentine nationality by descent (blood) or birth on Argentine soil, there are several options to obtain citizenship through naturalization, as we mentioned above. Let’s consider them one by one. Before we break down the citizenship options for foreigners, let’s answer a few frequently asked questions.
Argentine Citizenship by Childbirth for Parents Still Available in 2025?
If you have a baby born in Argentine territory, you cannot apply for citizenship immediately, as in the past. Now, you will be granted temporary residency, and after two years, you can apply for Argentine Citizenship. Your baby will automatically obtain Argentine nationality at birth, as mentioned above.
Is Argentine Nationality Still Possible Through Marriage?
Marrying to native Argentine citizen in any province of Argentina also will not grant immediate citizenship. It allows foreign nationals to apply for Argentine temporary residency and, after two years, will be eligible for Argentine citizenship. To qualify for citizenship, the foreign spouse must have resided in Argentina legally and continuously for a period of at least two years following the marriage. This process will not waive the standard two-year residency requirement. Marrying to naturalized Argentine citizen does not automatically grant you citizenship (sorry for repetition, it is essential).
Can Naturalized Argentinians Pass Citizenship for Foreign Children?
Naturalized Argentinians cannot pass on citizenship to their foreign-born children. However, children of naturalized Argentinians can obtain permanent residency directly, without having to meet temporary residency requirements. After obtaining permanent residency, the children must reside continuously and legally in Argentina for two years and can apply for citizenship once they turn 18. For example, starting from 16 years old to 18 years old, and then beginning the citizenship application process.
Argentine Citizenship by Naturalization After 2 Years of Residency
On May 29, 2025, significant changes were implemented along with the new immigration rules. The naturalization process was switched from the Federal Court to the National Immigration Directorate. From now on, Migraciones will be the authorized body for granting Argentine citizenship. However, the courts still handle citizenship by option, since it does not require the two-year residency period that applies to foreigners. Before these changes, a judicial process took place exclusively before the Argentine federal courts, resulting in the issuance of the Argentine Citizenship Letter. However, now that the new law has been implemented, the National Directorate of Migration will process applications for Argentine citizenship.
Eligibility Criteria for Argentine Naturalization
To apply for Argentine citizenship by naturalization, you must be at least 18 years old and have maintained uninterrupted legal residence in the country for at least two years, as certified by the National Directorate of Migration. You will need a duly legalized birth certificate (with Apostille or international legalization), a photocopy of your ID and passport, a criminal record certificate, and a certificate of residence issued within the last five days by the local police station. You must also provide proof of financial support, such as an employment contract, a current job certificate, or a Monotributista pay stub. If you are self-employed, submit a copy of your tax or contribution records. If you have Argentine children, include copies of their birth certificates and a certificate from the Immigration Department.
Can I Leave Argentina for One Day During the Two-Year Residency Period?
Foreigners over the age of eighteen (18) may apply for Argentine nationality by naturalization. To qualify, they must prove that they have resided in the Argentine Republic continuously and legally for the two (2) years without any exit before their citizenship application. This residency can be either permanent or temporary, as per the current immigration regulations. The applicant must also express their intention in front of the National Directorate of Migration, a decentralized agency under the Vice-Chief of the Cabinet of the Interior, of the Chief of the Cabinet of Ministers.
However, if you’re not planning to apply for Argentine citizenship, you can leave and re-enter the country during your two years of residency, as long as your time abroad isn’t too long. However, extended absences may put your residency at risk.
On the other hand, if your goal is to obtain Argentine citizenship, it’s recommended to live continuously in the country during those two years. In conclusion, for standard temporary or permanent residency, short trips are permitted. If you are targeting citizenship, a continuous stay is required.
4° Option: Argentine Nationality by Investment Without 2 Years of Residency
Option 2°: This is the new CBI Argentina program designed for foreigners who prove to the NATIONAL DIRECTORATE OF MIGRATION, regardless of the length of their residence, that they have made a relevant investment in the country. Argentine citizenship can be granted more quickly to individuals who make significant contributions to Argentina. Establishing a new industry or introducing a useful invention in Argentina can expedite the naturalization process for foreign nationals. Typically, individuals who have resided in Argentina for two consecutive years are eligible to apply for citizenship immediately upon naturalization. However, this period can be shortened if applicants make significant contributions to the country, such as starting a new industry or introducing beneficial inventions, for an amount of USD 500,000. Moreover, you don’t have to reside physically in Argentina during the Citizenship processing period. For details, contact the Immi Legal Team.
Requirements for Argentine Nationality
For foreigners over 18 to obtain the nationality of Argentina, the following documents are required:
An application in person,
Valid identification document,
Birth Certificate of the applicant, which must be apostilled and translated into Spanish in Argentina only.
Note: There is no need to translate in your home country.
Being the child of a native, naturalized, or optional Argentine is eligible for permanent residence in Argentina. They can also apply for citizenship more easily after two years of residence. Argentina’s family-centered approach to citizenship makes it easier for individuals with direct ties to Argentine citizens to obtain permanent residency in Argentina. However, spouses, children, and parents of naturalized Argentine citizens do not automatically pass on citizenship. In these cases, relatives must pursue other citizenship pathways we discussed above, such as residing in Argentina for two years before applying or obtaining citizenship, or through Investment.
Argentine Citizenship by Option - How It Works
Argentine citizenship can be Opt’ed by descent. Understanding the details of these methods is crucial for individuals seeking Argentine nationality. If you are the son or daughter of a native Argentine father or mother and were born abroad, you can apply for Argentine nationality. The process is completed at the Federal Court, and it may take up to one or two years. But you don’t need to reside in Argentina continuously. Of course, you will also need to prove ties as part of the standard procedure.
Requirements for the Option for Argentine Nationality
a) Being the daughter/son of a native Argentine father or mother.
b) If you are over 18 years of age, it is your sole responsibility to make this choice.
c) If you are under 18 years of age, the holders of parental authority will be the only ones authorized to choose on your behalf.
This pathway allows individuals born abroad to Argentine parents to acquire Argentine nationality by Option. The process involves presenting the Argentine birth certificates of one or both parents and the applicant, both of which must be appropriately apostilled, to establish the familial connection. This right is reserved for the children of native Argentine citizens and does not extend to other relatives. In other words, if one of your parents is a native Argentine, you can obtain Argentine nationality. However, if your parent is a naturalized Argentine, this rule does not apply.
Can GrandChildren of Native Argentine Citizens Get Citizenship by Option?
No, it doesn’t apply to grandchildren. Only the children of native Argentines who, having been born in a foreign country, opt for citizenship of origin. (Art. 1, Law 346).
You’ll need to live in Argentina for two years with permanent residency and then apply for citizenship by naturalization (Art. 2, Law 346).
Your parents can apply for citizenship directly without a residency requirement, and then you will get permanent residency. After two years, you can apply for Argentine citizenship.
A Hypothetical Example for Obtaining Argentine Nationality by Option
To help illustrate the process of obtaining Argentine nationality by descent, here’s a hypothetical example:
Emma Garcia (Applicant), daughter of Laura Martinez (Mother), is seeking Argentine nationality. Her grandfather, Francisco Martinez, was born in Salta, Argentina, but passed away some time ago. The family needs assistance in obtaining a certified copy of his Argentine birth certificate. Following that, they will pursue Argentine nationality for Laura Martinez (Emma’s mother), and then, subsequently, for permanent residency for Emma Garcia.
Citizenship by Birthright (by Soil) Explained
If you were born in Argentina and have never obtained a passport, you can apply for your DNI and receive both your DNI and passport within a few days through the express service. Please get in touch with us for more information.
Can Native Argentines Pass on Citizenship to Their Own Children?
The short answer is – Yes.
If Francisco’s (grandfather’s) birth certificate is unavailable in original form, but you can obtain an electronic version. This electronic copy, once apostilled, will be valid for the nationality process for the mother of the applicant. It’s essential to note that Emma (the Applicant) cannot directly acquire Argentine citizenship through her grandfather; she must first undergo the process of obtaining citizenship for her mother, Laura, and then obtain permanent residency for herself. Stay in Argentina for two years continuously and legally, and then apply for citizenship. She can’t get citizenship through her grandparents.
Key Points:
Argentine citizenship by descent can only be passed down through direct relatives (parent to child).
Grandparents, siblings, or extended family members cannot pass on citizenship rights. However, can pass the temporary residency.
The citizenship process involves obtaining an apostilled birth certificate and proceeding through the citizenship application in order of direct lineage.
Argentine Citizenship for Naturalized Argentinians' Children
Argentina grants nationality to every person born in its territory. Children born abroad to naturalized Argentine citizens who immigrated together with their parents may choose Argentine citizenship only when they reach the age of 18. However, children of naturalized Argentinians can obtain permanent residency automatically. Foreigners who have lived in Argentina for two uninterrupted years may acquire citizenship by naturalization.
Constitution Related to Argentine Citizenship Law By Naturalization
Foreigners Over 18 Can Apply for Citizenship After Two Years of Residency
Individuals over 18 years old who enter Argentina legally can enjoy the same rights as locals. After two years of residency, they can apply for Argentine nationality. An applicant must have maintained continuous permanent or temporary residency for at least two years to be eligible to acquire Argentine nationality through naturalization.
“1°. Los extranjeros mayores de DIECIOCHO (18) años que acrediten haber residido en la REPÚBLICA ARGENTINA de acuerdo al marco normativo migratorio vigente, como residentes permanentes o temporarios, en forma continua durante los DOS (2) años anteriores a la solicitud y manifestasen ante los jueces federales su voluntad de serlo.”
Is It Possible to Apply for Argentine Nationality by Naturalization Without Residing Two Consecutive Years of Residency?
Foreign nationals who demonstrate to the National Directorate of Migration that they have made a significant investment in the country, regardless of the length of their residence, may be eligible to apply for Argentine citizenship through investment.
Are There Any Exceptions for Children of Naturalized Argentines to Obtain Citizenship?
Children of naturalized Argentine citizens cannot automatically obtain Argentine nationality. They will be eligible for permanent residency. Once they reach the age of 18, after residing in Argentina for at least two years under permanent/temporary residency, they can apply for citizenship.
Can I Get Argentine Nationality Remotely?
Suppose you are a citizen/resident of a foreign country and have the jus sanguinis (right of blood) or jus soli (right of soil) to process your Argentine citizenship. In that case, you can do so at the local Argentine consulate, as you already have eligibility to become an Argentine citizen, either by birth or by option.
However, some consulates may have limited resources and may not be able to handle all inquiries, focusing primarily on government-level tasks. In cases of jus soli (right of soil), you can travel to Argentina and obtain your passport or DNI in one or two weeks. However, in the case of citizenship by option, you will need to go through a judicial process through the federal court.
For naturalization, you need to get approval from the Argentine NATIONAL DIRECTORATE OF MIGRATION, which requires your physical presence in Argentina. It is not possible to obtain Argentine nationality through the naturalization process remotely, though.
Can I Leave Argentina After Submitting My Citizenship Application?
Recommended to Stay in Argentina. Once authorities confirm your documents, you may return to your home country for a short period or travel within Argentina. However, it is advisable to remain in Argentina, as the NATIONAL DIRECTORATE OF MIGRATION will need to have background checks, including fingerprint collection at the Registro Civil and Federal Police, as well as publications in national newspapers. As of May 31, 2025, the National Directorate of Migration took over the responsibility for processing Argentine nationality from the Civil Court.
Tax Considerations for Foreign Nationals Becoming Argentinian Citizens
When foreign nationals acquire Argentinian citizenship, one common concern is whether they will need to pay taxes on income generated in their home country. This issue depends on several factors. Key considerations include the source of the income, existing double taxation agreements between Argentina and the foreign national’s home country, and special tax regimes for naturalized citizens. Additionally, the taxpayer’s residency status in Argentina may significantly influence their tax obligations.
Fortunately, if a tax treaty exists between Argentina and the individual’s country of origin, it helps avoid double taxation. This means that income taxes already paid in the individual’s home country may exempt them from paying the same taxes in Argentina. Argentina has signed such treaties with many countries to protect against double taxation. This rule prevents countries from taxing income twice across borders. You can find a comprehensive list of countries with tax agreements with Argentina on the official government website.
Which Countries Have Dual Nationality Agreements with Argentina?
Argentina has dual citizenship agreements with several countries, allowing Argentine citizens who have become naturalized and obtained travel documentation from these nations to maintain their second citizenship. These countries include Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, El Salvador, Spain, Honduras, Italy, Nicaragua, Norway, Panama, and Sweden. This agreement facilitates easier travel and residency for individuals holding dual nationality between Argentina and these countries.