Argentine Citizenship by Descent/Babybirth/ Marriage/Naturalization
How to Obtain Argentine Citizenship and Its Global Benefits
Argentine citizenship offers numerous benefits, including access to one of the world’s most powerful passports. 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 5 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 citizenship through various pathways, including naturalization, birth, descent, or marriage. A significant advantage of acquiring Argentine citizenship is that Argentina does not require individuals to renounce their original nationality, allowing dual citizenship. This makes Argentine citizenship an attractive option for those seeking global mobility and a second passport.
Eligibility for Argentine Citizenship According to Law No. 346
According to Argentine Citizenship Law No. 346, Title 1, Article 1, the following individuals are eligible for Argentine Citizenship:
1° All individuals born or to be born in the territory of the
Argentine Republic (Jus soli), regardless of the nationality of their parents, except the children of foreign Ministers and members of the Legation residing in the Republic (Children of Diplomats are not eligible).
2° The children of native Argentines born in a foreign country opt for citizenship of origin (Jus sanguinis). Those with at least one Argentine parent may qualify for Argentine citizenship by blood (jus sanguinis), even if born outside the country. In other words, individuals with at least one Argentine parent are eligible for Argentine citizenship by descent under the principle of jus sanguinis (right of blood). This law enables people to claim Argentinian citizenship even if they are born outside the country.
DE LOS CIUDADANOS POR NATURALIZACIÓN
3°Foreigners over the age of eighteen (18) who can prove they have resided in the Argentine Republic continuously for the two (2) years before their application—either as permanent or temporary residents under the current immigration regulations—may apply for Argentine citizenship by naturalization, provided they express their intention before a federal judge.
4° Marrying a Native Argentine Citizen in any of the provinces of Argentina allows foreign nationals to apply for Argentine citizenship through marriage. This process typically waives the standard two-year residency requirement. To begin, you should contact the Civil Court (Juzgado Civil) in your area of residence to schedule an appointment and inquire about the necessary documentation.
5° Establishing a new industry or introducing a useful invention in Argentina can expedite the naturalization process for foreign nationals. Typically, after residing in Argentina for two consecutive years, individuals can apply for citizenship. However, this period can be shortened if applicants contribute significantly to the country, such as starting a new industry or introducing beneficial inventions.
Requirements for Argentine Citizenship
For people 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: No need to translate in your home country.
Spouses, children, and parents of Argentine citizens (whether by birth or naturalization) are eligible for permanent residence in Argentina and can apply for citizenship more easily. This law highlights Argentina’s family-centered approach to citizenship, making it easier for those with direct ties to Argentine citizens to gain Argentine immigration status. However, spouses, children, and parents of naturalized Argentine citizens do not automatically pass on citizenship. In these cases, relatives must pursue other citizenship pathways, such as residing in Argentina for two years before applying or obtaining citizenship through marriage, etc.
Understanding Argentine Citizenship Acquisition: Descent vs. Option
Argentine citizenship can be acquired through various pathways, primarily by descent and by option. Understanding the distinctions between these methods is crucial for individuals seeking Argentine nationality.
Citizenship by Descent:
This pathway allows individuals born abroad to Argentine parents to acquire Argentine citizenship by Descent. The process involves presenting the Argentine birth certificate of the parent and the applicant’s birth certificate, both 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.
Citizenship by Option:
Argentine Citizenship by option is a legal pathway that allows individuals born abroad, specifically children of Argentine native citizens, to obtain Argentine citizenship. This process requires presenting the necessary documentation to Argentine authorities, such as consulates or federal judges, to establish eligibility.
It’s important to note that while both pathways are available to descendants of Argentine citizens, the specific requirements and procedures may vary. Additionally, the laws and regulations governing these processes can change, so it’s advisable to consult official Argentine government sources or legal experts for the most current information.
For a more detailed understanding, you may find this video guide on obtaining Argentine citizenship by descent helpful:
Obtaining Argentine Citizenship by Descent: A Hypothetical Example
To help illustrate the process of obtaining Argentine citizenship 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 birth certificate from Argentina. Following that, they will pursue Argentine nationality for Laura Martinez (Emma’s mother), and subsequently for Emma Garcia.
Solution:
Currently, the original copy of Francisco’s birth certificate is unavailable, but an electronic version can be obtained. This electronic copy, once apostilled, will be valid for the citizenship process. It’s important to note that Emma cannot directly acquire Argentine citizenship through her grandfather; she must first go through the process of obtaining citizenship for her mother, Laura, and then for herself.
The process generally takes about 1.5 years for each family member. Once Laura’s citizenship is approved, Emma can begin her application, which will also take approximately 1.5 years.
Key Points:
Argentine citizenship by descent can only be passed down through direct relatives (parent to child or husband to wife).
Grandparents, siblings, or extended family members cannot directly pass on citizenship rights.
The citizenship process involves obtaining an apostilled birth certificate and proceeding through the citizenship application in order of direct lineage.
Argentine Citizenship by Descent and Naturalization
Every person born in Argentine territory is considered an Argentinian national. Children born abroad to Argentine citizens can choose the nationality of Argentina only when they reach 18 years old. Because foreigners who have lived in Argentina for two uninterrupted years may acquire citizenship by naturalization.
Here are some key provisions from the Constitution of Argentina and related laws:
Individuals who enter Argentina legally can enjoy the same rights as locals. After two years of residency, they can apply for Argentine citizenship. An applicant must have maintained continuous permanent or temporary residency for two years to be eligible to count toward the residency requirement for 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.”
Law No. 346: If you are born in Argentina or born abroad to Argentine parents, you are an Argentine citizen. This also applies to those born in Argentine embassies or on Argentine ships abroad.
Argentine Citizenship by Naturalization: Foreigners over 18 who have lived in Argentina for two years can apply for citizenship. Those who contribute to the country (e.g., serving in the army or bringing new industries) may receive citizenship faster.
“2° Los estranjeros que acrediten dichos jueces haber prestado, cualquiera que sea el tiempo de su residencia, algunos de los servicios siguientes: LEY 346 2 COMPENDIO ELECTORAL 2017 1° Haber desempeñado con honradez empleos de la Nación, o de las provincias, dentro o fuera de la República. 2° Haber servido en el Ejército o en la escuadra, o haber asistido a una función de guerra en defensa de la Nación. 3° Haber establecido en el país una nueva industria, o introducido una invención útil. 4° Ser empresario o constructor de ferrocarriles en cualquiera de las provincias. 5° Hallarse formando parte de las colonias establecidas o que en adelante se establecieran, ya sea en territorios nacionales o en los de las provincias, con tal de que posean en ellas alguna propiedad raíz. 6° Habitar o poblar territorios nacionales en las líneas actuales de frontera ó fuera de ellas. 7° Haberse casado con mujer argentina en cualquiera de las Provincias. 8° Ejercer en ellas el profesorado en cualquiera de los ramos de la educación ó de la industria.”
You may apply for citizenship earlier—even before completing the required two consecutive residency periods in Argentina—in the following cases:
1) Worked honestly for the national or provincial government.
2) Served in the Army or Navy, or helped defend the country in a war.
3) Started a new industry or introduced an important invention.
4) Been a big investor or helped build railroads.
5) Helped develop new settlements by owning property in colonies.
6) Settled in border areas or other national territories.
7) Married an Argentine citizen.
8) Worked as a teacher in any educational or technical field.
Children of Citizens: Children over 18+ whose parents become Naturalized citizens can also obtain Argentine citizenship under certain conditions.
“Artículo 3: El hijo del ciudadano naturalizado que fuere menor de edad, al tiempo de la naturalización de su padre, y hubiese nacido en país estranjero, puede obtener del Juez Federal la carta de ciudadanía por el hecho de haberse enrolado en la Guardia nacional en el tiempo que la ley dispone.”
Can I Get Argentine Citizenship Remotely?
If you are a resident of a foreign country and have the jus sanguinis (right of blood) or jus soli (right of soil) to process your Argentine citizenship, you can do so at the local Argentine consulate. Because you don’t need a court’s approval to become an Argentine citizen — you are already an Argentine citizen, either by blood or by right of soil. However, some consulates may have limited resources and may not be able to handle all inquiries, focusing primarily on government-level tasks. In such cases, you can travel to Argentina and apply for citizenship in person at a civil court. For naturalization, you need to obtain approval from an Argentine federal civil court, which requires your personal presence in Argentina. It is not possible to obtain Argentine citizenship remotely through the naturalization process.
Argentine Citizenship Processing Timeline and Other Details
Appointment at Civil Court: Use Argentina’s new online system to book an appointment at the Secretaría. Wait for confirmation of your appointment, which typically takes about a month.
Prepare Your Documents: Once your appointment is confirmed, gather your original documents to present at the court.
Submit Your Documents: Go to the court on the date of your appointment, submit your documents at the reception, and wait for them to be confirmed by the Secretaría.
Stay in Argentina: After your documents are confirmed, you can either return to your home country or travel within Argentina. However, it is advisable to remain in Argentina, as the court will issue orders for background checks, including fingerprint collection at the Registro Civil and Federal Police, as well as publications in national newspapers. Nowadays, as of March 2025, prosecutors are requesting your residency status during the Argentine citizenship process. Read here for more details about citizenship processing timelines.
Complete Required Steps: These background checks and verifications typically take about 4 to 6 months. After completing these processes, you will be free to travel anywhere in the world until your citizenship is approved.
Swearing-In Ceremony: Once your Argentine nationality is approved, you will need to return to Argentina to swear allegiance in front of the court.
Obtain Your Passport: After receiving your citizenship approval letter, you can go to RENAPER to print your Argentine passport, which is visa-free for 170 Countries Globally.
Throughout this process, you can manage many tasks remotely, and you do not need to remain physically present in Argentina after the initial steps. If you need assistance with any part of this process, feel free to contact us.
Do I Need to Reside in Argentina for Citizenship by Naturalization?
- Coordination with Migraciones: During the background check, the court will coordinate with the immigration authority (Migraciones) to verify your residency status.
- Impact of Being Outside the Country: If you are not in Argentina, the court will delay your case until it receives confirmation from Migraciones that you have returned. This can lead to your case being archived, meaning it may get pushed down the list as new cases come in, potentially resulting in significant delays.
- Importance of Presence: Being in Argentina during the background check is crucial for a timely process. You need to demonstrate the connection to the country.
- Planning Your Stay: It is advisable to plan your six-month stay in Argentina carefully to ensure a smooth and efficient citizenship application process.
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 any special tax regimes for naturalized citizens. Additionally, the taxpayer’s residency status in Argentina may play a significant role in determining 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 home country may exempt the individual from paying the same taxes in Argentina. Argentina has signed such treaties with many countries to protect against double taxation, ensuring that income is not taxed twice across borders. For those seeking more information, a comprehensive list of countries with tax agreements with Argentina can be found 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, the United States (until October 20, 1981), Honduras, Italy, Nicaragua, Norway, Panama, and Sweden. This agreement facilitates easier travel and residency for individuals holding dual nationality between Argentina and these countries.
Quick and Easy Argentine Passport with Instant Delivery
If you have already obtained Argentine nationality or are an Argentine citizen by birth, and your Argentine passport is expired or about to expire, this article explains how and where to obtain/renew your Argentine passport instantly.
For example, if your child was born in Argentina and you need to get a passport for them immediately, you can travel to the nearest airport listed below. Similarly, if you have been traveling abroad with your Argentine passport and need to renew it, you can do so at the designated airports in just 15 minutes.
With our instant service, you can get your passport in just a few hours at certain airports. No need for an appointment—just show your ID and complete the simple steps.
Who Can Use This Service?
• Travelers: This service is for Argentine Nationals traveling abroad.
• MERCOSUR Countries: If you travel to a MERCOSUR country, you can use your national ID instead of a passport. Note: There are two types of Argentinian national ID cards (DNI). One is for Argentinian nationals, which says “Argentino” on the card. The other is for foreigners, and it is clearly marked as “Extranjero”.
If you are a foreigner with Argentinian permanent residency but have not obtained Argentinian nationality yet, your ID card will still say “Extranjero” (Foreigner). In this case, you cannot travel within Mercosur using only your ID card. You must either use your foreign passport or obtain Argentinian nationality to travel freely with your ID card.
Passport Options
You have different choices depending on how fast you need your Argentine passport: Check Updated fees here: https://www.argentina.gob.ar/tarifario-de-tramites-de-renaper
• Standard Passport:
– Ready in 4 days (96 hours).
– Costs $ARS 30,000.
– Book an appointment using the Mi Argentina app.
• 24-Hour Passport:
– Available only at the NOA Renaper office in San Miguel de Tucumán.
– Costs $ARS 45,000.
– Appointment needed.
• Instant Passport:
– The process takes 15 minutes.
– Delivered within 2 to 6 hours.
– Costs $ARS 250,000.
– Pay with a credit or debit card at the airport (no cash).
(*) Pasaporte al instante: (con entrega dentro de las 6 horas de iniciado el trámite): $ 250.000 (Ezeiza Airport:
– Open 24 hours a day
https://www.argentina.gob.ar/tramitar-el-pasaporte-al-instante
(*) DNI al instante $ 40.500
https://www.argentina.gob.ar/servicio/dni-al-instante
- Buquebus (Av. Antártida Argentina 821, CABA)
- Renaper CABA Central (Av. Roque Sáenz Peña 689, CABA)
https://www.argentina.gob.ar/tarifario-de-tramites-de-renaper
Instant Argentine Passport: Requirements and Eligibility
Required Documents
To obtain an instant Argentine passport, you must provide Valid national ID (DNI) with permanent residency and “Argentino” (nationality) written on the card.
Restrictions for New Citizens
According to the rules for obtaining an ID in Argentina, once your Argentine citizenship is approved, you receive the Argentine passport first (in the City of Buenos Aires, not at airports) and then obtain your national DNI. Because of this process, the instant passport service is not available for those who have just had their Argentine citizenship approved by the Federal Civil Court of Argentina.
Who Is Eligible?
• Naturalized Argentinians who are renewing their passports and already have a national ID.
• Children born in Argentina who need an instant passport.
• Argentinians traveling abroad whose passports have expired or run out of visa pages.
Where Can You Renew Your Passport?
Eligible individuals can renew their passports in just 15 minutes at designated airports before returning to their country of current residence.
What Documents Need to Be Submitted
For Adults (18 and over)
• A valid national ID.
• It helps to bring your old passport, but it is not required.
For Minors (Under 18)
• A valid national ID.
• Original or certified copy of the birth certificate.
• A parent or legal guardian must go with you.Other documents may be needed if your parents cannot come with you.
Where to Apply
You can go to any of these airports without an appointment:
• Ezeiza Airport:
– Open 24 hours a day.
– Look for the service near the parking lot.
• Jorge Newbery Airport:
– Available from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
• Rosario Airport:
– Monday to Friday: 6 a.m. – 9 p.m.
– Weekends & Holidays: 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.
• Córdoba Airport:
– Monday to Friday: 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.
– Weekends & Holidays: 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.
• Mendoza Airport:
– Monday to Friday: 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.
– Weekends & Holidays: 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.
• Salta Airport:
– Monday to Friday: 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.
How It Works
1. Apply at the Airport: Visit one of the listed airports with your documents.
2. Quick Processing: Your passport application is processed in just 15 minutes.
3. Fast Delivery: You will receive your passport within 2 to 6 hours (subject to document checks).
Argentine Passport Validity
• Adults: Your passport is valid for 10 years.
• Minors: Your passport is valid for 5 years.
This service is designed to make getting your Argentine passport simple and fast, so you can travel without any worries!
ARGENTINES RESIDENT ABROAD
To return to Argentina, after living abroad, it is necessary to distinguish whether or not the country where you were residing has an agreement with Argentina. In case it does, as is the case of Panama, the requirements to return to the country with an expired passport are the following:
a) PASSPORT: A provisional or emergency passport can be requested at the consulate of the country where the Argentinean is, since the passport must be up to date at the time of entry to the country.
b) DOCUMENTATION:
i.- criminal record certificate issued by Argentina or Panama that is not older than 3 years;
ii.- certificates, degrees obtained and all legalized and apostilled academic documentation (in case of having them)
iii.- if the residence in Panama was longer than 2 years, you can enter with a car and other goods. In this case you must fill in form OM 2087/G3
The steps are as follows:
1. Request a new passport at the Argentine Consulate in Panama: in the event that the client does not have immediate urgency, you can apply for the renewal of the passport at the Argentine Consulate in Panama. To do this you must:
a.- Ask for an appointment at the consulate;
b.- Present your Argentine DNI;
c.- Pay the corresponding fee;
d.- Wait for the issuance of the new passport (it may take a few weeks).
2. Apply for a Travel Certificate at the Argentine Consulate: in case you have to travel urgently and do not have time to renew your passport, you can apply for a Travel Certificate. It is an emergency document that will allow you to enter Argentina.
It is requested at the Argentine Consulate in Panama.
It is issued quickly and is valid only to return to Argentina.
FORM OM 2087/G3: it is an official form of the National Direction of Migration of Argentina that is used to carry out procedures related to the entry and exit of the country with irregular or expired documentation, generally in exceptional cases. In practice, this form is used, for example, when an Argentine citizen returns to the country with an expired passport, without passport or without DNI, and must regularize their immigration status upon entry.-
This form is specifically used to:
i.- Allow the entry into the country of Argentine citizens who do not have valid documentation.
ii.- Register the exceptional entry with an expired passport or with a Travel Certificate.
Iii.- To record the reason for not having valid documentation.
This form is generally completed by Migration staff at the point of entry (whether Ezeiza, Aeroparque, border crossings, etc.) when an irregular migratory situation is detected, but in some cases it can be requested in advance at an Argentine consulate if someone wants to return to the country with an expired document.