Argentine Nationality Options

How to Obtain Argentine Nationality?

Argentine nationality 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 nationality through multiple options. 
If you have a baby born in Argentina, or by marriage, or if one of your parents is a native Argentine, or if you reside for two years in Argentina, or if you contribute to the Nation of Argentina. A significant advantage of acquiring Argentine nationality is that Argentina does not require individuals to renounce their original nationality, allowing dual citizenship. This makes Argentine nationality an attractive option for those seeking global mobility and a second passport. 

Eligibility for 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: 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° Option: 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 nationality by descent under the principle of jus sanguinis (right of blood). This law enables people to claim Argentine citizenship by birth for parents even if they are born outside the country.

Options for Argentine Nationality by Naturalization

Apart from Argentine nationality by descent (blood) or by birth on Argentine soil, there are a few options to obtain citizenship through naturalization. Let’s consider them one by one. 

Argentine Nationality by Child Birth

Option 1°: If you have a baby born in Argentine territory, you can not apply for citizenship immediately after your baby receives a birth certificate. Your baby will automatically obtain Argentine nationality at birth. The parents can also apply for citizenship after two consecutive years. However, the citizenship process may take some additional time depending on the NATIONAL DIRECTORATE OF MIGRATION, which is responsible for granting Argentine Citizenship now. 

Apply for Argentine Nationality After Two years of Residency in Argentina

Option 2°: Foreigners over the age of eighteen (18) who can prove they have resided in the Argentine Republic continuously and legally for the two (2) years before their application—either as permanent or temporary residents under the current immigration regulations—may apply for Argentine nationality by naturalization, provided they express their intention in front of NATIONAL DIRECTORATE OF MIGRATION, a decentralized agency acting within the scope of the VICE-CHIEF OF THE CABINET OF THE INTERIOR of the CHIEF OF THE CABINET OF MINISTERS.

If you are not targeting Argentine nationality, of course, you can leave and re-enter the country during these two years of residence, as long as you don’t stay abroad for too long. If you remain outside Argentina for an extended period, Migraciones can cancel your residency, and you would need to start the residency process again. 

If your goal is Argentine citizenship, then you have to reside without any leave. 

Argentine Nationality Through Marriage

Option 3°:  Marrying a Native Argentine Citizen in any of the provinces of Argentina allows foreign nationals to apply for Argentine nationality through marriage after two years of legal and continuous residence after marriage. Will need to reside for two years now, according to the new law. This process will not waive the standard two-year residency requirement anymore. To begin, you should contact the NATIONAL DIRECTORATE OF MIGRATION in your area of residence to schedule an appointment and inquire about the necessary documentation. Marrying to naturalized Argentine citizen does not automatically grant you citizenship. Naturalized Argentinians cannot pass on citizenship to their foreign-born children. The most they can provide is permanent residency. 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.

Argentine Nationality By Investment

6° Option: ​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. Establishing a new industry or introducing a useful invention in Argentina can expedite the naturalization process for foreign nationals. Typically, regardless of residing in Argentina for two consecutive years, individuals can apply for citizenship immediately. This period can be shortened if applicants contribute significantly to the country, such as starting a new industry or introducing beneficial inventions in the amount of 500,000 USD. ​ For details, contact the Immi Legal Team

Requirements for Argentine Nationality

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. 

Being the spouse, parent, or child of a native, naturalized, or optional Argentine is eligible for permanent residence in Argentina.  They can apply for citizenship more easily after two years of residence as well. Argentina’s family-centered approach to citizenship makes it easier for those who has direct ties to Argentine citizens to obtain Argentine permanent residency. 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. 

Understanding Argentine Nationality Acquisition: Descent vs. Option

Argentine citizenship can be opted by descent.  Understanding the details of these methods is crucial for individuals seeking Argentine nationality. 

Argentina Citizenship by Descent:

This pathway allows individuals born abroad to Argentine parents to acquire Argentine nationality 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.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.

Citizenship by Soil:

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 contact us for more details.

Obtaining Argentine Nationality by Descent: A Hypothetical Example

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 birth certificate from Argentina. Following that, they will pursue Argentine nationality for Laura Martinez (Emma’s mother), and then subsequently for Emma Garcia.

Can Children of Native Argentines Pass on Citizenship to Their Own Children?

The short answer is – Yes.

The original copy of Francisco’s (grandfather) birth certificate is unavailable, but an electronic version can be obtained. This electronic copy, once apostilled, will be valid for the nationality process for the mother of the applicant. It’s important to note that Emma (Applicant) cannot directly acquire Argentine citizenship through her grandfather; she must first go through the process of obtaining citizenship for her mother, Laura, and then permanent residency for herself. Stay two years continuously and legally in Argentina, and then apply for citizenship. She can’t get citizenship through her grandparents. 

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 2.5 years. 

Key Points:

  • Argentine citizenship by descent can only be passed down through direct relatives (parent to child or husband to wife (if native)).

  • Grandparents, siblings, or extended family members cannot directly pass on citizenship rights. However, can pass the permanent residency. 

  • The citizenship process involves obtaining an apostilled birth certificate and proceeding through the citizenship application in order of direct lineage.

Understanding of Argentine Nationality by Descent and Naturalization

Every person born in Argentine territory is considered an Argentinian national. Children born abroad to naturalized Argentine citizens can choose the nationality of Argentina only when they reach 18 years old. 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 two years to be eligible to count toward the Argentine nationality by 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 obtain Argentine nationality automatically. 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 residency, then they can apply for citizenship. 

Argentina Nationality

Can I Get Argentine Nationality 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 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 obtain your passport or DNI faster. For naturalization, you need to obtain approval from the Argentine NATIONAL DIRECTORATE OF MIGRATION, which requires your physical presence in Argentina. It is not possible to obtain Argentine nationality remotely if you go through the naturalization process.

Can I Leave Argentina After Submitting My Citizenship Application?

Recommended to Stay in Argentina: After your documents are confirmed, you can either return to your home country for a short period of time 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. Nowadays, as of May 31, 2025, the Argentine nationality processing responsibility has transitioned from the Argentine Civil Court to the National Director of Migration. 

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, 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 National ID (DNI Permanente) and obtain your Argentine Passport in 15 minutes. 

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. (DNI Permanente)

Instant Passport Processing 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): $ARS 250.000 (Ezeiza Airport:
– Open 24 hours a day
https://www.argentina.gob.ar/tramitar-el-pasaporte-al-instante

(*) DNI al instante $ARS 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)

Renaper Procedures Fee Schedule

 

https://www.argentina.gob.ar/tarifario-de-tramites-de-renaper

 

Instant Argentine Passport

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.

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.

For New Citizens DNI is Required Before Applying for an Argentine Passport

According to the regulations for obtaining an Argentine passport, once your Argentine citizenship is approved, you must first receive your permanent DNI (Documento Nacional de Identidad) showing your nationality as ‘Argentino’. Only after obtaining this DNI can you apply for an Argentine passport. Therefore, the instant passport service is not available to individuals who have just had their citizenship approved by the Federal Civil Court and have not yet received their DNI yet.

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!

How to Enter Argentina If Your Argentine Passport Is Expired After 10 years

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 Required 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.

Why is The FORM OM 2087/G3 For?

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.