Argentina Investment Visa: How to Invest in Argentina

Artículo 23, inciso “d” de la Ley 25.871 y Decreto 616/10
How do you get an Argentina Investment Visa and start investing in the country’s growing economy? We simplify the process so you can confidently move forward with your Argentina Investment Visa and migration project. Start your journey toward temporary residence in Argentina here!

The main purpose of this Argentine Investment Residency is to facilitate contributions to the Argentine economy through foreign investments, making it easier to attract global investments. This benefit aims to strengthen Argentine economic sectors and provide opportunities for international investors to participate in the country’s growth as Argentine residents. 

 

Government Launches 30-Year Investment Incentive Program for Large Scale Investors

The Argentine government officially regulated the Large Investment Incentive Scheme (RIGI), a program that offers legal and tax benefits for 30 years to attract major investment projects of $200 million or more. Any newly imposed taxes or increases in existing ones will not apply to VPUs. RIGI aims to boost growth and jobs by supporting strategic sectors like energy, mining, technology, infrastructure, and tourism. The program guarantees stable tax rules and legal certainty, and allows provinces to offer extra benefits. The provinces that have already joined the RIGI are Río Negro, Chubut, Mendoza, San Juan, Salta, and Córdoba, while new ones are being evaluated. Projects must be approved within 45 days, and local suppliers are encouraged to participate. The Ministry of Economy oversees the program, with support from other national departments through an evaluation committee.

Argentina Residency by Investment

Argentina Residency By Investment not only provides applicants with the opportunity to enjoy an Argentine rich cultural environment, but also substantially boosts the country’s economy. You can become an active player in job creation, fostering the development of local services and production. For example, Argentina is currently one of the top countries in IT startups (Unicorns).  By being committed to doing business in Argentina, you will significantly contribute to tax payments, strengthening fiscal resources and supporting the provision of public services. This active involvement in the Argentinian economy not only paves the way towards Argentinian nationality but may also facilitate flexibility in terms of entry and exit for the applicants and flexible travel to Argentina, allowing seamless integration into the Argentine community while maintaining international connections. Thus, it solidifies a mutually beneficial relationship for both you and the nation. This may be extremely beneficial for those who need an Argentina travel/business visa. 

Argentina Investment Visa/Residency– Key Requirements

Argentina investor visa is a long process. It requires a lot of documentation and careful preparation. All foreign documentation must be apostilled, and an investment project must be prepared. To successfully apply for an Argentina Investment Visa, you must meet the following key requirements.

     1) Prove the Legality of Funds

Transfer funds to Argentina through banks or financial institutions authorized by the Central Bank of Argentina. (More details will be provided at the end of this article)

     2) Submit a Business Plan


Provide a detailed investment plan in Spanish, explaining your business, initial investment amount, and expected job creation.

    3) Prepare Required Documents


Submit a birth certificate, a criminal record certificate (both with apostilles), a foreign passport, and your investment project.

    4) Project Evaluation


The Ministry of Industrial Development will assess your project based on investment type, legal feasibility, and financial sustainability. Additional evaluation criteria may apply.

    5) Argentina Temporary Residency & Investment Requirement


Once approved, the Migration Authority grants temporary residence with a deadline for investment implementation. 

Path to Citizenship

Although the Argentina Investment Visa/Residency process is long and complex, it can lead to Argentine citizenship. After submitting your documents to the National Directorate of Migrations, you will receive precarious residency by investment. If all the documentation and information required by Immigration is submitted correctly, the residency can be granted for a period of three years, as established by law. Regardless of whether your investor residency status is fully approved or still in Precaria status, after two years of holding precarious residency, you can begin the process of applying for Argentine citizenship. In other words, after two years, you will be eligible to apply for Argentine citizenship.

 

Types of Companies in Argentina

You can set up a business as an SRL or an SA in Argentina. An SRL (similar to an LLC) has capital divided into quotas, with 2 to 50 quota holders and simpler management, making it ideal for small to medium businesses. An SA (similar to a corporation) features share-based capital that can be freely traded, requires a board of directors, and is suited for larger companies and investors.

SRL (Sociedad de Responsabilidad Limitada) — Limited Liability Company

This is similar to a Limited Liability Company (LLC)

Capital is divided into quotas (shares).
Founders are referred to as quota holders.
The number of participants is limited (from 2 to 50).
Quotas cannot be freely sold; transferring them requires the consent of other participants.
Involves less bureaucracy and is simpler to manage compared to an SA.
Typically used for small and medium-sized businesses.

SA (Sociedad Anónima) — Joint Stock Company

This is similar to a Corporation.
Capital is divided into shares, which can be sold without requiring the consent of other shareholders.
Can be either private or public (if the shares are listed on a stock exchange).
A minimum of 2 founders is required, with no maximum limit.
A board of directors is mandatory, with more complex management requirements.
Suitable for large companies and for attracting investors.
Key Difference: The primary distinction lies in the capital structure and regulatory level: an SRL is simpler and has a limited number of participants, while an SA is more flexible but requires strict corporate governance.

Company Registration Requirements:

To qualify for the Argentina Investment Visa, investors must establish a legal entity, register for taxation, and comply with local business regulations.

 

Required Documents: 

 

Foreigner Shareholders must have a local Argentinian Social Security Number named Identification Key (CDI).  You can obtain the CDI with your passport at the AFIP office that corresponds to your real address in Argentina. You will only need to fill out a form.
Argentinian Shareholders or Argentinian Resident Shareholders must have CUIT (Unique Tax Identification Number)


Tax Compliance:


– Tax Key level 2 or higher (Accountant will take care of this part)
– Adherence to the TAD (Remote Procedure System)


Corporate Documentation:


– Standard By-laws
– Grant of power of attorney to conduct legal proceedings


Domicile and Capital:


– Registered address in the Autonomous City of Buenos Aires (CABA)


Minimum Share Capital


***If you apply for an investor visa, the minimum capital required will be around USD 30,000. However, if you register your company and hire yourself as an employee to obtain a work permit, the minimum capital can be significantly lower. We will discuss this further at the end of this article.

***Registration of your company will take around 15 days 

Export from Argentina and Simplified Registration of Your Export Company

Historically, Argentina has exported raw materials, especially food. The Gulf countries buy green mung, corn, barley, soybean pellets, steel foundries, dairy products, peanuts, meats, paper, household appliances, and chickpeas from us. They also buy processed foods from these grains and cereals. The infrastructure is available, and the know-how is excellent. Entrepreneurs looking to export from Argentina can leverage the Argentina Investment Visa for smoother business operations and residency benefits. Another industry that is growing in Argentina is the knowledge industry, especially software development.

          1) The “Exporta Simple” program has significantly simplified the export process in Argentina, especially for entrepreneurs and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). To register on this platform, you only need to have a CUIT and an AFIP level 3 tax code. It is not necessary to submit extensive documentation or register in the Registry of Importers and Exporters. This program has limitations regarding annual billing amount, price, and size of items.

          2) The process of registering as an exporter begins with the Registry of Exporters and Importers before the General Directorate of Customs. With the registration number, you can operate as an exporter at any Argentine customs office. Generally, they will assign a customs office corresponding to your area of residence.

The Documents Required for Registration

      1) Two copies of the application form (Form OM1228 E) with a certified signature before a notary public.

      2) CUIT.

      3) Copy of the corresponding identity document (DNI, passport, electoral book, or other official documents).

      4) In the case of companies, the enabling documentation of the IPJ or the DPJ of each province must be presented.

      5) Copy of the CUIT.

     6) Business authorization (if applicable).

     7) Two proofs of address.

     8) Proof of financial solvency or a signed guarantee.

     9) No judicial inhibitions.

    10) Annually, they must present the financial statements and report any change in the corporate structure.

Why Invest in the Argentine Economy? Key Advantages to Consider

Wondering why to invest in Argentina? Key advantages include:

1. Availability of a highly qualified and competitive workforce, contributing to more efficient operating costs.

2. The current unemployment rate provides opportunities for hiring qualified talent, facilitating the formation of strong teams.

3. The strength of the foreign currency in the country provides stability and attractive conditions for international transactions, favoring the profitability of investments.

4. Pro-investment policies and emerging opportunities in various sectors.

5. Abundant natural resources – Argentina has diverse natural wealth, offering opportunities in sectors such as agriculture and energy.

6. Strategic geographical location. Its strategic position in South America makes it a key point for international trade. Argentina is in the close time zone to North America, making it easier for business connections with the US, Canada, and Europe.

Argentina’s dynamic business environment and various advantages make the country an attractive destination. If you’re wondering how to obtain Argentine citizenship, the answer is simple: Investment. Let’s bring some more examples.

Real Estate: The Perfect Time to Invest

  1. According to the Infobae portal, real estate prices in Argentina experienced a significant decrease in dollars over the past years. This decline has opened up opportunities for foreigners to buy land or properties in Argentina as a long-term investment. According to our internal analysis, the average cost of homes is expected to increase in the future. This indicates that it’s the perfect time to invest in land in Argentina now.

    Over the period from 2018 to the end of 2023, prices have seen a notable reduction, ranging from 38% for newly built units to 48% for used properties, according to various sectorial surveys. This landscape suggests significant dynamics in the real estate market, potentially offering interesting opportunities for those considering investing or acquiring properties in Buenos Aires or other locations in Argentina.

    You might be wondering how to invest in Argentina. Simply buying land or property will not give you eligibility to apply for Argentina Residency By Investment; you need to engage in commercial activities. For example, you can build a small cottage in Mendoza in the Andes mountains, or Patagonia, or on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean, or near Iguazu Waterfalls, etc. And then, prove to the authorities that your business plan will contribute to the local economy. Read more detailed information about Argentina real estate investment. 

Argentina Residency By Investment: Key Aspects of the Application

1. Information of the Applicant - Application Letter Detailing the Reasons for the Request

This letter must contain the following details:

a) Name / Last Name.

b) Date of Birth.

c) Passport Number or Identity Document.

d) Country of Birth / Nationality.

e) Marital Status.

f) Profession.

g) Country and City of Residence (country of origin).

h) Consulate where you will visa your passport (Argentine Consulate in the country of origin).

i) Address where foreigners will reside; Certificado de Domicilio

j) Details of the benefits that the applicant will take care of (housing, per diem, etc.).

k) Requested length of stay.

2. Commercial or Professional Background.

Refers to the submission of documents supporting the commercial or professional experience and trajectory of the applicant. This may include certificates of previous business activities, investment history, business references, and any other document demonstrating experience and success in the commercial or professional field.

 

These backgrounds are useful for assessing the suitability of the applicant as an investor and their ability to contribute significantly to the country’s economic development. You have to demonstrate to the authorities that you have relevant business experience in the past. If you don’t have previous experience, that’s also acceptable. We want to emphasize that having experience would be beneficial. As long as you can prove that your project will work, you will be on the right track.

3. Investment Project/Business Plan (details elaborated later below)

a. Must be signed by the Applicant, specifying the productive, commercial, or service activity they intend to develop in Argentina.

b. In addition to this, the origin and legality of the funds must be accredited.

c. Money entry into the country must be justified through authorized banking or financial institutions by the Banco Central de la República Argentina.

With the approval of the authority referenced in the preceding paragraph, the Ministry of Industry will analyze the project, and execution period, and will prepare a non-binding opinion, taking into account the following parameters:

3.1 Nature of the investment;

3.2 Legal viability of the project;

3.3 Economic-financial sustainability of the project.

The Ministry of Industry may incorporate reasoned resolutions for new parameters for evaluation. Likewise, it will issue complementary and interpretative regulations as necessary.

After receiving the necessary documents, the National Directorate of Migrations will provide temporary residence, along with a specified deadline for completing the required investment, which is non-negotiable. You have an alternative option here. You can apply as a business owner, or alternatively, you can hire yourself into your own business and apply for a work permit as an employee of your company. In this case, your status will be a Migrant work permit holder.

4. Title of Ownership, Securities or Participation Titles

The Title of Ownership is required by Argentine institutions to authenticate the actual investment of declared capital. This documentation ensures that the investor’s declared capital has been utilized for specific investments, contributing genuinely to Argentina’s economic development. While some institutions may have internal verification processes, others might necessitate third-party verification for increased transparency. Contact us to navigate these requirements effectively.

5. Photocopy of your International Passport of All Pages

The Detailed Process of Submitting the Investment Project

Now, let’s talk about the submission process now. This section breaks down the application process into key components, providing detailed guidance on each step.

Validation of Funds through a Bank Authorized by the BCRA

a. Select a Recognized Bank: Research and choose a bank in Argentina authorized by the BCRA. You can find a list of such banks on the official BCRA website or by contacting the BCRA directly.

b. Preparation of Financial Documentation: Gather all relevant financial documents that demonstrate the origin and amount of your investment funds. This may include bank statements, investment portfolios, and other financial records.

c. Contact the Chosen Bank: Communicate with the bank and inquire about their process for validating investment funds for the purpose of obtaining an Argentina residency by investment. 

d. Document Submission for Review: Provide the bank with your financial documents for verification. The bank will review these documents to ensure they comply with regulatory requirements set by the BCRA.

e. Banking Verification Process: The bank will thoroughly verify your financial resources. This process ensures that the funds are legitimate and comply with local and international financial regulations.

f. Obtaining Official Validation: Once the bank has completed its verification process, it will provide you with official documentation validating your investment funds. This document is crucial for your temporary residence application process.

Translation of Documents in Languages Other Than Spanish

You only need to translate it through a certified translator and then authenticate this translation at the public translator’s office located in Avda. Corrientes 1834, Monday to Friday, from 09:00 to 18:00. To schedule an appointment, click here.

 

Common documents that may require translation include business plans, legal documents, contracts, investment agreements, bank transfer receipts, property titles, bank statements, financial reports, investment declarations, notarial powers, company incorporation documents, legal contracts, company financial statements, business records, relevant tax declarations, detailed investment project reports, among others.

Final Steps

To move forward successfully with your Argentina residency by investment application, it is essential to compile all required documents carefully. Ensure you have the necessary financial documents validated, and to ensure an effective presentation, obtain certified translations into Spanish for each of them.

 

Once you have gathered all the necessary documentation, the next step is to submit your application. Send these documents, along with the completed application form, to the Dirección Nacional de Migraciones (DNM). This step is crucial to initiate the evaluation process and ensure that your application is processed efficiently.

 

Remember that precise and complete documentation submission is key to successfully managing your Argentina residency by investment application. Follow these steps carefully, and you will be one step closer to achieving your goal of obtaining residence in this vibrant country full of opportunities.

A Crucial Moment: Evaluation by the National Directorate of Migrations (DNM)

The National Directorate of Migrations carefully examines the business plan and documents, emphasizing financial legitimacy and the potential impact of the proposed investment. This efficient process underscores the need for transparency, diligence, and alignment with criteria to ensure Temporary Residence for Argentine Investors.

 

Proven financial legitimacy with the presented documentation will be of great importance at this stage. The DNM precisely examines the source of the funds for the investment, ensuring that the funds are obtained legally and comply with local and international financial regulations.

Meeting the Minimum Investment

The DNM verifies if the proposed investment capital meets or exceeds the minimum requirement of 30 million Argentinian Pesos (March 2024), approximately 30 thousand USD. This threshold is set to ensure that the investment is substantial enough to have a significant impact on the Argentinian local economy. This amount is not updated on the website of DNM, therefore consult with us for the updated amount. 

 

Alternative Option: Argentine Temporary Residency Through Setting Up a Business in Argentina

There’s an alternative way to obtain temporary residency in Argentina by setting up a company, not only as an Investor but also as an employee of your own company.  You can hire yourself as an employee of your own company and get a work permit based on this employment. For example, if you establish a Simplified Stock Company (SAS) and list yourself as an employee, you can meet the residency requirements while also managing your business. This approach allows you to work legally in Argentina while benefiting from the startup business you’ve created in Argentina. 

When setting up a Simplified Stock Company (SAS) in Argentina as a foreign owner, you’ll need to budget for labor costs and taxes. For example, if each employee’s salary is $600 USD per month, you’ll need to pay an additional $350 USD in taxes per employee. Employee taxes in Argentina are indeed expensive. If you hire five people, you’ll be paying $1,750 USD in employee taxes.

Argentina's Corporate Income Tax Rates

Regarding corporate income tax, the rate in Argentina varies depending on your earnings, ranging from 0% to 30% to 35%. If your income is less than $25,000 USD, you won’t pay income tax. If it’s between $25,000 and $250,000 USD, the tax rate is 30%. For income exceeding $250,000 USD, the tax rate increases to 35%.

Additionally, you’ll need to account for a tax on gross receipts and IVA, which is similar to a sales tax. Proper financial planning is crucial to ensure your company remains compliant and profitable.

Obtaining a Temporary Entry Permit as an Investor

Article 23, Section “d” of Law 25.871 and Decree 616/10

Foreign nationals who invest in a productive, commercial, or service-related activity of interest to the country, with a minimum amount of ONE MILLION FIVE HUNDRED THOUSAND PESOS ($ARS 1,500,000).

For whom is Entry Permit for?

It can be requested by:

  • For the Nationals Required Entry visa to enter Argentina: Must have a power of attorney/designation with sufficient authority, duly legalized and, if applicable, translated and legalized by the Argentinian translators’ association Colegio de Traductores. 

Argentine Investment Visa Entry Permit Requirements

           1) A request letter detailing the reasons for the application, containing the following information about the entrant:

        Full name

        Date of birth

        Passport number

        Country of birth

        Nationality

        Marital status

        Profession

        Level of education completed

        Country and city of residence

        Intended duration of stay

        Consulate where the passport will be visaed (Argentine Consulate in the country of origin or legal residence)

        Address where the foreigner will reside during their stay in Argentina

        If the entrant has previously visited Argentina, specify the date and purpose

The request letter must be signed by the Entrant’s Representative when applying for the Entry Permit, in the presence of the migration officer, who will certify the signature.

          2) Commercial or professional background.

          3) An investment project, signed by the migrant, explicitly detailing the productive, commercial, or service activity to be carried out in the country. The project must demonstrate the origin and legality of the funds and their entry into the country through banking or financial institutions authorized by the Central Bank of the Argentine Republic.

  1. Proof of investment, such as property titles, securities, or corporate participation certificates, confirming the effective investment of the entered capital.
  2. A complete and up-to-date copy of a valid passport.

Additional supporting documentation may be required.

Argentine Investment Visa Application Processing Details

 

          A) For applications at the Central Office in Buenos Aires

Submit the request letter with complete and correct documentation at the National Directorate of Migration (Av. Antártida Argentina 1355, CABA) or at any of its regional offices.

          B) During the review period, you can track the status of your application.

          C) Once the process is completed, you must appear at the office where you submitted the application to be notified of the approval. The foreign national can then present themselves at the corresponding Argentine Consulate to obtain their visa.

Validity of Argentine Investment Visa/Residency

3 years

Temporary residence for up to THREE (3) years

 

Conclusion

Argentina’s economic policies are evolving rapidly. To gain deeper insights into how historical economic trends and new reforms impact investors, read our in-depth article here.

If you’re looking to apply for an Argentina Investment Visa, our expert team can guide you through the process, ensuring a seamless transition into Argentina’s dynamic business landscape. The Temporary Residence Program for Investors in Argentina, designed to catalyze the country’s economic growth, invites foreign investors to contribute with substantial investments, exceeding US$ 30,000. This opportunity provides access to a country rich in resources and possibilities, guiding significant investments in various key sectors. Although the application process demands attention to detail, the importance of financial legitimacy and potential economic impact is highlighted, validated through a bank authorized by the BCRA, and accurate translations of documents in languages other than Spanish.

Consider Immi.Legal as your strategic ally during this process. Our commitment to transparency and diligence ensures that your application meets the highest standards. This meticulous yet efficient program not only stimulates Argentina’s economic growth but also opens substantial opportunities for global investors looking to participate in the vibrant economic landscape of the country. Trust us to guide you successfully in your quest for Temporary Residence for Argentine Investors. Contact us for a personalized consultation on the Argentina Investment Visa and business opportunities.