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Argentina Company Registration: Plan for Tourism Business
Argentina is full of diverse landscapes, rich culture, and growing international appeal, making it an attractive place for tourism investment. For companies that want to take advantage of this opportunity, it’s important to have a clear work plan. This plan should cover more about the process and opportunities around Argentina company registration, as well as the legal, operational, and market steps needed to start and grow a business. Below is a simple action plan divided into key phases.
For companies seeking to capitalize on this potential, a structured work plan is crucial to navigate the country’s Argentina company registration, legal, operational, and market environment. To learn more about the different company types and step-by-step registration process, see our Argentina Company Registration Guide
1º Phase : Market Research and Feasibility (1-2 Months)
This initial phase is fundamental to understanding the terrain and defining the market niche.
– Market Trend Analysis: Research current tourism trends in Argentina. Key trends include strong growth in domestic tourism, increasing demand for nature and adventure tourism, and sustained interest in authentic cultural and gastronomic experiences. The sector is projected to continue growing in 2025 and beyond.
– Identification of High-Demand Sub-sectors: Evaluate niches with high potential, such as ecotourism, wine tourism (especially in the Cuyo region), adventure tourism in Patagonia, rural tourism in the Pampas, and cultural tourism in the Northwest.
– Selection of Investment Region: Analyze regions with the highest tourist flows and potential.
○ Buenos Aires (Investment Tours): The main entry point, focusing on cultural, gastronomic, and business tourism.
○ Patagonia (Bariloche, El Calafate, Ushuaia): High international demand for nature tourism, trekking, skiing, and breathtaking landscapes.
○ Cuyo (Mendoza, Cordoba, San Juan): The epicenter of wine and adventure tourism.
○ Northwest (Salta, Jujuy): Strong cultural appeal, unique landscapes, and community-based tourism.
○ Litoral (Iguazú): Focus on one of the world’s natural wonders.
– Definition of Target Audience: Determine the ideal customer profile, considering both national and international tourists (with a significant flow from Brazil and other Latin American countries, as well as Europe and North America).
–Financial Feasibility Study: Develop a preliminary budget that considers startup, operational, staffing, and marketing costs, as well as revenue projections.
2º Phase: Legal and Regulatory Framework (2-3 Months)
Navigating the Argentine legal system is a critical step that requires meticulous attention.
– Company Incorporation:
1. Choice of Business Structure: The most common forms for foreign investment are the Limited Liability Company (Sociedad de Responsabilidad Limitada – S.R.L.) and the Corporation (Sociedad Anónima – S.A.). Generally, there are no restrictions on foreign ownership in the tourism sector.
2.Company Registration: This process includes reserving the company name, drafting and notarizing the articles of association, depositing the initial capital in the Banco de la Nación Argentina, and registering with the corresponding Public Registry of Commerce.
3. Obtaining the CUIT: Apply for the Unique Tax Identification Key (Clave Única de Identificación Tributaria – CUIT) from the Federal Administration of Public Revenue (AFIP), which is the company’s tax identification number.
– Tourism Licenses and Permits:
1. National Registration: Depending on the type of business, it may be necessary to register with national registries. The most important is the National Registry of Travel Agencies (Registro Nacional de Agencias de Viajes) for companies that sell tour packages.
2. Provincial and Municipal Authorizations: This is a crucial step. Each province and municipality has its own regulations and requirements for licensing tourist accommodations (hotels, inns, etc.), tour operators, and adventure tourism companies. It is essential to contact the Tourism Secretariats or Ministries of the province and municipality where the business will be established to obtain the specific requirements.
3. Specific Regulations: Research the particular legislation for the chosen sub-sector. For example, adventure tourism often requires certified guides and compliance with specific safety standards.
Compliance with the National Tourism Law (No. 25,997): Familiarize yourself with this law, which declares tourism an activity of national interest and establishes the principles of sustainability, quality, and accessibility that govern the sector.
3º Phase: Operational Setup (3-4 Months)
This phase focuses on building the business’s physical and human infrastructure.
Property Search and Acquisition:
○ Cost Analysis: Research the prices of commercial property rentals and purchases in the selected region.
○ Real Estate Legislation: Argentine law allows foreigners to acquire urban and tourist-area properties without major restrictions. Legal advice is recommended for the purchase process.
○ Construction/Renovation Permits: If building or remodeling, the corresponding permits must be obtained from the local municipality.
Hiring and Labor Legislation:
○ Legal Framework: The Argentine labor market is regulated by the Labor Contract Law. Aspects to consider include the standard work week (48 hours), paid vacations, the mandatory semi-annual bonus (aguinaldo), and collective bargaining agreements specific to the tourism sector.
○ Hiring Process: Define the necessary profiles, conduct the personnel search, and formalize employment contracts in writing.
○ Employee Registration: Register employees with the AFIP and social security agencies.
Supplier and Partnership Development:
○ Identify and establish relationships with local suppliers (transportation, catering, etc.).
○ Forge strategic alliances with travel agencies, local tour operators, hotels, and other companies in the sector to create a collaborative network.
Qualified Person Requirement for EVT Authorization in Argentina
To open an EVT (Empresa de Viajes y Turismo, National Travel and Tourism Company) in Argentina, the law requires a qualified person, usually a licensed tour guide with the right credentials. The company must officially hire this guide, either with an employment contract (registered with ARCA and including wages and benefits) or a service contract (paid by invoice or agreement). However, in Argentina, service contracts can sometimes be treated as employment by the courts if a dispute arises. That’s why it’s important to get legal advice and the correct paperwork before choosing this option.
4º Phase: Marketing and Sales Strategy (Ongoing)
After the operation is successfully established, the focus shifts to customer acquisition.
Brand Development and Online Presence
○ Create a strong brand identity that reflects the company’s value proposition.
○ Develop a professional website with an integrated booking engine.
○ Implement an SEO (Search Engine Optimization) strategy to rank in searches related to tourism in Argentina.
Digital Marketing
1 ) Social Media: Use platforms like YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok to visually showcase the attractions of the services and destinations offered, engaging with the audience.
2 ) Content Marketing: Create blogs, videos, and guides that provide value to potential travelers.
3 ) Online Advertising: Consider paid advertising campaigns on Google Ads and social media to reach specific audience segments.
Social media influencers, SEO specialists, digital marketers, and content writers are welcome to submit their proposals to connect their services with our investors who wish to set up companies and achieve top rankings in Argentina. Please send your inquiries to [email protected] with the subject line: “Digital Marketing Service Proposal for High-Net-Worth Entrepreneurs in Argentina.
Distribution Channels
○ Establish relationships with Online Travel Agencies (OTAs) and wholesale tour operators.
○ Participate in industry fairs and events, such as Hotelga in Buenos Aires, to generate contacts and business.
Tourist Incentives
Actively communicate existing benefits for foreign tourists, such as the VAT (21%) refund on accommodation services, which represents a competitive advantage.
5º Phase: Management and Growth (Ongoing)
The final phase focuses on daily management, evaluation, and long-term expansion.
– Financial and Accounting Management: Keep detailed records of income and expenses, and comply with monthly and annual tax obligations in Argentina.
– Performance Evaluation: Constantly monitor Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) such as occupancy rate, number of clients, customer profitability, and customer satisfaction.
– Seeking Support and Funding:
○ Approach the Argentine Chamber of Tourism (Cámara Argentina de Turismo – CAT) for information, resources, and networking opportunities.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming an Importer in Argentina
Importing goods into Argentina involves a structured process that requires legal registration, adherence to customs procedures, and compliance with tax regulations. This guide outlines the essential steps for individuals or companies looking to operate as importers in the country.
1. Legal Constitution of the Company ⚖
The first step is to decide which type of business entity best suits your project. The most common ones in Argentina are:
– Sociedad de Responsabilidad Limitada (S.R.L.) – Limited Liability Company: This is ideal for SMEs (Small and Medium-sized Enterprises). The capital is divided into “cuotas” (equity quotas), and the partners’ liability is limited to the capital they have contributed. It requires a minimum of two and a maximum of fifty partners. Its formation is relatively simpler and less expensive than an S.A.
– Sociedad Anónima (S.A.) – Corporation: Designed for large-scale projects seeking investors. The capital is represented by shares. The shareholders’ liability is also limited to their subscribed capital. Its structure is more complex and costly, with greater oversight requirements.
– Sociedad por Acciones Simplificada (S.A.S.) – Simplified Shares Company: A modern and flexible option designed for entrepreneurs. It can be established quickly and digitally (within 24 hours in jurisdictions like the City of Buenos Aires). It allows for a single shareholder (becoming an S.A.U.) and has more adaptable bylaws.
– Monotributo – Simplified Tax Regime: This is not a type of company but a simplified regime for small taxpayers (freelancers, tradespeople, small merchants). It unifies the payment of VAT and Income Tax with social security contributions (pension and health care) into a single monthly fee. It is the simplest option to start with but has annual revenue limits.
Steps for Formation:
1. Define partners and share capital.
2. Draft the articles of association or bylaws with a lawyer or public notary.
3. Register the company with the Public Registry of Commerce of the corresponding jurisdiction (e.g., the IGJ in the City of Buenos Aires).
4. Obtain the CUIT (Unique Tax Identification Key) from the AFIP (Federal Administration of Public Revenue).
2. Tax and Accounting Aspects
As soon as the company is incorporated, it must comply with its tax and accounting obligations.
Main Taxes:
● Value Added Tax (VAT – IVA): This is a consumption tax. The general rate is 21%, although there are differential rates (10.5% for certain capital goods and 27% for some public utilities). It is declared and paid monthly to the AFIP.
● Income Tax (Impuesto a las Ganancias): This tax is levied on the company’s profits. The corporate rate is progressive, starting at 25% for the first brackets of net taxable income and reaching up to 35%. It is paid annually.
● Gross Revenue Tax (Ingresos Brutos – IIBB): This is a provincial tax levied on the company’s total turnover (gross revenue). The rate varies depending on the jurisdiction and the business activity (generally between 3% and 5%). It is declared and paid monthly.
● Municipal Taxes: Each municipality can establish fees for health and safety, advertising, etc.
Accounting Aspects:
● Mandatory Accounting Books: Companies (S.R.L., S.A.) must maintain mandatory accounting books (Journal, Inventory and Balance Sheet Book, etc.), which must be officially stamped by the Public Registry.
● Invoicing: It is mandatory to issue electronic invoices for all sales of goods or services through the AFIP’s online system.
● Annual Financial Statements: At the end of each fiscal year, a balance sheet must be prepared that reflects the company’s financial, economic, and equity position. It must be certified by a Public Accountant and filed with the relevant control agencies.
3. Obligations Towards Employees
Hiring staff involves a series of fundamental legal and economic responsibilities. Registration and Hiring:
● Employee Registration: Before the employee starts working, they must be registered in the AFIP’s “Mi Simplificación” system. This formalizes the employment relationship.
● Employment Contract: Although a verbal agreement is valid, it is always advisable to have a written contract specifying the working conditions (position, hours, salary, etc.).
● ART (Workplace Risk Insurer): It is mandatory to hire an ART to cover work-related accidents and occupational diseases. The premium is paid monthly.
● Mandatory Life Insurance: A life insurance policy must be taken out for all employees in a dependency relationship.
Social Security and Remuneration:
● Contributions and Withholdings: From the employee’s gross salary, the employer must withhold the employee’s personal contributions (17%) and pay the employer’s contributions (approximately 24-26%, depending on the company). These funds are allocated to:
○ Argentine Integrated Pension System (SIPA) – Retirement.
○ National Institute of Social Services for Retirees and Pensioners (PAMI).
○ Health Insurance (Obra Social).
○ National Employment Fund.
○ Family Allowances.
● Supplementary Annual Salary (SAC or Aguinaldo): This corresponds to an additional month’s salary per year, paid in two installments: one in June and one in December.
● Payslip: A monthly payslip must be issued, detailing all paid items and deductions made.
● Collective Bargaining Agreement (Convenio Colectivo de Trabajo – CCT): It is crucial to identify the CCT that applies to the company’s industry. This agreement establishes minimum salary scales, job categories, vacation periods, leave, and other working conditions specific to the sector.
4. REGISTER AS AN IMPORTER/EXPORTER
Having a CUIT obtained, you must officially register in the Special Customs Registry (Registro de Importadores y Exportadores), which is managed by the DGA (General Customs Directorate), a division of AFIP. This single registration is valid for both importing and exporting.
Key Requirements for Registration:
1. Tax Compliance: You must be registered for relevant national taxes, primarily VAT (IVA) and Profits Tax (Impuesto a las Ganancias), and be in good standing with no outstanding tax debts.
2. No Criminal Record: For companies, the directors and legal representatives must provide a certificate of good conduct (Certificado de Antecedentes Penales).
3. Biometric Data Registration: The company’s legal representatives must register their signature, photo, and fingerprint digitally in the AFIP’s “Sistema Registral.”
