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Argentina Visa Types and Requirements

Planning a trip to Argentina? Make sure you are well-informed about the Argentina visa requirements, immigration to Argentina, and other travel regulations to ensure a seamless and stress-free experience. Argentina is a captivating country, known for its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and exciting adventures. Whether you are visiting temporarily or for an extended period, understanding the travel requirements to Argentina is essential for a memorable journey.

argentina visa requirements

What You Need to Enter Argentina

Before embarking on your Argentine escapade, take note that certain documents and procedures are mandatory. For instance, most travelers need a valid passport with a minimum validity of six months from the date of entry. Additionally, depending on your nationality, you may be required to obtain a tourist visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (AVE) before arriving in Argentina. Travel insurance that covers medical emergencies is now mandatory for all visitors, and you may be asked to show proof of coverage at the border. ?  Familiarize yourself with the specific visa requirements that apply to your country of origin, and ensure all necessary paperwork is completed well in advance. By being well-prepared and meeting the travel requirements to Argentina, you can set yourself up for an incredible adventure in this breathtaking South American nation. 

These are key components of the overall Argentina immigration requirements and must be fulfilled whether you’re visiting or planning to move to Argentina more permanently.

Visa Category Must Match Your Residency Intentions in Argentina

When it comes to legally entering Argentina, there are various visa types available for travelers. These visa options cater to different purposes and durations of stay in the country. Whether you are planning to visit as a tourist, a student, or for business purposes, understanding the different visa categories can help you navigate the process more effectively. Provision 1520/2024, issued by the National Direction of Migration, sets rules for people entering, staying, and leaving Argentina under Migration Law No. 25,871 and Decree No. 616/10. According to this rule, people who entered with a rentista visa must remain as rentista residents, and those who entered with a student visa must stay as student residents. It is not as easy to change the category as it was before. Previously, people could enter with a tourist visa and change their category within the country. Now they need to leave the country and reenter with the desired visa category, similar to the process in the USA. 

If you’re planning to immigrate to Argentina, it’s important to understand that changing your immigration category inside the country is highly not recommended. For those asking, “Can I move to Argentina on a tourist visa and switch later to residency?” — we highly recommend not to do that. You’ll need to apply for the correct visa from abroad before making your move to Argentina.

Argentina Immigration Requires Declaring Your True Purpose Before Entry

Starting in 2025, Argentina’s immigration authorities will require all foreign nationals to declare the true purpose of their visit before entering the country, as mandated by Article 34 of Migration Law 25.871 and Decree 366/2025. If immigration officials determine that a traveler’s real intention does not match the visa category they used to enter, such as arriving as a tourist but intending to study, work, or stay long-term, they can be denied entry immediately and face a minimum five-year re-entry ban under Article 35. As part of the updated Argentina immigration requirements, travelers must apply for the correct visa in advance and ensure their entry purpose aligns with their declared intention. This helps avoid legal issues, rejections, or expulsion from the country.

New 2025 Immigration Law: Entry Denied if Purpose Doesn’t Match Visa Declaration

According to new immigration law change published on May 28, 2025 of Argentina’s immigration regulations, the National Directorate of Migration has the authority to immediately reject and prevent the entry of any foreign national if there is a well-founded suspicion that the true purpose of their visit differs from what they declared when applying for a visa or at the point of immigration control. This regulation, supported by Provision 92016 and Decree 366/2025, highlights the importance of transparency and consistency in immigration processes.

Argentine Tourist Visa Category Explained

Understanding the right visa path is the first step toward getting your Argentina residence permit or even Argentina permanent residency in the future.

One common visa type is the Tourist Visa, which allows individuals to explore Argentina for a temporary period. This visa typically grants a stay of up to 90 days and is suitable for leisure travel, sightseeing, and visiting family or friends.

1.  If you’re from a visa-free country, you may be eligible to apply for the TIE 24H Electronic Entry Permit for short-term business, academic, or professional visits. More details on how to process 24H is explained below on this page. 
2.  If your country is AVE-eligible, you can apply for the Electronic Travel Authorization online.
3.  If your country requires a visa, you must apply directly through the nearest Argentine Embassies and Consulates before traveling.

By familiarizing yourself with the different visa types and understanding their respective requirements, you can ensure a smooth entry into Argentina and make the most of your time in this remarkable destination.

Other Argentina Visa Types

– Business visa: Allows for a maximum stay of 60 days and can be applied for at any Consular Office of the Argentine Republic.

– Family reunification visa: Applications for this visa can only be made at the Consular Office of the Argentine Republic in the place of residence of the foreign national.

– Student visa +365 days: For studying in Argentina for a period exceeding 365 days, applications must be submitted at the Consular Office of the Argentine Republic. –

Student visa -365 days: For studying in Argentina for a period less than 365 days, applications can be made at the Consular Office of the Argentine Republic.

– Syria program: A special program coordinated by the Dirección Nacional de Migraciones for the implementation of activities related to Syrian immigrants.

– Tourist visa: Required for tourists visiting Argentina, information can be found on the website of Dirección Nacional de Migraciones.

– Visa by nationality: Applications for this visa type must be made at the Consular Office of the Argentine Republic in the foreign national’s place of residence.

– Working visa: Applications for a working visa must be submitted at the Consular Office of the Argentine Republic in the foreign national’s place of residence.

 

Entry Permits for Foreigners to Enter Argentina Explained

Entry permits play a crucial role for those who want to immigrate to Argentina for work, study, or family reasons and are part of the formal process to obtain residency in Argentina.

Foreigners residing abroad can apply for an entry permit letter to enter legally to Argentina. The National Directorate of Migration (DNM) issues the Entry Permit, which must be presented at the Argentine consulate with jurisdiction over the applicant’s place of residence. Once the visa is processed and the foreigner enters the country, they must apply for a DNI at the National Registry of Persons within 60 business days if applicable.

An approved Entry Permit from Argentina’s immigration authority directly means your visa is already pre-authorized and will significantly increases your chances of being granted the visa by the Argentine consulate. 

Types of Entry Permits to Enter Argentina

1. Permanent Entry Permit

Entry Permit Letter for Permanent Residence is for individuals seeking permanent residence based on family ties.

Beneficiaries - Who Can Apply?

  • Spouse, parent, or child of a native, naturalized, or optional Argentine citizen.
  • Spouse, parent, or child under 18 (not emancipated) or an adult with disabilities of a permanent resident.

Required Documentation

  • Identity documents of the applicant and representative.
  • Proof of relationship (birth/marriage certificate, cohabitation certificate).
  • Financial solvency proof (pay stubs, income certifications).
  • Application note detailing personal information and intended residence.

2. Temporary Entry Permit

Entry Permit Letter for Temporary Residence is for foreigners seeking temporary residence under specific categories:

3. Transitory Entry Permit

For short-term stays under specific provisions:

    •   Academics
    •   Fellows
    •   Business Professionals
    •   Interns
    •   Cultural Exchange and Volunteering
    •   Student Exchange Programs
    •   International Mobility Students
    •   Non-Official Education Students
    •   Amateur Athletes
Entry Permit Letter for Spanish Language Education Programs

Under Article 24(h) of Law 25.871 and Article 8 of Provision DNM No. 2802/2023, foreigners entering Argentina to attend Spanish language courses may apply for a Transitorial Entry Permit. The application must be submitted by an educational entity registered with Re.NURE or its authorized representative. Required documents include proof of Re.NURE registration, power of attorney, student passport, and electronic enrollment confirmation (Constancia de Inscripcion). All foreign documents must be legalized and, if needed, officially translated. Applications must be submitted with an appointment via [email protected], and once approved, the applicant will be notified to proceed with the visa at the Argentine Consulate.

Delivering a Spanish School Invitation Letter to the Consulate

To submit an invitation letter from a Spanish language school (or any institution) to the Argentine consulate online, the inviting party in Argentina must be registered in the RENURE system. Once registered, they can issue an electronic invitation via the TAD (Trámites a Distancia) platform. This digital process eliminates the need for physical mailing or notarization. The inviter logs into the platform using their CUIT/CUIL and AFIP credentials, selects the relevant consulate, inputs the foreign invitee’s details, attaches the required documents (including the RENURE certificate, invitation letter and the passport copy), and submits the invitation. The consulate will process the visa after confirming it has received the digital invitation and the foreigner formally applies.

4. Electronic Entry Processing - TIE 24H Explained

Foreigners from visa-exempt countries under Art. 24, paragraph a) “Tourist” of Law 25.871 may apply for an electronic entry permit. 

For short-term professional, academic, or business visits, travelers from visa-exempt countries can apply for the TIE 24H Electronic Entry Permit before arrival. This digital permit allows stays of up to 1 or 2 months, depending on the activity, and is commonly used by technical workers, artists, athletes, business travelers, and digital nomads.

Key Points

  • Processing time: 10 business days.
  • The applicant must not enter Argentina before the application is resolved.
  • The permit is valid for three months for first use.
  • Upon entry, the authorized stay period begins.

Applicable Categories

  • Business Activities
  • Market Research and Fairs
  • Scientific, Technical, and Artistic Tasks
  • Digital Nomads
  • Students
  • Cultural and Student Exchange Programs
  • Interns
  • Amateur Athletes

Submission or In-Person Application Process

  1. Appointment Request
  2. Document Submission: Submit the application and required documents to the DNM at Av. Antártida Argentina 1355, CABA, or at regional offices.
  3. Application Monitoring: Track the status of the application.
  4. Approval Notification: Once approved, the applicant is informed and must visit the Argentine consulate to obtain the visa.
    Some Consulates do not process Rentista Applications. 

Electronic Entry Processing (TIE 24H)

Electronic Entry Processing (TIE 24H)

Documentation Requirements

  • All documents must be presented in original and simple copy or certified by a notary.
  • Foreign documents must have an Apostille or consular legalization.
  • Non-Spanish documents must be translated by a certified translator and legalized.

Feel free to reach out to us via email, phone/WhatsApp, or social media channels to avail of our services and make your visa application process smoother and more successful. 

Chinese Citizens with U.S. Visa Can Enter Argentina Visa-Free

Starting July 22, 2025, Chinese citizens with ordinary passports and a valid U.S. visa (such as a B1/B2 visa for tourism or business) can enter Argentina for up to 30 days without requiring an Argentine visa or electronic travel authorization (AVE). This decision aims to boost tourism, cultural exchange, and business opportunities—especially with the upcoming Antarctic cruise season. China is the world’s leading spender in outbound tourism, offering major potential for Argentina’s tourism industry and local economies. This follows a similar move by China, which, as of June 1, 2025, allows Argentinians to enter China without a visa for one year. The Argentine-Chinese Chamber of Commerce, especially businessman Fernando Lin, played a key role in pushing for this change. We also now offer visa services to help Chinese citizens apply for U.S. visas—once approved, they can travel to Argentina visa-free under this new rule, as outlined in Resolution 316/2025 published in the Official Gazette on July 21, 2025.

Electronic Travel Authorization (AVE) for Tourists Visiting Argentina

The National Migration Directorate in Argentina has announced that they are now accepting applications for the Electronic Travel Authorization (AVE) for foreigners who want to visit Argentina as tourists. To be eligible, you need to have a valid visa from the United States or meet certain exemption criteria. The AVE will allow you to stay in Argentina for up to three months, with the flexibility to enter and exit the country multiple times. The Directorate will review your application within 20 business days and may extend the processing time if necessary. It’s important to follow the visa rules and make sure your visa is valid for the entire duration of your stay in Argentina.

Eligible Countries for Electronic Travel Authorization (AVE)

The citizens of the following countries are eligible for the Electronic Travel Authorization (AVE). 

Steps to Apply for Argentina’s AVE (Electronic Travel Authorization)

1. Eligibility Check: Ensure that you meet the criteria for the AVE, such as holding a valid visa in certain categories issued by the United States or meeting exemption requirements based on previous travel history.
2. Online Application: Complete the AVE application form online with accurate and up-to-date personal information.
3. Supporting Documents: Prepare any necessary supporting documents, such as a valid passport, proof of visa or exemption eligibility, and any other required documentation as specified by the authorities.
4. Fee Payment: Pay the applicable fee for the AVE processing. The payment can usually be made online through the designated payment portal. 5. Submission and Processing: Submit your completed application along with the supporting documents and payment receipt. The National Migration Directorate will review your application within the specified timeframe, typically 20 business days, and may extend the processing time if necessary. 6. Approval or Rejection: The Directorate will make a decision regarding your AVE application and notify you of its outcome. If approved, you will receive the AVE, which will be valid for the specified period. It is important to follow all instructions provided by the authorities and ensure that you have met all requirements before submitting your application. It is recommended to carefully review the guidelines provided by the National Migration Directorate or consult with an immigration professional for specific and up-to-date information regarding the AVE processing procedure.

Consultations, Invitation Letters, Document Submission, and Interview Preparation

We’re pleased to support your evaluation of potential entry strategies into Argentina — whether for tourism or long-term relocation from China. Our company offers a wide range of services to assist you in your travel endeavors. Whether you require consultation, invitation letters for tourism or or long-term stay, medical treatment purposes, document submission for study permits, or interview preparation with visa officers, our team is dedicated to providing comprehensive assistance to enhance your chances of visa approval.

If you’re planning to move to Argentina, apply for an entry permit from the Buenos Aires Head Office of the Migration Directorate for your long-term stay, , or get help with your Argentina residence permit, our team is here to guide you. Whether you’re just starting to research how to move to Argentina or already preparing documents for Argentina PR, we provide full support. Contact us today to schedule your personalized consultation and take the first step toward your successful journey to Argentina.