How to Get a Visa to Argentina
Argentina is known for its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and thriving business opportunities. Many travellers can visit visa-free, but some nationalities must obtain a visa in advance. If you’re planning to study, work, or live long-term, you’ll need a residence visa or permit.
This guide explains who needs a visa, the main visa types, and how to apply.
1. Do You Need a Visa?
- Visa-free entry:
Citizens of most European Union countries, UK, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, South Africa and many others can visit Argentina visa-free for up to 90 days for tourism or business. - Visa required:
Nationals of India, China, Russia, Nigeria, Pakistan, Vietnam, and most African/Middle Eastern countries must apply for a tourist or business visa before travelling. - Long-term stays:
Anyone planning to study, work, retire, or live in Argentina longer than 90 days must apply for a residence visa.
✅ Check requirements at Argentina’s official immigration site: https://www.argentina.gob.ar/interior/migraciones
2. Main Visa Types
| Visa Type | Purpose | Stay Allowed |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist Visa | Tourism, visiting family/friends | 90 days (extendable once) |
| Business Visa | Meetings, conferences, trade | 90 days |
| Transit Visa | Passing through Argentina | Up to 10 days |
| Student Visa | Full-time study | Duration of course |
| Work Visa (Residence) | Employment with Argentine company | 1 year renewable |
| Digital Nomad Visa | Remote work for foreign income | 6 months + 6-month renewal |
| Temporary Residence | Family reunification, investors, retirees | 1–3 years renewable |
| Permanent Residence | Long-term settlement | Indefinite (after 2–3 years of temporary residence) |
3. Applying for a Tourist or Business Visa
Step 1 — Where to Apply
- Apply at the Argentine Embassy or Consulate in your country of residence.
- Some travellers can apply through official visa centres if available.
Step 2 — Prepare Required Documents
Typically required:
- Passport valid 6+ months with at least 2 blank pages
- Completed visa application form
- Recent passport photo (white background)
- Proof of return/onward travel
- Hotel reservation or invitation letter from host
- Proof of funds (bank statements, employment letter)
- Travel insurance (recommended)
- Visa fee payment
💡 Business visitors may need an invitation letter from the Argentine company or organisation hosting them.
Step 3 — Submit Application
- Schedule an appointment at your nearest consulate or visa centre.
- Attend in person (biometrics and interview may be required).
Step 4 — Pay the Visa Fee
- Tourist/Business visa: usually USD $50–150 (varies by nationality).
Step 5 — Wait for Processing
- Standard time: 5–10 working days (may take longer during busy seasons).
4. Extending a Tourist Stay
- You can extend your 90-day tourist stay for another 90 days at the Dirección Nacional de Migraciones office in Argentina.
- Extension fee: ~ARS 6,000–10,000 (check updated rates).
5. Long-Term Visas & Residency
Work Visa
- Requires a job offer from an Argentine company registered with the National Registry of Petitioners of Foreigners.
- Company sponsors your work contract and residency permit.
- Apply at the Argentine consulate with:
- Work contract
- Police clearance certificate
- Apostilled/legalised documents (translated into Spanish)
Student Visa
- Requires an acceptance letter from a registered Argentine educational institution.
- Proof of funds and health insurance usually required.
Digital Nomad Visa
- For remote workers with foreign income.
- Requires proof of freelance/remote contracts and monthly income (typically USD $1,500+).
- Valid for 6 months, renewable once for another 6 months.
Family/Investor/Retiree Residency
- Family: For spouses/parents/children of Argentine citizens or permanent residents.
- Investors: Show significant investment in Argentina.
- Retirees: Proof of monthly pension (~USD $2,000+).
6. Visa Fees (2025)
| Visa Type | Approx. Fee |
|---|---|
| Tourist Visa | USD $50–150 |
| Business Visa | USD $50–150 |
| Transit Visa | USD $40–60 |
| Student Visa | USD $100–150 |
| Work/Temporary Residence Visa | USD $200–300 |
| Digital Nomad Visa | ~USD $200 |
| Permanent Residence | USD $300+ |
Fees vary by nationality and consulate; always check local rates.
7. Tips for a Smooth Application
- Apply early: At least 3–4 weeks before travel; longer for work or residence visas.
- Use official channels: Only apply through Argentina’s government or your local consulate — avoid third-party agencies unless authorised.
- Translate and legalise documents: Long-term visas require Spanish translations by certified translators and apostille/legalisation.
- Have proof of funds: Bank statements or income letters help avoid refusal.
- Travel insurance recommended: Especially for longer stays.
- Digital Nomads: Start gathering contracts and income proof early — processing can take several weeks.
Quick Pre-Travel Checklist
- Passport valid 6+ months with blank pages
- Completed visa application form
- Passport photo (recent, white background)
- Return/onward ticket
- Hotel or host invitation letter
- Bank statements/proof of funds
- Travel insurance (recommended)
- Apostilled/translated documents (if long-term visa)