How to Obtain Argentine Citizenship, And What an Argentine Passport Offers

Argentina is among the most open Latin American countries for immigrants. In 2023 alone, more than 65,000 foreigners received residence permits, and overall migration inflows increased by nearly 40% compared to pre-pandemic levels.

There are two main drivers behind this demand: a strong passport and a relatively simple path to citizenship after just two years of residence. Unlike most European and North American countries, Argentina does not require renouncing prior citizenship.

In this article, we will take a detailed look at how to obtain Argentine citizenship and what steps must precede it.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Living in Argentina

Argentina combines a high level of social protection with chronic economic instability. It is not a typical emigration destination, yet it offers one of the legally easiest paths to citizenship in the world.

Advantages of moving to Argentina:

• Liberal immigration system. Argentina allows foreigners to legalize their stay for virtually any reason. The minimum required period of residence to apply for citizenship is only two years.
• Comprehensive social policies. Public universities and hospitals are open not only to citizens but to all residents, including temporary ones.
• Low cost of living for those with foreign currency income. With annual inflation exceeding 180%, those earning in U.S. dollars or euros can enjoy a comfortable standard of living.
• Dual citizenship allowed. Argentina does not require renunciation of previous citizenships. The Argentine passport grants visa-free access to around 170 countries, including the entire Schengen Area, the United Kingdom, and Japan.

Disadvantages of relocation to Argentina:

• Macroeconomic instability. The country suffers from a chronic budget deficit. The gap between official and informal exchange rates reaches 30–40%, making financial planning and savings difficult.
• Currency controls. Since 2019, Argentina has maintained a foreign exchange control regime that restricts the purchase and transfer of foreign currency abroad.
• Low government efficiency. Argentina ranks in the bottom third globally in terms of governance effectiveness. Procedures related to immigration and citizenship often take months or even years, and federal court decisions can vary by region and individual judge.
• Infrastructure issues. Power supply and internet access in provincial areas are unreliable: average connection speed is 50–60 Mbps, and power outages occur regularly. The transportation network outside the capital region remains underdeveloped.

Residence Permit (Residencia Temporaria) in Argentina

The core principle of Argentina’s immigration policy is accessibility of legal status for anyone who can demonstrate a legitimate basis for residence and a lawful source of income. The law sets no minimum investment thresholds and no language proficiency requirements. All residence permit categories grant the same basic rights — to live, study, work, and obtain a national ID card (Documento Nacional de Identidad, DNI).

Residence Permit Based on Foreign Income (Rentista Category)

The Rentista category is designed for foreign nationals who have a stable passive income from abroad, sufficient to support living in Argentina without local employment.

Requirements for the Argentine residency visa (Foreign Income Residency):

• Minimum monthly income: equivalent to at least $1500 in foreign currency (as per DNM, 2024). In practice, it is advisable to demonstrate $1800 or more due to exchange rate fluctuations.
• Source of income: regular transfers from abroad, such as dividends, rental income, interest on deposits, pensions, or income from trust management. Active employment for a foreign company is not considered passive income; a separate visa category applies in that case.

Required documents:

• Bank statements for the last 6 months, showing regular incoming payments;
• A bank letter confirming the stability and legitimacy of the income source;
• Notarized Spanish translation of all supporting documents;
• Police clearance certificate from the country of residence (with apostille);
• Proof of address in Argentina (rental contract or invitation letter from a host).

The Argentine residency by investment based on income is issued for 1 year, with the option to renew annually as long as the income source remains valid. After two consecutive years of residence, the holder becomes eligible to apply for permanent residency (Residencia Permanente).

Before relocating to Argentina under the foreign income category, it is important to note that entrepreneurial activity is permitted, but formal employment with an Argentine company requires additional authorization from the National Directorate of Migration (DNM).

Investor Residence Permit (Residencia Temporaria, Inversor)

The Investor Residence Permit in Argentina is designed for foreign nationals willing to invest capital in a local business, production, agriculture, or other approved economic activities. The applicant must invest a minimum of 1.5 million Argentine pesos (approximately $1500–1700) into the Argentine economy.

Although this official threshold has not been revised since 2010, in practice, the effective minimum investment ranges from $50,000 to $100,000, particularly for projects involving commercial operations or job creation.

Applicant requirements:

• Project Documentation. A detailed business plan describing the sector of activity, investment volume, funding sources, ownership structure, and the expected economic impact — such as job creation, export growth, or tax contributions.
• Financial Proof. Bank statements demonstrating the availability and lawful origin of funds intended for transfer to Argentina.
• DNM Authorization. The investment project must be pre-approved by the Dirección Nacional de Migraciones (DNM) in coordination with the Ministry of Industry or Ministry of Economy. This review process represents a practical bottleneck and typically takes 2 to 4 months.
• Proof of Funds Origin. Official confirmation that the invested capital has legitimate and traceable sources.

Recognized Investment Forms (per DNM regulations):

• Establishing or acquiring a share in an Argentine company.
• Purchasing commercial or industrial property used for business operations.
• Investing in agriculture, processing, or export-oriented enterprises.
• Funding startups or IT ventures, provided the entity is officially registered in Argentina as a Sociedad Anónima (SA) or Sociedad por Acciones Simplificada (SAS).

The process begins with the submission of an application and business plan to the DNM. If the proposal is approved by the relevant ministry, the applicant receives preliminary authorization to proceed.

At that point, the investor must transfer the funds to an Argentine bank account and register a legal entity. After the investment is officially verified through documentation, the applicant is granted a one-year residence permit, which may later be renewed. After two years, it can be converted into permanent residency, which makes the holder eligible for Argentine citizenship after an additional 2 years.

Residence Permit for Employment (Residencia Temporaria, Trabajo)

The work visa is intended for foreigners who come to Argentina to engage in formal employment. The sponsoring employer must be registered with RENURE (National Registry of Petitioners of Foreign Applicants), hold a valid tax identification number (CUIT), and maintain current compliance with AFIP (the Argentine tax authority).

The application for hiring a foreign employee is submitted by the employer, after which the Dirección Nacional de Migraciones (DNM) issues a temporary residency in Argentina valid for one year, tied specifically to the employment contract.

Key requirements:

• Employment Contract. The contract must be in written form and registered with the Ministry of Labor. It must specify the job title, responsibilities, and duration of employment (typically one year). The salary, which cannot be lower than the national minimum wage — 234,000 ARS per month in 2025, approximately $250 at the official exchange rate.
• Employer Registration. Only companies accredited with RENURE are authorized to sponsor foreign workers. To obtain accreditation, the company must demonstrate tax compliance, financial solvency, no outstanding obligations to AFIP, lawful operation, and registration under Argentine commercial law.
• Employee Documentation. The foreign applicant must submit a valid passport, police clearance certificates from both the country of origin and Argentina (if the applicant has lived in Argentina for more than six months), a copy of the registered employment contract and the employer’s CUIT, proof of medical insurance valid in Argentina.

Residence for Freelancers and Remote Workers (Digital Nomad Visa)

The Argentine Digital Nomad Visa is intended for self-employed professionals and remote workers whose income comes from foreign clients or employers. Unlike standard residence permits, this is not a full residency status but rather a long-stay authorization that allows foreigners to live in Argentina for up to 12 months, with the possibility of one extension.

Key parameters:

• Validity period: from 6 to 12 months, renewable once for an additional 6–12 months.
• Status type: temporary stay (Residencia Transitoria) — it does not directly lead to permanent residency (PR) but may be counted toward future residency applications in other categories.
• Employment rights: limited — holders may work only for foreign companies or clients outside Argentina.
• Issuance process: fully online through the official portal Migraciones.gob.ar, without the need to leave Argentina (applicants already in the country on a tourist visa can apply).

Applicant requirements:

• Age and nationality: must be over 18 years old and a citizen of a non-MERCOSUR country.
• Proof of remote employment: contract with a foreign company, freelancer registration or self-employment certificate, and evidence of ongoing payments (bank statements, invoices, or payment platform records such as Payoneer, Wise, etc.).
• Minimum income: at least $1500 per month.
• Health insurance: valid for the entire duration of stay.
• Police clearance certificate: from the country of citizenship.
• Document legalization: all documents must be translated into Spanish and apostilled.

Applications are submitted online through the DNM portal. The review process typically takes up to 30 business days. Once approved, the applicant receives an electronic entry authorization, which is then converted into a residence permit upon registration with the immigration authorities in Buenos Aires.

Student Residence Permit (Residencia Temporaria, Estudiante)

The Estudiante category is intended for foreign nationals enrolled in accredited educational institutions in Argentina. Eligible institutions include both public and private universities, institutes, colleges, Spanish language schools, and technical training centers. The key condition is having a valid enrollment certificate issued by an institution recognized by the Ministry of Education of Argentina (Ministerio de Educación).

Applicant requirements:

• Official Enrollment Letter (Certificado de Inscripción o Admisión): must specify the study program, duration, and format (on-site or distance learning).
• A valid passport and a passport-style photo meeting DNM specifications.
• Police clearance certificate from the country of origin.
• Proof of financial solvency: although no formal minimum is set by law, the DNM generally expects income or financial support equivalent to at least $500 per month.
• Health insurance covering the entire period of study.

The process begins when an educational institution accredited with RENURE issues an official invitation through the Dirección Nacional de Migraciones (DNM).
If the applicant meets all requirements, they are granted temporary student residence (Estudiante) for one year, renewable annually until completion of their academic program.

The student residence permit grants the right to study and reside freely anywhere in Argentina. However, employment is only allowed with a separate work authorization (autorización para trabajar) issued by the DNM upon request from the educational institution or employer

Residence Permit on Family Grounds (Residencia Temporaria, Familiar)

The Familiar category is granted to foreign nationals who have close family ties with Argentine citizens or with holders of permanent residency (Residencia Permanente). Unlike most other categories, this pathway involves a simplified procedure and allows relocation with children.

The following individuals qualify for a Residencia Temporaria (Familiar):

• Spouse of an Argentine citizen.
• Parent of a minor Argentine citizen (including a child born in Argentina to foreign parents).
• Minor or dependent child of an Argentine citizen.
• Spouse or child of a person holding permanent residence in Argentina.

Required documents:

• Valid passport.
• Marriage certificate or certificate of cohabitation (Certificado de Convivencia).
• Child’s birth certificate proving Argentine citizenship (for parents of Argentine minors).
• Police clearance certificates from both the country of origin and Argentina.
• Proof of address in Argentina;
• Passport-sized photo and payment receipt for the administrative fee (in 2025 — 27,000 ARS, approximately $30).

Applications can be submitted online through the DNM RaDEx platform or in person at the offices of the Dirección Nacional de Migraciones. Processing typically takes 30 to 90 days, after which a one-year temporary residence permit is issued, renewable on an annual basis.

Special cases:

• Birth of a Child in Argentina (Jus Soli Principle). If foreign nationals have a child in Argentina, and the child acquires Argentine citizenship by birth, the parents become eligible for temporary or permanent residence under Article 23(d) of Law No. 25.871. In practice, the DNM usually grants permanent residence immediately.
• Marriage or Cohabitation with an Argentine Citizen. The marriage must be officially registered with the Registro Civil. Cohabitation is recognized if confirmed by a Certificado de Convivencia, issued by the Juzgado de Paz (Civil Court). When applying for citizenship, Argentine courts take into account not only the duration of marriage but also evidence of actual cohabitation.

Permanent Residency in Argentina (Residencia Permanente)

Permanent residency in Argentina grants a foreign national full legal and social integration into Argentine society and represents the final stage before acquiring citizenship. Unlike most countries, where permanent residence is issued only after five to ten years of continuous stay, Argentina allows a person to apply for permanent residency after just two years of lawful residence under a temporary status. The key condition is continuous and legal residence in the country for at least two years under one of the temporary residence categories. Leaving Argentina is allowed, but absences must not exceed six consecutive months.

The process is fully standardized and carried out exclusively through the RaDEx (Radicación a Distancia) platform. This digital system is integrated with the databases of the National Directorate of Migration (DNM), the Federal Tax Authority (AFIP), and the Ministry of the Interior, which allows automatic verification of the applicant’s residence history, compliance with migration rules, and the absence of fines or penalties.

Main stages of obtaining permanent residency:

1. Online application submission. The applicant registers on migraciones.gob.ar, selects the option Cambio de categoría: de temporaria a permanente, and uploads digital copies of the passport, DNI, police clearance certificate, and supporting documents (such as an employment contract, marriage certificate, or bank statements).
2. Payment of the government fee. The fee, approximately $40 in 2025, is paid through PagoMisCuentas or the Banco Nación online system.
3. Interview and biometric registration. After preliminary review, DNM schedules an appointment for fingerprints and photographs. In some cases, a short interview is conducted to clarify the nature of residence — for example, whether the applicant lives in Argentina based on work, study, or family ties.
4. Appeal procedure in case of denial. If the application is rejected, the applicant may file a recurso jerárquico (hierarchical appeal) within ten business days. If the appeal is denied, the case can be submitted to the Federal Administrative Court of Buenos Aires (Juzgado Contencioso Administrativo Federal), which in practice often rules in favor of the applicant.

Permanent residence in Argentina is granted indefinitely. After two years of residence in this status, the holder becomes eligible to apply for Argentine citizenship. However, the main Argentina permanent residency requirement is not to remain outside the country for more than two consecutive years without notifying the DNM or to avoid serious violations of criminal or immigration law. If the holder breaches this rule, the immigration authorities will revoke their permanent resident status.

Argentine Citizenship

Argentina is one of the world’s most open countries for acquiring citizenship. A distinctive feature of the system is the absence of an administrative route: citizenship is granted exclusively through the courts by filing a petition with a federal civil court.

Under Argentine nationality law, a foreign national may become a citizen if they have resided in the country for at least two years, demonstrate honest conduct (conducta honesta) as assessed by the court, have no criminal convictions, and fulfill civic obligations.

Citizenship by Naturalization (Naturalización Judicial)

Argentina citizenship by naturalization is the main and most common path. The application is filed not with the immigration authority but with the Federal Civil Court at the applicant’s place of residence. The judge evaluates at least two years of residence in Argentina, honest behavior, social integration, and a lawful source of income. Neither knowledge of the Spanish language, nor the passing of any exams, nor the renunciation of previous citizenship is required. Moreover, Argentina officially recognizes dual citizenship with most countries.

Step-by-step procedure:

1. Preparation of the file. Passport, DNI, birth certificate, police clearances, proof of residential address, and evidence of income.
2. Filing in court. Submission personally or through an attorney to the competent Federal Civil Court; filing usually takes one day, and the first hearing is scheduled in about two to four months.
3. Verification. The court sends requests to DNM, the Ministry of the Interior, AFIP, and RENAPER to confirm lawful stay and compliance.
4. Interview with the judge. A brief conversation to assess basic Spanish, motivation, and integration.
5. Court decision. After reviewing the materials, the court issues a ruling granting citizenship; average processing time is six to twelve months.
6. Registration. Once final, the judgment is recorded by RENAPER; the applicant receives a DNI de ciudadano argentino and may apply for an Argentine passport.

Citizenship Through Marriage to an Argentine Citizen

Marriage to an Argentine citizen is treated not as a simplified version of naturalization but as an independent legal ground for obtaining citizenship. The courts operate under the presumption that a person bound by marriage to an Argentine national is already integrated into Argentine family and social life; therefore, the process of naturalization is effectively considered complete by virtue of the marriage itself.

Key conditions for obtaining Argentine citizenship by marriage:

• Legality of the marriage. The marriage must be officially registered in Argentina with the Registro Civil. Foreign marriages are recognized only after proper legalization and re-registration in Argentina.
• Genuineness of the relationship. Since 2015, judicial practice has placed strict emphasis on identifying sham marriages. Courts typically require evidence of cohabitation, such as joint utility bills or lease agreements, shared bank accounts, photographs, children, or witness testimonies.
• Absence of criminal record. As in standard naturalization, applicants must provide police clearance certificates from both Argentina and their country of origin.
• Social integration. While the law does not explicitly require proof of income or employment, in practice, particularly in Buenos Aires and Córdoba, courts often request basic evidence of social and economic activity, such as an employment contract, AFIP tax registration, banking history, or health insurance coverage.

Citizenship by Descent (Ciudadanía por Filiación, Jus Sanguinis)

Argentina, like most Latin American countries, allows acquisition of citizenship by right of blood (jus sanguinis). This means that any individual who descends from Argentine parents may claim Argentine nationality. Before citizenship by descent can be granted, however, the applicant must prove their lineage through the Registro Civil or the Registro Nacional de las Personas (RENAPER).

Eligibility for Argentine citizenship by descent:

• A child born outside Argentina is entitled to Argentine citizenship if at least one parent is an Argentine citizen by birth or descent.
• Grandchildren of Argentine citizens may also obtain citizenship, provided that their parent first formalizes recognition of citizenship by descent. In such cases, citizenship is conferred administratively through a chain of recognitions rather than judicial naturalization.

Applicants residing abroad must submit their request at an Argentine consulate, while those living in Argentina apply through the Registro Civil. The application must include:

• a birth certificate with an apostille and official Spanish translation;
• a document proving the Argentine citizenship of one parent, such as a passport, DNI, or Argentine-issued birth certificate;
• a formal declaration from the Argentine parent recognizing the child’s claim to citizenship (acta de opción por la ciudadanía argentina).

After applying for Argentine citizenship, the Ministry of the Interior, through the Dirección Nacional del Registro Nacional de las Personas (RENAPER), verifies the documentation and issues a resolution officially recognizing the applicant’s citizenship. Based on this decision, the applicant receives a Certificate of Argentine Citizenship (Certificado de Ciudadanía Argentina) and is issued a DNI as an Argentine citizen.

Citizenship by Birth on Argentine Territory

Birthright in Argentina grants citizenship to the child under the principle of jus soli (right of the soil). Unlike in many European countries, the Argentine system is completely unconditional: anyone born within Argentine territory becomes a citizen by birth, regardless of the nationality, visa status, or legal situation of the parents. The only exceptions apply to children of accredited foreign diplomats and children of foreign military personnel stationed in Argentina.

Argentine citizenship requirements and procedure:

1. Birth registration. A child born in Argentina, whether in a hospital, maternity home, or private residence, must be registered at the nearest Registro Civil within 40 days of birth.
2. Issuance of birth certificate. The Registro Civil issues an Argentine birth certificate (Partida de Nacimiento argentina), which automatically states citizenship as argentino nativo.
3. Issuance of national ID (DNI). After registration, the child is entered into the RENAPER database and receives a DNI as an Argentine citizen, followed by eligibility to apply for a passport.

Argentine legislation expressly forbids refusal to register a child based on the parents’ lack of legal immigration status. Therefore, any foreign couple (even those residing illegally) may register their newborn and obtain Argentine citizenship for the child.

Giving birth in Argentina does not grant citizenship to the parents, but it immediately entitles them to legal TRC in Argentina. In practice, the Dirección Nacional de Migraciones (DNM) issues permanent residency (Residencia Permanente) to such parents once the child’s birth certificate is registered.
Argentina recognizes dual citizenship, and by national policy, citizenship granted by birth cannot be revoked or renounced. Consequently, Argentine nationality is permanent: even if the individual later acquires another citizenship, RENAPER cannot annul citizenship obtained by birth.