Argentina Residency: The Ultimate Guide for Expats

Let’s face it:

Whether you’re dreaming of moving to Argentina, have already visited, or are here on a tourist visa, the residency process can be confusing. 

It seems like everyone has a different opinion, and you’re not really sure who you can trust.

Let’s clear up the confusion.

This guide breaks down Argentina residency for everyone. 

We also have a trusted immigration lawyer act as our co-editor, making sure that it is accurate and up-to-date.

Whether you’re just starting or ready to make Argentina your home, this is your first step.

Let’s dive in.

Why Get Residency?

Getting Argentina residency opens up a world of benefits. 

If you’re serious about making Argentina your home, residency is the key. 

Without it, things like opening a bank account, shopping on Mercado Libre, or even signing a long-term lease can be a hassle. 

Plus, with the right residency, you can eventually apply for Argentine citizenship and get that passport.

Residency also provides peace of mind. 

You won’t have to worry about overstaying a tourist visa or facing the stress of constant visa renewals. 

With legal residency, you’re free to live, work, and enjoy all that Argentina has to offer, without looking over your shoulder.

Required Documents

To start the Argentina residency process, you’ll need a few key documents. 

These are essential, no matter which type of residency you’re applying for.

1. Valid Passport: Your passport should have at least six months before it expires and at least one blank page.
2. Clean Criminal Records Certificate: You’ll need a certificate from every country you’ve lived in for more than a year in the last three years. This must be apostilled or legalized by the Argentine embassy.
3. Country of Origin Criminal Records Certificate: Sometimes, you’ll also need a certificate from your home country, even if you haven’t lived there recently. This, too, must be apostilled or legalized.

These are just the basics.

Depending on your residency type, additional documents may be required.

Residency Types

Argentina offers several types of residency options, each tailored to different needs. 

Here’s a breakdown:

Student Residency

For those enrolled in an immigration-approved educational institution. The permit’s duration matches the length of your study program. Be sure to attend classes, as failure to do so could affect your ability to renew your residency. Learn more about the student residency here.

Worker’s Residency

This residency is for those with a job offer in Argentina. Your employer must be registered with the Immigration Department, and all paperwork, including the contract, must be completed before you apply.

Passive Income (Rentista) Residency

Rentista residency is ideal for individuals with income from assets like real estate or investments. You’ll need to show that your income is sufficient to support your stay in Argentina. Professional advice is recommended for this application.

Retirement (Pensionado) Residency

Similar to the Rentista Residency but based on receiving a regular pension. You must prove that your pension meets the required minimum income level.

Investor Residency

Designed for those making an industrial investment in Argentina. This option requires an investment plan approved by the Ministry of Economics. It’s complex and often avoided by practitioners.

Digital Nomad Visa

A newer option for remote workers. This visa offers a 180-day permit, renewable once, but it’s not clear if it provides a pathway to permanent residency or a DNI.

Medical Treatment Residency

For those seeking medical treatment in Argentina. You’ll need proof from both your home country and the Argentine medical facility regarding your treatment plan.

Family Reunification Residency

If you are the spouse, parent, or child of an Argentine citizen or resident, you might be able to apply for residency. The exact residency (temporary or permanent) will depend on the exact situation of your case. 

Cleric Residency

For religious figures affiliated with a recognized religious institution in Argentina. Proof of your clerical status and registration of the institution with the government are necessary.

Academic Residency

For professors, scholars, and researchers involved in academic exchanges. Similar to the scientist visa in terms of paperwork, it requires official agreements or contracts between institutions.

Sports, Music, and Arts Residency

For athletes, musicians, and artists with scheduled events in Argentina. This residency is typically handled through a transitory business authorization.

Scientist and Specialized Personnel Residency

This residency is for professionals contracted by a university, government entity, or similar institution. It involves a more complex application process and typically requires a work contract or transfer from a foreign company to its Argentine branch.

The Step-By-Step Process

Getting Argentina residency involves several steps, and it’s crucial to follow them carefully. 

Here’s a general overview:

1. Determine Your Residency Type
   • The first step is to decide which residency type best suits your situation. Are you studying? Working? Retired? Each type has specific requirements, so choose the one that aligns with your plans in Argentina.
2. Gather Required Documents
   • No matter which residency you apply for, certain documents are mandatory. You’ll need a valid passport, clean criminal records from the countries you’ve lived in over the past three years, and sometimes additional documents depending on your chosen residency type.
3. Apply for an Entry Visa (if applicable)
   • Depending on your nationality and the type of residency, you may need to apply for an entry visa through the Argentine embassy in your country. This is the first official step in the process.
     1. Alternatively, you can also arrive in Argentina on a tourist visa, and then begin the process here. (this only applies if you don’t require a visa to enter Argentina)
4. Submit Your Application
   • Once in Argentina, you’ll need to submit your residency application. This involves filling out forms, paying fees, and submitting your documents through the RaDEX system or at the Immigration Department.
5. Receive Your Precarious Residency Certificate
   • After submitting your application, you’ll be issued a “Certificado de Residencia Precaria.” This certificate allows you to stay, work, exit, and re-enter Argentina while your application is being processed.
6. Attend Your Appointment
   • You may need to attend a face-to-face appointment at the Immigration Department. This step is crucial for finalizing your application. Make sure to bring all necessary documents and be prepared for fingerprinting and photos.
7. Obtain Your Residency
   • Once your application is approved, you’ll receive your residency permit. If you applied for temporary residency, remember it typically needs to be renewed every year. After three years, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency.

FAQs 

Here are some common questions about obtaining Argentina residency:

Are there any fees? 

State fees for all these applications can be around 110 US dollars. If you are applying from embassies abroad you may find higher fees.

Is it too hard to do it alone? 

Of course, this varies from person to person but be warned: you will need time and lots of Spanish.

How do I know everything’s going well? 

All applications are traceable with the application number and your date of birth. You can check the status here, but we recommend going personally to the Immigration Department if you see no movement in 30 days.

Conclusion

Getting Argentina residency is a crucial step to making this country your home. 

Whether you want to work, study, or retire here, understanding your options is essential. 

Need more help? A consultation with an immigration lawyer can make all the difference. They’ll guide you through the steps and ensure everything is done right.

You can schedule your consultation with a vetted immigration lawyer here.