Argentina Country Guide
Your Complete Guide to Moving, Living & Working in Argentina
Important: This guide provides essential relocation information for individuals and families moving to Argentina. Known for its European-style cities, rich culture, diverse landscapes and strong academic and creative sectors, Argentina remains a popular destination in South America. Visa categories, residency requirements and employment rules may change over time — always verify details through official Argentine government sources.
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1. Before You Move to Argentina
1.1 Visa Types & Residency
Foreign nationals moving to Argentina typically need one of the following:
- Temporary Residence Visa – for employment, investment, studies or family ties
- Work Visa – based on employer sponsorship and approval by the National Directorate of Migration
- Permanent Residence – available after qualifying periods or family-based pathways
- Rentista Visa – for individuals with passive income from abroad
- Pensionado Visa – for retirees receiving a pension
- Digital Nomad Visa – an emerging option for remote workers
1.2 Working in Argentina
Key economic and professional sectors include:
- Software development, IT services and fintech
- Agriculture and food exports
- Manufacturing and automotive industries
- Finance, banking and consulting
- Media, advertising and creative industries
- Education, research and universities
- Tourism, hospitality and wine industry regions
1.3 Housing & Accommodation
Most newcomers settle in major cities. Popular neighbourhoods include:
- Buenos Aires: Palermo, Recoleta, Belgrano, Puerto Madero
- Córdoba: Nueva Córdoba, Güemes
- Rosario: Pichincha, Fisherton
- Mendoza: City centre and wine region areas
Rental requirements may include:
- Security deposit (one month or more)
- Proof of income or guarantee
- A guarantor (garantía propietaria), or rental insurance
- Lease agreements written in Spanish
1.4 Banking & Finances
The local currency is the Argentine Peso (ARS). Due to inflation and currency controls, many residents use a mix of bank accounts and foreign currency savings. To open a bank account, foreigners typically need:
- Passport and residency documentation
- CUIL or CDI (tax/labour ID numbers)
- Proof of Argentine address
1.5 Healthcare & Insurance
Healthcare options include:
- Public hospitals – accessible but wait times vary
- Private prepaid health plans (prepaga) – widely used by expatriates
- High-quality private hospitals in major cities
1.6 Key Documents to Prepare Before Moving
- Passport with sufficient validity
- Visa approval or authorization letter
- Birth & marriage certificates (apostilled)
- Employment contract and academic transcripts
- Medical documents and vaccination history
- International Driving Permit (optional but useful)
2. Your First Weeks in Argentina
2.1 National Immigration Registration
Upon arrival, temporary and permanent residents must finalize their immigration process with the Dirección Nacional de Migraciones to receive their DNI (national identity card for foreigners).
2.2 Obtaining CUIL / CDI Numbers
These identification numbers are essential for employment, banking and many daily transactions in Argentina.
2.3 Everyday Setup
- Buy a local SIM card (Movistar, Claro, Personal)
- Open a bank account (requires CUIL/CDI)
- Finalize rental agreements and utilities
- Find healthcare providers or join a prepaga plan
- Register children in school or bilingual programs
3. Argentina at a Glance
3.1 Geography & Regions
Argentina is geographically diverse, featuring mountains, plains, lakes, glaciers and iconic landscapes:
- Cuyo: Mendoza, wine region
- Patagonia: Bariloche, El Calafate, Ushuaia
- Pampas: Buenos Aires region, agriculture hub
- Northeast: Iguazú Falls and subtropical forests
- Northwest: Salta and Jujuy with Andean culture
3.2 Politics & Economy
Argentina is a democratic republic with economic strengths in:
- Agriculture and livestock exports
- Wine, food and beverage industries
- Software development and technology services
- Automotive and manufacturing
- Natural gas and energy sectors
3.3 Climate & Weather
Climate varies across regions:
- Temperate climate in Buenos Aires and Pampas
- Dry, warm areas in Cuyo
- Cool, windy conditions in Patagonia
- Subtropical climate in the northeast
4. Why Many Newcomers Choose Argentina
- European-style cities with rich arts and culture
- Affordable cost of living compared to many Western countries
- Beautiful landscapes and nature-based travel
- Warm and welcoming social culture
- Strong education and creative industries
5. Housing, Cost of Living & Daily Life
Argentina offers a mix of urban sophistication and natural beauty. Buenos Aires is the most cosmopolitan and expensive city, while regional areas offer lower costs.
- Rent or mortgage
- Electricity, gas, internet and water
- Groceries and dining (very affordable compared to North America)
- Public transit or fuel
- Healthcare & insurance (prepaga)
- School fees for private or bilingual institutions
6. Transportation & Getting Around
6.1 Public Transport
Public transport is widely used:
- Buenos Aires Subte (subway) and commuter trains
- Bus networks nationwide
- Ride-sharing services like Uber, Cabify and Didi
6.2 Driving in Argentina
Argentina drives on the right-hand side. Foreign licences are typically valid for short stays; long-term residents may need to obtain a local licence.
6.3 Domestic & International Travel
Domestic flights connect all major cities. Main airports include:
- Ezeiza International Airport (Buenos Aires)
- Aeroparque (Buenos Aires)
- Córdoba International Airport
- Mendoza Airport
- Bariloche Airport
7. Culture, Lifestyle & Places to Visit
7.1 Everyday Culture
- Spanish is the national language.
- Social life centers on food, gatherings, and cultural events.
- Argentina is famous for tango, football, literature and theatre.
- Steak, empanadas, pasta and wine play a key role in local cuisine.
7.2 Popular Cities & Attractions
- Buenos Aires: Architecture, tango, museums and nightlife
- Mendoza: Wine country and Andes views
- Bariloche: Lakes, mountains and skiing
- Iguazú Falls: One of the world’s great natural wonders
- Salta & Jujuy: Andean landscapes and traditions
- Patagonia: Glaciers, wildlife and hiking