Argentina Citizenship by Investment 2025

What Do You Need to Know About New Argentina's $500,000 Citizenship?

In a bold and unprecedented move, Argentina is on the road to launching its first Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program, joining a small but growing list of nations offering citizenship in exchange for financial investment. The program, expected to open later in 2025, would allow foreign nationals to secure Argentine citizenship by investing a minimum of $500,000 into qualified sectors of the national economy. The initiative comes at a critical moment in Argentina’s economic transformation under President Javier Milei, who has promised sweeping reforms to attract foreign capital, reduce inflation, and stabilize the country’s long-volatile economy. It is noteworthy that Milei's administration achieved Argentina's first annual budget surplus in 14 years, recording a surplus of 0.3% of GDP in 2024 . Despite a slight contraction of 1.8% in 2024, Argentina's economy is projected to grow by 5.5% in 2025, driven by increased consumption and investment. In April 2025, Argentina secured a $20 billion loan agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to support its economic reforms. The government also lifted most currency controls, allowing individuals and businesses to purchase U.S. dollars without restrictions, thereby improving investor confidence. 

On May 14, 2025, President Javier Milei enacted an emergency decree that significantly restructured Argentina's immigration policies. The measures have drawn comparisons to the former U.S. President Donald Trump's immigration policies, a parallel acknowledged by government spokesperson Manuel Adorni, who stated the initiative aims to "honor our history and make Argentina great again". 

On the same day, the direct citizenship by investment pathway was introduced to facilitate and bypass the newly proposed requirement for foreign nationals to reside continuously in Argentina for two years. Overall, the announcement of a new CBI program has generated significant interest among global investors and immigration experts. For instance, @MyLatinLife highlighted the potential strength of the Argentine CBI program: “Argentina may soon offer the strongest CBI program in the world." In addition, Forbes notes that Argentina's CBI program will take a lead on the investment market, requiring a minimum investment of $500,000 in approved sectors such as technology, agribusiness, energy, or tourism. Notably, real estate investments are excluded from this program.

According to the opinions of leading investment migration firms, Argentina’s upcoming CBI program could attract as many as 2,000 applications annually, generating over US$2.5 billion in revenue each year. With these figures, Argentina would immediately position itself among the top tier of global CBI offerings — ranking just behind Malta (Tier 1), placing Argentina in Tier 2, ahead of countries like Turkey and the Caribbean nations (Tier 3), and well above programs in Vanuatu, Egypt, and Cambodia (Tier 4). This positioning is particularly significant given the absence of substantial regional competition within Latin America.

If fully implemented, Argentina’s CBI program could emerge as one of the most competitive and geopolitically attractive options in the global investment migration market.

Argentina CBI Program: Why Now?

Argentina is preparing to introduce its first-ever Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program, signaling a major shift in its immigration and economic policies. Several strategic factors explain why the government is launching this program now:

Economic Stabilization & Urgent Need for Capital

Under President Javier Milei, Argentina is aggressively restructuring its economy to address the major issues. Austerity measures have sharply cut public spending, leading to rising social tensions and growing poverty. As traditional revenue sources shrink, Argentina urgently needs alternative capital inflows. The CBI program presents a mechanism to attract foreign investment directly into national development projects, infrastructure, and job creation, with estimates suggesting it could generate up to $2.5 billion in much-needed revenue.

Global Migration Trends & Competitive Positioning

Argentina is aligning itself with a growing global trend where countries use investment migration to attract high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs). Similar to programs like the U.S. EB-5 (starting from $800,000) or the newly proposed U.S. “Gold Card” visa (offering U.S. residency for a $5 million investment), Argentina’s CBI program offers a significantly lower entry threshold — approximately $500,000 — and grants full citizenship rather than just permanent residency. This positions Argentina as a highly cost-effective alternative, particularly for investors priced out of U.S. or EU options.

The official Argentina CBI agency — operating under the Ministry of Economy — will coordinate project evaluations, manage certifications, and promote the program globally. Argentina is especially attractive for those seeking not only financial diversification but also geopolitical neutrality, fewer tax burdens, and greater flexibility compared to jurisdictions with heavy tax compliance like the U.S.

Internal Immigration Pressure & Stricter Entry Policies

Over the past two decades, Argentina’s traditionally open-door immigration policy led to an influx of approximately 1.7 million undocumented migrants, placing growing pressure on public services such as healthcare and education. In response, the government has recently introduced stricter immigration measures:

• More restrictive entry rules, particularly for individuals with any criminal record.
• Mandatory declarations of intent and financial capacity for residency applicants.
• Proof of sufficient financial resources required for residency approvals.
• Visitors and temporary residents must show proof of medical insurance and pay for health services.
• Universities can now charge tuition for non-permanent residents.
• Expanded grounds for deportation now cover all criminal offenses, not just serious convictions.

While these changes make general immigration more restrictive, they simultaneously create an incentive for financially capable investors by offering a fast-track citizenship option under the CBI program. Essentially, while the door is narrowing for low-income and undocumented immigrants, it is being opened wide for capital-rich individuals.

Regional Leadership in South America

With this program, Argentina becomes the first South American nation to officially launch a full-scale Citizenship by Investment scheme. This positions it as a regional pioneer, particularly attractive for investors seeking access to the MERCOSUR trade bloc — which grants favorable mobility rights across member states. As global demand for second passports rises, Argentina could emerge as the key player offering both investment opportunities and strong global mobility benefits.

Attractive Global Mobility & Lifestyle Proposition

Argentine citizenship provides visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 160 countries, including the Schengen Area, China, Japan, and Malaysia. Combined with Argentina’s rich cultural heritage, strategic location, and favorable tax environment for new residents, the program appeals to a growing number of global investors looking for lifestyle, mobility, and long-term security.

Argentina Citizenship by Investment Requirements

Under the proposed CBI scheme, foreign nationals who invest at least $500,000 in sectors deemed strategic for Argentina’s economic development — such as technology, agribusiness, energy, and tourism — may apply directly for citizenship. Unlike many conventional pathways, these investors would be eligible regardless of the length of their residency in Argentina, effectively bypassing the traditional physical presence requirement.

The approach mirrors global trends where countries seek to attract foreign capital by offering accelerated or simplified citizenship routes for investors. However, unlike many Caribbean or European CBI programs, Argentina’s proposal deliberately excludes real estate as a qualifying investment, focusing instead on productive sectors that may generate jobs and long-term economic benefits.

Beyond the financial commitment, applicants must meet the following additional requirements among others:

• Proof of sufficient financial means to make the required investment and demonstrate a legal source of income.
• Clean criminal record, verified both in Argentina and in the applicant’s country of origin.

While optimism surrounds the program’s potential, key aspects, including the precise legal framework, exhaustive checklist of the documents, program management, and processing timelines, are still pending finalization. Golden Harbors team advises potential applicants to closely monitor official government releases and seek professional legal counsel before making any financial commitments.

Argentina Citizenship by Investment: What’s next?

We expect a significant new chapter in Argentina’s immigration policy and economic strategy. At this time, it is known that the CBI program will be established through emergency decrees, currently under legal review to ensure compliance and mitigate potential challenges. Government sources have made it clear: they would rather take more time now to make sure that the program launches on a solid legal foundation than risk facing legal disputes after its implementation. Although no exact start date has been announced, most analysts expect the program to open in late 2025 or early 2026.

While some core elements of the CBI framework have already been outlined, several crucial details remain under development. Both investors and industry professionals are waiting for the official publication of:

1. A complete application timeline, including processing durations.
2. Clear naturalization procedures following successful investment.
3. Detailed sector-specific guidelines identifying eligible investments.
4. The full list of documentation required from applicants.
5. The government’s final approach to due diligence and background checks.

Without these pieces, many would-be applicants remain in a holding pattern, preparing as much as possible while awaiting final clarity.

What is known so far is that Argentina’s program is designed to channel foreign investment into sectors seen as critical for long-term economic recovery. Instead of favoring passive investments like simple government bonds or real estate purchases, officials have prioritized productive sectors that will directly stimulate job creation. These include:

• Agribusiness and modernized food production.
• Renewable energy development.
• Technology, fintech, and innovation sectors.
• Tourism infrastructure and hospitality projects.

The minimum investment threshold is expected to be set at USD 500,000, placing Argentina’s program on par with similar schemes worldwide, but still considerably more affordable than European CBI models (e.g. Austria - EUR 3,000,000 and Malta - EUR 690,000).

Just to add, prospective applicants are advised to look beyond citizenship benefits alone. Argentina’s tax regime distinguishes between residents and non-residents: non-resident citizens are generally taxed only on Argentine-sourced income, while residents face worldwide taxation. For globally diversified investors, tax planning will remain a critical part of the equation.

Though the final rulebook is not yet published, interested investors can start laying the groundwork by:

• Following official updates as the legislative process advances.
• Engaging experienced legal and immigration advisors familiar with Argentina’s system.
• Identifying potential investment opportunities aligned with the government’s approved sectors.
• Assembling preliminary documentation, including financial records, police clearances, and identity papers.

In many ways, Argentina’s Citizenship by Investment program represents one of the most intriguing new options in the global migration market.

Benefits of the Argentina Citizenship by Investment Program

Argentina’s upcoming Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program opens the door not only to residency and a second passport, but also to an array of personal, economic, and lifestyle advantages that set it apart from many other CBI destinations.

Strong Passport Power

The Argentine passport ranks among the strongest in Latin America, offering its holders access to a broad network of destinations worldwide with minimal visa requirements. As of 2025, it provides visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 162 destinations, granting citizens significant travel flexibility for both personal and professional purposes. This level of mobility makes Argentina an attractive option for investors seeking greater international reach.

Affordable Cost of Living

Argentina offers a high quality of life at a fraction of the cost of many Western countries. For example, living costs in Buenos Aires are approximately 60–70% lower than in New York City, according to Numbeo. This affordability extends across housing, transportation, dining, education, and healthcare, allowing investors and their families to enjoy a comfortable, cosmopolitan lifestyle without the financial pressures common in major global cities. 

Universal Healthcare Access

Argentine citizens enjoy free or heavily subsidized public healthcare. As of 2024, over 33 million residents benefit from the public healthcare system, which offers comprehensive coverage across the country. The system provides access to a wide range of medical services, from preventive care and emergency treatment to complex surgeries and specialized care, without the need for private insurance. 

High English Proficiency

Argentina ranks 1st in Latin America and 30th globally on the 2024 EF English Proficiency Index, making it the most English-friendly country in the region for foreign investors and their families. This high level of English proficiency is particularly notable in business, education, and urban centers, where international companies, service providers, and younger generations often communicate fluently in English. 

Strategic Regional Mobility (Mercosur Benefits)

As a full member of Mercosur, Argentine citizens can live, work, and establish businesses freely in four neighboring countries (Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay, and Bolivia) without requiring additional visas or permits. This regional integration grants Argentine nationals unique mobility and economic privileges, creating access to a combined market of over 270 million people. 

Argentina Citizenship by Investment vs Argentina Investment Visa

Until the new CBI program becomes fully operational, Argentina continues to offer its Investor Visa (Inversionista), a much more affordable pathway requiring a minimum investment of ARS 1.5 million (around USD1,500) in a local business. This visa provides temporary residency for one year, renewable for up to three years, and allows applicants to pursue citizenship after two years of continuous residence. Please check out our comparison table below. 

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The CBI program is clearly designed to attract foreign capital from global high-net-worth individuals, offering them a fast-track citizenship option without prolonged physical residence. Meanwhile, the Investment Visa is more suitable for businesspeople, entrepreneurs, or professionals willing to actively manage business operations in Argentina.

The upcoming CBI model may face legal challenges inside Argentina due to concerns about bypassing constitutional protections and shifting decision-making power from courts to the executive branch. Nevertheless, the CBI program has the potential to be viable. 

Argentina Citizenship Options in 2025

As of 2025, Argentina offers several pathways for foreign nationals to acquire citizenship without relying on investment-based routes. The available options include naturalization, marriage, descent, birth, and merit-based citizenship. Each option has distinct eligibility rules and procedural steps.

Citizenship by Naturalization

Foreign nationals may become Argentine citizens through naturalization, following the conditions set forth under Article 2 of Law 346. The main requirements include:

• Age Requirement. Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
• Residency Requirement. A minimum of two consecutive years of legal residency in Argentina is mandatory. Under current rules outlined in Decree 366/2025, any interruption in residency may cause the two-year count to reset.
• Declaration Before Federal Judge. Applicants are required to personally appear before a federal judge to express their formal intention to acquire Argentine citizenship.
• Family Exceptions. Foreign spouses of Argentine citizens and parents of Argentine children are exempt from the two-year residency rule.
• Possible Disqualifications:
  
  • Serving over three years in prison within the past five years.
  • Current involvement in criminal proceedings.
  • Inability to prove the legality of income sources.
• No Formal Language Exams. While no official Spanish language tests (such as DELE or CELU) are required, basic Spanish proficiency is assessed during interviews and legal proceedings.

The Federal Court evaluates applications on a case-by-case basis, reviewing the applicant’s criminal record, financial background, and personal circumstances. Older convictions or crimes not punishable under Argentine law are generally not disqualifying.

Citizenship by Marriage

Marriage to an Argentine citizen grants a simplified pathway to citizenship. Applicants residing in Argentina may apply for nationality without completing the usual two-year residency period. This option applies equally to opposite-sex and same-sex marriages, as Argentina has recognized marriage equality since 2010.

This fast-track procedure reflects Argentina’s commitment to equal rights, allowing spouses to obtain citizenship in a shorter timeframe.

Citizenship by Descent (Jus Sanguinis)

Citizenship by descent is available for individuals with Argentine ancestry. Eligibility depends on the citizenship status of the applicant's parents or grandparents:

• Children of Argentine-Born Parents. Those born abroad to Argentine-born parents may apply for citizenship either at an Argentine consulate abroad or directly in Argentina at RENAPER or local civil registries. Adults must submit the application personally; for minors, legal guardians may apply on their behalf.
• Children of Citizens by Option. If a parent acquired citizenship by option (typically through a grandparent born in Argentina), the applicant may qualify for citizenship through the federal court system. Legal representation is required.
• Children of Naturalized Citizens. If a parent gained citizenship through naturalization, children may also be eligible, following the same federal court process with legal assistance.

Citizenship by Birth

Under Article 1 of Law 346, anyone born within Argentine territory automatically receives citizenship at birth, with the exception of children born to foreign diplomats or individuals in official service to a foreign government.

Under Decree 366/2025, foreign parents of Argentine-born children no longer automatically receive permanent residency and must instead meet residency requirements, demonstrate financial stability, and maintain a clean criminal record.

Citizenship by Merit (Exceptional Grant)

Argentina’s legal framework also allows for citizenship to be granted on exceptional grounds of merit. This pathway applies to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to Argentina’s national interest in areas such as:

• Science and technology
• Education
• Culture and arts
• Sports
• Economic development
• Public welfare

Unlike standard naturalization routes, the merit-based pathway does not require fulfillment of the usual residency period or other standard conditions. Applicants must still personally appear before a federal judge and formally express their intent to obtain citizenship.

The evaluation is conducted on a case-by-case basis by the Federal Court, which considers the significance of the applicant’s contributions and overall benefit to the country. Supporting documentation, expert endorsements, and professional legal representation are typically required to demonstrate the applicant's merit.

This exceptional route is highly selective and used sparingly, generally reserved for those whose achievements have positively impacted Argentina at a national or international level.

Argentina Citizenship by Investment Alternatives

While Argentina’s Citizenship by Investment program is generating significant interest, investors exploring second citizenship options may also consider several other well-established and affordable programs worldwide. Each offers its own balance of cost, benefits, and accessibility.