Argentina Citizenship
South America's first citizenship by investment program. Enacted by presidential decree under the Milei administration, Argentina offers one of the strongest passports in the region with 171 visa-free destinations.
Program Overview
Argentina's citizenship by investment program is the first of its kind in South America. Enacted by presidential decree under the Milei administration (Decree 366/2025 and Decree 524/2025, approved July 30, 2025), the program targets foreign investors willing to commit capital to productive sectors of the Argentine economy.
Unlike Caribbean CBI programs that accept donations or passive real estate purchases, Argentina's program requires investment in productive sectors only: agribusiness, renewable energy, technology, and tourism. Passive real estate investment does not qualify. This structure is designed to channel foreign capital into sectors that generate employment and economic growth.
The Argentine passport ranks among the strongest in South America, providing visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 171 destinations worldwide, including the European Union (Schengen Area), the United Kingdom, Japan, and most of Latin America. Argentina permits dual citizenship, so investors do not need to renounce their existing nationality.
The target processing time is 30 business days, which would make it one of the fastest CBI programs globally if achieved. There is no physical residency requirement. However, the program is not yet accepting applications. The tender process for operational contracts closed in January 2026, with contract awards expected mid-2026 and full operations anticipated in late 2026 or early 2027.
Investment Requirements
Productive Sector Investment
Investment must be directed into qualifying productive sectors of the Argentine economy. The program is structured to attract capital that generates employment and contributes to national economic development.
Qualifying Sectors
Agribusiness
Argentina is one of the world's largest agricultural exporters. Qualifying investments include farming operations, food processing, and agricultural technology.
Renewable Energy
Solar, wind, and lithium extraction projects. Argentina holds the world's third-largest lithium reserves and has significant renewable energy potential in Patagonia.
Technology
Software development, fintech, and digital services. Buenos Aires has a well-established tech ecosystem and a large pool of skilled developers.
Tourism
Hospitality, eco-tourism, and resort development. Argentina offers diverse tourism assets from Patagonia to Iguazu Falls to Buenos Aires.
Key Benefits
171 Visa-Free Destinations
Access to the EU/Schengen Area, UK, Japan, and most of Latin America. One of the strongest passports in South America.
Dual Citizenship Permitted
Argentina allows dual citizenship. Investors do not need to renounce their existing nationality to acquire Argentine citizenship.
30-Day Target Processing
The government has set a target of 30 business days for processing, which would make it one of the fastest CBI programs in the world.
No Residency Requirement
No physical presence or residency requirement. Investors are not obligated to live in Argentina to obtain or maintain citizenship.
Program Timeline
Program Enacted
Decree 366/2025 established the framework. Decree 524/2025, approved July 30, 2025, provided implementing regulations and defined qualifying investment sectors.
Tender Process Closed (January 2026)
The government closed the tender process for selecting operational partners and service providers to administer the program.
Contract Awards Expected (Mid-2026)
Selected operators are expected to be announced and contracts finalized, establishing the administrative infrastructure for the program.
Full Operations Expected (Late 2026 / Early 2027)
The program is expected to begin accepting applications once operational infrastructure is in place and final investment thresholds are formally published.
Legal Basis
Argentina's CBI program was established through two presidential decrees:
- Decree 366/2025: Established the legal framework for granting Argentine citizenship to foreign investors who make qualifying economic contributions.
- Decree 524/2025 (approved July 30, 2025): Provided implementing regulations, defined qualifying investment sectors (agribusiness, renewable energy, technology, tourism), and established the administrative framework for processing applications.
The program was enacted by executive decree rather than parliamentary legislation. This is a notable distinction: while the decrees carry the force of law, future administrations could modify or revoke the program through subsequent decrees. Investors should factor this political dimension into their planning.