Unlocking Global Opportunities: Argentina's New Citizenship by Investment Program

Argentina's Landmark Citizenship by Investment Program: A New Era for Global Mobility

Argentina has officially launched its Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program, marking a significant milestone as the first country in South America to offer direct citizenship in exchange for an economic investment. This transformative initiative, enacted through Decree 524/2025 by President Javier Milei in July 2025, represents a strategic national project designed to attract serious global investors and stimulate Argentina’s economy.

This program officially amends Argentina’s Nationality Law, specifically Law 346, by inserting Article 2 bis. This crucial change formally establishes a pathway for foreign investors to obtain naturalization immediately, bypassing the traditional requirement of two years of legal residence in Argentina prior to applying. The focus is squarely on productive economic contribution. While the program has been officially launched, applications are expected to be formally accepted by late 2025 or early 2026, once all regulations are finalized.

Key Benefits of Argentine Citizenship by Investment

The Argentine CBI program presents a compelling opportunity for investors, entrepreneurs, and families seeking enhanced global mobility and a strategic 'Plan B'.

• No Residency Requirement: A cornerstone of this program is the elimination of any prior residency requirement. Investors are not required to live in Argentina before applying, offering a direct route to citizenship.

• Globally Respected Passport: The Argentine passport provides visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 170 countries. This includes major destinations like the Schengen Area, the UK, Ireland, Japan, and much of Asia. It is consistently ranked among the strongest in Latin America and is recognized as a respected G20 passport.

• Potential for U.S. Visa Waiver Program (VWP) Reinstatement: Argentina has formally applied to rejoin the U.S. Visa Waiver Program. Should this application be successful, Argentine passport holders would gain 90-day visa-free entry to the United States, significantly enhancing the passport's global value.

• Dual Citizenship Permitted: Argentina fully permits dual citizenship, meaning applicants do not need to renounce their current nationality.

• Fast Processing: Once submitted, applications are mandated to be processed within 30 business days, positioning it as one of the fastest CBI programs globally.

• Mercosur Rights: As an Argentine citizen, you will gain the right to live and work freely in Brazil, Uruguay, Paraguay, and other Mercosur member states.

• U.S. E-2 Investor Visa Eligibility: Argentine citizens are eligible to apply for the U.S. E-2 investor visa.

• Residency-Based Taxation: Argentina taxes based on residency, not worldwide income. Therefore, citizens living abroad are generally not taxed on their foreign income.

• Access to Public Services: Citizens gain access to Argentina’s universal healthcare system and public education.

Program Requirements and Application Process

The program is structured for high integrity and national growth, welcoming serious investors ready to contribute to Argentina's resurgence.

• Minimum Investment: An indicative minimum investment of USD 500,000 is expected, although final confirmation is pending.

• Qualifying Sectors: Investments must be directed towards productive and strategic areas of Argentina’s economy. These include sectors such as agribusiness, renewable energy, technology, and tourism infrastructure. It is important to note that passive real estate purchases do not qualify.

• Robust Due Diligence: Applicants are required to provide proof of clean criminal records and demonstrate the legal source of their funds. A rigorous multi-agency background check process is conducted by various government bodies, including intelligence, financial crimes, and national migration authorities, ensuring transparency and security.

The application process is overseen by the newly created Agency for Citizenship by Investment Programs (CIPA), operating under the Ministry of Economy. The steps typically involve:

1. Investment Proposal: Submission of a proposed investment for certification by the CBI Agency.

2. Due Diligence: Comprehensive security, financial, and background checks by at least seven government bodies.

3. Final Decision: The National Directorate of Migration issues a decision within 30 business days.

4. Citizenship Granted: Approved applicants receive Argentine nationality and can immediately apply for national ID and passport.

Argentina's CBI program distinguishes itself from other global programs. While some Caribbean CBI programs may offer lower investment thresholds (from $200,000 USD), their passports generally provide fewer visa-free destinations. Similarly, programs like Turkey, offering citizenship from $400,000 USD in real estate, lack the critical Schengen access that Argentina provides. At its projected investment level, Argentina offers a globally respected G20 passport, strong travel rights, and rapid processing without a residency obligation, making it a highly competitive option.

This program is deeply rooted in law and is part of a broader national vision to attract new capital, create jobs, and reposition Argentina as a trusted global partner. The government's clear intent is to welcome builders, entrepreneurs, and individuals who wish to contribute to Argentina's economic revival.

Navigating This Opportunity

Given that the program has been officially launched, with applications anticipated in late 2025 or early 2026, serious investors should begin their preparation now. While the core legal framework is in place, it is advisable to await the publication of final regulations from the Ministry of Economy regarding qualifying investments before making firm financial commitments.

Argentina is making a bold statement on the world stage, building systems that reward entrepreneurship and open doors to freedom-loving individuals. This historic opportunity promises to redefine global mobility and investment for years to come.