Argentina Immigration Changes Coming Affecting Healthcare insurance requirement, Education and Deportation

[ultraviolet]

Further details have emerged in this article: Infobae – Milei’s Migration Reform in Detail.


Several points are mentioned, but one of the most notable changes concerns permanent residency. Under the proposed reform, permanent residents would lose their status after 12 consecutive months outside of Argentina. This marks a significant shift from the current rule, which allows up to two years of absence before residency lapses—though in practice, enforcement of that limit has often been lax.

The article also states that temporary residency will now be forfeited after just six months of absence. Based on the explanation, this means that if someone holds a 12-month temporary residency permit and leaves the country during, for example, month 3, they would not be allowed to return and complete the remaining two months of their residency. Instead, they would lose the residency and likely have to re-enter as a tourist.

Additionally, there’s a mention that Migraciones will have expanded tools to verify individuals’ immigration status, which may signal tighter oversight and enforcement—particularly concerning overstayers.

As someone who is currently overstaying but already in the process of registering a Unión Civil Convivencial with my partner—with the goal of applying for permanent residency—these recent developments are understandably concerning. And, of course, they’ve surfaced at the most inopportune time.

After reading the following excerpt, I’m uncertain whether my current path will still be viable:

“The requirements for obtaining permanent residency will become even stricter. It will be granted automatically only to children of Argentine citizens. Parents will now fall under the temporary residency regime. If they can later prove strong ties to the country, sufficient economic means (to be defined in the forthcoming regulations), and a clean criminal record, they may qualify for permanent residency.”

Despite the uncertainty, I still intend to move forward and hope that—at the very least—I’m granted temporary residency, which would allow me the chance to meet any new criteria for permanent status down the line.

I remain hopeful that clearer information will emerge soon, and that the situation may not be as difficult as it currently appears.

 

[sophos]

As someone who is currently overstaying but already in the process of registering a Unión Civil Convivencial with my partner—with the goal of applying for permanent residency—these recent developments are understandably concerning. And, of course, they’ve surfaced at the most inopportune time.

After reading the following excerpt, I’m uncertain whether my current path will still be viable:



Despite the uncertainty, I still intend to move forward and hope that—at the very least—I’m granted temporary residency, which would allow me the chance to meet any new criteria for permanent status down the line.

I remain hopeful that clearer information will emerge soon, and that the situation may not be as difficult as it currently appears.

Here is the Google translation:

'The requirements for permanent residency will be further strengthened. This will be granted automatically only to children of Argentine parents. Parents will be placed under the temporary residency regime. If they later prove roots, sufficient financial means (this will be precisely determined in the regulations), and a clean criminal record, they are eligible to become permanent resident."

 

[ultraviolet]

Here is the Google translation:

'The requirements for permanent residency will be further strengthened. This will be granted automatically only to children of Argentine parents. Parents will be placed under the temporary residency regime. If they later prove roots, sufficient financial means (this will be precisely determined in the regulations), and a clean criminal record, they are eligible to become permanent resident."

My main concern is how these changes will affect partners or spouses, as they aren’t specifically mentioned in the information available. I assume they might be categorized similarly, but that remains unclear.

It also raises questions about what temporary residency would look like in these cases—what the exact conditions would be, and how long it might take to transition to permanent residency after meeting any new requirements or undergoing additional checks.

At this point, everything seems uncertain. Hopefully, the proposed changes either take time to be implemented or don’t pass at all, so they won’t end up becoming a barrier for those of us already in the process.

 

[JonJLA]

Since this is a decree (DNU), it still needs to go through the regulatory process. So even if they plan to enforce it, there should be a window of time to prepare and understand the implications. Nothing is changing overnight—but it’s wise to stay informed and start taking precautions now.

I suspect that under the new framework, temporary residency for spouses and partners may only be granted after the third renewal of temporary status, aligning with the current system’s pathway to permanent residency.

I also anticipate that the requirement to demonstrate “sufficient financial means” for foreigners on temporary residency could match—or even exceed—the past benchmarks. For context, when the income requirement for the visa rentista was first raised in 2010, it increased to 8,000 pesos per month, which at the time (with an exchange rate of 4:1) equaled around $2,000 USD. Years later, that threshold rose to 30,000 pesos when the exchange rate was about 15:1.

Today, the requirement for rentista and pensionada visas is set at five times the minimum monthly salary, which amounts to less than $1,500 USD per month. However, as stated in the official wording, what qualifies as “sufficient financial means” will be “precisely defined in the regulations.”

Given how much the dollar’s purchasing power has declined in Argentina over the past 18 months, it’s unclear how many U.S. dollars will ultimately be required monthly for foreigners to qualify for and maintain temporary residency—with the hope of eventually transitioning to permanent status.

 

[MikeYoung]

I hope it's all just a big bluff. I wouldn't think they would make a huge change like this overnight. I wonder how the elections will affect this. Anyway this has finally convinced me to start the process. Anyone have a good immigration attorney they can recommend?

 

[earlyretirement]

This part is the one I really have an issue with. My home is here, my life is here, but I'm also a business owner and have professional conferences and things outside Argentina, so it's unreasonable (to me) to require someone to stay put and not leave the country, in order to obtain citizenship. Put time limits on how long you can be outside Argentina yes, but don't make it a hard no. You disqualify lots of folks who would be great assets to Argentina and great potential citizens by doing so.

Not even the US does that, for what it's worth.

I generally like Milei, but this is a little push too far IMO. I might be a little ticked just because I'll have two years of permanent residency in November, but I've also spent roughly 6 weeks outside Argentina since getting PR, and as it's currently proposed, I won't be eligible until December of '26.

I wouldn't worry about this @Darksider415. According to my friends in the government, they will probably have something similar to USA requirements. It's not going to be as stringent as they say of 2 years of continuous stay without leaving for vacation or work trips.

I knew they would eventually crack down on perma-tourists. Argentina is one of the easiest countries to stay for extended periods of time and people abused it. I first got my DNI right after moving to Argentina and doing things legal there for 23 years. 2 of my kids were born in Argentina so I can easily get my Passport and Citizenship but I was never in a hurry after moving back to the USA.

But I'm so very busy I'm planning to move back to Buenos Aires next year. Especially since I'm doing my own hotel project. I was hoping to get my 2 oldest out of high school but most likely I will have to move the entire family back next year as my wife knows it is so brutal flying down every few weeks. I'm so excited to move back. My family is excited too.

I can't wait to finally become a true "Argentina citizen" and get my passport there. My 2 oldest already have their passports. People should work to get legal now as it will probably only get tougher and more expensive.

I hope it's all just a big bluff. I wouldn't think they would make a huge change like this overnight. I wonder how the elections will affect this. Anyway this has finally convinced me to start the process. Anyone have a good immigration attorney they can recommend?

Definitely recommend Lorena at Argentina Residency. She did mine 20+ years ago and she has done it for most of my clients. All successfully with money back guarantee. I don't know of any immigration attorneys in BA that do that.

Our services - ARCA, ARGENTINA RESIDENCY

Our services - ARCA, ARGENTINA RESIDENCY

www.argentinaresidency.com

 

[Uncle Wong]

I wouldn't worry about this @Darksider415. According to my friends in the government, they will probably have something similar to USA requirements. It's not going to be as stringent as they say of 2 years of continuous stay without leaving for vacation or work trips.

I knew they would eventually crack down on perma-tourists. Argentina is one of the easiest countries to stay for extended periods of time and people abused it. I first got my DNI right after moving to Argentina and doing things legal there for 23 years. 2 of my kids were born in Argentina so I can easily get my Passport and Citizenship but I was never in a hurry after moving back to the USA.

But I'm so very busy I'm planning to move back to Buenos Aires next year. Especially since I'm doing my own hotel project. I was hoping to get my 2 oldest out of high school but most likely I will have to move the entire family back next year as my wife knows it is so brutal flying down every few weeks. I'm so excited to move back. My family is excited too.

I can't wait to finally become a true "Argentina citizen" and get my passport there. My 2 oldest already have their passports. People should work to get legal now as it will probably only get tougher and more expensive.

Definitely recommend Lorena at Argentina Residency. She did mine 20+ years ago and she has done it for most of my clients. All successfully with money back guarantee. I don't know of any immigration attorneys in BA that do that.

Our services - ARCA, ARGENTINA RESIDENCY

Our services - ARCA, ARGENTINA RESIDENCY

www.argentinaresidency.com

I can highly highly recommend Lorena. Mike recommended me to her and she is great! Very responsive. The guaranteed DNI is a no brainer. Something else I liked is that she had an all in price. Many of the other lawyers had lower initial prices but charged under the sun for everything else. Lorena's English is great and she is very responsive. I am working with her and couldn't be happier!

 

[sophos]

I can highly highly recommend Lorena. Mike recommended me to her and she is great! Very responsive. The guaranteed DNI is a no brainer. Something else I liked is that she had an all in price. Many of the other lawyers had lower initial prices but charged under the sun for everything else. Lorena's English is great and she is very responsive. I am working with her and couldn't be happier!

I know a few expats that used Lorena and they were very happy. A few were a bit hesitant at first because she just asked to trust her in the process but they followed everything she said and got their DNI. I don't know of any cases that have failed unlike some others including a certain local that advertises on the old forum and his website looks ancient.

I would take the sure thing.

Agree this could be problematic but shift seems to be happening. And many locals support it. Read the comments section. It might not be so difficult to get support for this if it is the will of the people. Many are tired of foreigners. Not so much tourists but the Mercosur countries and other "dirty South Americans" as I hear locals call them.

Reforma migratoria: Adorni suma a su campaña el odio antimigrante | Bomba de humo trumpista del vocero y candidato

El portavoz de Milei anunció que el Gobierno impulsará modificaciones al régimen migratorio. Dijo que se deportará a cualquier condenado y que "se van a acortar los plazos de los procesos de apelación". También buscarán endurecer los requisitos para ob...

www.pagina12.com.ar

If a significant number of Argentine voters are concerned about this issue, it’s likely they would support candidates who take a firm stance against perceived abuses of the immigration system or undue strain on public services. That said, I want to be clear—I’m absolutely not implying that this applies to you.

What’s most important right now is determining whether Migraciones has already halted the processing of permanent residency applications based on civil unions or marriage, and understanding how long the process currently takes. I imagine you’re already looking into that.

It’s also possible that Migraciones may accept your application but delay any action on it until the specifics of the new regulations are officially released. From what I understand, if Congress does not overturn the decree, the new requirements will be enforced immediately. The good news is that you would still likely qualify for temporary residency, even under the revised framework.

 

[MikeRoss]

This is terrible terrible news. This how they are saying is impossible for many people that want Citizenship. I would love to get temporary residency but it is not as easy as people are playing it off. Not everyone is rich and has money to qualify for rentista option. Best that I can tell the other way is to get sponsored by a local company. Has anyone gone this route? I know people like @Darksider415 are working for a local company and making bank. But Darksider do you have any other foreigners in your company? You got residency by your wife and Mercosur but would your consider sponsor someone and give them work visa?

That seems to be my only hope. I don't have enough monthly income from rentista.

 

[Cosme]

This part is the one I really have an issue with. My home is here, my life is here, but I'm also a business owner and have professional conferences and things outside Argentina, so it's unreasonable (to me) to require someone to stay put and not leave the country, in order to obtain citizenship. Put time limits on how long you can be outside Argentina yes, but don't make it a hard no. You disqualify lots of folks who would be great assets to Argentina and great potential citizens by doing so.

Not even the US does that, for what it's worth.

I generally like Milei, but this is a little push too far IMO. I might be a little ticked just because I'll have two years of permanent residency in November, but I've also spent roughly 6 weeks outside Argentina since getting PR, and as it's currently proposed, I won't be eligible until December of '26.

Is this really possible? How do they expect no one to leave for 2 years. This can't be correct. People go on vacations and events like weddings and things. Something must be getting lost in translation.

Also they can't really expect tourists to have health insurance to come here can they? Wouldn't this kill tourism to make people buy a travel policy before coming to Argentina? What about lines at EZE and AEP. It would take forever and already takes forever! I can understand if they make people pay for visits. That is reasonable but making people show proof of coverage seems like it would kill tourism.

I heard some hospitals in CABA that are public only will provide services to people with a DNI and residency. I agree with this.

 

[Surfer]

According to the presidential spokesperson, the new immigration reform will include the following points:

• Anyone with a criminal conviction who tries to enter Argentina will be denied entry.
• Those caught in the act crossing unauthorized entry points will be immediately expelled.
• Any person who provides false information upon entry will be expelled.
• All foreign nationals convicted of any crime will be deported.
• The time frame for appealing a deportation will be shortened.
• Illegal immigrants and temporary or transitory residents will be required to pay for healthcare services.
• Anyone entering Argentina must present proof of health insurance.
• Universities will be authorized to charge for educational services if they choose to do so.
• Requirements for obtaining permanent residency and citizenship will become stricter; citizenship will only be granted to those who have continuously resided in Argentina for two years without leaving the country.
• Individuals who remain in the country irregularly will not be eligible for citizenship.

El Gobierno anunció su reforma migratoria, que incluirá más requisitos para la residencia a extranjeros y deportación exprés

El vocero presidencial, Manuel Adorni, comunicó la medida esta mañana. En los próximos días se publicará un DNU en el Boletín Oficial

www.infobae.com

Thank you for posting this! It is so new. I sent it to an immigration attorney today and he didn't even know about it! I sent him a link to this thread and it was the first he heard about it!

Based on this article sounds like the decree will be signed next week. It sounds like it will go in force immediately. My lawyer said that they would probably enforce the health insurance part of it easily at the border controls. It's not that difficult and just a letter. Many countries I have traveled to had a similar requirement. I don't think too difficult. He also said that lately many of his clients got warned when doing border runs and also multiple overstay payments.

Probably not a good idea to leave if you're already overstayed or did multiple border runs. Probably also a good idea to contact an immigration attorney. Mine was very thrilled about this new law. He said that business will skyrocket for him! He was thrilled! He said for the first time in his career he thinks that people will get denied and also possible denial and sent on return flight at the cost to the person. So probably not a good idea to expect that things will stay the same.

 

[earlyretirement]

Thank you for posting this! It is so new. I sent it to an immigration attorney today and he didn't even know about it! I sent him a link to this thread and it was the first he heard about it!

Based on this article sounds like the decree will be signed next week. It sounds like it will go in force immediately. My lawyer said that they would probably enforce the health insurance part of it easily at the border controls. It's not that difficult and just a letter. Many countries I have traveled to had a similar requirement. I don't think too difficult. He also said that lately many of his clients got warned when doing border runs and also multiple overstay payments.

Probably not a good idea to leave if you're already overstayed or did multiple border runs. Probably also a good idea to contact an immigration attorney. Mine was very thrilled about this new law. He said that business will skyrocket for him! He was thrilled! He said for the first time in his career he thinks that people will get denied and also possible denial and sent on return flight at the cost to the person. So probably not a good idea to expect that things will stay the same.

Hi @Surfer,

I spoke to Lorena today at Argentina Residency and I was also the first one to inform her about this when it hit. She was very surprised and she said it will actually be terrible terrible news for people in the middle of Citizenship process. She said it will essentially be impossible for the 2 year window that @Darksider415 mentioned. She said that is going to destroy all possibility for many especially Americans that leave all the time.

Personally, I heard that they will have a minimum amount of time you can be out. I doubt they will keep it as is. Lorena agreed with you Surfer that this will be HUGE for business.

 

[Gringoboy]

I have heard many locals talk about the immigration issue. People say Argentines aren't racist but many of them are low down racist against brown or black people and don't want them in Argentina. Strange as Argentina is all immigrants here. Mostly from Europe but still. I came across this article and although it's a few years old it says almost 5% of Argentina's population are foreigners. This is an old report from 2015 UN report. I bet it is double that now. The latest survey shows that 13.2% of these living in BA are immigrants mainly from Peru, Paraguay, Bolivia many who entered illegally .

Cities of misery and hope

In the so-called villas miserias of Buenos Aires, migrant communities face marginalization, lack key services and live in neglected neighbourhoods.

www.rcrcmagazine.org

 

[Uncle Wong]

FYI. Lorena sent this out to me today.

Subject: Important Update on Argentina’s Immigration Policy – May 2025


Dear clients and partners,

We want to inform you of significant changes to Argentina’s immigration policy, announced by the national government through an Executive Decree. These changes aim to restore order, public safety, and fairness in access to Argentina’s public resources. Below is a summary of the main updates that may affect current and future immigration procedures:

• Criminal background restrictions: Any foreign national with a criminal conviction will no longer be allowed to enter the country. In addition, any foreigner who commits a crime in Argentina—regardless of the sentence—will now face deportation. This includes offenses previously not considered grounds for deportation, such as those carrying penalties under five years.
• Healthcare access: Public healthcare will no longer be free for all. Transitory, temporary, and irregular residents must now either pay for medical services or have valid health insurance upon entering the country. Authorities stated that in 2024 alone, eight national hospitals spent approximately 114 billion pesos on healthcare services for foreigners.

While you are in Argentina under a temporary residency, you have two options:
- Either you hire a private health care plan, or
- Or you register yourself as "monotributo" (self-employed) for doing any kind of activity (teaching online, giving advice, giving art lessons, or whatever). This means you will pay local taxes.
Monotributo offers a wide range of possibilities by registering into a specific category according to the amount invoiced every semester - which means you can change the category you are in every 6 months, depending on whether the amount invoiced during that term went down or up).
When you pay your local taxes, a part of them goes as withholding for your health care coverage. Therefore, you will be paying for your health care through an employment plan.
In English, the terms “obra social” and “prepaga” do not have exact equivalents because they refer to specific elements of the Argentine healthcare system. However, they can be explained.

Obra social
A common translation would be “Health insurance provided through employment” or simply “statutory health insurance”.

Explanation: It refers to the medical coverage received by formally employed workers in Argentina as part of their compensation. In English, you might say:

“Obra social” is a type of mandatory health insurance provided through employment in Argentina.

Prepaga
A common translation would be “Private health insurance” or “private healthcare plan”.

Explanation: It is a voluntary system of medical coverage through monthly payments to a private company, which offers access to clinics, doctors, and additional services.

For more information on Monotributo, you will need to have a meeting with an Accountant, but these are the overall details (in general, Monotributo is handled by the person directly).

Another option:

To set up a small business (LLC / SRL) and hire yourself as your own employee. This will entail paying yourself a salary and paying withholding (including health care). However, if this is not the main / real goal, be careful. This will be extremely costly due to all the taxes involved.



Other changes according to the new Decree:

• University education: National universities are now authorized (but not obligated) to charge tuition fees for foreign students with temporary residency. Primary and secondary education will remain free and accessible to all residents, in accordance with Article 20 of the National Constitution.
• Citizenship requirements: Foreign nationals must reside continuously in Argentina for at least two years under a legal migratory condition to be eligible for citizenship, without leaving the country during that time. Alternatively, applicants who have made a substantial investment that benefits Argentina as a whole may also qualify. Personal investments do not count.
• Permanent residency conditions: Applicants for permanent residence must prove they have sufficient means of support and a clean criminal record. Once granted, permanent residency can be revoked if the person does not re-enter Argentina at least once every year if they decide to leave the country.

************************************************************************************************************************************

Conclusion:

All these changes reflect the government's goal to maintain a welcoming environment for those who seek to contribute positively to Argentine society, while also strengthening controls to prevent abuse of the system.

The immigration authorities do not yet have information regarding the scope of the new decree or how it will be implemented. As you can see, we made sure to inform you about these developments immediately. However, we kindly ask for your patience.

Contacting us for further details at this time is not helpful, as we do not have any additional information to share.

Our firm is closely monitoring the implementation of this new decree as well as any changes or decisions made in the immediate future in order t o keep you all informed.

This is, in fact, our main distinguishing feature. So, you can be sure we will be in touch.

Best regards,

--
Lorena Gallardo-Fernández, BH
Immigration Advisor & Relocation Specialist
lorena@argentinaresidency.com

ARCA - Argentina Residency & Citizenship Advisors
www.ArgentinaResidency.com

Argentina (+54 911) 4401 8529
USA Toll Free +1 (888) 748 3435

 

[earlyretirement]

FYI. Lorena sent this out to me today.

Subject: Important Update on Argentina’s Immigration Policy – May 2025


Dear clients and partners,

We want to inform you of significant changes to Argentina’s immigration policy, announced by the national government through an Executive Decree. These changes aim to restore order, public safety, and fairness in access to Argentina’s public resources. Below is a summary of the main updates that may affect current and future immigration procedures:

• Criminal background restrictions: Any foreign national with a criminal conviction will no longer be allowed to enter the country. In addition, any foreigner who commits a crime in Argentina—regardless of the sentence—will now face deportation. This includes offenses previously not considered grounds for deportation, such as those carrying penalties under five years.
• Healthcare access: Public healthcare will no longer be free for all. Transitory, temporary, and irregular residents must now either pay for medical services or have valid health insurance upon entering the country. Authorities stated that in 2024 alone, eight national hospitals spent approximately 114 billion pesos on healthcare services for foreigners.

While you are in Argentina under a temporary residency, you have two options:
- Either you hire a private health care plan, or
- Or you register yourself as "monotributo" (self-employed) for doing any kind of activity (teaching online, giving advice, giving art lessons, or whatever). This means you will pay local taxes.
Monotributo offers a wide range of possibilities by registering into a specific category according to the amount invoiced every semester - which means you can change the category you are in every 6 months, depending on whether the amount invoiced during that term went down or up).
When you pay your local taxes, a part of them goes as withholding for your health care coverage. Therefore, you will be paying for your health care through an employment plan.
In English, the terms “obra social” and “prepaga” do not have exact equivalents because they refer to specific elements of the Argentine healthcare system. However, they can be explained.

Obra social
A common translation would be “Health insurance provided through employment” or simply “statutory health insurance”.

Explanation: It refers to the medical coverage received by formally employed workers in Argentina as part of their compensation. In English, you might say:

“Obra social” is a type of mandatory health insurance provided through employment in Argentina.

Prepaga
A common translation would be “Private health insurance” or “private healthcare plan”.

Explanation: It is a voluntary system of medical coverage through monthly payments to a private company, which offers access to clinics, doctors, and additional services.

For more information on Monotributo, you will need to have a meeting with an Accountant, but these are the overall details (in general, Monotributo is handled by the person directly).

Another option:

To set up a small business (LLC / SRL) and hire yourself as your own employee. This will entail paying yourself a salary and paying withholding (including health care). However, if this is not the main / real goal, be careful. This will be extremely costly due to all the taxes involved.



Other changes according to the new Decree:

• University education: National universities are now authorized (but not obligated) to charge tuition fees for foreign students with temporary residency. Primary and secondary education will remain free and accessible to all residents, in accordance with Article 20 of the National Constitution.
• Citizenship requirements: Foreign nationals must reside continuously in Argentina for at least two years under a legal migratory condition to be eligible for citizenship, without leaving the country during that time. Alternatively, applicants who have made a substantial investment that benefits Argentina as a whole may also qualify. Personal investments do not count.
• Permanent residency conditions: Applicants for permanent residence must prove they have sufficient means of support and a clean criminal record. Once granted, permanent residency can be revoked if the person does not re-enter Argentina at least once every year if they decide to leave the country.

************************************************************************************************************************************

Conclusion:

All these changes reflect the government's goal to maintain a welcoming environment for those who seek to contribute positively to Argentine society, while also strengthening controls to prevent abuse of the system.

The immigration authorities do not yet have information regarding the scope of the new decree or how it will be implemented. As you can see, we made sure to inform you about these developments immediately. However, we kindly ask for your patience.

Contacting us for further details at this time is not helpful, as we do not have any additional information to share.

Our firm is closely monitoring the implementation of this new decree as well as any changes or decisions made in the immediate future in order t o keep you all informed.

This is, in fact, our main distinguishing feature. So, you can be sure we will be in touch.

Best regards,

--
Lorena Gallardo-Fernández, BH
Immigration Advisor & Relocation Specialist
lorena@argentinaresidency.com

ARCA - Argentina Residency & Citizenship Advisors
www.ArgentinaResidency.com

Argentina (+54 911) 4401 8529
USA Toll Free +1 (888) 748 3435

Yep. I also got that email as well a bit ago. Sounds like they reduced the amount you can stay out. You previously had to come in every 2 years but now it's every year to keep permanent residency.

 

[Wally]

FYI. Lorena sent this out to me today.

Subject: Important Update on Argentina’s Immigration Policy – May 2025


Dear clients and partners,

We want to inform you of significant changes to Argentina’s immigration policy, announced by the national government through an Executive Decree. These changes aim to restore order, public safety, and fairness in access to Argentina’s public resources. Below is a summary of the main updates that may affect current and future immigration procedures:

• Criminal background restrictions: Any foreign national with a criminal conviction will no longer be allowed to enter the country. In addition, any foreigner who commits a crime in Argentina—regardless of the sentence—will now face deportation. This includes offenses previously not considered grounds for deportation, such as those carrying penalties under five years.
• Healthcare access: Public healthcare will no longer be free for all. Transitory, temporary, and irregular residents must now either pay for medical services or have valid health insurance upon entering the country. Authorities stated that in 2024 alone, eight national hospitals spent approximately 114 billion pesos on healthcare services for foreigners.

While you are in Argentina under a temporary residency, you have two options:
- Either you hire a private health care plan, or
- Or you register yourself as "monotributo" (self-employed) for doing any kind of activity (teaching online, giving advice, giving art lessons, or whatever). This means you will pay local taxes.
Monotributo offers a wide range of possibilities by registering into a specific category according to the amount invoiced every semester - which means you can change the category you are in every 6 months, depending on whether the amount invoiced during that term went down or up).
When you pay your local taxes, a part of them goes as withholding for your health care coverage. Therefore, you will be paying for your health care through an employment plan.
In English, the terms “obra social” and “prepaga” do not have exact equivalents because they refer to specific elements of the Argentine healthcare system. However, they can be explained.

Obra social
A common translation would be “Health insurance provided through employment” or simply “statutory health insurance”.

Explanation: It refers to the medical coverage received by formally employed workers in Argentina as part of their compensation. In English, you might say:

“Obra social” is a type of mandatory health insurance provided through employment in Argentina.

Prepaga
A common translation would be “Private health insurance” or “private healthcare plan”.

Explanation: It is a voluntary system of medical coverage through monthly payments to a private company, which offers access to clinics, doctors, and additional services.

For more information on Monotributo, you will need to have a meeting with an Accountant, but these are the overall details (in general, Monotributo is handled by the person directly).

Another option:

To set up a small business (LLC / SRL) and hire yourself as your own employee. This will entail paying yourself a salary and paying withholding (including health care). However, if this is not the main / real goal, be careful. This will be extremely costly due to all the taxes involved.



Other changes according to the new Decree:

• University education: National universities are now authorized (but not obligated) to charge tuition fees for foreign students with temporary residency. Primary and secondary education will remain free and accessible to all residents, in accordance with Article 20 of the National Constitution.
• Citizenship requirements: Foreign nationals must reside continuously in Argentina for at least two years under a legal migratory condition to be eligible for citizenship, without leaving the country during that time. Alternatively, applicants who have made a substantial investment that benefits Argentina as a whole may also qualify. Personal investments do not count.
• Permanent residency conditions: Applicants for permanent residence must prove they have sufficient means of support and a clean criminal record. Once granted, permanent residency can be revoked if the person does not re-enter Argentina at least once every year if they decide to leave the country.

************************************************************************************************************************************

Conclusion:

All these changes reflect the government's goal to maintain a welcoming environment for those who seek to contribute positively to Argentine society, while also strengthening controls to prevent abuse of the system.

The immigration authorities do not yet have information regarding the scope of the new decree or how it will be implemented. As you can see, we made sure to inform you about these developments immediately. However, we kindly ask for your patience.

Contacting us for further details at this time is not helpful, as we do not have any additional information to share.

Our firm is closely monitoring the implementation of this new decree as well as any changes or decisions made in the immediate future in order t o keep you all informed.

This is, in fact, our main distinguishing feature. So, you can be sure we will be in touch.

Best regards,

--
Lorena Gallardo-Fernández, BH
Immigration Advisor & Relocation Specialist
lorena@argentinaresidency.com

ARCA - Argentina Residency & Citizenship Advisors
www.ArgentinaResidency.com

Argentina (+54 911) 4401 8529
USA Toll Free +1 (888) 748 3435

Thanks for sharing. I wondered what immigration attorneys would say about yesterday's change. I think much more needs to be announced before anyone knows. But things are changing. And it sounds like at lightning speeds. I talked to a friend that is a lawyer and he said he got a lot of calls but he can't really say anything until the government comes out next week. He said the 2 years thing will KILL people's changes of getting citizenship here. So you could be hosed @Darksider415 or have to restart your clock.

 

[Avocado]

I saw this online today. Terrible for @StatusNomadicus and his crime cheating on taxes and lying about price on his house purchase! My friend at ARCA is on the case.

5. Zero-Tolerance Deportation Policy​

• Any crime, regardless of severity, committed by a foreigner will now result in immediate deportation.
• The list of deportable offences has been expanded, and the expulsion process has been streamlined to reduce bureaucratic delays.
• This includes minor infractions, which previously may not have resulted in deportation

Summary of Recent Changes to Argentine Immigration Rules (Effective May 15, 2025)

Argentina has enacted a sweeping overhaul of its immigration regulations, introducing stricter entry, residency, and deportation policies. The changes, implemented by presidential decree under President Javier Milei, are designed to tighten border controls, reduce illegal immigration, and ensure...

gatewaytosouthamerica-newsblog.com

 

[fool in love]

FYI. Lorena sent this out to me today.

Subject: Important Update on Argentina’s Immigration Policy – May 2025


Dear clients and partners,

We want to inform you of significant changes to Argentina’s immigration policy, announced by the national government through an Executive Decree. These changes aim to restore order, public safety, and fairness in access to Argentina’s public resources. Below is a summary of the main updates that may affect current and future immigration procedures:

• Criminal background restrictions: Any foreign national with a criminal conviction will no longer be allowed to enter the country. In addition, any foreigner who commits a crime in Argentina—regardless of the sentence—will now face deportation. This includes offenses previously not considered grounds for deportation, such as those carrying penalties under five years.
• Healthcare access: Public healthcare will no longer be free for all. Transitory, temporary, and irregular residents must now either pay for medical services or have valid health insurance upon entering the country. Authorities stated that in 2024 alone, eight national hospitals spent approximately 114 billion pesos on healthcare services for foreigners.

While you are in Argentina under a temporary residency, you have two options:
- Either you hire a private health care plan, or
- Or you register yourself as "monotributo" (self-employed) for doing any kind of activity (teaching online, giving advice, giving art lessons, or whatever). This means you will pay local taxes.
Monotributo offers a wide range of possibilities by registering into a specific category according to the amount invoiced every semester - which means you can change the category you are in every 6 months, depending on whether the amount invoiced during that term went down or up).
When you pay your local taxes, a part of them goes as withholding for your health care coverage. Therefore, you will be paying for your health care through an employment plan.
In English, the terms “obra social” and “prepaga” do not have exact equivalents because they refer to specific elements of the Argentine healthcare system. However, they can be explained.

Obra social
A common translation would be “Health insurance provided through employment” or simply “statutory health insurance”.

Explanation: It refers to the medical coverage received by formally employed workers in Argentina as part of their compensation. In English, you might say:

“Obra social” is a type of mandatory health insurance provided through employment in Argentina.

Prepaga
A common translation would be “Private health insurance” or “private healthcare plan”.

Explanation: It is a voluntary system of medical coverage through monthly payments to a private company, which offers access to clinics, doctors, and additional services.

For more information on Monotributo, you will need to have a meeting with an Accountant, but these are the overall details (in general, Monotributo is handled by the person directly).

Another option:

To set up a small business (LLC / SRL) and hire yourself as your own employee. This will entail paying yourself a salary and paying withholding (including health care). However, if this is not the main / real goal, be careful. This will be extremely costly due to all the taxes involved.



Other changes according to the new Decree:

• University education: National universities are now authorized (but not obligated) to charge tuition fees for foreign students with temporary residency. Primary and secondary education will remain free and accessible to all residents, in accordance with Article 20 of the National Constitution.
• Citizenship requirements: Foreign nationals must reside continuously in Argentina for at least two years under a legal migratory condition to be eligible for citizenship, without leaving the country during that time. Alternatively, applicants who have made a substantial investment that benefits Argentina as a whole may also qualify. Personal investments do not count.
• Permanent residency conditions: Applicants for permanent residence must prove they have sufficient means of support and a clean criminal record. Once granted, permanent residency can be revoked if the person does not re-enter Argentina at least once every year if they decide to leave the country.

************************************************************************************************************************************

Conclusion:

All these changes reflect the government's goal to maintain a welcoming environment for those who seek to contribute positively to Argentine society, while also strengthening controls to prevent abuse of the system.

The immigration authorities do not yet have information regarding the scope of the new decree or how it will be implemented. As you can see, we made sure to inform you about these developments immediately. However, we kindly ask for your patience.

Contacting us for further details at this time is not helpful, as we do not have any additional information to share.

Our firm is closely monitoring the implementation of this new decree as well as any changes or decisions made in the immediate future in order t o keep you all informed.

This is, in fact, our main distinguishing feature. So, you can be sure we will be in touch.

Best regards,

--
Lorena Gallardo-Fernández, BH
Immigration Advisor & Relocation Specialist
lorena@argentinaresidency.com

ARCA - Argentina Residency & Citizenship Advisors
www.ArgentinaResidency.com

Argentina (+54 911) 4401 8529
USA Toll Free +1 (888) 748 3435

I also use Lorena. She got my DNI for me. No problem. She is the best!

 

[Wally]

I also use Lorena. She got my DNI for me. No problem. She is the best!

I have friends from USA, UK and Canada and they also used Lorena at Argentina Residency. She has been around for a long time. They won't take on a case if they have doubts. She is very direct and will tell you up front. That is how they can do the money back guarantee.

 

[RN in BA]

I'm waiting to see how this pans out in reality, because nobody has seen the final text of the DNU yet. That said, this is something that I could see being a problem for the hard-working, nose-to-the-grindstone get stuff done type of immigrants that Argentina needs.

This is terrible! There goes my plans to live in BA as a permanent-tourist! 🤣 I don't make enough to qualify for the rentista unless maybe I could show rental income. But the property isn't in my name.It is in my mother's. @Darksider415 do you really think they will push through as it? How is this possible for no one to leave Argentina for 2 years! Even if I started the process it would be impossible as I would go home to visit my mom and family. That does not seem realistic to now allow people to leave for 2 YEARS!