Moving to Argentina: An Expat’s Guide

Published on September 30, 2025 and written by Cyril Jarnias

Argentina, with its rich culture, diverse landscapes, and relaxed lifestyle, attracts many expatriates from around the world. Whether you’re drawn to the bustling streets of Buenos Aires, the vineyards of Mendoza, or the majestic mountains of Patagonia, settling in this South American country can be an exciting adventure. Here’s a detailed guide to help you prepare for your expatriation and successfully establish yourself in Argentina.

Pack Your Bags and Your Mind: Essentials Before the Big Move

Before packing your bags for Argentina, thorough preparation is crucial. A successful expatriation begins with careful planning and a good understanding of what lies ahead.

Research Argentine culture. Familiarize yourself with local customs, social etiquette, and cultural norms. Argentina has a rich and unique culture, influenced by its European and South American roots. Understanding these nuances will help you integrate more easily.

Start learning Spanish. Although many Argentines speak English, especially in large cities, mastering Spanish will be essential for your daily life and integration. The Argentine accent can be difficult to understand at first, so start getting used to it by watching Argentine movies or TV series.

Prepare your documents. Make sure you have all the necessary documents for your expatriation:

• Valid passport
• Birth certificate and other civil status documents
• Diplomas and professional certificates
• Medical records and vaccination card
• International driver’s license

Plan your budget. Argentina can be relatively affordable for expatriates, but it’s important to understand the local cost of living and plan your budget accordingly. Don’t forget to account for inflation, which can be high in Argentina.

Choose your destination. Argentina is a large country with very diverse regions. Whether you prefer the urban life of Buenos Aires, the Mediterranean climate of Mendoza, or the spectacular landscapes of Patagonia, choose a destination that matches your aspirations and lifestyle.

Welcome to Argentina: First Steps to Start Your New Life Right

Once you arrive in Argentina, several important steps await you to formalize your status and start your new life on the right foot.

Get your DNI (Documento Nacional de Identidad). This is the equivalent of our identity card and is essential for many administrative procedures in Argentina. To obtain it, you’ll need to go to the National Directorate of Migration with your passport, visa, and proof of address.

Register for social security. To work legally in Argentina, you must obtain a CUIL number (Código Único de Identificación Laboral). This number is the equivalent of our social security number. You can apply for it at ANSES (National Social Security Administration).

Open a bank account. Having a local bank account will greatly facilitate your daily life. The most popular banks among expatriates are Banco Galicia, HSBC, and Santander Rio. To open an account, you’ll need your passport, DNI, and proof of address.

Register with the French embassy. Although not mandatory, it’s highly recommended. This will allow you to stay informed about important events and receive assistance if needed.

Find housing. If you don’t already have permanent housing, now is the time to start your search. Popular websites for finding housing in Argentina include Zonaprop, Argenprop, and Mercado Libre.

Familiarize yourself with local transportation. In large cities like Buenos Aires, public transportation is well-developed. Get a SUBE card, which will allow you to use buses, subways, and trains.

Become a True Porteño: Keys to Integrating into Argentine Society

Integrating into a new culture can be challenging, but it’s also one of the most rewarding aspects of expatriation. Here are some tips to help you feel at home in Argentina.

Improve your Spanish. Even if you already have basics, continuing to improve your Spanish will be crucial for your integration. Enroll in language classes, use learning apps, or find a local conversation partner.

Adopt the Argentine pace of life. Argentines tend to dine late (often after 9 PM) and go out late at night. Adapt to this rhythm to fully enjoy local social life.

Participate in local traditions. Whether it’s drinking mate with colleagues, attending a soccer match, or joining an asado (Argentine barbecue), get involved in local traditions to feel truly integrated.

Join expatriate groups. Organizations like InterNations or Meetup regularly organize events for expatriates. This is a great way to meet other people in your situation and exchange advice.

Explore your new city. Take time to discover different neighborhoods, parks, museums, and local restaurants. The more you know your environment, the more at home you’ll feel.

Be open-minded. Argentina may have customs and ways of doing things different from what you’re used to. Stay open and curious, and don’t hesitate to ask for explanations if something seems strange.

Your Key to Argentina: How to Get the Right Visa

Obtaining the right visa is a crucial step in your expatriation to Argentina. Here’s an overview of the main visa types and how to get them.

Tourist visa. For stays of less than 90 days, French nationals don’t need a visa. An entry stamp will be issued upon your arrival.

Student visa. If you’re coming to study in Argentina, you’ll need to obtain a student visa. You’ll need an acceptance letter from your educational institution and proof of sufficient financial resources.

Work visa. To work legally in Argentina, you must obtain a work visa. Your employer will usually need to initiate the process by obtaining authorization from the Ministry of Labor.

Retiree visa. Argentina offers a special visa for retirees who wish to settle in the country. You’ll need to prove that you receive a regular pension sufficient to support yourself.

Investor visa. If you plan to invest a significant amount in Argentina, you may be eligible for an investor visa.

To obtain a visa, you’ll generally need to provide the following documents:

• Valid passport
• Completed visa application form
• ID photos
• Proof of financial resources
• Clean criminal record
• Specific documents according to visa type (employment letter, university acceptance letter, etc.)

Your Cozy Nest in Argentina: Tips for Finding the Ideal Housing

Finding suitable housing is a crucial step in your establishment in Argentina. Here are some tips to help you in your search.

Choose the right neighborhood. Every Argentine city has neighborhoods with their own characteristics. In Buenos Aires, for example, Palermo is popular among expatriates for its trendy atmosphere, while Recoleta is known for its elegance and architecture.

Define your budget. Rental prices vary considerably depending on cities and neighborhoods. In Buenos Aires, expect to pay between 300 and 600 euros per month for a one-bedroom apartment in a central neighborhood.

Use the right search tools. Popular websites for housing searches include:

• Zonaprop
• Argenprop
• Mercado Libre

Use a real estate agency. Although this involves additional fees, an agency can greatly facilitate your search, especially if you don’t yet speak Spanish fluently.

Prepare the necessary documents. To rent housing, you’ll generally need:

• Your passport
• Your DNI (if you already have it)
• Proof of income
• A guarantee (often in the form of a deposit)

Read the lease agreement carefully. Leases in Argentina are typically for two years. Make sure you understand all the clauses before signing.

Stay Legal: How to Renew Your Residence Permit in Argentina

Renewing your residence permit is an important step to maintain your legal status in Argentina. Here are the main things to know:

Start the process on time. It’s recommended to begin renewal procedures at least 60 days before your current permit expires.

Gather the necessary documents. You’ll generally need:

• Your valid passport
• Your current DNI
• Recent proof of address
• Proof of financial resources
• Argentine criminal record certificate

Make an appointment at the National Directorate of Migration. You can do this online on the official website.

Pay the renewal fees. The amount varies depending on the type of residence permit.

Attend the interview. During your appointment, an agent will review your documents and may ask you questions about your stay in Argentina.

Wait for the decision. Processing your application may take several weeks. You’ll receive a notification once a decision has been made.

Paperwork and Bureaucracy: Essential Administrative Procedures in Argentina

Expat life inevitably involves juggling various administrative procedures. Here are the main ones to know in Argentina:

Registration in the foreigner registry. Once you obtain your visa, you must register in the foreigner registry within 30 days of your arrival.

Obtaining CUIL. The Código Único de Identificación Laboral is necessary to work legally in Argentina. You can apply for it at ANSES.

Tax declaration. If you reside in Argentina for more than 6 months per year, you become a tax resident and must declare your income. Familiarize yourself with the Argentine tax system or hire an accountant.

Social security registration. If you work in Argentina, you must be registered with the local social security system.

Driver’s license. If you plan to drive in Argentina, you’ll need to obtain a local driver’s license after a certain time.

Consular registration. Although optional, registration with the French consulate is recommended to benefit from certain services and stay informed.

Know Your Rights: Laws and Regulations Concerning Foreigners in Argentina

As an expatriate in Argentina, it’s crucial to understand your rights and obligations. Here’s an overview of the main laws and regulations to know:

Labor law. Expatriates generally benefit from the same labor rights as Argentines, including minimum wage, paid leave, and protection against unfair dismissal.

Property rights. Foreigners can buy and own real estate in Argentina, with some restrictions in certain border areas.

Voting rights. Permanent residents can vote in local elections in some provinces, but not in national elections.

Access to public services. Legal residents have access to public services, including public education and healthcare.

Taxation. After six months of residence, you generally become a tax resident in Argentina and must declare your worldwide income.

Dual citizenship. Argentina recognizes dual citizenship, meaning you can become an Argentine citizen without renouncing your French nationality.

Data protection. Argentina has strict laws on personal data protection, similar to those of the European Union.

Settling in Argentina as an expatriate is an exciting adventure that requires preparation and patience. By following this guide and remaining open to new experiences, you’ll be well-equipped to succeed in your expatriation and fully enjoy everything Argentina has to offer.