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Argentina Approves New Citizenship by Investment Program

Argentina has taken a decisive step toward attracting global investors. On July 31, 2025, the government published Decree 524/2025, formally creating a citizenship by investment route for foreign nationals.

This move comes less than two months after the initial announcement in May 2025, a remarkably fast turnaround that underscores the high priority this program holds on President Javier Milei’s agenda.

A New Legal Framework

Decree 524/2025 builds on Decree 366/2025, issued in May, which amended Citizenship Law 346 to create an investment-based naturalization route. By using an emergency decree, President Milei bypassed the need for congressional approval, ensuring the program could move forward quickly.

What the Decree Does

The decree creates the Agency for Citizenship by Investment Programs, a decentralized body under the Ministry of Economy. This agency will handle applications, check investment eligibility, and coordinate with multiple government departments for security and background reviews.

While the Argentina citizenship by investment program is now part of the law, it is not yet open for applications. The Ministry of Economy will later define which types of investments qualify as “relevant.” These rules will set the minimum investment amount and the approved sectors.

How It Will Work

Submitting Applications

Investors will submit their applications to the Agency for Citizenship by Investment Programs.
Background Checks by Multiple Agencies

The application will be reviewed by seven different state bodies, including the State Intelligence Secretariat (SIDE), the Financial Information Unit, the Ministry of National Security, the National Registry of Recidivism, and the National Registry of Persons (RENAPER). This process is meant to confirm that applicants do not pose risks to Argentina’s national security or interests.
Decision Within 30 Days

Once the Agency issues its recommendation, the National Directorate of Migration will have 30 business days to make a decision. If an application is denied, the rejection must include a clear explanation based on the findings of the participating agencies.

Why You Can’t Apply Yet

Under Article 6 of the decree, the Agency has the legal authority to issue complementary and clarifying regulations that will define how applications are processed and evaluated. These rules must be in place before the program can start accepting files.

The framework is ready, but three major pieces are missing before applications can start:

Investment rules: The Ministry of Economy must publish the minimum investment and eligible sectors.
Procedures: The Agency must issue detailed application guidelines.
Systems: The Customs Collection and Control Agency (ARCA) needs to update its systems to issue tax IDs (CUIT) for successful applicants.

These technical upgrades, along with the pending investment criteria and application regulations, mean the Argentina citizenship by investment program is not yet ready to accept applications.

Extra Appeal: U.S. Visa Waiver Potential

Argentina’s new program comes as the country moves to rejoin the U.S. Visa Waiver Program.
In late July 2025, Argentina submitted its application to the U.S., which, if approved, would allow Argentine passport holders visa-free travel to the United States for short stays.
While this approval process can take time, it adds extra appeal to the future program.

Economic and Security Focus

The decree highlights its aim to “encourage investment and job creation” while ensuring efficiency in processing. It also sets security protocols aligned with international standards, which could help maintain or expand Argentina’s visa agreements worldwide.

Key Points for Investors

Direct path to citizenship for qualifying investors.
No long-term residency is required under this route.
Thorough multi-agency security checks.
Fast decision window – 30 business days after review.
Program launch depends on final rules and technical readiness.

Conclusion

The legal foundation for Argentina citizenship by investment is in place. The next steps, publishing investment criteria, issuing application procedures, and upgrading systems, will determine when the program actually opens. For now, investors can prepare their documentation but should wait for the official guidelines before taking any action.

For investors seeking new global opportunities, Argentina’s program could be a game-changer once operational. This could mark the start of a new chapter for investment migration in South America.

At UNO Capital, we monitor these global shifts in real time, keeping our clients informed about the latest opportunities in citizenship and residency. Our tailored strategies are built to help you achieve lasting mobility, security, and investment success.

Speak with our investment consultants to find the program that fits your future plans. Email us at info@unocapital.com or call +971 4 393 0 393 today.