How to move to Argentina as a retiree or digital nomad in 2023

Argentina is a highly contrasted nation with a diverse geographic and cultural landscape. The best of both worlds can be experienced there: modern conveniences and age-old traditions.

All the details you require to relocate to Argentina as a retiree or a digital nomad will be covered in this article from the video session by Gabriel, a verified Argentinian Lawyer, and Danish, visadb.io founder called "How to move to Argentina as a retiree or digital nomad in 2023". They discussed visa options, taxes, living expenses, and other topics.

Why is Argentina such a popular destination for digital nomads and expats?

During winter, Argentina is in springtime, so a lot of digital nomads and travelers take advantage of the amazing warm weather. Moreover, as Argentina’s currency exchange can be very low for foreigners, it also makes it a highly affordable destination. 

It also has a reliable internet connection so you can work remotely with tranquility. Consider looking for remote work opportunities abroad on platforms like Jooble.

Who needs a tourist visa to enter Argentina?

United States citizens and Europeans do not need to obtain a tourist visa as they only need their passport to access Argentina. You can stay for 90 days. 

If you want to verify if your country requires a tourist visa. Visit the official government website here.

Is it possible to extend the Argentina tourist visa?

Argentina does not have a nominal number for tourist stays, to say, that you could only stay for 90 days in a 180-day period. You can make a renewal for another 90 days or you can also make a visa run for Colonia, a city in Uruguay that is close to Buenos Aires. It is a 40-minute tour. 

However, consider that if you do visa runs many times, you might have problems at immigration. If you are planning to stay long-term, it is better to consider a resident visa. 

You can reach out to the verified lawyer Gabriel to discuss your visa options.

Does Argentina have a Digital Nomad Visa?

Argentina does not have a specific visa category for digital nomads yet, but the government is working on the law.

What are the options to get Temporary Residence in Argentina?

One of the most popular options for staying long-term in Argentina is the Rentista Visa as it is used by visitors who do not depend on a local Argentine income.

What is the Argentina Rentista Visa?

A “rentista” is someone who has a rental or passive income, therefore, a Rentista Visa is a Passive Income permit. This particular visa is under the law 25871 and the subcategory is 23b on Argentinian Law. 

With this permit, you can live in Argentina if you prove to the government that you have an income from abroad.  

Read more about the Argentina Rentista Visa here.

What is considered passive income for the Argentina Rentista Visa?

What may be considered passive income is not the same as what is eligible for the Argentina Rentista Visa. In general, a passive income is an income for which you do not have to perform work activities.

For the visa, for instance, you can show that you have rental income from real estate as you are renting an apartment that you have abroad in the United States, Europe or anywhere else outside of Argentina. 

Other acceptable types of income are derived from banks and investments as well as dividends from companies when you are a member of a company incorporated outside Argentina, to say, a member of an LLC or a shareholder of a corporation.

You can also be a beneficiary of a trust fund, or work with annuities. 

Are liquid assets acceptable to apply for the Argentina Rentista Visa?

No, liquid assets are not accepted. 

What is the amount of income required to apply for the Argentina Rentista Visa?

You may receive different information about income requirements from consulates and lawyers around the world. The original requirement was set in 2016, and it was 30,000 Argentine Pesos, therefore, you need to check the current exchange rate. However, the best amount to apply is at least $1500 USD monthly. 

How long does it take to get the Argentina Rentista Visa?

It takes around 90 days to obtain a response from the government about the Argentina Rentista Visa. Nonetheless, they will give you a conditional residency document, and you will be able to live in the country from day one of your application. 

The government filing fee is approximately $130 USD. 

Do I need to visit Argentina to apply for the Rentista Visa?

Yes, because your fingerprint and photograph are required. 

How can I apply for Argentine Citizenship?

Argentina is amongst the most friendly and flexible countries to acquire citizenship because the physical presence requirement to be eligible is only two years. You can comply with this physical requirement by having a Rentista Visa. 

What are the tax implications of the Argentina Rentista Visa? 

Argentina is amongst the most friendly and flexible countries to acquire citizenship because the physical presence requirement to be eligible is only two years. You can comply with this physical requirement by having a Rentista Visa. 

Taxation is tricky, and it requires good planning. With Temporary Residency, the advantage is that you do not become a tax resident if you do not live in Argentina for more than nine months a year. For these missing three months, foreigners usually explore Brazil or South America or go back home. 

What are the benefits of acquiring Argentine Citizenship? 

Argentine citizenship opens doors to be able to live in the US through E-2 Investor Treaty Visas. Argentina also opened the door to live in South America because of the Mercosur agreement. 

We hope this is a great kickstarter for your relocation to Argentina. Do not hesitate to reach out to us if you have any further doubts. You can also watch the whole video session about Argenta Rentista Visa below.