Argentina citizenship by birth was once one of the fastest and most accessible routes to a second nationality.
Historically, babies born on Argentine soil received citizenship automatically, regardless of their parents’ immigration status.
However, a major policy change took effect on May 29, 2025, altering the landscape significantly.
Under the new rules, birth in Argentina no longer grants automatic citizenship.
Despite this shift, Argentina remains a favorable option for families pursuing second citizenship due to its inclusive policies, strong passport, and regional integration.
In this article, we’ll explore:
- What is your nationality if you were born in Argentina?
- What are the benefits of giving birth in Argentina?
- Can I get citizenship if my child is born in Argentina?
- Can you be a dual citizen of Argentina?
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Does Argentina Have Birthright Citizenship?
Yes, but not automatically anymore.
Argentina still adheres to the principle of jus soli (“right of the soil”), meaning that birth on Argentine territory can lead to citizenship.
However, as of May 29, 2025, Argentina citizenship by birth is no longer granted at birth.
Children born in Argentina now must reside in the country for at least two years before they or their parents can apply for Argentine citizenship.
This change represents a departure from Argentina’s previous reputation as one of the world’s most generous countries for citizenship by birth.
The revised policy still offers a viable path to citizenship for newborns and their families, but it now includes a mandatory period of local residency, effectively transforming immediate citizenship into a residency-to-citizenship track.
What Are the Benefits of Having a Baby in Argentina?
Access to Public Services
Children born in Argentina and their foreign parents, once they obtain legal residency, can access the country’s universal healthcare system and public education, including prenatal care, pediatric services, and schooling.
These services are state-funded and available at minimal or no cost, making Argentina attractive for families seeking long-term stability without high living expenses.
Affordable and Reliable Maternity Care
Argentina offers a strong public healthcare infrastructure, and even private maternity care is considerably more affordable than in many high-income countries.
Expectant mothers have access to quality obstetric services, hospital births, and postnatal care at a fraction of the cost found in places like the US or Western Europe.
Birth Tourism Still Permitted—With Limits
Argentina continues to allow foreigners to give birth in the country, and while automatic Argentine citizenship is no longer offered, the birth still creates a legal basis for family-based residency.
For families willing to commit to the residency requirement, it remains a viable and structured path to eventual citizenship.
Can Parents Get Citizenship if a Child Is Born in Argentina?
Yes—eventually.
Parents of Argentine-born children can apply for permanent residency shortly after the birth, and may apply for citizenship after two years of legal residency.
- Family Reunification Route
Parents qualify for residency through their relationship to a child born in Argentina. No minimum income or investment is required. - Naturalization Process
After two years of continuous legal residency, parents can apply for Argentine citizenship. Argentina does not require Spanish language tests, integration exams, or interviews; only proof of legal stay and a clean criminal record. - Documentation Timeline
- Permanent residency: granted within a few months
- Citizenship: application possible after 2 years, processing takes 6–12 months
- Required: passports, child’s Argentine birth certificate, address proof, police record
Does Argentina Have Citizenship by Descent?
Yes, Argentina recognizes citizenship through descent (jus sanguinis), primarily through parents and in some cases, grandparents:
- Through Parents
If at least one parent is Argentine by birth, you qualify for Argentine citizenship even if born abroad. - Through Grandparents
Grandparental descent is not automatic. Applicants must demonstrate family ties and may need to reside in Argentina. Approval is discretionary and handled case-by-case. - Documents Required
- Certified Argentine birth certificate of parent or grandparent
- Applicant’s birth certificate proving lineage
- Apostilled and translated documents as needed
Descent-based claims are subject to strict documentation, especially when applying through consulates abroad.
Does Argentina Do Dual Citizenship?
Yes, Argentina allows dual citizenship with no requirement to renounce your original nationality, provided your home country also permits it.
Some countries (e.g., China, India) may revoke your original citizenship if you naturalize elsewhere. Always verify local laws before proceeding.
Inside Argentina, dual citizens are treated as Argentine nationals while in the country.
They must use their Argentine passport to enter/exit and are not entitled to foreign consular protection.
Argentina’s open stance makes it attractive to global families, investors, and digital nomads.
Is Argentina a Strong Passport?
Yes, the Argentine passport is highly ranked (12th spot) and offers both global and regional advantages:
- Visa-Free Travel
Argentine citizens enjoy visa-free access to over 105 countries based on Arton Passport Index 2025, including the EU, UK, much of Latin America, and parts of Asia. - Mercosur Benefits
Citizens can live and work freely in Mercosur member states, including Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay, and associate countries like Chile and Peru. - Value for Future Generations
Children who become Argentine citizens (after residency) will benefit from a respected and mobile passport, ideal for global education and career options.
Conclusion
Argentina’s recent legal change has shifted the path, but not closed the door on acquiring Argentina citizenship by birth.
While automatic birthright citizenship is no longer available, the country still provides a clear and relatively fast route to citizenship through residency and family connections.
For globally mobile families who are willing to reside in Argentina, the country remains one of the most welcoming options in Latin America with strong legal rights, public benefits, and global mobility.
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Adam is an internationally recognised author on financial matters with over 830million answer views on Quora, a widely sold book on Amazon, and a contributor on Forbes.
