Argentina citizenship by descent allows individuals with Argentine parents or grandparents to claim nationality without going through the standard residency route.
This program is one of the most straightforward ways to secure Argentine nationality and, with it, access to Mercosur benefits and visa-free travel worldwide.
This guide explains:
- What are the new citizenship rules for Argentina?
- How to get Argentine citizenship by descent?
- Is Argentina a strong passport?
- What are the benefits of Argentine citizenship?
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La información contenida en este artículo es meramente orientativa. No constituye asesoramiento financiero, jurídico o fiscal, ni una recomendación o solicitud de inversión. Algunos hechos pueden haber cambiado desde el momento de su redacción.
What does citizenship by descent mean in Argentina?
Citizenship by descent in Argentina is based on jus sanguinis, or the right of blood.
Children of Argentine citizens automatically qualify for nationality, whether they were born inside the country or abroad.
In certain cases, grandchildren may also be eligible if they can provide documents proving a continuous family connection.
What is the new citizenship law in Argentina?
In May 2025, Argentina introduced Decree 366/2025, which reformed several aspects of its immigration and nationality framework.
The new rules tightened residency requirements, increased scrutiny of documentation, and restricted access to public services for nonresidents.
These measures aim to curb abuses of Argentina’s relatively open citizenship system, particularly cases where foreigners sought fast-track nationality without genuine ties to the country.
For citizenship by descent, the rules remain largely unchanged. Children of Argentine citizens, even if born abroad, can still claim nationality by proving their family link.
However, applicants through naturalization or residency now face stricter requirements, reflecting the government’s effort to balance openness with immigration control.
How to obtain Argentine citizenship by descent
To obtain citizenship by descent in Argentina, applicants generally follow these steps:
- Collect documents proving the Argentine citizenship of your parent or grandparent.
- Submit an application to the Argentine consulate abroad or directly within Argentina.
- Provide translations and legalizations (apostilles) for foreign-issued documents.
- Attend an interview or provide sworn statements confirming the lineage.
- Wait for approval, after which you can apply for a DNI (Argentine ID card) and passport.
What are the requirements for citizenship by descent in Argentina?
The main requirements include:
- Birth certificate of the applicant.
- Parent’s or grandparent’s Argentine birth certificate or DNI.
- Marriage certificates linking each generation if applying through grandparents.
- Apostilled and translated documents if issued abroad.
- Application forms from the Argentine consulate or immigration office.
Argentina does not impose strict language or residency requirements for descent-based claims, though consulates may request interviews to verify family ties.
How much to get citizenship in Argentina?
Base government and consular fees are modest, often under USD 200-300 for nationality-option/consular service fees.
For example, registering a birth, applying for the nationality option, and obtaining a DNI through a consulate abroad can cost around USD 135 in some jurisdictions.
However, additional costs can add up: translations and apostilles for foreign documents, legal assistance for complex lineage or verification cases, and travel or lodging if required.
In more involved situations, applicants may spend USD 1,000-3,000-plus total depending on complexity.
How long does it take to get Argentina citizenship by descent?
The processing time usually ranges between several months to about a year, depending on several factors.
Key factors that affect timing:
- Whether all required documents are complete and properly legalized/apostilled at the outset.
- Which consulate or civil registry handles the case — some consulates are much faster than others.
- Complexity of the ancestry evidence — direct parentage is simpler; claims via grandparents often require more verification.
What are the pros and cons of living in Argentina?
Opportunities and challenges that expats and new citizens should weigh carefully when living in Argentina include:
Pros:
- Coste de la vida: Argentina remains relatively affordable compared to North America and Europe, especially in terms of housing, healthcare, and domestic services.
- Healthcare and education: Public healthcare and universities are accessible and of good quality, with private options also available at lower costs than in many Western countries.
- Lifestyle and culture: Argentina offers vibrant cities like Buenos Aires, renowned cuisine (especially beef and wine), and diverse landscapes ranging from Patagonia to Iguazú Falls.
- Travel freedom and Mercosur benefits: Citizens and residents enjoy mobility across Mercosur countries, easing business and relocation within South America.
- Welcoming environment: Argentina has a history of immigration and is generally open to foreigners integrating into society.
Contras:
- Economic instability: Inflation, currency fluctuations, and periodic financial crises make long-term planificación financiera more difficult.
- Bureaucracy: Processes such as residency applications, permits, and business registrations can be slow and paperwork-heavy.
- Job market challenges: Unless highly skilled, finding work as a foreigner can be difficult due to local employment protections and economic volatility.
- Infrastructure gaps: While major cities are well-developed, rural areas may lack reliable services and amenities.
- Security concerns: Petty crime, especially in urban centers, can be an issue and requires vigilance.
Is Argentina easy to get citizenship?
Yes, compared to many countries, Argentina is considered relatively easy for citizenship by descent.
The broad eligibility rules, absence of language or cultural exams, and modest costs make it attractive.
However, applicants should be prepared for bureaucratic delays, especially when dealing with local courts or consulates.
Does Argentina allow dual citizenship?
Yes. Argentina recognizes and allows dual citizenship.
This means applicants do not have to renounce their existing nationality when obtaining Argentine citizenship by descent.
How strong is an Argentina passport?
While not the most powerful passport in the world, Argentine passport ranks among the top in Latin America.
According to the Henley Passport Index, it provides visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to around 160 destinations, placing it in the global 17th rank.
The Arton Capital Passport Index also places Argentina in a similar tier, ranking 12th, highlighting its strong travel freedom within both Europe and the Americas.
Meanwhile, the Nomad Capitalist Passport Index emphasizes not only Argentina’s travel access ranking 43rd, but also its favorable dual citizenship stance and residency flexibility, giving it a higher overall lifestyle and mobility score compared to many other Latin American countries.
Conclusión
Argentina citizenship by descent is more than a heritage connection; it’s a strategic legal status with tangible global advantages.
By securing it, descendants of Argentines gain access not only to one of Latin America’s most mobile passports but also to Mercosur residency rights across neighboring countries.
The process may require careful documentation and patience with bureaucracy, but compared to other citizenship routes, Argentina’s balance of accessibility, affordability, and international mobility makes it a uniquely powerful option in 2025 and beyond.
Preguntas frecuentes
What is the golden visa for Argentina?
Argentina doesn’t have a European-style golden visa, but it offers an Investor Visa under Act No. 25.871.
Applicants must invest at least ARS 1.5 million in a lawful productive, commercial, or service activity, submit an investment project, and prove the legal origin of funds through banks authorized by the Central Bank.
The visa is renewable for up to 3 years, after which holders can apply for permanent residency.
After 2 years of permanent residency, they may become eligible for citizenship.
How long can a non-citizen stay in Argentina?
Most visitors can stay up to 90 days on a tourist visa, with the option to extend once for another 90 days.
Longer stays require a residence permit.
Do you get citizenship if you marry someone from Argentina?
Marriage to an Argentine citizen makes it easier to qualify for residency and later citizenship, but it does not grant automatic citizenship.
Applicants must usually reside in Argentina for at least two years before applying.
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