Argentina Tightens Residency and Public Service Rules
President Milei's 2026 agenda includes a new wave of structural reforms that may specifically target immigration and residency regulations.
Argentina Tightens Residency and Public Service Rules
The Milei administration is moving forward with a major overhaul of Argentina’s immigration framework. Through the establishment of the National Immigration Agency and the enforcement of Decree 366/2025, the government is shifting toward a stricter, security-focused model. These changes significantly impact how foreign nationals live, work, and access services within the country.
One of the most critical updates for long-term expats is the new two-year continuous residence requirement. To qualify for permanent residency or citizenship, applicants must now remain in Argentina for two consecutive years without traveling abroad. Additionally, permanent residents now lose their status if they spend more than 12 months outside the country, a significant drop from the previous 24-month allowance.
Who is affected by the shift
The new regulations reach beyond residency paperwork and into daily life. If you are a temporary or transitory resident, you are no longer eligible for free public healthcare and must carry valid health insurance at all times. National universities have also been authorized to charge tuition to foreign students on temporary permits.
For remote workers, the Digital Nomad Visa remains a viable path, but it is strictly limited. It allows for a total stay of 12 months (an initial six months plus one extension) and requires a minimum annual income of $30,000. Once the 12-month period ends, the visa is non-renewable, requiring nomads to transition to a different residency category if they wish to stay.
What you need to do
If you are planning a move or currently hold temporary status, keep these requirements and visa updates in mind:
- Secure private coverage: Ensure you have a health insurance policy that meets government standards before entering the country.
- Track your travel: If your goal is permanent residency, avoid any international travel for at least 24 months to meet the continuity requirement.
- Budget for fees: The Digital Nomad Visa carries a processing cost of approximately $2,860, and you will need an apostilled background check and proof of income.
- Check tax status: Under recent labor laws, even those gaining citizenship through investment may be classified as foreign nationals for tax purposes until they achieve 12 months of physical presence.
Read our full Argentina guide for the complete picture.