Argentina Approves Citizenship by Investment Program – Passport Could Soon Gain US Visa Waiver

The Citizenship by Investment (CBI) law has officially come into effect in Argentina following the publication of Decree 524/2025 today. However, the government must still announce the qualifying investment thresholds and eligible sectors, as well as complete system upgrades, before the program begins accepting applications.

The decree establishes the legal framework and procedures allowing foreign investors to become Argentine citizens through economic contributions. In less than two months since the initial announcement in May 2025, the program has been formally approved—demonstrating the high priority given by President Javier Milei’s administration.

Under the decree, the Agency for Citizenship by Investment Programs will be established within the Ministry of Economy, tasked with receiving applications, coordinating security checks with various agencies, and submitting recommendations to the National Directorate of Migration. The Ministry of Economy will determine what constitutes a “relevant” investment for eligibility, though no figures have yet been announced.

Seven government bodies will take part in vetting applicants, 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)—ensuring that citizenship “does not pose a risk to national security or national interests.” The National Directorate of Migration must issue a final decision within 30 business days after receiving the vetting reports.

The decree also grants the Agency the authority to issue detailed guidance and adjust application procedures. Meanwhile, the Customs Collection and Control Agency (ARCA) must upgrade its systems to issue tax identification numbers for successful applicants. These steps indicate that the program will not begin accepting applications immediately.

The Argentine passport is expected to gain significantly in appeal after the country officially applied on July 29 to rejoin the US Visa Waiver Program. If accepted, Argentine citizens would enjoy visa-free entry to the United States—a major advantage for investors seeking global mobility.

The government emphasizes that this initiative will “streamline procedures, encourage investment, and create jobs,” aligning with the Milei administration’s broader economic liberalization agenda. Security screening will follow international standards to avoid jeopardizing existing visa agreements and diplomatic relations.

No official launch date has been set, as the program awaits the completion of application procedures, the publication of investment criteria, and the integration of inter-agency systems before becoming operational.