Can I extend my 90-day tourist stay while in Argentina?

Yes, once. Go to Dirección Nacional de Migraciones with your passport, pay $100, and get another 90 days. Must be done before your original 90 days expire.

What if I overstay my 90 days?

You'll pay a fine when leaving - currently around $50-100 depending on how long you overstayed. Repeated overstays can lead to entry bans.

Do I need a return ticket to enter Argentina?

Officially yes, but it's rarely checked. Have proof of onward travel (can be bus ticket to another country) or be prepared to buy a refundable ticket if asked.

Can I apply for an Argentina visa while in Argentina?

For tourist extensions, yes. For work or student visas, you usually need to apply from your home country or at an Argentine consulate abroad.

How long does the FBI background check take?

2-3 weeks if mailed, or same-day if you go to the FBI office in Clarksburg, WV. Request it early - this is usually the longest part of the process.

How to Get an Argentina Visa as an American

Americans don't need a visa for Argentina for stays up to 90 days. You just need a valid passport and will get a tourist stamp on arrival. For longer stays or work, you'll need to apply for a specific visa through the Argentine consulate.

Check if you actually need a visa. For tourism or business visits under 90 days, you don't need a visa. Just bring your passport (valid for at least 6 months) and you'll get a tourist stamp on arrival. If you're staying longer than 90 days, working, studying, or have other purposes, keep reading.
Determine your visa type. Tourist visa extension (stays 90-180 days), work visa (temporary resident), student visa, or permanent resident visa. Each has different requirements. Most people extending tourism need the tourist visa extension.
Gather required documents. All visas require: completed application form, passport photos (2), passport copy, FBI background check (apostilled), birth certificate (apostilled), and proof of financial means. Work visas also need employment contract. Student visas need acceptance letter from Argentine institution.
Get documents apostilled. FBI background check and birth certificate must be apostilled by the U.S. State Department. This takes 2-3 weeks by mail or you can do it same-day in Washington D.C. Cost is $8 per document.
Submit application. Apply at the nearest Argentine consulate in the U.S. or at Dirección Nacional de Migraciones if you're already in Argentina. Appointments required at most consulates. Processing takes 10-15 business days.
Pay fees and wait. Tourist extension: $100. Work visa: $200-300. Student visa: $150. Payment methods vary by consulate. You'll get your passport back with visa sticker or approval letter.

Can I extend my 90-day tourist stay while in Argentina?: Yes, once. Go to Dirección Nacional de Migraciones with your passport, pay $100, and get another 90 days. Must be done before your original 90 days expire.
What if I overstay my 90 days?: You'll pay a fine when leaving - currently around $50-100 depending on how long you overstayed. Repeated overstays can lead to entry bans.
Do I need a return ticket to enter Argentina?: Officially yes, but it's rarely checked. Have proof of onward travel (can be bus ticket to another country) or be prepared to buy a refundable ticket if asked.
Can I apply for an Argentina visa while in Argentina?: For tourist extensions, yes. For work or student visas, you usually need to apply from your home country or at an Argentine consulate abroad.
How long does the FBI background check take?: 2-3 weeks if mailed, or same-day if you go to the FBI office in Clarksburg, WV. Request it early - this is usually the longest part of the process.