
Argentina Visa Costs & Fees (2025/2026)
Government fees, document costs, and living expenses for your first year in Argentina.
Tourist: $50 USD (most Westerners pay nothing). Digital Nomad: $200 USD. Student: $150 USD. Work: $300 USD. Rentista: $250 USD. Investment: $500 USD. Fees go to Migraciones or the consulate. They are non-refundable even if rejected. Payment methods vary by office. Some take cards, some only USD cash, some take pesos. Bring multiple payment options.
Tourist: $50 USD (most Westerners pay nothing). Digital Nomad: $200 USD. Student: $150 USD. Work: $300 USD. Rentista: $250 USD. Investment: $500 USD. Fees go to Migraciones or the consulate. They are non-refundable even if rejected. Payment methods vary by office. Some take cards, some only USD cash, some take pesos. Bring multiple payment options.
Apostille: $10-50 per document (varies by state/country), Translations: $20-40 per page (must be certified by Argentine public translator), Background check: $50-100 (varies by country), Passport photos: $10-20 (must be 4x4cm Argentine size), Medical certificate: $50-100 if required.
Health insurance (required): $50-200/month depending on coverage, Travel to consulate/embassy (if applying from home country), Document courier fees ($50-150 for international shipping), Legalization fees at Argentine consulate ($20-50 per document), Bank transfer fees for proof of funds, Currency exchange costs (spread between official and blue dollar rates).
DNI (national ID): Free but requires appointment, Residency registration: Free, Multiple entry permit: $100 if you want to leave and return during processing, DNI processing can take 3-6 months after visa approval. You may need temporary travel documents during this period.
Simple cases: $500-1,000 USD, Complex cases (Rentista/Investment): $1,500-3,000 USD, Document preparation only: $300-500 USD. Recommended if you have complications or want to speed up the process. I work with Lucero Legal for referrals - they specialize in expat cases and understand both the law and the practical realities.
Rent (1BR apartment): $400-800 USD depending on neighborhood, Food: $300-500 USD, Transportation: $30 USD (SUBE card), Utilities: $50-100 USD, Phone/internet: $30-50 USD, Entertainment: $200-400 USD. Total: $1,500-2,500/month for comfortable living. Budget on the higher end for first 2-3 months while settling in.
Frequently Asked Questions
For complex legal situations beyond what this guide covers, Lucero Legal specializes in expat immigration in Argentina.
In this guide
- Government visa fees
- Document costs
- Hidden costs to budget
- After arrival costs
- Attorney fees (if needed)
- Monthly living costs (Buenos Aires)