Visa Extensions & Renewals

Tourists can extend 90-day entry for another 90 days. Apply online via RADEX system or at migraciones offices. Cost: approximately $100-150 equivalent. Must apply before current stay expires. Can only do this once per entry. After 180 days total, must leave and re-enter.

Generally possible to change from tourist to residency visa while in Argentina. Must apply before tourist status expires. Process: Submit new visa application with all documents, Pay relevant fees, Wait for processing (don't leave Argentina), Once approved, get new visa stamp. Work with an attorney - this is complex.

Most residency visas are valid for 1 year initially. Renewals are usually easier than initial applications. Apply 30-60 days before expiration. Requirements: Show you've maintained visa conditions, Updated documents, Pay renewal fees. Some visas (Rentista, Investment) lead to permanent residency after 2-3 years.

Citizens of Mercosur countries (and associated states) can apply for permanent residency after 2 years continuous legal residence. Much faster than standard 3-year path. Requires: 2 years of temporary residency, Clean criminal record, Proof of income/self-sufficiency, Integration evidence (Spanish skills, community ties). IMPORTANT: Under Decreto 366/2025, the 2-year continuous residence requirement means you cannot leave Argentina during this period — any departure resets the clock. This also applies to the citizenship application path, which now requires 2 full years of uninterrupted residence.

Overstaying is common but not recommended. Fines: Approximately $100-300 for short overstays. Must pay before leaving. Long overstays can result in entry bans. Best approach: Apply for extension before expiration. If already overstayed, consult attorney before trying to leave.

Called 'visa run' or 'border hop'. Common for digital nomads and long-term travelers. Leave Argentina (usually to Uruguay, Chile, or Brazil), Re-enter with fresh 90 days. Works for tourists but not a path to residency. Frequency matters - doing this repeatedly may raise questions at border.