On 30 July 2025, Argentina formalised its Citizenship by Investment programme under Decree 524/2025, which was published in the official gazette. This marks a historic milestone, establishing the first direct investment-based route to citizenship in South America.
Institutional Set-up and Governance
The decree further empowered the creation of the Agency for Citizenship by Investment Programs (CIPA), operating under the Ministry of Economy. This body is entrusted with receiving applications and conducting preliminary reviews before referring them to the National Directorate of Migration. A multi-agency process ensures thorough vetting. Reports from the State Intelligence Secretariat (SIDE), Financial Intelligence Unit (UIF), Ministry of National Security, RENAPER, and National Registry of Recidivism are integrated into decisions. Any denial of citizenship must be justified with detailed reasons.
Investment Requirements and Programme Design
While the decree outlines the legal foundation of the programme, investment thresholds and sector eligibility remain undefined. Authorities have deferred those specifics to future regulations. Industry estimates place the minimum investment at approximately US$500,000, targeting sectors such as agribusiness, renewable energy, technology, and tourism infrastructure.
Processing Timeline
Decree 524/2025 mandates that the National Directorate of Migration must issue a decision within 30 business days of receiving the agency’s recommendation, bringing promised efficiency to the process.
Strategic Goals and Global Appeal
Argentina’s CBI programme is positioned as a development-driven alternative to more transactional programmes. Industry experts regard the US$500k threshold as fair and competitive, provided the investments genuinely contribute to sustainable economic growth. This approach distinguishes Argentina’s model from others by emphasising economic impact over passive investments. The programme also aligns with Argentina’s application to rejoin the US Visa Waiver Programme, which, if approved, would significantly enhance the value of an Argentine passport.
Regional Significance
Argentina is now the first South American country to introduce a citizenship-by-investment option, carrying potential for regional leadership in investment migration. The programme offers global investors access to Mercosur residency benefits and wide visa-free travel options for Argentine passport holders.
Outlook and Potential Impact
Argentina’s Citizenship by Investment programme, backed by Decree 524/2025, establishes a rigorous, high-integrity framework for investor naturalisation. With a focus on active investment, multi-agency oversight, and transparent processing, the programme holds strong appeal for global investors seeking efficient mobility and economic engagement in Latin America. Pending clarification of investment criteria and sectors, Argentina looks set to introduce a standout CBI model by late 2025 or early 2026.
