Argentine citizenship can be acquired by birth in Argentina, by descent from an Argentine parent, or by naturalisation. Since Decree 366/2025, ordinary naturalisation requires two years of continuous legal residence with no departures from Argentina. The alternative is citizenship by investment, which has no residence requirement and starts at a USD 350,000 contribution.
Legal framework
Argentine nationality is governed by Citizenship Law 346. Emergency Decree 366/2025 of 29 May 2025 amended it in two directions at once: it tightened ordinary naturalisation and added citizenship by investment through a new Article 2 bis.
1. Birth
Argentina applies birthright citizenship: a child born on Argentine soil is Argentine regardless of the parents' nationality.
2. Descent
Children born abroad to an Argentine parent may opt for Argentine citizenship. This also matters for future children of investors who become Argentine.
3. Naturalisation by residence
Adults must show two years of continuous and legal residence immediately before applying. Continuity is defined strictly: no departures from Argentine territory during the period. Applications moved from the federal courts to the National Directorate of Migration (DNM), which has accepted them online since 6 October 2025. For anyone who does not intend to live in Argentina full-time, this route is impractical.
4. Citizenship by investment
Article 2 bis allows foreigners who make a relevant investment to naturalise regardless of time spent in the country. The figures announced on 2 October 2026 are USD 350,000 to the National Treasury or USD 800,000 in a government bond. See the complete programme guide.
Does marriage give citizenship?
No. Marrying an Argentine does not confer citizenship automatically. The previous framework offered some flexibility to foreigners with an Argentine spouse or child; the new text centres on the two-year continuous residence rule.
Routes compared
| Route | For whom | Residence | Authority |
|---|---|---|---|
| Birth | Children born in Argentina | None | Civil registry |
| Descent | Children of Argentines born abroad | None | Consulate / RENAPER |
| Residence | Foreigners living in Argentina | 2 years, no departures | DNM |
| Investment | Investors and families | None | APCI, decision by DNM |
Frequently asked questions
How long must I live in Argentina to become a citizen?
For ordinary naturalisation, two years of continuous legal residence without leaving the country. Citizenship by investment has no residence requirement.
Is a child born in Argentina an Argentine citizen?
Yes. Argentina applies birthright citizenship.
Does marrying an Argentine give citizenship?
No, marriage alone does not confer citizenship.
Sources
- Citizenship Law 346
- Emergency Decree 366/2025
- Decree 524/2025
- National Directorate of Migration, online naturalisation notice (6 October 2025)