Argentina proposes $350,000 citizenship-by-payment plan for foreigners

Argentina's government has put forward a proposal that would make foreigners eligible for Argentine citizenship in exchange for a payment of $350,000 for a principal applicant, or a bond purchase of $800,000. The plan, unveiled in early October, would make Argentina one of the first Group of 20 countries to adopt a so-called "golden passport" program.

Key facts

• What is proposed: eligibility for citizenship in exchange for a payment or bond purchase
• Cost: $350,000 for a principal applicant, or an $800,000 bond purchase
• Announced: early October
• Status: the program has not gone before Argentina's congress
• Who decides: Argentina's government, under President Javier Milei

What is being proposed?

The proposal would allow foreigners to become eligible for Argentine citizenship by making a payment of $350,000 as a principal applicant, or by purchasing bonds worth $800,000. The government unveiled the plan in early October.

Golden passports and visas of this kind have typically been offered by smaller nations seeking to attract foreign investment, such as Portugal and Saint Kitts, the proposal's supporters note.

Who is affected?

The plan concerns foreigners seeking Argentine citizenship. The source does not specify which nationalities would be eligible, whether there are any residence or background-check requirements, or how long the process would take.

When would it start?

No start date has been announced. The program has not gone before Argentina's congress, and the source does not describe any legislative timetable.

Why is this happening?

The proposal comes ahead of next year's presidential election. President Javier Milei's opposition has already spoken out against the program, calling it elitist.

What this means for travellers

Travellers interested in Argentine citizenship through investment should note that the plan is only a proposal at this stage and has not been approved by congress. No application route, eligibility criteria or timeline have been announced.

The proposal's future is likely to be shaped by debate in congress and by next year's presidential election.