Argentina Planning $500,000 Citizenship by Investment Program

Argentina Planning $500,000 Citizenship by Investment Program

May 30, 2025 – Buenos Aires, Argentina

Argentina is preparing to join the growing list of countries offering citizenship or residency through investment, with a new Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programme reportedly in the works. According to sources close to the government, the proposed programme would offer foreign nationals a path to Argentine citizenship in exchange for an investment of at least $500,000 USD into the country's economy.

A Strategic Move to Attract Wealth and Talent

This initiative marks a strategic shift for Argentina, which has traditionally maintained a relatively open immigration policy but has never formally monetised citizenship. The new CBI programme, if launched, could position Argentina as a competitive destination for high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) seeking both a second passport and investment opportunities in Latin America.

Government officials say the aim is to attract international entrepreneurs, investors, and remote workers interested in relocating to Argentina and contributing to local economic development. The $500,000 minimum investment could be directed toward real estate, business ventures, government bonds, or other approved sectors.

Key Features (Proposed)

While the final terms are still under consideration, initial reports suggest the programme may include the following features:

• Minimum Investment: $500,000 USD in qualified assets or sectors.

  
  

• Residency Requirements: Applicants may be required to reside in Argentina for a period prior to naturalisation.

  
  

• Fast-Track Citizenship: The programme may offer a reduced timeline to citizenship compared to the traditional two-year residency requirement under Argentine law.

  
  

• Eligibility: Open to non-Argentine nationals with a clean criminal record and a verifiable source of funds.

  
  

Balancing Economic Goals and National Identity

Argentina's government is reportedly balancing the economic potential of the programme with concerns over national integrity and security. Legal experts have pointed out that the Argentine Constitution already allows for naturalization after two years of continuous residency, without requiring a minimum investment. As a result, some have questioned whether a CBI program is necessary — or whether it might face legal or political pushback.

Others argue that by formalising and regulating investment-based naturalisation, Argentina could attract a more targeted and beneficial class of immigrants, especially at a time when the country is grappling with inflation and external debt.

Global Context

If implemented, Argentina would become one of the few countries in South America with a formal CBI programme. The concept has gained popularity in the Caribbean, parts of Europe, and the Middle East, where nations like Malta, St. Kitts & Nevis, and the UAE have used similar schemes to generate billions in revenue.

However, CBI programmes have also drawn criticism over concerns about money laundering, tax evasion, and "passport for sale" optics — issues Argentina will need to navigate carefully.

What's Next?

No official launch date has been announced, but sources suggest the programme could be unveiled later in 2025, pending legislative approval and regulatory design. If successful, it could provide a new stream of foreign capital and diversify Argentina's approach to global mobility and investment.

Observers are closely watching how the programme will be structured and whether it will emphasise not just capital but long-term contributions to Argentine society.