U.S. Embassy Buenos Aires

Av. Colombia 4300
(C1425GMN) Buenos Aires
Argentina
Telephone: +(54)(11) 5777-4533
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(54)(11) 5777-4354
Fax: +(54)(11) 5777-4240
BuenosAires-ACS@state.gov

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry/Exit Requirements for U.S. Citizens:  
U.S. citizens need a valid passport to enter Argentina. U.S. citizens with expired or damaged passports may not be allowed to enter and could be sent back to the United States at their own expense. Private U.S. citizens do not need a visa for visits of up to 90 days for tourism or business. Diplomatic or official passport holders must obtain visas prior to arrival. 

Visit the Embassy of Argentina’s website for visa information at https://eeeuu.cancilleria.gob.ar/en.

The U.S. Embassy in Buenos Aires cannot help travelers with obtaining visas for other countries. U.S. citizens embarking on a cruise ship from Argentina that includes other countries, should verify if they need visas for those countries before boarding the ship. For more information, see the country specific information for the country you plan to visit. 

For information about customs rules, please read our Customs Information page and the Argentine Customs page. 

Special Entry/Exit Requirements for Dual Nationals:  
Different rules may apply to dual U.S.-Argentine citizens, depending on when they became U.S. citizens. Visit the Argentine Immigration website for the most current information. Generally, Argentine citizens are required to depart Argentina using an Argentine passport, including children of U.S. citizens who may be born in Argentina. 

Special Entry/Exit Requirements for Minors: 
A parent or guardian traveling alone with a child under 18 who resides in Argentina must present to Argentine authorities a legalized permission letter in Spanish (Autorización de Viaje) from the non-accompanying parent upon departure from Argentina. Either parent may prepare an authorizing letter for the other parent to travel abroad with the child in case of emergency. (Please see the Argentine immigration website for more information). A local notary public (called an escribano in Argentina) may prepare the autorización de viaje letter. If this notarized authorization is prepared in the United States, Argentine authorities will require an apostille from the United States in addition to the notarized authorization. Please see this link for more information about an apostille: Apostille Requirements. For children born in the United States and who are residents in Argentina, Argentine authorities will require the U.S. birth certificate to be apostilled and translated into Spanish by a certified translator.

HIV/AIDS Restrictions: 
The U.S. Department of State does not know of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for foreign visitors or residents of Argentina. 

More Information:  Find information on dual nationality, prevention of international child abduction and customs regulations on our websites.

Demonstrations occur frequently in Buenos Aires and take place in other cities as well. Protesters often block streets and highways. Demonstrations are usually nonviolent, but always have the potential to turn confrontational.  Avoid demonstrations if possible.

Crime:  Street crime is a problem in most urban areas including Buenos Aires City, Buenos Aires province, Rosario, and Mendoza. Look out for muggers, pickpockets, scam artists, cellphone and purse-snatchers who work on the street, in restaurants and hotel lobbies, at bus and train stations, in public transportation, and in cruise ship ports. 

• In Buenos Aires City, the (San Telmo, La Boca, Retiro, and Florida Street areas experience higher crime rates.) Areas outside of the city with higher levels of violent crime include Rosario, and the Buenos Aires suburbs of Lomas de Zamora, Quilmes, and Moreno.
• Although the La Boca neighborhood is a well-known tourist destination, there have been violent robberies in the daytime as well as nighttime. Stay on the main streets in the tourist zone and use radio taxis to and from the neighborhood.
• Avoid “villas” or shanty towns in Buenos Aires, other major cities, and provinces, even if they are in tourist zones.
• Frequent robberies of luggage and handbags occur at Retiro bus station in Buenos Aires,  the bus station in Mendoza, and when leaving a handbag in the overhead compartment on the bus.
  

Robberies: Robberies involving motorcycles (called “motochorros”) occur frequently in cities. These thieves normally operate in pairs:  one operates the bike, an the other jumps off and takes the watches, purses, and backpacks of pedestrians. The motochorros also reach, or break, into cars to snatch valuable items.

Robberies involving drugs that incapacitate victims are becoming more common in Argentina. Thieves use dating apps to schedule “dates,” at a hotel room or private residence and then drug and rob the victim. Individuals have also been drugged at bars when socializing with strangers.  Criminals identify potential drugging victims in bars, night clubs, or through dating apps. Consider meeting in a public area and always be cautious of accepting drinks from people or allowing others to have access to your drink.

Be cautious when using ATMs. While withdrawing funds, victims are forced to take out as much money as possible and sometimes at different locations, maxing out their cards at each location.

Foreigners in Argentina have been the victims of kidnapping for ransom schemes. The victim is typically held for ransom and family members or co-workers are contacted to bring all the cash they have on hand or can gather in a couple of hours.  Once the ransom is paid, the victim is usually released unharmed. Fake telephone kidnappings are also common.

The U.S. Embassy receives many reports of stolen passports.  Passports and other valuables should be locked in a hotel safe.  Carry a photocopy of your passport with you.  In addition, U.S. citizen residents and visitors should safeguard personal information such as email addresses, telephone numbers, banking and other information, to protect against identity theft

Robberies occur often, and violence is more likely to occur when victims resist. Do not leave your personal belongings unattended

Taxi Scams: Scams involving yellow and black taxis have been reported at international airports and around Buenos Aires. Pre-arrange a ride or select one of the flat-rate “remise” services (private car with driver) from the airport service counters. In town, use radio taxis from places like a hotel when possible.  See the Department of State and the FBI Financial Crime I pages for information on scams.  A few common scenarios follow:

• Drivers pretend to help tourists with money while trading good bills for counterfeit ones.
• A “handler” at the airport accepts payment for the ride, but then the driver also demands money at the end of the ride.
• The taxi “breaks down” on the road, and a second taxi comes to get the passenger.  Both drivers demand payment.
• Spraying mustard or another substance on the tourist from a distance.  An accomplice robs the victim while pretending to help clean the stain.
• Protestors (‘piqueteros’) sometimes block major roads during large protests and can cause significant traffic delays.

General Precautions:

• Do not place handbags on the back of your chair or on the floor at a restaurant.  Keep them in your lap.
• Do not leave your drink unattended.
• Do not leave cellphones on tables at restaurants.
• Avoid openly displaying your cell phone
• Travelers should not pack valuables in checked bags.
• Avoid using ATMs in unfamiliar, secluded, or lightly protected areas.

Climbing, Hiking, and Trekking: Do not trek alone. The U.S. Embassy in Argentina strongly discourages U.S. citizens from hiking alone or even separating from larger traveling parties while on a trail. In recent years, U.S. citizens and other foreigners have disappeared or been seriously injured while solo climbing/hiking and trekking. Sexual assaults have been reported against solo hikers and bikers on trails in regions along the border with Chile.  Hike in groups and remain alert to your surroundings. Follow Park Ranger and Search and Rescue Team advice and instructions.

Update your SOS or GPS emergency locator information. Make sure your device is enabled to function in the park and your provider has the correct information for authorities. Add local rescue teams as your first emergency contact (see recourses below) and add the U.S. Embassy’s emergency contact phone number as an alternative: +54-11 5777-4354.

Before your trip check the following resources for reliable information about trail conditions and potential hazards in the most popular climbing, hiking and trekking regions in Argentina:

• Mendoza: Mendoza, Aconcagua
• Bariloche: Club Andino
• El Chalten: El Chaltén

We strongly recommend that before you travel you purchase supplemental travel and evacuation insurance, provide family or friends with a detailed itinerary prior to climbing, trekking, and hiking, and register your itinerary through the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).

Please note: The Department of State assumes no responsibility or liability for the entities on the weblink list above. Inclusion on this list is in no way an endorsement by the Department or the U.S. government. The information on the links is provided directly by the local service providers; the Department is not in a position to vouch for such information

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy for assistance.  If you are in immediate danger, call the police at 911.

Tourism: The tourism industry is unevenly regulated and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur.  Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field.  In the event of an injury, hospitals can provide urgent medical treatment, though very serious injuries often require medical evacuation.  U.S. citizens are strongly encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance.

Victims of Crime:  

• Report crimes to the local police at the numbers below and contact the U.S. Embassy in Buenos Aires:
• Dial 911 to report emergencies, call the police, an ambulance, or the fire department.
• Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.
• See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas.

We can:

• Replace a lost or stolen passport
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• Help you find appropriate medical care
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• Provide information on victims' compensation programs in the U.S.
• Provide a list of local lawyers who speak English

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Furthermore, some crimes are also prosecutable in the U.S., regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.

SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES:

• Dual Nationals: U.S.-Argentine dual nationals may have to follow special rules that apply to Argentine citizens. In some cases, the U.S. government may have trouble providing protection abroad to dual citizens.
• Foreign Credit Card Usage: On November 3, 2022, the Argentine Central Bank issued a regulation allowing credit card issuers to implement an alternate, more favorable exchange rate for tourists utilizing foreign (i.e., non-Argentine) credit cards. This is a legal, safe method to pay for goods and services in Argentina at a more favorable rate. The regulation does not apply to withdrawals of pesos from ATMs. Please contact your credit card issuer to confirm whether they are implementing this program. For more information on this new regulation, you may read the Argentine Central Bank’s announcement at https://bcra.gob.ar/Pdfs/comytexord/A7630.pdf
• Currency Exchange and Access:  You must show your passport to exchange money. Keep all receipts related to buying pesos.  Be careful if you are offered illegal exchange rates and do not exchange money on the street. The Embassy does not exchange money.
• Some U.S. citizens report problems using their ATM cards issued by U.S. banks at certain ATMs. There is no set list of ATMs or banks where you can use U.S. cards. If your ATM card does not work at one ATM, try another one or use a reputable bank or exchange house. Daily withdrawal limits may also be lower than in the U.S.
• Hunting and Fishing/Transporting Firearms: If you plan to hunt or fish, follow all gun and game laws. Some U.S. citizens report problems bringing guns into and out of Argentina. More information can be found here.
• Adventure Travel: Local resources are limited for helping visitors lost or injured in remote areas. Travelers visiting isolated and wilderness areas mustshould learn about local conditions and give their itinerary to park or police officials.
• Argentina has the highest mountain in the Americas, Mount Aconcagua. Several U.S. citizens, including expert climbers, have died while climbing the mountain. Rescue missions are often impossible.
• Antarctica Travel: Many cruises to Antarctica depart from the port of Ushuaia, near the southern tip of Argentina.  The greatest threats to travelers to Antarctica are environmental hazards posed by extreme and unpredictable weather and limited emergency services.  Among the more common threats are frostbite, dehydration, eye damage from reflected glare, overexposure to the sun, and maritime accidents.  There have been accidental deaths on Antarctic cruises due to rough sea conditions, including rogue waves.  For additional information on travel to the Antarctic please see the Country Information page for Antarctica: Antarctica International Travel Information (state.gov)

Faith-Based Travelers: See our following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
• Human Rights Report – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTI Travelers:  There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in Argentina. 

See our LGBTI travel information page and section 6 of the Department of State's Human Rights report for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance: People with disabilities may find accessibility and accommodation very different than in the United States.  The law mandates access to buildings for persons with disabilities, but while the federal government has protective laws, many provinces do not.

Students:  See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips.

Women Travelers:  See our travel tips for Women Travelers.

We do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas.

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation. Medical evacuation is extremely costly.

Medications: If traveling with prescription medication, check with the Embassy of Argentina to ensure the medication is legal in Argentina.  Always, carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription.

Health Concerns: The following diseases are prevalent either throughout Argentina or in certain areas:

• Hepatitis A
• Yellow Fever
• Dengue
• Typhoid
• Rabies

Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and CDC recommendations for travel to Argentina.

Mosquitos:

Throughout the Argentine summer months (December-March), mosquitos are prevalent and carry diseases such as Dengue and Equine Encephalitis. Insect repellant can be difficult to purchase during these months as well. We recommend bringing insect repellant (with Deet) in your checked luggage.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Surrogacy:

• If you are considering traveling to Argentina to have a child through the use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please see our ART and Surrogacy Abroad page.
• On October 22, 2024, the Argentine Supreme Court ruled that the surrogate mother (the woman who carried the child for the intending parents) cannot be removed from the birth certificate. 
• Argentina does not have legislation that regulates surrogacy and all surrogacy arrangements are subject to ongoing developments in Argentine law.  This applies to both the surrogacy arrangements as well as administrative procedures such as issuing of birth certificates and travel arrangements for babies born through surrogacy.    
• If you decide to pursue parenthood in Argentina through surrogacy, be prepared for possible delays to document your child’s birth in Argentina and ongoing changes in regulations.

Road Conditions and Safety: Driving is more dangerous than in the United States. Drivers in Argentina tend to be aggressive, especially in Buenos Aires, and often ignore traffic regulations. Drivers should prepare in advance when taking long road trips and make sure to have adequate insurance coverage. Gas stations are often far apart and not always easily identified from the main roadway. You need an Argentine or international driver’s license to drive but verify with local authorities for the most current information.

See our Road Safety page and the website of Argentina's national tourist office for more information. 

AVIATION SAFETY OVERSIGHT: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Argentina’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Argentina’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page.

MARITIME TRAVEL: Mariners planning travel to Argentina should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts. Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website, and the NGA broadcast warnings.