Argentine citizenship by investment: South America opens first CBI program

Historic Event – Argentina Launches Citizenship by Investment Program

Argentina has officially announced the launch of South America’s first Citizenship by Investment Program (CBI). Applications are expected to open in the fourth quarter of 2026. The program was presented in Paris during “Argentina Week” at The Peninsula hotel, where the details were shared with international media.

IST Hungary is following the development of this program and is ready to help you with a preliminary assessment and preparation.

What Does the Program Offer?

Citizenship of a G20 country with the right to dual citizenship.

Argentina is:

• The largest economy in South America and a G20 member
• Visa-free or simplified access to a large number of countries and territories
• Preferential residence rights across most of South America, including MERCOSUR countries
• Spouse and children apply in their own name

Two Paths to Citizenship

Path 1: Contribution to the State Treasury – USD 350,000

This is a non-refundable contribution for a single applicant.

Additional contributions:

• Spouse: +USD 100,000
• Each child aged 18 to 25: +USD 100,000
• Each child under 18: +USD 25,000

A family of four (applicant, spouse, two minor children): approximately USD 500,000.

Path 2: Investment in Sovereign Bonds – USD 800,000

An investment in an Argentine government security created specifically for this program. Available to the main applicant.

In both cases, the funds go directly to the government. No real estate developers or private funds are involved.

Why Argentina?

1. Citizenship of a G20 Country

Argentina is a G20 member and the largest economy in South America. The passport gives visa-free or simplified access to more than 160 countries and territories, including the Schengen Area, the United Kingdom, Japan and most Latin American countries.

2. Free Residence in South America through MERCOSUR

This is one of the main hidden advantages of Argentine citizenship. As an Argentine citizen, you receive preferential rights in MERCOSUR countries, including Brazil, Uruguay, Paraguay and others. This opens access to the labor market and business opportunities across the entire continent.

3. Dual Citizenship Is Allowed

Argentina permits dual citizenship. You do not need to give up your current passport.

4. Spouse and Children Apply Independently

Unlike many programs where family members are “attachments” to the main applicant, here the spouse and children apply in their own name.

5. No Permanent Residency Requirement

The program does not require physical presence in Argentina to obtain or maintain status.

How Is the Integrity of the Program Ensured?

Every applicant undergoes due diligence by independent firms based on a risk-based approach.

Key principle: a serious negative finding is never offset by clean results on other points. All decisions on eligibility and the granting of citizenship are made exclusively by the Argentine authorities.

Timeline and Next Steps

• Applications open in the fourth quarter of 2026
• We recommend preparing documents and proof of source of funds in advance

What Does This Mean for You?

Argentina is becoming a new destination in the global investment migration industry. This is not just another program – it is the first in South America, and it is immediately positioned as a tool for those who want to obtain citizenship of a G20 country with access to Latin American markets.

If you are considering obtaining a second citizenship, Argentina citizenship by investment deserves attention. The program launches this year.

Contact us. IST Hungary is following the development of the program and is ready to help you with a preliminary assessment and preparation.