Argentina to Launch $500,000 Citizenship by Investment Program: A South American First

In a historic policy shift, Argentina is preparing to launch its first-ever Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program. With a minimum investment threshold of US$500,000, this initiative aims to attract high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) by offering them Argentine citizenship in exchange for meaningful contributions to the national economy.

This move positions Argentina as a pioneer in South America’s investment migration space and as a serious competitor to established programs in Malta, the Caribbean, and Turkey.

Why Argentina? The Global Significance

Argentina is the first South American nation in decades to introduce a CBI program, following the short-lived Peruvian attempt in the 1990s. Backed by a pro-business libertarian government, this policy reflects Argentina’s commitment to market-driven reforms.

Key Highlights:

  1. Minimum Investment: $500,000 USD
  2. Eligible Sectors: Economic development and job creation projects (details pending)
  3. Target Audience: High-net-worth investors seeking global mobility and alternative citizenship
  4. Visa-Free Access: 172 countries including the Schengen Area
  5. Settlement Rights: All MERCOSUR countries (9 in total)

Structure of the New Program

Argentina is the first South American nation in decades to introduce a CBI program, following the short-lived Peruvian attempt in the 1990s. Backed by a pro-business libertarian government, this policy reflects Argentina’s commitment to market-driven reforms.

  1. Ministry of the Interior
  2. Foreign Ministry
  3. National Directorate of Migration

The structure is inspired by the U.S. SelectUSA model, and implementation is expected to begin after emergency decrees currently under legal review are finalized.

What Investors Need to Know

The program is not just transactional. Unlike some programs that rely heavily on real estate or donation models, Argentina aims to:

  1. Prioritize productive investments that stimulate growth
  2. Promote long-term economic contributions
  3. Emphasize job creation and innovation

Although specific sectors haven’t been confirmed, experts anticipate opportunities in:

  1. Agribusiness
  2. Renewable Energy
  3. Technology
  4. Tourism Infrastructure

Market Impact and Forecast

According to leading analysts:

  1. The program could attract 2,000 applications per year
  2. Annual revenue potential exceeds US$2.5 billion

Argentina would instantly join the top tier of global CBI offerings:

  1. Tier 1: Malta
  2. Tier 2: Argentina
  3. Tier 3: Turkey, Caribbean nations
  4. Tier 4: Vanuatu, Egypt, Cambodia

This is especially significant considering the lack of regional competition in Latin America.

What Comes Next?

While the framework is being finalized, investors and immigration professionals await the full release of:

  1. Application timelines
  2. Naturalization procedures
  3. Sector-specific investment guidelines
  4. Required documentation
  5. Due diligence protocols

The government has indicated it prefers to delay slightly to avoid legal pushback and ensure smooth implementation once launched.

Contact us if you are interested in Citizenship by Investment

Our expert advisors will have a 1-on-1 consultation to find the best solutions for you and your family and guide you through the procedure.

Conclusion

Argentina’s new Citizenship by Investment program is set to reshape the global mobility landscape. With a strong passport, regional settlement rights, and a focus on productive investments, it offers a unique opportunity for serious investors. As the program finalizes, now is the time to prepare.

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