Argentina at a glance
| Entry | 90 days · Visa-free, extendable once |
|---|---|
| Residency | Pensionado · 5x minimum wage pension |
| VA presence | None · FMP reimbursement |
| Social Security | FBU Buenos Aires · Federal Benefits Unit at the embassy |
| Cost of living | Roughly USD 1,800 to 2,800 a month. Argentina got much pricier in dollar terms after 2024, so check recent numbers before you budget. |
| Money · language · time | Argentine peso (ARS) · Spanish · UTC-3 |
Entering Argentina
U.S. citizens can stay 90 days visa-free, and can ask Migraciones for one 90-day extension. The old reciprocity fee no longer applies.
Long-stay and retirement visas
- Residencia temporaria as a pensionado: a foreign pension equal to at least 5 times Argentina's minimum wage (Salario Mínimo, Vital y Móvil). The minimum wage changes several times a year, so the peso amount moves. Confirm the current figure with Migraciones or a consulate. Granted for one year and renewable. Ask Migraciones about the path to permanent residency.
- Residencia temporaria as a rentista: steady passive income from abroad, also measured against the minimum wage.
- Bring an apostilled FBI background check and a certificate showing your pension amount and that it is ongoing.
VA care and benefits in Argentina
There are no VA facilities in Latin America. Care for service-connected conditions is reimbursed through the Foreign Medical Program. Be wary of any clinic that claims to be a "VA clinic". VA does not list an in-country toll-free FMP number for this country, so reach FMP through Ask VA or by international call. The Social Security Federal Benefits Unit in Buenos Aires (at the U.S. Embassy) handles Social Security questions for Argentina and neighboring countries.
Vets in Argentina are already in the group
Ask about visas, hospitals and FMP claims from people who've done it there.
Healthcare
Excellent private hospitals in Buenos Aires: Hospital Alemán, Hospital Italiano, Hospital Británico and Sanatorio Otamendi. Most expats buy a prepaid plan ("prepaga") such as OSDE or Swiss Medical. Since 2025, national public hospitals can charge non-resident foreigners for care.
Where veterans live
- Buenos Aires (Palermo, Recoleta, Belgrano): Big-city culture, the best hospitals, the U.S. Embassy and the Federal Benefits Unit.
- Mendoza: Wine country at the foot of the Andes, sunny and dry.
- Córdoba: University city with nearby hill towns.
- Bariloche: Lake and mountain town in Patagonia.
- Salta: Colonial northwest city, lower cost.
Cost of living and property
Roughly USD 1,800 to 2,800 a month. Argentina got much pricier in dollar terms after 2024, so check recent numbers before you budget. Costs vary a lot by city and lifestyle, and health insurance is extra.
Foreigners can buy urban property freely. A 2023 decree lifted the old limits on foreign rural land ownership, but it has faced court challenges, and border security zones still need approval. Use an escribano (notary) for every purchase.
Watch out for
The State Department rates Argentina Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions. Watch for pickpockets and bag snatching in Buenos Aires, and expect economic swings and frequent price changes.
Veteran organizations
The American Legion's Department of Latin America lists Argentina among its countries. Contact the department for current post details. No VFW post is listed on the VFW foreign posts directory. See all veteran organizations abroad.
Common questions
How much pension do I need for Argentine residency?
At least 5 times Argentina's minimum monthly wage. Because the wage is adjusted often, confirm the current peso amount with Migraciones or a consulate.
Is there a Social Security office in Argentina?
Yes. The Federal Benefits Unit at the U.S. Embassy in Buenos Aires handles Social Security questions for Argentina and nearby countries.
Can I use VA health benefits in Argentina?
Only for service-connected conditions, through the Foreign Medical Program. Most retirees also buy a local prepaid health plan.
Last reviewed November 2026. See something out of date? Tell us.
