Argentina Country Information
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At AARDY we provide our customers with country specific information from the US State Department and the CIA. To give our customers a more rounded view on their destination country, we also provide country specific information from other trusted nations, such as Australia and the United Kingdom.
Travel Advice with Country Information from the Australian Smart Traveler Website
The following Argentina Information should help you make the most of your trip to Argentina.
Note: Always check that your destination country is one approved for travel by your travel insurance provider.
Latest update
Latest update: You're no longer required to complete a statutory declaration to enter or exit Argentina.
We now advise:
Exercise normal safety precautions in Argentina.
Local emergency contacts
Advice levels
Exercise normal safety precautions
Exercise normal safety precautions
Exercise common sense and look out for suspicious behaviour, as you would in Australia.
in Argentina.
Exercise normal safety precautions in Argentina.
Exercise a high degree of caution
Exercise a high degree of caution
in Rosario due to high levels of crime and violence.
Exercise a high degree of caution in Rosario due to high levels of crime and violence.
Overview
Health advice due to COVID-19 is continually changing. Rules and restrictions to prevent outbreaks can change quickly. It’s important to regularly check the rules in the destinations you’re travelling to and transiting through.
Read our global health advisory and step-by-step guide to travel during COVID-19 for more information.
Safety
- Petty crime, such as robbery and bag snatching, is common. Take care on public transport and in tourist areas.
- Crimes such as thefts and robberies in Buenos Aires and other major cities are increasing. Popular tourist areas such as La Boca are hotspots for robberies and theft. Always keep personal belongings, including mobile phones, close or out of sight.
- Exercise a high degree of caution in the city of Rosario due to higher levels of crime and violence.
- Violent crimes are common in Buenos Aires, Rosario and Mendoza tourist areas. These include armed robbery and express kidnapping. Only use ATMs in banks and shopping centres. If you're held up, don't resist.
- Thieves often target cars stopped at traffic lights. Crime also occurs in taxis. Keep doors and windows locked when driving.
- Protests are common, especially in major cities. These can turn violent. In Buenos Aires, protests often occur in Plaza De Mayo, Avenida 9 de Julio, and Congreso. Avoid large public gatherings.
Full travel advice: Safety
Health
- COVID-19 remains a risk in Argentina.
- Dengue can occur at any time in Argentina, with cases registered as far south as the province of Buenos Aires.
- Insect-borne diseases are common in the north of Argentina. These include dengue and chikungunya. Ensure your accommodation is insect-proof. Use insect repellent.
- Zika virus occurs in some regions. If you're pregnant, discuss your travel plans with your doctor before you leave.
- Yellow fever is a risk in Misiones and Corrientes. If you're travelling there, get vaccinated before you leave Australia.
- Hantavirus is widespread in some regions. It's spread through contact with infected rodents. Avoid contact with live or dead rodents, nests, burrows and droppings.
Full travel advice: Health
Local laws
- Don't use or carry illegal drugs. Penalties for drug offences are severe and include lengthy prison sentences.
- Respect national symbols. Offences committed against them carry a penalty of 6 months to 4 years in jail.
- Dual nationals staying in Argentina for more than 180 days must leave Argentina on an Argentine passport. Make sure you have one before you travel. Getting one in Argentina can take time, and the Australian embassy can't help you with it.
- Children born in Argentina to Australian parents are Argentine nationals. They must leave the country on an Argentine passport.
- Children travelling alone or with only one parent require a travel authorisation to leave the country. When travelling with both parents, travellers must be able to prove they are the parents (birth certificate).
- COVID-19-related movement restrictions have mostly been lifted but could be re-established in accordance with the public health situation. Check with your local authorities as requirements can vary around the nation.
Full travel advice: Local laws
Travel
- Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. You should contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Argentina for the latest details.
- You can stay as a tourist for up to 90 days without a visa, but you'll need a return or onward ticket, a valid passport and travel/medical insurance.
- You're not required to have a COVID-19 test or be vaccinated to enter the country.
- Foreign nationals entering Argentina aren't required to quarantine on arrival.
- Authorities recommend you take a PCR test 24 hours after arrival if you aren't fully vaccinated.
Full travel advice: Travel
Local contacts
- The Consular Services Charter details what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.
- For consular assistance, contact the Australian Embassy in Buenos Aires.
- To stay up to date with local information follow the Embassy’s social media accounts.
Full travel advice: Local contacts
Full advice
Safety
Crime
Crime rates are rising, particularly for theft and robberies, in Buenos Aires and other major cities. You should keep expensive items such as mobile phones, wallets, cash and jewellery out of sight in public areas. Avoid lower socioeconomic urban areas where crime is more likely to occur, and foreigners could be targeted.
You should exercise a high degree of caution in the city of Rosario due to higher levels of crime and violence.
Petty crime
Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, bag/jewellery snatching and bag slashing, is common, including during the day. Thieves also target mobile phones, especially smartphones.
Take care on public transport, busy pedestrian zones and in tourist areas.
Distraction thefts are common in public areas, such as:
- train and bus stations
- outside and inside hotels
- restaurants and cafes
- the subway
This involves creating a distraction by, for example, helping remove sauce that they spilt on you.
Robberies are frequent in bus stations, in particular:
- Retiro bus and train station in Buenos Aires
- Central bus station in Mendoza
Criminals might use force if you resist.
Robberies involving motorcycles, 'motochorros', are common in larger cities.
Thieves usually work in pairs:
- one person operates the motorbike
- one jumps off and steals belongings from pedestrians
They'll also snatch items from inside vehicles.
Robberies are common in taxis.
Robbery and theft hotspots in tourist areas of Buenos Aires include:
- La Boca
- San Telmo
- Palermo
- Congreso
- Downtown (Micro Centro)
- Buenos Aires ferry terminal
- Around main train and bus stations
Violent crime
Armed robbery and other violent crimes are a problem in major tourist areas of:
- Buenos Aires
- Rosario
- Mendoza
To reduce your risk of crime:
- stay within the tourist precinct in La Boca, and avoid the area after dark. We recommend you have transport arranged directly to and from the La Boca tourist area. Walking to La Boca isn't recommended.
- be cautious in other tourist areas of Buenos Aires
- avoid using your mobile phone in the street
- always keep your personal belongings close and out of sight
- only use ATMs in banks and shopping centres
- lock your passport and other valuables in a hotel safe
- carry a copy of your passport as ID
Kidnapping
Express kidnappings can occur in Buenos Aires.
Express kidnapping is where criminals demand a quick pay-off. They force victims to withdraw funds from ATMs or to make an electronic bank transfer to secure their release.
Kidnappers tend to target locals asking for ransom from families or co-workers. However, they may target tourists. The victim is usually unharmed.
The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers.
More information:
Road-based crime
Crimes against car passengers are a problem. Thieves often target cars stopped at traffic lights.
Some criminals pose as taxi operators at the airport and rob passengers. They may work with other taxi drivers.
To reduce your risks while taking taxis or driving:
- consider calling a radio taxi or remise, or using a ride-hailing app which keeps a record of drivers
- avoid sharing taxis with strangers
- keep car windows closed, doors locked at all times and keep valuables out of sight.
If you're held up, don't resist.
- You can find tips for safe travel in the City of Buenos Aires on the city's tourist website.
Civil unrest and political tension
Demonstrations and protests
Protests and demonstrations are common in Argentina. Particularly in:
- Buenos Aires
- other major cities
Organised strikes are frequent and may disrupt transport systems, such as trains and airlines. Contact your travel or tour operator for information.
Focal points for protesters in Buenos Aires are the areas of:
- Plaza De Mayo
- Congreso
- Avenida 9 de Julio
During demonstrations, streets may be blocked, and public transport disrupted.
Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent.
To protect yourself during periods of unrest:
- avoid protests and demonstrations
- monitor the local media for updates
- follow the advice of local authorities
More information:
Terrorism
Bomb attacks have occurred in Argentina.
To protect yourself from terrorism:
- always be alert
- follow the instructions of local authorities
- monitor the media for potential threats
Terrorism is a threat worldwide.
More information:
Climate and natural disasters
Severe weather
Argentina experiences natural disasters and severe weather, including:
- volcanic activity
- earthquakes
- flooding
- dust storms
Land border crossings can close due to earthquakes or severe weather conditions.
If there's a natural disaster:
- know your hotel's evacuation plans
- always carry your passport in a waterproof bag
- keep in touch with family and friends
- check the media and other local sources for information
- follow the advice of local authorities
More information:
Volcanoes and earthquakes
Volcanoes on the border of Argentina and Chile could erupt at any time.
Earthquakes can also occur, particularly in those provinces bordering the Andes.
Flooding
Flooding is seasonal. It's more common in the northern provinces of Argentina. Flooding may disrupt local transport and essential services.
Heavy rains may cause occasional flash floods in other areas, including the province of Buenos Aires.
Health
Travel insurance
Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave.
Your travel or medical insurance policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including hospital admission for COVID-19 and medical evacuation. The Australian Government won’t pay for these costs.
If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.
If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.
Confirm:
- what activities and care your policy covers
- that your insurance covers you for the whole time you’ll be away
Physical and mental health
Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. Consider whether you may be in a vulnerable category for COVID-19.
See your doctor or travel clinic to:
- have a basic health check-up
- ask if your travel plans may affect your health
- plan any vaccinations you need
Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.
If you have immediate concerns for your welfare, or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.
More information:
- General health advice
- Healthy holiday tips (Healthdirect Australia)
- COVID-19 vaccines (Department of Health and Aged Care)
Medications
Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.
You may not be able to access your usual medication in Argentina. Some local alternatives:
- don't meet Australian standards
- may have adverse effects
If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Argentina. Take enough legal medicine for your trip.
Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:
- what the medication is
- how much you take
- that it's for personal use
More information:
Health risks
COVID-19
COVID-19 remains a risk in Argentina.
For information on Argentina's COVID−19 vaccination program, refer to the Government of Argentina's website (Spanish). You should consult your local health professional for advice on vaccine options, including assistance that may be available locally. The Australian Government cannot provide advice on the safety, quality and efficacy of vaccines that have been approved for use outside of Australia's regulatory process.
More information:
- Coronavirus (COVID-19) (Department of Health and Aged Care)
Insect-borne diseases
Diseases spread by insects are a risk in Argentina. This includes:
- yellow fever
- dengue
- chikungunya
- Zika virus (regional)
These diseases are serious and can be fatal.
Outbreaks are more likely in wet seasons:
- May to August
- November to January
There are active dengue outbreaks in Northern Argentina, with cases as far south as Buenos Aires. Though more prevalent in summer, dengue is an issue throughout the year.
Yellow fever is a potentially fatal virus spread by mosquitoes. It's prevented by vaccination. Get vaccinated before you travel.
US CDC recommends yellow fever vaccinations for all travellers going to Corrientes and Misiones provinces.
Zika virus is a risk in the northern areas of Argentina. This includes Tucuman Province.
Pregnant women and their unborn babies are particularly at risk. If you're pregnant:
- discuss any travel plans with your doctor
- defer non-essential travel to affected areas
- avoid travel to areas affected by zika
To protect yourself against diseases spread by insects:
- make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
- use insect repellent
- wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing
- consider taking medication to prevent malaria
More information:
Hantavirus
Infected rodents spread hantavirus pulmonary syndrome. It's widespread in:
- northern regions of Salta and Jujuy
- central regions of Buenos Aires, Santa Fe, and Entre Rios
- the northeast region of Misiones
- southern regions of Neuquen, Rio Negro and Chubut
To protect yourself from hantavirus infection:
- avoid contact with live or dead rodents, burrows or nests
- avoid places where dust is raised, such as from sweeping and vacuuming their droppings
- choose a campsite that is open and dry
- don't rest in tall grasses or haystacks
- remove food sources that may attract rodents
Altitude sickness
If you travel to an area higher than 2500m, you can develop altitude sickness.
Altitude sickness can be deadly. It can affect anyone, even if you're physically fit.
Your risk of altitude sickness increases if you:
- ascend too quickly
- have had altitude sickness before
- exercise or drink alcohol before you can adjust to the altitude
- have health problems that affect breathing
If you'll be travelling above 2500m:
- seek advice from your doctor before you travel
- obtain travel insurance that covers mountain rescue
Air pollution
Buenos Aires has high levels of air pollution. This may aggravate:
- bronchial conditions
- sinus conditions
- asthma
Other health risks
Outbreaks of waterborne, foodborne, parasitic and other infectious diseases occur. This includes:
To reduce your risk of illness:
- boil drinking water or drink bottled water in rural areas
- avoid ice cubes
- avoid raw and undercooked food, such as salads
- avoid contact with dogs and other mammals
If you're bitten or scratched by an animal, get medical help straight away.
Get urgent medical advice if you suspect food poisoning or have a fever or diarrhoea.
There have been occasional measles outbreaks in Argentina, most recently in 2020.
Medical care
Medical facilities
Most medical facilities are of a reasonable standard.
Puerto Madryn has a decompression chamber.
You may need to pay cash before private medical clinics will treat you. This includes for emergency care.
Local laws
Local law
You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.
If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter. But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.
Drugs
Penalties for drug offences are severe, even for small amounts, and include long prison terms.
More information:
Other laws
Offences committed against national symbols carry a penalty of 6 months to 4 years in jail.
Australian laws
Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.
More information:
Dual citizenship
Dual nationals staying in Argentina for more than 180 days must leave Argentina on an Argentine passport.
Applying for an Argentine passport can take time. You must present documents proving your identity. If you're an Australian resident, you may have to provide proof of your address in Australia.
The Australian Embassy can't help you apply for an Argentine passport or other identity documents.
A child born in Argentina to Australian parents is an Argentine national. They must use an Argentine passport when they leave the country.
More information:
Travel
Visas and border measures
Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, including COVID-19 vaccinations and tests, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering.
Visas
Visa-free travel for short stays
As a tourist, you can stay for up to 90 days without a visa, but you'll need:
- a return or onward ticket
- a valid passport
- travel/medical insurance
Officials may also ask for proof of accommodation and enough money or a credit card to cover your trip.
You'll need a visa to work or study in Argentina or if you have an Australian diplomatic or official passport.
Apply for a visa from an Argentinian embassy or consulate before travel. Visas aren't available on arrival.
Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact an embassy or consulate of Argentina for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.
Border measures
Entry into Argentina
You don't need to undertake a COVID-19 test before travelling.
You will need to have travel or medical insurance coverage for your time in Argentina, which covers you in case of hospital admission for COVID-19.
Authorities recommend that travellers aged 6 and over, who aren't fully vaccinated, take a COVID-19 (PCR) test within 24 hours after arrival.
- Visit Argentina's National Directorate for Migration's website for up-to-date information on entry requirements (website in Spanish).
Other entry requirements
Biometric entry procedures are in place at:
- Ezeiza International Airport
- Jorge Newbery International Airport
- Buenos Aires ferry terminal
On arrival at these ports, authorities will:
- scan your thumbprints with an inkless device
- take a digital photo of you
Children younger than 18 need to provide a letter of consent from parents who aren't travelling with them.
When a child is travelling with both parents, travellers must be able to prove they are the parents (birth certificate).
If your passport is not stamped upon arrival, you can check your entry at Argentina's Immigration website.
Seek advice from your nearest embassy or consulate of Argentina as early as possible.
More information:
Travel via the United States
If you're travelling through the US, you must meet US entry or transit requirements.
Check your visa needs well before you travel. Contact the nearest embassy or consulate of the United States.
More information:
Yellow fever vaccination
You may need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter Argentina. Some airlines may want to see one when you leave.
Find out about returning to Australia after exposure to yellow fever.
More information:
Passport
Validity
Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.
Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.
You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.
The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport.
Lost or stolen passport
Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.
Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.
If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible.
- In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service.
- If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate.
Money
The Peso (ARS) is the official currency of Argentina.
Most major hotels in Buenos Aires will exchange US dollars. They may not accept traveller's cheques.
To make access to money easier:
- carry a photocopy of the identity page of your passport, if you plan to use credit cards
- check local sources for advice on buying foreign currency
Don't exchange money on the street or with someone offering exchange services on the street as you may receive counterfeit pesos.
Local travel
Local restrictions
Argentina has lifted most COVID-19 restrictions, although face masks, social distancing, hygiene protocols and occupancy limits are sometimes required.
Check with provincial authorities as requirements can vary across the country, including on the Ministry of Health website (Spanish).
Hiking
Be prepared if you're hiking or climbing in high country or mountains.
To reduce your risks if you intend to hike in Argentina:
- register your details with local park authorities
- give details of your plans and contact details to family or close friends
- research the area you plan to visit, including any natural hazards
- monitor local media for weather advice
- carry emergency and first aid equipment with you
Iguazu Falls
You no longer require a visa to enter Brazil to see the falls from the Brazilian side of the border. Make sure you can cross and return according to the rules of the day before attempting to do so.
Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from the date you enter Brazil.
More information:
- Travel advice for Brazil
- Brazilian Consulate in Buenos Aires (Spanish)
- Brazilian Vice-Consulate in Puerto Iguazu
Driving permit
You can use your Australian driver's licence while you have a valid visa. You may need to present further identification.
Residents must get an Argentine driver's licence.
Drivers must be aged 23 years or older to hire a car.
Road travel
Driving in Argentina can be dangerous due to:
- widespread aggressive driving practices
- excessive speed
- drivers ignoring traffic lights
Disregard for pedestrian rights is common.
You're more likely to die in a car accident in Argentina than in Australia.
More information:
Rail travel
Petty crime is common in trains and railway stations. See Road-based crime in Safety.
Railway strikes can cause significant disruptions on occasion.
Taxis
It is more secure to book radio taxis and 'remises' (chauffeured cars):
- by telephone
- at the airport arrivals hall
To reduce your risks if you take a taxi:
- book taxis in advance rather than hailing from the street
- use ride-hailing apps which maintain a record of the driver and the route and often don't require a cash transaction
- don't share with strangers
- keep doors and windows locked and valuables out of sight.
Air travel
Overbooking on domestic flights and technical problems at the airport can result in:
- significant delays
- missed connections
DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.
Check Argentina's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.
If you're flying within Argentina, monitor local media for airport updates.
More information:
Cruises
Buenos Aires and Ushuaia are popular destinations for several international cruise lines, including for travel to Antarctica.
For your safety, if you intend to take a cruise:
- check the onboard medical facilities meet your needs
- know the costs of medical treatment onboard
- get enough travel insurance, including cover for pre-existing conditions and medical evacuation
More information:
Accessibility
People with disabilities may have trouble with accessibility and accommodation in Argentina.
Federal laws mandate access to buildings for people with disabilities. Many provinces don't have similar laws.
More information:
Local contacts
Emergencies
Depending on what you need, contact your:
- family and friends
- travel agent
- insurance provider
- employer
- airline
Fire and rescue services
Call 100.
Call 911 (English language service in Buenos Aires only)
Medical emergencies
Call 107.
Call 911 (English language service in Buenos Aires only)
Police
Call 0800 999 5000, for multilingual tourist police.
Call 911 for English language service - in Buenos Aires only.
Tourist police stations, or Comisaria del Turista, are in:
- Buenos Aires Corrientes 436, call 4(+54 9 11) 5050 9260 or (+54 9 11) 5050 3293
- Mendoza, San Martin 1143, call (+54 261) 4132135
Always get a police report when you report a crime.
Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.
Tourism
Contact your provider with any complaints about tourist services or products.
Consular contacts
Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.
You can contact the Australian Embassy in Buenos Aires.
Australian Embassy, Buenos Aires
Villanueva 1400
(C1426BMJ)
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Phone: (+54 11) 4779 3500
Fax: (+54 11) 4779 3581
Website: argentina.embassy.gov.au
Facebook: Australia en Argentina, Uruguay y Paraguay
Instagram: ausemb_ar
Twitter: @EmbAustraliaBA
Check the Embassy for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.
24-hour Consular Emergency Centre
In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:
- +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
- 1300 555 135 in Australia
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Recent AARDY Travel Insurance Customer Reviews
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