Overview
Most foreign nationals don't need a visa to visit Argentina for tourism or business — stays of up to 90 days are visa-free for a large number of countries. For a specific group of nationalities who are otherwise required to hold a tourist visa but also hold a valid US visa (B1/B2/J/O/P/E/H-1B, used at least once in the past 2 years) or previously an ESTA, Argentina offers the AVE (Autorización de Viaje Electrónica) — a self-service electronic travel authorization applied for directly at the National Directorate of Migration's own portal. Travelers who don't qualify for the AVE apply for a traditional tourist visa at their nearest Argentine embassy, consulate or foreign mission — still a direct government process, just not an online one.
Visa categories
| AVE (electronic travel authorization) | For AVE-eligible nationalities holding a valid US visa; multiple entries within 90 days of issue. |
|---|---|
| Tourist visa (embassy/consulate) | For travelers not eligible for AVE; a more complex application submitted directly at an Argentine mission abroad. |
| TIE 24H (Electronic Entry Processing) | For visa-exempt travelers engaged in non-tourism activities (business, academic, professional visits). |
Documents checklist
- Passport valid for at least 6 months from arrival, with at least one blank page
- Valid or recently-used US visa (for AVE applicants)
- Recent digital photo
- Proof of travel health insurance covering medical emergencies (mandatory for all visitors)
- Confirmed flight ticket (AVE holders must enter by air or sea only — no land crossings)
- Proof of accommodation
- Credit or debit card for the AVE fee
Step-by-step application process (AVE)
1. Confirm your eligibility
Check that your nationality is on the AVE-eligible list and that you hold a qualifying US visa.
2. Pay the AVE fee online
Pay securely by credit or debit card, and keep your Transaction ID.
3. Complete the AVE application
Enter your passport details, Transaction ID and travel information on the official portal.
4. Receive and print your AVE
Print the receipt to present alongside your passport and US visa at immigration.
5. If not AVE-eligible: apply at an Argentine mission
Contact your nearest Argentine embassy or consulate directly for the standard tourist visa process.
Fees & processing time
| Validity | 90 days from date of issue, multiple entries |
|---|---|
| Processing time | Apply at least 3 weeks ahead; can take up to 20 business days during peak periods |
| Entry ports | Air or sea only for AVE holders — land border crossings aren't permitted |
Sources reviewed: migraciones.gob.ar (National Directorate of Migration), Argentine consulate pages (Houston). Eligibility lists change — always confirm your specific nationality's requirement on the official portal before applying.