Argentina Launches Golden Visa Program to Raise $2.5 Billion

The government of Argentina, led by Javier Milei, announced on Friday, October 2, a new program that will allow foreigners to obtain Argentine citizenship. The initiative, set to take effect in the fourth quarter of this year, offers two pathways: a payment of $350,000 to the Treasury or the purchase of a public security worth $800,000. The NeoFeed reported the story. The program aims to raise approximately $2.5 billion for the country's coffers over the next five years. This strategy aligns Argentina with a trend that gained international attention after former U.S. President Donald Trump introduced a similar program in the United States. Milei, an ally of Trump, has adopted a comparable approach. In the U.S. program, announced in September of last year, participants must contribute $1 million per person, plus a $15,000 processing fee. The Argentine program differs in that it does not require foreigners to prove two years of prior residence if they choose the investment route.

Citizenship will be granted to those who meet the program's criteria and pass security and source-of-funds evaluations. 'Today, Argentina opens its arms to the many citizens of the world who wish to invest, develop, and deepen our path,' said Interior Minister Diego Santilli, according to the Financial Times, at an investment event in Paris. The program is part of a broader effort by the Milei administration to address financial challenges, including a significant agenda of external payments. The $2.5 billion expected by 2031, though less than 10% of the country's needs, could signal important revenue recovery. The government is also working to rebuild investor confidence after years of high inflation, exchange controls, and recurring debt crises. Milei's strategy includes fiscal adjustment, deregulation, and incentives for foreign capital. Recent initiatives include setting a 48-hour workweek, contrasting with Brazil's discussions on reducing work hours.

Additionally, the government amended the citizenship law in May 2025 to allow naturalization for foreigners making significant investments, regardless of residence time. The program also accounts for family members, with additional contributions required for spouses and children. A family of four could participate for a total contribution of $500,000. The $800,000 option involves a seven-year public security with no periodic interest payments. Armand Arton, executive director of Arton Capital, noted that Argentina's passport, which allows visa-free travel to over 160 countries, is more attractive than many other immediate citizenship options. The Argentine Ministry of Economy emphasized that applicants will undergo rigorous evaluations to ensure national security, financial system integrity, and the prestige of Argentine citizenship.