This week’s digest brings key updates for foreigners navigating life and travel in Argentina: from mandatory digital entry registration and expanded access to the MEP dollar, to new long-distance bus payment rules and a counterfeit currency alert. Whether you are a tourist in Buenos Aires or a long-term expat in the provinces, staying informed on these regulatory and safety changes will help ensure a smooth, compliant stay.
New Digital Entry Registration Now Mandatory for Air Travelers
As of this month, Argentina’s National Directorate of Migration has implemented a mandatory Digital Entry Registration (DEX) for all non-resident foreign nationals arriving by air. The form replaces previous paper-based declarations and must be completed online up to 48 hours prior to travel. Travelers are advised to retain the confirmation code for presentation at border control. Expatriates holding permanent residency are exempt, though tourists and temporary visa holders must comply.
Official Rate Adjustment and Easier Access to MEP Dollar
The Central Bank has announced a 2.2% adjustment to the official peso exchange rate, effective this week. For foreigners, access to the MEP (Mercado Electrónico de Pagos) dollar has been simplified: foreign bank accounts and certain digital wallets (including those linked to a CUIL/CUIT) may now purchase MEP without prior authorization. Cash-based visitors are reminded that unofficial “blue dollar” transactions remain legal for individuals but carry counterparty risks; official exchange houses and registered fintech platforms are recommended.
Long-Distance Buses Switch to PreTrip Card System
Starting next Monday, long-distance bus terminals in Buenos Aires, Córdoba, and Mendoza will phase out onboard cash purchases. Foreign travelers must obtain a PreTrip Card at terminal kiosks or via the SUBe app (available in English and Portuguese). The card can be loaded with pesos or, for tourists, via international credit card (subject to foreign transaction fees). Interprovincial services failing to accept cash after the transition date will face sanctions.
Tighter Health Insurance Checks at Public Hospitals
Public hospitals in high-traffic provinces (Buenos Aires City, Salta, Neuquén) have begun verifying travel health insurance more rigorously. Visitors from non-Mercosur countries without proof of coverage may be charged a tiered fee for non-emergency care. The Ministry of Health has published a list of approved international insurers; those with private expat plans should carry a Spanish-language certificate of benefits.
Counterfeit Peso Warning in Tourist Hotspots
The Argentine Federal Police have issued a public alert regarding counterfeit AR$2,000 and AR$1,000 notes circulating in the Retiro bus terminal, Florida Street pedestrian area, and Ezeiza Airport shuttle zones. Foreigners are advised to receive change only at registered businesses, check watermarks and security threads, and report suspected fake currency to local police stations (comisarías del turista) where English-speaking officers are available.
Malvinas Day Holiday – Plan Ahead
All national and provincial government offices, migration offices, and most banks will be closed on April 2 for Malvinas Day (Día del Veterano y de los Caídos en la Guerra de Malvinas). Foreigners requiring emergency travel documents or visa extensions should complete procedures by March 31. Transport services and tourist attractions will operate on a reduced holiday schedule.
Rental Law Update for Long-Term Expats
Recent court rulings have reaffirmed that rental contracts signed under the former Ley de Alquileres (Law 27.551) remain valid until their stated term. However, new contracts now follow Decree 766/2024, which shortens minimum lease duration to two years and permits rent adjustments every six months based on a new Casa Propia index (not the old ICL). Expats negotiating leases are urged to verify which legal framework applies and seek bilingual legal review before signing.
Free Expat Tax Webinar Next Week
The Argentine Tax Authority (AFIP) will host a free virtual webinar on April 5 titled “Tax Obligations for Foreign Residents and Non-Residents.” Topics include monotributo for freelancers, asset declaration thresholds, and double taxation agreements. Registration is open via the AFIP website under “Eventos Internacionales.”
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