The legal minimum
Citizenship Law 346 allows a foreigner to apply for Argentine citizenship after two continuous years of residence in the country. The application goes to a federal court, not to an agency.
Why it takes 4 to 5 years in practice
The two years are only one step. The real timeline has three parts and each one adds waiting time.
- Get a residency permit from the National Directorate of Migration.
- Live in Argentina for two continuous years and keep proof of it.
- Go through the court process until the judge grants citizenship. Then request your DNI and passport.
Investment vs naturalization
| Investment | Naturalization | |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum cost to the state | USD 350,000 | None |
| Residence before applying | Not required | 2 years by law |
| Typical total time | Not published yet | 4 to 5 years |
| Must move to Argentina | No | Yes |