---
title: "Argentine Citizenship Without Investment: How Long It Really Takes"
description: "Naturalization in Argentina needs 2 years of residence by law, but the full process takes 4 to 5 years in practice. How it compares with the investment program."
url: https://becomeargentine.com/citizenship-without-investment/
---

Updated October 5, 2026

# Argentine citizenship without investment: what it really takes

The law lets a foreigner apply for citizenship after two years of residence. In practice the full process usually takes four to five years today. That gap is why the investment program exists.

## Key facts

- **By law:** 2 years of residence
- **In practice:** 4 to 5 years in total
- **Must live in Argentina:** Yes
- **Who decides:** A federal court
- **Investment route:** No residence required

## 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.

1.  **Get a residency permit** from the National Directorate of Migration.
2.  **Live in Argentina for two continuous years** and keep proof of it.
3.  **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 |

[Read the full investment guide](/citizenship-by-investment/)

## Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get Argentine citizenship without investment?

Citizenship Law 346 allows an application after two continuous years of residence. In practice, counting the residency permit, the two years and the court process, it usually takes four to five years today.

Is the investment route faster?

The investment route does not require prior residence. Applications are expected to open in Q4 2026 and processing times are not published yet.

## Want the faster route?

Leave your email and phone. We reply within one business day with the cost for your family and the next steps.

## Sources

- [Citizenship Law 346, official text](https://www.argentina.gob.ar/normativa/nacional/ley-346-48854/texto)
- [National Directorate of Migration (DNM)](https://www.argentina.gob.ar/interior/migraciones)