Argentina has proposed a Citizenship by Investment Program offering passports to foreigners who either make a $350,000 non-refundable payment to the Treasury or subscribe to an $800,000 government bond. The plan — announced during Argentina Week in Paris — also allows spouses and children to gain citizenship for reduced fees, with authorities pledging strict vetting to prevent money laundering. Critics warn the scheme could attract questionable actors, and the announcement follows a court decision lifting limits on foreign ownership of rural land and major investment pledges from firms such as TotalEnergies and Glencore.
Argentina’s ‘Golden Passport’ Plan: Citizenship Offered For $350,000 Investment
Argentina's President Javier Milei delivers a speech at a conference in Buenos Aires in August 2026 (Juan MABROMATA)
Argentina's government announced a new Citizenship by Investment Program on Friday, offering foreign nationals Argentine citizenship in exchange for a substantial investment in the country. The plan was unveiled during Argentina Week in Paris as President Javier Milei seeks to attract much-needed capital and shore up public finances.
How the Program Works
Under the proposal, applicants may either make a direct, non-refundable contribution of $350,000 to the National Treasury or subscribe to a specially created government bond worth $800,000. Spouses and children may be included on an applicant's application for reduced amounts: $100,000 for adult dependents and $25,000 for those under 18.
Government Use Of Funds And Vetting
The administration says proceeds will be used to strengthen Argentina's fiscal and financial position. The economy ministry posted on X that each application will undergo a "rigorous evaluation process" to guarantee the traceability of funds, prevent money laundering and protect national security.
Support, Skepticism And Political Context
President Milei, a vocal free-market reformer, has cut public spending, eased regulations and reduced trade barriers to boost competitiveness and rebuild dwindling dollar reserves. He promoted the plan while meeting investors in Paris; government officials highlighted recent private pledges including TotalEnergies' proposed $10 billion investment in Patagonia and Glencore's $4 billion copper project commitment.
However, some analysts and political opponents voiced skepticism. Economist Marcelo Elizondo told AFP many investors are waiting to see if Milei's economic changes are sustainable. Critic Pablo Tigani warned the scheme could attract individuals of dubious origin, including criminals, if vetting is not foolproof.
Related Legal Changes
The passport program follows a recent Supreme Court decision that upheld a 2023 decree abolishing a 15% cap on foreign ownership of rural land. That change has provoked protests from veterans and opponents who accuse the government of selling off national patrimony; demonstrations and parliamentary challenges are planned.
Foreign Investment Context
Argentina drew roughly $3.134 billion in foreign direct investment last year, according to the OECD — far less than regional peers such as Brazil ($76.877 billion) and Mexico ($40.871 billion). The government says the new program is aimed at narrowing that gap by attracting new capital.
Timing
The government says the passport-for-investment program is slated for implementation later this year, pending final legal and administrative steps.
'The resources obtained will be used to continue strengthening the fiscal and financial position of the Argentine Republic,' the government said.
Reporting includes government statements and independent analyst comments.
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