Argentina has launched a citizenship-by-investment program allowing foreigners to obtain nationality after contributing at least $350,000 to the state or buying $800,000 in government bonds, with family options available. Announced during Argentina Week in Paris, the measure is part of President Javier Milei’s effort to attract foreign capital and reduce business barriers. Officials say the program will include anti–money-laundering screening, but legal experts criticize the decree-based approach, flagging constitutional concerns, potential conflicts of interest and sovereignty risks.
Argentina Launches Controversial Citizenship-By-Investment Program to Attract Foreign Capital
Argentina will allow foreigners to apply for citizenship in exchange for a contribution of at least $350,000 to the government under a new program by President Javier Milei's administration. Photo by Sarah Yenesel/EPA
Argentina has introduced a citizenship-by-investment program that allows foreign nationals to apply for Argentine citizenship in exchange for a minimum contribution of $350,000 to the state or by purchasing $800,000 in government bonds. The measure, presented by Economy Minister Luis Caputo and Cabinet Chief Diego Santilli, is part of President Javier Milei’s drive to attract international capital and liberalize the economy.
How the Program Works
Officials said applicants seeking to settle in Argentina may include family members by making additional payments. For example, a married couple with two minor children could qualify for citizenship with a combined payment of $500,000, according to government explanations. The plan was unveiled during Argentina Week in Paris, a series of events promoting Argentina as an investment destination.
Safeguards and Screening
The government says the program will include measures to verify the source of funds and guard against money laundering and terrorist financing. All applicants are to undergo screening before citizenship is granted, and officials have emphasized compliance with anti–money-laundering rules.
Legal and Policy Criticism
The proposal has drawn sharp criticism from immigration and nationality experts who question its legal basis and potential societal consequences.
Paula Carello, an attorney specializing in immigration, asylum and nationality law, said the program was created by decree without prior debate in Congress and raised constitutional concerns because Argentina’s Constitution vests authority over nationality and naturalization rules in the legislature.
Carello also criticized the lack of public consultation with experts, universities and civil-society groups, and warned about possible conflicts of interest if private companies that profit from residency-and-citizenship services participate in designing or administering the program.
Pablo Serdán, an attorney and academic at the University of Buenos Aires, argued the program effectively commodifies Argentine citizenship by allowing wealthy individuals to obtain nationality without making productive investments, creating jobs or financing local projects.
Serdán noted that an international industry markets residency and citizenship services to wealthy clients and warned that combining easier access to citizenship with recent government changes easing land purchases by foreigners could broaden wealthy investors’ access to resources such as land, water and energy. He framed the issue as a sovereignty concern.
Outlook
Supporters present the program as a fast route to foreign capital and economic dynamism, while critics warn of constitutional, ethical and sovereignty risks. Observers say the initiative could face legal challenges and public debate as details of implementation become clearer.
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