Buenos Aires, Argentina – Argentina is preparing to launch a Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Programme, positioning itself as the first G20 nation to introduce the programme for foreign investors. 

The initiative is expected to launch by the end of 2026 as part of the country’s broader strategy to attract foreign capital, support economic growth, and encourage investment in strategic sectors of the economy.

The programme has generated significant interest within the investment migration industry, as most existing Citizenship by Investment Programmes are operated by small island nations rather than major economies. 

With a population of approximately 46 million people and membership in the G20, Argentina’s entry into the market could mark a major shift in the global investment migration landscape.

The legal framework for the programme was established through Presidential Decree 524/2025, which introduced the concept of citizenship by investment into Argentina’s nationality legislation. The government has also created a dedicated agency under the Ministry of Economy to oversee the programme and evaluate qualifying investments.

While final regulations and investment thresholds have not yet been officially confirmed, industry reports indicate that the programme may require a minimum investment of approximately US$500,000 in sectors considered strategically important to Argentina’s development. 

These sectors are expected to include technology, renewable energy, tourism, infrastructure, agribusiness, and other areas that contribute to economic growth and job creation.

Unlike traditional residence-by-investment programmes, Argentina’s proposed model is expected to offer a direct route to citizenship without requiring applicants to complete lengthy residency periods. 

Applicants would also be subject to enhanced due diligence and background screening procedures before approval. Industry experts believe Argentina’s programme could become one of the most attractive offerings in the market due to the country’s economic size, international standing, and strong global mobility credentials. 

The programme is also expected to appeal to investors seeking greater diversification, lifestyle opportunities, and access to one of Latin America’s largest economies.

The development represents a significant milestone for the investment migration sector, which has historically been dominated by Caribbean and Pacific jurisdictions. Argentina would also become the first country in South America to establish a dedicated CBI programme, potentially opening the door for other larger economies to explore similar initiatives in the future.

As the government finalises the programme’s operational framework, industry stakeholders will be closely watching the details surrounding investment requirements, application procedures, processing timelines, and compliance measures. 

If successfully implemented, Argentina’s entry into the market could reshape the future of citizenship by investment and create a new benchmark for large economies considering investment migration programmes.