Argentina: Getting CDI tax ID for property purchase

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Everything you need to know before buying real estate is included in our Argentina Property Pack

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THE LATINVESTOR

A team specialized in real estate investing in LATAM countries

We are a team of financial experts, legal professionals, developers, and local real estate specialists dedicated to helping people like you avoid mistakes when investing in real estate in a foreign place, particularly in Argentina. If you'd like to learn more about us, you can check our presentation page.

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At The LatinVestor, we explore the Argentine real estate market every day. Our team doesn't just analyze data from a distance—we're actively engaging with local realtors, investors, and property managers in cities like Buenos Aires, Córdoba, and Mendoza. This hands-on approach allows us to gain a deep understanding of the market from the inside out.

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What exactly is a CDI in Argentina and why do foreigners need it to buy property?

A CDI (Clave de Identificación) is Argentina's tax identification number specifically designed for individuals who don't have a local CUIT or CUIL tax ID.

Foreigners need a CDI because Argentine law requires every participant in registered property transactions to have a tax identification number. This applies when signing the escritura (property deed), paying transfer taxes, and registering ownership with local authorities.

Without a CDI, no notary can legally process your property purchase, and no government office will register the ownership transfer. The Argentine tax system treats property purchases as taxable events that must be tracked through official tax IDs.

As of September 2025, this requirement applies to all foreign buyers regardless of the property value or location within Argentina.

Which government office is responsible for issuing a CDI to foreigners?

AFIP (Administración Federal de Ingresos Públicos) is Argentina's federal tax authority that issues CDI numbers to foreigners.

You must apply at the specific AFIP or ARCA office that corresponds to your declared domicile address in Argentina. Each regional office processes applications for their geographic area, and you cannot choose any office at random.

The system requires you to specify a "real domicile" in Argentina during application, which determines which AFIP branch handles your case. This address doesn't need to be where you actually live, but it must be a valid Argentine address.

ARCA offices, which are associated with AFIP, also process CDI applications in many locations across the country.

What documents do foreigners need to prepare before applying for a CDI?

The essential documents for CDI application include Form F 663 (New Model) completed in original and copy format, stating your specific purpose for needing the CDI.

Document Type	Requirements	Additional Notes
Form F 663 - New Model	Original + copy, clearly stating application purpose	Available at AFIP offices or online
Passport	Original + legible copy of all relevant pages	Must be current and valid
Domicile Certificate	Local address verification from police station	Required if already residing in Argentina
Power of Attorney	Notarized document if applying through representative	Must be specific for CDI application
Alternative National ID	May be accepted from neighboring countries	Check with specific AFIP office first

Do the documents need to be officially translated into Spanish or legalized with an apostille?

Documents issued outside Argentina in languages other than Spanish require official translation by a certified translator registered with Argentine authorities.

Foreign documents, particularly those that will be used for legal purposes like powers of attorney or birth certificates, typically need apostille certification from the issuing country's competent authority.

The apostille requirement ensures your foreign documents are legally recognized by Argentine government offices. Each country has specific authorities that can provide apostille certification - check with your local government before traveling.

Translation costs vary but typically range from $50-150 USD per document, while apostille fees depend on your country's regulations. Plan for these additional expenses in your CDI application budget.

It's something we develop in our Argentina property pack.

Can a foreigner apply for a CDI without being physically present in Argentina?

Foreigners can successfully apply for a CDI without being physically present in Argentina by using a legal representative with proper authorization.

The most common approach involves granting power of attorney to an Argentine lawyer or escribano (notary) who can submit the application on your behalf. This power of attorney must be specifically drafted for CDI application purposes.

Some AFIP offices have implemented partial online systems, but for foreigners outside Argentina, the representative pathway remains the most reliable method. The online systems are primarily designed for residents already in the country.

Many foreign property buyers successfully obtain their CDI through this remote process, especially those purchasing from overseas. Your chosen legal representative will handle all document submission and follow-up with AFIP.

Is it possible to obtain a CDI through a representative, such as a lawyer or notary, with a power of attorney?

Yes, obtaining a CDI through a legal representative with power of attorney is not only possible but extremely common for foreign buyers.

The power of attorney must be notarized and specifically authorize the representative to apply for a CDI on your behalf. Generic powers of attorney may not be sufficient - the document should explicitly mention CDI application authority.

Argentine lawyers and escribanos routinely handle CDI applications for foreign clients. They understand the specific requirements of different AFIP offices and can navigate any procedural variations efficiently.

Choose a representative with proven experience in CDI applications for foreigners. They should provide you with regular updates on application status and be available to address any AFIP requests for additional information.

Representative fees typically range from $200-500 USD for CDI applications, depending on the complexity and location.

How long does the CDI application process usually take from submission to issuance?

Standard CDI applications for foreigners take 1-2 weeks from submission to issuance when all documents are properly prepared and submitted.

Non-resident applications or those submitted from abroad can extend up to 30 administrative business days, particularly during peak periods or when additional verification is required.

Processing times can vary by AFIP office location - Buenos Aires offices typically process applications faster than smaller regional offices. Some offices experience seasonal delays during peak property buying periods.

Applications with missing documents, incorrect forms, or issues with domicile verification face significant delays. Complete preparation prevents most timing problems.

Start your CDI application immediately after deciding to purchase property in Argentina, as property transactions cannot proceed without this tax ID.

What are the official fees or costs involved in obtaining a CDI?

AFIP does not charge any fee for CDI issuance - the tax identification number itself is completely free.

1. **Domicile Certificate**: Approximately AR$15 (less than $1 USD) if required from local police2. **Document Translation**: $50-150 USD per document for certified translation services3. **Apostille Certification**: Varies by country, typically $20-100 USD per document4. **Legal Representative**: $200-500 USD if using lawyer or notary services5. **Notarization Costs**: For power of attorney, typically $50-150 USD in your home country

The total cost for most foreign buyers ranges from $300-800 USD when including all associated services, though the CDI itself remains free of charge.

Budget for potential additional costs if documents need revision or if your case requires special handling by AFIP.

Where in Argentina must the foreigner go to apply for the CDI, and do different offices handle this differently?

Foreigners must apply at the AFIP or ARCA office that corresponds to their declared domicile address in Argentina - you cannot choose any office randomly.

Each regional office may have slightly different procedures, required forms, or processing approaches. Buenos Aires offices generally have more experience with foreign applicants and streamlined processes.

Regional offices in smaller cities might require additional documentation or have longer processing times due to less frequent foreign applications. Some offices prefer in-person consultations before accepting applications.

Contact your assigned office before applying to confirm their specific requirements and available appointment times. This prevents document rejection and processing delays.

Your legal representative, if used, will know the specific procedures for their regional AFIP office and can navigate local requirements efficiently.

We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in Argentina versus those in neighboring countries. It provides a clear view of how this country positions itself as a real estate investment destination, which might interest you if you're planning to invest there.

Does the CDI expire or is it valid permanently once issued?

The CDI is permanent and does not expire once issued by AFIP.

This means you can use the same CDI number for multiple property purchases, business transactions, or other activities requiring Argentine tax identification throughout your lifetime.

Unlike temporary tax IDs in some countries, Argentina's CDI system provides permanent identification that remains valid regardless of your residency status changes or frequency of visits to the country.

Keep your CDI documentation safe, as you'll need this number for all future property transactions, tax filings, and banking activities in Argentina. There's no renewal process or periodic verification required.

How is the CDI used during the property purchase process, for example when signing the escritura (deed) or paying taxes?

The CDI number is essential at every stage of the Argentine property purchase process, starting with the preliminary purchase agreement.

When signing the escritura (final deed), the escribano (notary) must include your CDI number in all official documents. Without this tax ID, no notary can legally process the ownership transfer.

Property transfer taxes, stamp duties, and registration fees all require your CDI for payment processing. Argentine tax authorities track all property transactions through these tax identification numbers.

Banks require your CDI to open accounts for property purchases, process international wire transfers, and handle mortgage payments if applicable. The number links all financial activities to your tax profile.

It's something we develop in our Argentina property pack.

What common mistakes do foreigners make when applying for a CDI, and how can they avoid delays?

The most frequent mistake is submitting incomplete or incorrectly filled Form F 663, particularly failing to clearly state the purpose for requesting the CDI.

1. **Document Legibility Issues**: Ensure all passport copies are clear and readable - blurry or cropped copies cause immediate rejection2. **Address Inconsistencies**: Your domicile address must match exactly across all forms and supporting documents3. **Missing Apostille/Translation**: Foreign documents submitted without proper legalization or translation face automatic rejection4. **Wrong AFIP Office**: Applying at incorrect regional office based on domicile address requires complete reapplication elsewhere5. **Late Application Timing**: Starting CDI process too close to property closing dates creates unnecessary pressure and potential deal delays6. **Inadequate Power of Attorney**: Generic authorization documents don't provide sufficient authority for CDI applications7. **Domicile Certificate Delays**: Not scheduling police verification appointments early enough when local address certification is required

Avoid these issues by working with experienced Argentine legal professionals who understand AFIP requirements and can review all documentation before submission.

Start your CDI application at least 6-8 weeks before your planned property purchase to allow time for any unexpected delays or document corrections.

Conclusion

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. We do not assume any liability for actions taken based on the information provided.

Sources

1. The LatinVestor - Can Foreigners Buy Property in Argentina
2. The LatinVestor - Property Buying Process in Argentina
3. Global Property Guide - Argentina Buying Guide
4. Argentina Government - CDI Application Service
5. 4Rent Argentina - DNI for Foreigners
6. BA Expats - Apply for CDI Online
7. Arab MLS - Foreigner Property Purchase in Argentina
8. Immi Legal - Argentinian Investment Residency