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Foreigners purchasing property in Argentina face the same tax structure as Argentine citizens, with no additional penalties or special rates based on nationality.
The total tax burden for property acquisition typically ranges from 4% to 7% of the purchase price, with ongoing annual obligations including property tax and potential wealth tax. Capital gains taxation applies at 15% for properties acquired after 2018, while rental income faces a 21% withholding rate for foreign owners.
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Foreign property buyers in Argentina pay the same taxes as locals, with transaction costs typically totaling 4-7% of purchase price.
Annual obligations include property tax (0.5-1%) and wealth tax (0.5-2.25% above threshold), while rental income faces 21% withholding for non-residents.
| Tax/Fee | Rate | Who Pays |
|---|---|---|
| Property Transfer Tax | 1.5% | Usually Seller |
| Stamp Duty | 1.5-2% (split) | Buyer/Seller |
| Notary Fees | 1-1.5% + 21% VAT | Buyer |
| Municipal Fees | 0.5-1% | Buyer |
| Annual Property Tax | 0.5-1% | Owner |
| Wealth Tax | 0.5-2.25% | Owner (if above threshold) |
| Capital Gains Tax | 15% | Seller |
Do foreigners pay property transfer tax in Argentina and at what percentage?
Foreigners pay the same property transfer tax rate as Argentine citizens at 1.5% of the property purchase price.
This tax is typically paid by the seller, though the responsibility can be negotiated in the purchase contract between buyer and seller. The calculation is straightforward: if you're buying a $200,000 USD property, the transfer tax amounts to $3,000 USD.
As of September 2025, there are no additional transfer tax penalties or higher rates applied to foreign buyers compared to local purchasers. The 1.5% rate applies uniformly across Argentina, regardless of the buyer's nationality or residency status.
The transfer tax is collected at the time of property registration and must be paid before the deed can be officially transferred. Payment is made through the provincial tax authority where the property is located.
This represents one of the more predictable costs in the Argentine property acquisition process for foreign investors.
Are there additional stamp duties when a foreigner buys property and how are they calculated?
Stamp duty applies to all property transactions in Argentina at rates between 1.5% to 2% of the purchase price, with no distinction between foreign and local buyers.
The standard rate across most provinces is 1.75% of the property price, typically split equally between buyer and seller (0.875% each). However, Buenos Aires City charges 2.5% of the property price, while Buenos Aires Province applies 4% of the purchase price.
The calculation formula is: Purchase Price × Applicable Stamp Duty Rate ÷ 2 (if split equally). For a $300,000 USD property in most provinces, each party would pay approximately $2,625 USD in stamp duty.
Buenos Aires represents a higher cost jurisdiction, where stamp duty on the same $300,000 USD property would total $7,500 USD in the city or $12,000 USD in the province, split between parties unless otherwise negotiated.
Payment timing coincides with the property transfer process and must be completed before deed registration.
What notary fees must foreigners pay during the transaction and what is the typical percentage of the property price?
Notary fees in Argentina range from 1% to 1.5% of the property purchase price, plus 21% VAT on the notary's professional fee.
For a $250,000 USD property, base notary fees would be $2,500 to $3,750 USD, with an additional $525 to $787.50 USD in VAT, totaling approximately $3,025 to $4,537.50 USD. Additional notary expenses for document preparation, searches, and administrative costs can add another $500 to $1,000 USD.
When combined with optional legal counsel fees (typically 0.5% to 1% of purchase price), total legal and notary costs often reach 2% to 3% of the property value. Foreign buyers commonly engage additional legal representation to navigate language barriers and ensure compliance with local regulations.
The notary (escribano) in Argentina serves as both a legal professional and government official, responsible for verifying property titles, conducting due diligence, and facilitating the official transfer process.
These fees are typically paid by the buyer and are due at the closing of the transaction.
Do foreigners have to pay VAT when purchasing new or pre-construction property in Argentina?
VAT (IVA) at rates of 10.5% or 21% applies only when purchasing new or pre-construction property directly from developers, not on existing residential property transactions.
Standard resale property purchases between individuals are exempt from VAT regardless of the buyer's nationality. The VAT rate depends on specific project characteristics and developer status, which should be clearly specified in the purchase contract.
For new construction, VAT represents a significant additional cost. On a $400,000 USD new apartment, VAT could add $42,000 USD (at 10.5%) or $84,000 USD (at 21%) to the total purchase price.
Foreign buyers should verify VAT implications before signing purchase agreements for new developments, as this tax substantially increases the total acquisition cost. Some developers include VAT in their advertised prices, while others add it separately.
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Are there municipal taxes or local property transfer fees that foreigners should expect?
Municipal fees and local transfer levies typically range from 0.5% to 1% of the property value, varying by city and province across Argentina.
Buenos Aires charges approximately 1% in registration fees, while other major cities like Córdoba and Rosario impose similar municipal transfer taxes. These fees cover property registration, municipal searches, and administrative processing.
Annual municipal service levies (ABL - Alumbrado, Barrido y Limpieza) cover street lighting, street cleaning, and municipal maintenance services. ABL costs typically range from $200 to $800 USD annually for residential properties, depending on property size and location.
Some municipalities also charge connection fees for utilities and services, which can add $300 to $1,500 USD to the initial acquisition costs for foreign buyers setting up new accounts.
These municipal obligations apply equally to foreign and domestic buyers, with no nationality-based distinctions in rates or payment requirements.
What is the annual property tax rate (Impuesto Inmobiliario) for foreigners and how is it assessed?
The Impuesto Inmobiliario (annual property tax) ranges from 0.5% to 1% of the fiscal value, applied equally to foreign and Argentine property owners.
Fiscal value often differs from market value and is typically determined by provincial assessment authorities based on property characteristics, location, and periodic revaluations. For a property with a fiscal value of $150,000 USD, annual property tax would range from $750 to $1,500 USD.
Payment is usually divided into quarterly or monthly installments throughout the year, with early payment discounts often available. Late payment penalties can reach 2% to 3% per month in some provinces.
Buenos Aires Province and City maintain separate assessment systems, with Buenos Aires City generally showing higher fiscal values relative to market prices. Property tax bills are issued by provincial or municipal tax authorities directly to registered owners.
Foreign owners receive the same tax treatment and payment options as residents, with no additional surcharges based on nationality.
Do foreigners have to pay wealth tax (Bienes Personales) on Argentine property, and what is the rate?
Non-resident foreigners must pay wealth tax (Bienes Personales) on Argentine assets if their total value exceeds approximately $300,000 USD threshold, which is indexed annually for inflation.
Wealth tax rates range from 0.5% to 2.25% applied progressively above the exemption threshold. Real estate is assessed at the higher of the declared purchase price or current fiscal value for tax purposes.
For a foreign owner with $500,000 USD in Argentine property value, wealth tax would apply to $200,000 USD above the threshold, resulting in annual tax of approximately $1,000 to $4,500 USD depending on the progressive rate structure.
The tax is calculated annually and must be filed by March 31st of the following year. Non-compliance can result in penalties of 50% to 100% of the tax owed, plus monthly interest charges.
Argentine residents benefit from higher exemption thresholds and different rate structures, making the wealth tax more burdensome for non-resident foreign property owners.
Are rental income taxes different for foreign owners and what withholding rate applies?
Foreign property owners face a flat 21% withholding tax on rental income, with no deductions allowed for maintenance, management, or depreciation expenses.
The 21% rate is calculated as 60% of gross rental income taxed at 35% (effectively 21%), applied regardless of actual expenses or property-related costs. For $2,000 USD monthly rental income, the tax obligation would be $420 USD per month or $5,040 USD annually.
Argentine residents can claim deductions for property management, maintenance, insurance, and depreciation, often reducing their effective tax rate to 10% to 15% of rental income. This creates a significant tax disadvantage for foreign property investors compared to local owners.
Rental income tax must be paid monthly, with tenants or property managers typically responsible for withholding and remitting taxes to AFIP (Argentine tax authority).
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When a foreigner sells property in Argentina, what is the capital gains tax rate and how is it calculated?
Foreign sellers pay 15% capital gains tax on the difference between acquisition and sale prices for properties acquired after 2018.
The tax calculation is: (Sale Price - Purchase Price - Qualified Improvements) × 15%. For a property bought at $200,000 USD and sold at $300,000 USD, capital gains tax would be $15,000 USD on the $100,000 USD gain.
Properties acquired before the 2018 law change may be subject to a flat 1.5% transfer tax instead of capital gains tax, but not both. Qualified improvements including renovations, additions, and capital improvements can be deducted from the gain if properly documented.
Non-resident sellers may face withholding obligations at the time of sale, with final tax calculations settled through annual tax filings. Currency fluctuations between purchase and sale can complicate gain calculations, as transactions may be conducted in USD but taxes calculated in Argentine pesos.
Double taxation treaties with certain countries can reduce effective tax rates for qualifying foreign sellers.
Are there double taxation treaties that reduce or eliminate certain taxes for foreigners from specific countries?
Argentina maintains tax treaties with Germany, Spain, Italy, and the United Kingdom that can reduce or eliminate certain taxes for qualifying foreign property investors.
| Country | Property Tax Benefits | Capital Gains Reduction |
|---|---|---|
| Germany | Reduced wealth tax rates | Lower capital gains rates |
| Spain | Mutual recognition of payments | Treaty protection available |
| Italy | Reduced withholding rates | Limited capital gains relief |
| United Kingdom | Reduced property tax liability | Treaty benefits on disposal |
| France | Rental income protection | Some capital gains relief |
The United States does not have a comprehensive tax treaty with Argentina, leaving US investors subject to full Argentine tax rates without treaty protection. Brazilian and Chilean investors may benefit from regional tax agreements that provide limited relief on certain property taxes.
Treaty benefits typically require proper documentation and filing with Argentine tax authorities to claim reduced rates or exemptions. Foreign investors should consult with tax professionals familiar with both Argentine law and their home country's treaty provisions.
Treaty benefits are not automatic and must be actively claimed through proper procedures and documentation.
Do foreigners need a local tax identification number (CUIT or CDI) to pay these taxes?
All foreign property buyers must obtain a CDI (Clave de Identificación) tax identification number before completing any property purchase in Argentina.
The CDI application process requires a valid passport, proof of address (either Argentine or foreign), and completion of forms at AFIP offices or through authorized accountants. Processing typically takes 5 to 15 business days.
Without a CDI number, foreigners cannot legally purchase property, open Argentine bank accounts, or fulfill tax obligations related to property ownership. The CDI serves as the primary tax identification for all subsequent property-related tax filings and payments.
Foreign property owners must maintain their CDI in active status throughout ownership and use it for all tax-related transactions including property tax payments, wealth tax filings, and rental income declarations.
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What are the typical ongoing costs (maintenance fees, municipal services, and other levies) that foreigners must budget for in addition to the official taxes?
1. **Building Expenses (Expensas)**: Monthly condominium fees ranging from $50 to $300+ USD depending on building amenities, location, and property size2. **Municipal Services (ABL)**: Annual fees of $200 to $800 USD covering street lighting, cleaning, and municipal maintenance services 3. **Utility Connections**: Initial setup costs of $300 to $1,500 USD for electricity, gas, water, and internet connections for foreign buyers4. **Property Management**: Professional management fees of 8% to 12% of rental income if using rental management services5. **Insurance**: Annual property insurance premiums ranging from 0.3% to 0.8% of property value for comprehensive coverage6. **Maintenance and Repairs**: Annual budget of 0.5% to 1% of property value for routine maintenance, repairs, and upkeepTotal ongoing costs typically represent 0.5% to 1% of property value annually, excluding the official taxes discussed earlier. For a $300,000 USD property, foreign owners should budget approximately $1,500 to $3,000 USD annually for these additional expenses.
Apartment buildings in premium areas of Buenos Aires often have higher expensas due to amenities like pools, gyms, security systems, and concierge services. Single-family homes may have lower building fees but higher individual maintenance responsibilities.
Foreign owners who rent out their properties can typically pass most ongoing costs to tenants through lease agreements, though this varies by local rental market conditions and lease terms.
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.
Foreign property buyers in Argentina benefit from equal tax treatment with locals, avoiding discriminatory rates or additional nationality-based fees that exist in other Latin American markets.
The total cost of property acquisition ranges from 4% to 7% of purchase price, with ongoing annual obligations representing an additional 1% to 3% of property value depending on wealth tax thresholds and rental income generation.
Sources
- The Latinvestor - Argentina Tax Guide
- The Latinvestor - Foreigners Property Rights
- Multilaw - Argentina Real Estate Guide
- Beccar Varela - Transfer Tax Guide
- Buenos Aires Habitat - Property Taxes
- The Latinvestor - Real Estate Costs
- Global Property Guide - Argentina Taxes
- Moore Global - Argentina Tax Services