Authored by the expert who managed and guided the team behind the Argentina Property Pack
Everything you need to know before buying real estate is included in our Argentina Property Pack
Argentina lets foreigners buy most residential properties with full ownership rights, but there are specific rules you need to know before signing anything.
This guide covers what you can legally own, visa requirements, the buying process, taxes, and financing options for foreign buyers in Argentina in 2026.
We constantly update this article to reflect the latest regulations and market conditions in Argentina.
And if you're planning to buy a property in this place, you may want to download our pack covering the real estate market in Argentina.
Insights
- Foreigners buying property in Argentina face an effective 21% withholding on rental income, calculated as 35% tax on a deemed 60% net income, which is higher than many buyers expect when budgeting returns.
- The rural land restrictions under Law 26.737 remain in force as of the first half of 2026 despite a 2023 derogation attempt, because a court injunction restored the original limits on foreign ownership of agricultural land.
- Most Argentine mortgages use UVA indexing (inflation-linked) with spreads ranging from 6% to 14% on top, meaning monthly payments can fluctuate significantly with Argentina's inflation rate.
- Closing costs in Buenos Aires typically run 6% to 9% of the purchase price, but buyers of a primary residence may qualify for stamp tax exemptions that can reduce this to 3% to 6%.
- The "boleto de compraventa" is a common early contract, but it does not transfer ownership; only the "escritura pública" registered at the property registry gives you enforceable title in Argentina.
- Properties in Argentina's border security zones require "previa conformidad" approval from the Interior Ministry before a foreigner can complete the purchase, which can add weeks or months to the timeline.
- Argentina does not automatically grant residency or citizenship for buying property; the investor visa requires a specific approved investment category and minimum threshold, not just any apartment purchase.
- Annual property taxes in Buenos Aires (ABL plus Inmobiliario) typically cost 0.10% to 0.30% of market value, but non-residents may also face national wealth tax exposure on their Argentine assets.
What can I legally buy and truly own as a foreigner in Argentina?
What property types can foreigners legally buy in Argentina right now?
In January 2026, foreigners can legally buy and fully own apartments, houses, duplexes, townhouses, and homes in gated communities throughout Argentina with the same ownership rights as Argentine citizens.
The most important limitation is that rural land and properties in border security zones face special restrictions that require government certificates or approvals before the sale can proceed.
Your ownership becomes legally binding when you sign the "escritura pública" before a notary (called an escribano in Argentina) and register it at the Registro de la Propiedad Inmueble, which is the official property registry.
This registration step is what makes your title enforceable against third parties, so skipping or delaying it leaves you exposed even if you have paid the full price.
Finally, please note that our pack about the property market in Argentina is specifically tailored to foreigners.
Can I own land in my own name in Argentina right now?
Yes, foreigners can own urban and suburban land in their own name in Argentina, with full title (dominio) registered exactly the same way as for Argentine citizens.
However, if the land is classified as "tierra rural" (rural land), foreign ownership is restricted under Law 26.737 and requires a special certificate called the "certificado habilitante" before you can buy it.
Additionally, properties located in designated border security zones may require prior authorization ("previa conformidad") from the Interior Ministry, which applies regardless of whether the land is rural or urban.
By the way, we cover everything there is to know about the land buying process in Argentina here.
As of 2026, what other key foreign-ownership rules or limits should I know in Argentina?
As of early 2026, the main rules that affect foreign purchases beyond land classification are building-level restrictions, particularly in Buenos Aires apartments where many consorcios (building associations) prohibit or heavily restrict short-term rentals like Airbnb.
Argentina does not have a foreign ownership quota for apartments or condos the way some countries do, so there is no percentage cap limiting how many units foreigners can own in a building.
However, you will need to obtain a local tax identification number (CUIT) through AFIP/ARCA before you can complete the purchase, which is an administrative requirement that can delay closing if you do not start the process early.
The most notable recent regulatory development is that although DNU 70/2023 attempted to remove rural land restrictions for foreigners, a court injunction has restored Law 26.737's original limits, so those rules remain fully in force as of the first half of 2026.
If you're interested, we go much more into details about the foreign ownership rights in Argentina here.
What's the biggest ownership mistake foreigners make in Argentina right now?
The single biggest mistake foreigners make in Argentina is paying most or all of the purchase price based on a "boleto de compraventa" (preliminary contract) and then never completing the "escritura pública" that actually transfers legal ownership.
If you make this mistake, you may find yourself with no enforceable title, which means the seller could potentially sell the property again to someone else or creditors could seize it, leaving you with a costly legal battle to recover your money.
Other classic pitfalls in Argentina include not verifying whether a property is classified as rural land (which triggers special requirements), failing to check for unpaid building fees (expensas) that become your responsibility, and assuming that buying property automatically helps with residency when it does not.
We have made this infographic to give you a quick and clear snapshot of the property market in Argentina. It highlights key facts like rental prices, yields, and property costs both in city centers and outside, so you can easily compare opportunities. We’ve done some research and also included useful insights about the country’s economy, like GDP, population, and interest rates, to help you understand the bigger picture.
Which visa or residency status changes what I can do in Argentina?
Do I need a specific visa to buy property in Argentina right now?
No, you do not need a special visa to buy residential property in Argentina, and many foreigners successfully complete purchases while visiting on a tourist visa.
The most common administrative blocker for buyers without local residency is obtaining a tax identification number (CUIT or CDI) through AFIP/ARCA, which is required to formally register the property in your name.
Yes, you need a local tax ID before buying property in Argentina, and AFIP/ARCA provides an online process specifically for foreigners to obtain this number before or during the purchase process.
A typical document set for a foreign buyer includes your passport, the tax ID (CUIT/CDI), proof of funds origin, and any power of attorney if you cannot be physically present at the signing.
Does buying property help me get residency and citizenship in Argentina in 2026?
As of early 2026, buying a residential property in Argentina does not automatically qualify you for residency or citizenship, despite what some marketing materials may suggest.
Argentina does have an investor visa pathway, but it requires an approved investment category and a specific minimum threshold, and simply purchasing an apartment to live in does not meet these criteria.
For those seeking permanent residency, the more common pathways include employment-based visas, family ties to Argentine citizens, or the "rentista" visa which requires proof of regular passive income rather than a property purchase.
We give you all the details you need about the different pathways to get residency and citizenship in Argentina here.
Can I legally rent out property on my visa in Argentina right now?
Your visa status in Argentina does not restrict your ability to own property and receive rental income from it, but your tax treatment will differ significantly depending on whether you are a resident or non-resident.
You do not need to live in Argentina to rent out your property, but as a non-resident you will typically need a local representative or property manager to handle tenant relations and ensure tax compliance.
The key detail for foreign owners is that non-resident rental income is typically subject to withholding at source under the "beneficiario del exterior" framework, with an effective rate of approximately 21% of gross rent (calculated as 35% tax on a deemed 60% net income).
We cover everything there is to know about buying and renting out in Argentina here.
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How does the buying process actually work step-by-step in Argentina?
What are the exact steps to buy property in Argentina right now?
The standard sequence to buy property in Argentina is: agree on price, choose your escribano (notary), sign a reservation or boleto de compraventa, complete due diligence on title and location restrictions, obtain your tax ID, sign the escritura pública before the escribano, and finally register the deed at the property registry.
You do not need to be physically present for every step because Argentina allows the use of a power of attorney (POA), though you should confirm with your escribano that your specific POA format will be accepted for registration.
The step that makes the deal legally binding for both parties is signing the "escritura pública" before the escribano, which is the formal deed that transfers ownership and gets recorded in the official registry.
The typical timeline from accepted offer to final registration in Argentina ranges from 30 to 90 days for a straightforward transaction, though deals involving border zone approvals or complex title issues can take several months longer.
We have a document entirely dedicated to the whole buying process our pack about properties in Argentina.
Is it mandatory to get a lawyer or a notary to buy a property in Argentina right now?
An escribano (notary) is effectively mandatory for buying property in Argentina because the escritura pública that transfers ownership must be executed before a licensed escribano to be valid and registrable.
The key difference is that the escribano in Argentina handles the formal deed, registry filings, and verification of title status, while a lawyer (abogado) provides independent legal advice, reviews contracts, and can help negotiate terms or handle disputes.
One key item to include in your escribano's scope is explicit verification of whether the property is classified as rural land or located in a border security zone, because these location-based issues can block or significantly delay a foreign purchase if discovered late.
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.
What checks should I run so I don't buy a problem property in Argentina?
How do I verify title and ownership history in Argentina right now?
The official authority for verifying title and ownership history in Argentina is the Registro de la Propiedad Inmueble in the relevant jurisdiction, such as the Capital Federal registry for Buenos Aires City properties.
The key document you should request is the "Certificado de Dominio" or "Informe de Dominio," which confirms who the registered owner is and shows any recorded rights or encumbrances against the property.
A realistic look-back period for ownership history checks in Argentina is typically 20 years, though your escribano may recommend going further back if there are gaps or irregularities in the chain of title.
A clear red flag that should stop or pause your purchase is finding unresolved "inhibiciones" (personal annotations that block the seller from transferring property) or discovering that the registered owner does not match the person trying to sell to you.
You will find here the list of classic mistakes people make when buying a property in Argentina.
How do I confirm there are no liens in Argentina right now?
The standard way to confirm there are no liens or encumbrances on a property in Argentina is to request a "Informe de Dominio y Gravámenes" from the Registro de la Propiedad Inmueble, which shows any mortgages, judicial embargoes, or other recorded charges.
One common type of lien to specifically ask about in Argentina is unpaid "expensas" (building fees) for apartments and PH units, because these debts attach to the property and become the buyer's responsibility after purchase.
The best written proof of lien status is the official certificate from the property registry combined with a statement from the building administrator confirming expensas are current, which together give you a complete picture of both recorded and operational debts.
How do I check zoning and permitted use in Argentina right now?
Zoning and permitted use in Argentina are handled at the municipal or provincial level, so you need to check with the local planning authority for your specific location, such as the Código Urbanístico office for Buenos Aires City.
The document that typically confirms zoning classification is the "plano de zonificación" or an official certificate from the municipal planning department, which states what uses are permitted for your specific parcel.
One common zoning pitfall that foreign buyers miss in Argentina is assuming they can run short-term rentals from any apartment, when in fact many buildings have internal regulations (reglamento de copropiedad) that prohibit this use regardless of municipal zoning.
Buying real estate in Argentina can be risky
An increasing number of foreign investors are showing interest. However, 90% of them will make mistakes. Avoid the pitfalls with our comprehensive guide.
Can I get a mortgage as a foreigner in Argentina, and on what terms?
Do banks lend to foreigners for homes in Argentina in 2026?
As of early 2026, Argentine banks do offer mortgages (mostly UVA-indexed products), but lending to foreigners typically requires Argentine residency and documented local income, making true non-resident financing very difficult to obtain.
The realistic loan-to-value (LTV) range for qualified borrowers in Argentina is typically 50% to 75%, with stronger banking relationships and higher incomes helping you reach the upper end of that range.
The single most common eligibility requirement that determines whether a foreigner qualifies for a mortgage in Argentina is proof of stable local income, usually demonstrated through payroll deposits into an Argentine bank account with the lending institution.
You can also read our latest update about mortgage and interest rates in Argentina.
Which banks are most foreigner-friendly in Argentina in 2026?
As of early 2026, the banks most commonly cited as foreigner-friendly for mortgages in Argentina are Banco Nación, Santander, and BBVA, with Galicia, Macro, and ICBC also appearing regularly in the UVA mortgage market.
What makes these banks more foreigner-friendly is their experience handling international clients in general banking, which translates to staff who understand foreign documentation and can navigate the additional paperwork required.
However, even these foreigner-friendly banks typically require Argentine residency and local income proof to approve a mortgage, so true non-residents without an Argentine payroll should plan to buy with cash or arrange financing in their home country.
We actually have a specific document about how to get a mortgage as a foreigner in our pack covering real estate in Argentina.
What mortgage rates are foreigners offered in Argentina in 2026?
As of early 2026, most Argentine mortgages are quoted as UVA (inflation-indexed) plus a fixed annual spread, with qualified borrowers typically seeing spreads ranging from UVA + 6% to UVA + 14% depending on their banking relationship and profile strength.
There is no traditional fixed-rate versus variable-rate choice in the way other countries offer it, because virtually all Argentine mortgages use the UVA indexing system, meaning your principal adjusts with inflation while the spread remains fixed throughout the loan term.
We made this infographic to show you how property prices in Argentina compare to other big cities across the region. It breaks down the average price per square meter in city centers, so you can see how cities stack up. It’s an easy way to spot where you might get the best value for your money. We hope you like it.
What will taxes, fees, and ongoing costs look like in Argentina?
What are the total closing costs as a percent in Argentina in 2026?
The typical total closing cost for a buyer in Argentina in 2026 ranges from 6% to 9% of the purchase price when stamp tax applies, or 3% to 6% if you qualify for a stamp tax exemption.
This range covers most standard transactions, with the variation driven primarily by whether you pay stamp tax and how the escribano and registration fees scale with your purchase price.
The main fee categories that make up closing costs in Argentina are stamp tax (Impuesto de Sellos), escribano fees, property registry charges, and certificate/administrative costs for the various reports needed during due diligence.
The single biggest contributor to closing costs in Buenos Aires is typically the stamp tax, which is why buyers who qualify for the "vivienda única" (sole residence) exemption can see their total costs drop by several percentage points.
If you want to go into more details, we also have a blog article detailing all the property taxes and fees in Argentina.
What annual property tax should I budget in Argentina in 2026?
As of early 2026, you should budget approximately 0.10% to 0.30% of your property's market value per year for local property taxes in Argentina, which translates to roughly 500,000 to 1,500,000 ARS (around 500 to 1,500 USD or 450 to 1,350 EUR) annually for a typical Buenos Aires apartment valued at 150,000 USD.
In Buenos Aires City, annual property tax is assessed through a combination of ABL (services levy) and Impuesto Inmobiliario (real estate tax), both billed in monthly installments based on the city's assessed valuation of your property rather than the market price you paid.
How is rental income taxed for foreigners in Argentina in 2026?
As of early 2026, the effective tax rate on rental income for non-resident foreigners in Argentina is approximately 21% of gross rent, based on a withholding system that applies 35% tax to a deemed net income of 60% of your rental receipts.
The basic requirement for a non-resident foreign owner is that tax is withheld at source by your tenant or property manager under the "beneficiario del exterior" framework, meaning you receive your rental payments net of this withholding without needing to file a separate return unless you become tax resident.
What insurance is common and how much in Argentina in 2026?
As of early 2026, a typical annual home insurance premium in Argentina ranges from 0.15% to 0.35% of the insured value, which works out to roughly 150,000 to 350,000 ARS (around 150 to 350 USD or 135 to 315 EUR) per year for a property insured at 100,000 USD.
The most common type of property insurance coverage in Argentina is a combined policy covering fire, theft, and civil liability, with apartment owners often paying less out-of-pocket because building-level insurance is included in monthly expensas.
The biggest factor that makes insurance premiums higher or lower for the same property type in Argentina is location, with properties in areas perceived as higher crime risk or more flood-prone commanding significantly higher premiums than those in secure neighborhoods or gated communities.
Get the full checklist for your due diligence in Argentina
Don't repeat the same mistakes others have made before you. Make sure everything is in order before signing your sales contract.
What sources have we used to write this blog article?
Whether it's in our blog articles or the market analyses included in our property pack about Argentina, we always rely on the strongest methodology we can … and we don't throw out numbers at random.
We also aim to be fully transparent, so below we've listed the authoritative sources we used, and explained how we used them and the methods behind our estimates.
| Source | Why it's authoritative | How we used it |
|---|---|---|
| Registro Nacional de Tierras Rurales | Official federal registry and government source of truth for rural land foreign ownership rules. | We used it to confirm what rural land restrictions apply as of the first half of 2026. We also verified the current legal status including the DNU 70/2023 injunction. |
| Registro de la Propiedad Inmueble | Official portal for property registry services that records and publicizes real estate rights. | We used it to explain how title and lien verification works in practice. We also defined the official proof chain buyers rely on for ownership confirmation. |
| Colegio de Escribanos de Buenos Aires | Official professional body for notaries in Buenos Aires City. | We used it to explain why the escritura pública is the key legal moment in a purchase. We also used it to establish baseline guidance for foreign buyers. |
| Interior Ministry Border Zone Guidance | Official government guidance on approvals required for transactions in border security zones. | We used it to explain when foreign buyers need prior authorization. We also framed the practical risk of discovering zone issues late in the process. |
| AFIP/ARCA Foreigner CUIT Portal | Tax authority's official process entry point for foreign individuals obtaining tax IDs. | We used it to support the point that you need a local tax ID before closing. We built this into our pre-purchase checklist for foreign buyers. |
| BCRA UVA Mortgage Comparison List | Official comparison published under transparency rules based on bank-reported data. | We used it to identify which banks actively offer UVA mortgages. We also framed typical pricing as UVA plus a spread percentage. |
| Consejo Profesional Training Material | Produced by a recognized professional council with worked tax examples tied to current law. | We used it to calculate the effective 21% withholding rate on non-resident rental income. We translated legal rules into a budgetable effective rate. |
| AGIP Inmobiliario/ABL Explanation | Official Buenos Aires City tax authority explanation of how local property taxes work. | We used it to explain what property tax looks like in Buenos Aires. We anchored the ongoing costs section in official definitions. |
| AFIP/ARCA Bienes Personales Overview | Tax authority's official overview of the national wealth tax that can apply to property holdings. | We used it to explain ongoing ownership taxes beyond local property tax. We highlighted that ownership does not mean tax-free for foreigners. |
| Migraciones Investor Visa Portal | Official immigration procedure and threshold published by the government. | We used it to clarify that investor residence has specific criteria. We set realistic expectations about residency pathways tied to property. |
| Chequeado Citizenship Explainer | Major fact-checking outlet that cites underlying decrees and summarizes what changed. | We used it to avoid overpromising that buying property leads to citizenship. We framed citizenship-by-investment as a separate legal track. |
| InfoLEG Legal Database | Argentina's official legislative database used for verified legal texts. | We used it to support that border security zones have official defined scope. We justified why buyers must check location-specific status. |
We created this infographic to give you a simple idea of how much it costs to buy property in different parts of Argentina. As you can see, it breaks down price ranges and property types for popular cities in the country. We hope this makes it easier to explore your options and understand the market.