Argentina: Money transfer methods for foreign real estate

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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 Buenos Aires. 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 Rosario. This hands-on approach allows us to gain a deep understanding of the market from the inside out.

These observations are originally based on what we've learned through these conversations and our observations. But it was not enough. To back them up, we also needed to rely on trusted resources

We prioritize accuracy and authority. Trends lacking solid data or expert validation were excluded.

Trustworthiness is central to our work. Every source and citation is clearly listed, ensuring transparency. A writing AI-powered tool was used solely to refine readability and engagement.

To make the information accessible, our team designed custom infographics that clarify key points. We hope you will like them! All illustrations and media were created in-house and added manually.

Are there legal limits on how much money foreigners can transfer into Argentina for property purchases?

Argentina has no absolute legal caps on the amount foreigners can transfer for real estate purchases as of September 2025.

The Argentine government has significantly relaxed capital controls, allowing unlimited transfers through official banking channels. Banks may require advanced notification and additional documentation for large transactions, but exceptional limits for major purchases like real estate can be approved with proper justification.

However, amounts over USD 50,000 per month trigger extra documentation, monitoring, and anti-money laundering checks by banks and the Central Bank (BCRA). Purchases above this threshold should be planned well in advance, with all paperwork and fund provenance meticulously prepared.

For rural or border land purchases, special government approvals may be required regardless of the amount. The key requirement is that all transfers must be processed through official banking channels with complete documentation.

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

What exchange rate applies when transferring funds - official or parallel market rate?

Funds sent through banks and processed via the official exchange market (Mercado Libre de Cambios, MLC) will use the official exchange rate.

The Argentine government has taken significant steps to unify exchange rates and phase out previously significant discrepancies between official and parallel rates. As of September 2025, the gap between official and parallel rates has been substantially reduced.

Parallel market rates (such as the MEP or Blue Dollar) generally apply to informal transfers or mechanisms outside the regulated banking system, which exposes all parties to legal and financial risks. Using unofficial channels means you cannot legally document the transaction for future property sale and fund repatriation.

The official rate through banks provides legal protection and ensures your investment can be properly documented for future resale and repatriation of funds.

Which Argentine banks currently accept large foreign transfers for property purchases?

Most major Argentine banks accept large incoming international transfers for documented property purchases.

Bank	Transfer Acceptance	Special Requirements
Banco Nación	Yes, large transfers accepted	Advanced notification required
Banco Galicia	Yes, property purchases supported	Comprehensive documentation needed
Santander Río	Yes, foreign buyer services	Local account recommended
BBVA Argentina	Yes, real estate transfers	AML compliance checks
Banco Macro	Yes, international transfers	Notary coordination required
ICBC Argentina	Yes, property transactions	Pre-approval process
Banco Piano	Yes, specialized services	Premium customer focus

What documents do Argentine banks require to prove money origin?

Argentine banks and notaries require extensive documentation to comply with anti-money laundering regulations.

Essential documents include:1. Buyer's passport and Argentine tax ID (CDI)2. Proof of property purchase (boleto de compraventa or pre-sale contract)3. Bank statements from origin country (typically 6-12 months)4. Tax returns or employment records showing income source5. Documentation of asset sales if funds come from property/investment sales6. Business registration and financial statements if funds are from business activities7. Inheritance documentation if funds come from estate8. Gift documentation if funds are provided by family members

Banks may request additional documentation depending on the transaction size and complexity. All foreign documents must be apostilled and translated by certified translators. The documentation process typically takes 2-4 weeks to complete before transfer approval.

Consult with a local notary or legal advisor for specific bank requirements, as each institution may have slightly different documentation standards.

Do foreigners need to open a local Argentine bank account?

Opening a local Argentine bank account is strongly recommended and often required by banks to facilitate proper documentation.

While not mandatory in all scenarios, most banks require a local account (often in USD for real estate transactions) to ensure proper fund handling and release to the seller. This account serves as a holding mechanism while all documentation is verified and compliance requirements are met.

In rare cases, funds may go directly from overseas to the seller's account if the seller holds a foreign bank account, but this creates additional complications for documentation and future repatriation rights.

Opening a local account also provides benefits including easier communication with the bank, simplified fund management during the purchase process, and better protection for future transactions. The account opening process typically takes 1-2 weeks with proper documentation.

What taxes and transfer fees apply when moving money from abroad?

Multiple fees and taxes apply to international money transfers for Argentine real estate purchases.

Fee Type	Typical Rate	Details
Bank Transfer Fees	2-3% of transfer amount	Charged by Argentine receiving bank
Exchange Bureau Fees	3-5% if using non-bank	Avoid unofficial channels
Notary and Legal Fees	2-3% of purchase price	Required for transaction completion
Transfer Tax	1.5-3.5% varies by province	Registration and provincial taxes
Stamp Duty	1-2% of property value	Provincial government tax
Currency Conversion	0.5-1% spread	If peso conversion required
Total Expected Costs	7-15% of purchase price	Including all fees and taxes

How long do international transfers typically take to clear?

International bank wire transfers to Argentina typically clear within 2-5 business days.

The actual clearing time depends on several factors including the originating bank, compliance reviews, and completeness of documentation. Regulation and compliance reviews can cause delays, especially for large amounts or when documentation is incomplete.

Funds may be temporarily held until all documentation is verified and any applicable reporting to Argentine financial authorities is completed. Banks typically notify customers of any delays and required additional documentation.

For time-sensitive purchases, plan transfers at least 7-10 business days before the required settlement date to account for potential delays. Weekend and Argentine holidays can extend processing times.

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

Are there limits on transferring money in foreign currencies like USD or EUR?

Buyers can transfer money in USD or EUR, and many real estate transactions are completed in USD.

Argentina's current regulations allow significant flexibility for foreign currency transfers, provided all rules are followed through official channels. USD is the most common currency for real estate transactions, followed by EUR.

Funds moving through official channels may need conversion into pesos in some specific cases, but the majority of property transactions can be completed in the original foreign currency. Banks will specify currency requirements during the transfer process.

The key advantage of maintaining USD throughout the transaction is avoiding currency conversion costs and exchange rate fluctuations. This also simplifies future repatriation when selling the property.

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 proof of property purchase is required before banks release funds?

A boleto de compraventa (binding pre-sale contract) or other contract of sale is typically required before Argentine banks will disburse funds.

This document serves as proof of the transaction purpose and legitimacy of the fund transfer. The contract must include specific details such as property description, purchase price, buyer and seller information, and settlement timeline.

If documentation is incomplete when funds arrive, they may be temporarily held until all requirements are satisfied. Banks may also require additional supporting documents such as property title verification, tax compliance certificates, and municipal clearances.

The notary handling the transaction typically coordinates with the bank to ensure proper timing of fund release and property title transfer. This coordination prevents funds being released before all legal requirements are met.

What are the penalties for transferring money through unofficial channels?

Transferring money via informal channels is illegal and exposes participants to severe criminal prosecution and asset seizure.

Using cuevas, black market brokers, or crypto-arbitrage mechanisms violates Argentine financial regulations and anti-money laundering laws. Penalties include criminal charges, asset forfeiture, and permanent exclusion from the Argentine financial system.

Beyond legal risks, undocumented transfers cannot be used to support lawful repatriation of investment proceeds when reselling property. This means you could lose the ability to legally recover your investment when selling.

The Argentine government has significantly increased enforcement against unofficial money transfer operations, with penalties including fines up to 10 times the transferred amount and potential prison sentences. The risk is simply not worth the potential savings in fees.

How can foreigners repatriate money after selling their property?

Legal fund repatriation is possible if the initial property purchase was completed through official channels with proper documentation.

Sale proceeds (in pesos or USD) can be transferred abroad legally via the official exchange market, subject to certain holding period requirements. As of September 2025, there is typically a minimum 6-month investment period for non-residents before repatriation is permitted.

The key requirement is maintaining complete documentation from the original purchase, including proof of legal fund entry, property registration, and all tax payments. This paper trail is essential for demonstrating the legitimate source of repatriated funds.

Repatriation may be subject to capital gains taxes and exit fees, which vary based on the holding period and profit amount. Consult with a tax advisor before selling to understand the full cost implications.

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

Are there specific thresholds that trigger extra government scrutiny?

Transfers above USD 50,000 per month typically trigger enhanced documentation, monitoring, and anti-money laundering checks.

These larger transactions require additional scrutiny from both banks and the Argentine Central Bank (BCRA). The enhanced review process includes verification of fund sources, background checks on the buyer, and coordination with international financial intelligence units.

For extremely large purchases or transactions involving rural or border land, special government approvals may be required regardless of the amount. These approvals can take several weeks to obtain and require additional documentation.

Planning is crucial for large transfers - buyers should begin the documentation process 4-6 weeks before the intended transfer date to ensure all requirements are met. Working with experienced legal counsel is highly recommended for transactions above USD 100,000.

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. WSC Legal - Argentine Real Estate 2025 Guide
2. The LatinVestor - Can Foreigners Buy Property in Argentina
3. Argentine Central Bank - Banking Transfer Limits Removed
4. Dentons - Foreign Exchange Controls Removal
5. OECD Economic Survey Argentina 2025
6. The Wandering Investor - Buenos Aires Real Estate Market
7. BCRA Regulatory Framework P48911
8. Marval O'Farrell - Capital Movement Controls