Argentina

Crime rates are significantly higher than in Australia. Thefts and robberies are common, especially in Buenos Aires city and its metropolitan area, as well as in other major cities, such as Rosario, Cordoba and Mendoza. You should keep cash and expensive items such as mobile phones, wallets and jewellery out of sight in public areas. Avoid lower socioeconomic urban areas where crime is more likely to occur. Avoid empty streets, especially after dark.

You should exercise a high degree of caution in the city of Rosario due to higher levels of drug-related crime and violence.

Petty crime

Petty crime, including pickpocketing, and bag/jewellery/mobile phone snatching is common, even during the day. 

Take extra care on public transport and in busy pedestrian zones and tourist areas.

Distraction thefts are common in public areas, such as:

• train and bus stations
• outside and inside hotels
• restaurants and cafes
• subways, trains or buses

Robberies are frequent in and around bus stations, especially at:

• Retiro, Once, Constitucion bus and train stations in Buenos Aires
• Central bus station in Mendoza

Criminals might use force if you resist.

Robberies involving motorcycles, 'motochorros', are common in larger cities. Thieves usually work in pairs:

• one person operates the motorbike
• one jumps off and steals belongings from pedestrians

They'll also snatch items from inside vehicles.

Robberies are common in taxis.

Robbery and theft hotspots in tourist areas of the city of Buenos Aires include:

• La Boca
• San Telmo
• Palermo
• Congreso
• Plaza de Mayo
• Obelisk area
• Downtown (Micro Centro)
• Calle Florida (Florida Street)
• Buenos Aires ferry terminal
• Around the main train and bus stations

Violent crime

Armed robbery and other violent crimes occur in major tourist areas of:

• Buenos Aires and it’s metropolitan area
• Rosario
• Mendoza
• Cordoba

To reduce your risk of crime:

• stay within the tourist precinct in La Boca and avoid the entire area after dark. You should arrange your transport directly to and from the La Boca tourist area. Walking to La Boca isn't recommended
• be cautious in other tourist areas of Buenos Aires
• avoid using your mobile phone in the street
• always keep your personal belongings close and out of sight
• keep your purse or backpack containing valuables close to you and within sight. Do not hang bags and purses on chairs. It's better to keep them on your lap or between your feet.
• only use ATMs in banks and shopping centres. Avoid using them after dark.
• lock your passport and other valuables in a hotel safe
• carry a copy of your passport as ID

Violent organised and drug-related crime in Rosario is ongoing. Public transport and taxis have been affected. Monitor local media and follow the advice of local authorities. 

Crimes relating to drug trafficking and illicit goods are common along the tri-border area of Argentina (Puerto Iguazu), Brazil and Paraguay, posing a risk of violent crime to travellers. 

There have been reports of foreign tourists being robbed or assaulted after inviting into their accommodation, someone they recently met, online or in person. 

Drink and food spiking

Drinks and food can be spiked and could put you at risk of robbery or assault.  Foreign tourists have been drugged and robbed of their belongings.

Methanol poisoning

Kidnapping

Kidnapping occurs across the world with political, ideological and criminal motives. Foreigners, including Australians, have been kidnapped overseas while travelling. Kidnaps can happen anywhere, anytime, including in destinations that are typically at lower risk. 

Kidnapping, virtual kidnapping and express kidnappings have occurred in Argentina.

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers.

More information:

• Kidnapping

Road-based crime

Crimes against car passengers occur throughout the country. Thieves often target cars stopped at traffic lights and when parked.

Some criminals pose as taxi operators at the airport and rob passengers. They may work with other taxi drivers.

To reduce your risks while taking taxis or driving:

• consider calling a radio taxi or remise, or using a ride-hailing app which keeps a record of drivers
• avoid sharing taxis with strangers
• keep car windows closed, doors locked at all times and keep valuables out of sight
• do not leave valuables in your car, including in the boot.

If you're held up, don't resist.

Cyber security 

Demonstrations and protest

Protests and demonstrations are common in Argentina. Particularly in:

• Buenos Aires
• other major cities

Organised strikes are frequent and may disrupt transport systems, including airports, airlines and hotels. Contact your travel or tour operator for information.

Focal points for protesters in Buenos Aires are the areas of:

• Plaza De Mayo
• Congreso
• Avenida 9 de Julio
• Avenida de Mayo

During demonstrations and protests, streets may be blocked, and public transport disrupted. These can turn violent. 

To protect yourself during periods of unrest: 

• avoid protests and demonstrations
• if you're caught in protests or demonstrations, you should leave as soon as you can
• monitor the local media for updates
• follow the advice of local authorities

Football matches can turn violent. Monitor local media to know if violence is expected to occur. 

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers should be careful in Argentina. You're more likely to die in a car accident in Argentina than in Australia as:

• vehicles including buses, frequently drive through red traffic lights.
• vehicles do not give way to pedestrians at pedestrian crossings and one-way signs are often ignored. Always look both ways and make sure vehicles are stopping for you before crossing a street.
• Be careful of motorbikes going through gaps in the traffic, including at blind spots at pedestrian crossings or using the bicycle lanes as a road.
• drivers may make sudden and unexpected manoeuvres. Pay close attention to the traffic around you.
• right of way is frequently ignored
• aggressive driving and speeding are common

More information:

• Driving or riding

Bomb attacks have occurred in Argentina.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide. Terrorist attacks could occur anywhere and at any time. Be alert to possible threats, especially in public places. Terrorists may target tourist areas or other places frequented by foreigners and where large crowds may gather.

Possible targets include:

• places of worship or religious holidays
• hotels, clubs, restaurants and cafes
• markets and shopping malls
• outdoor recreation events, including festivals,  concerts, and sporting venues
• public transport, airports and railway hubs

To stay safe:

• report suspicious activities or items to the police
• check the media for new threats
• take official warnings seriously
• follow the instructions of local authorities

If there’s an attack, leave the area as soon as it's safe to do so.

More information:

• Terrorism

Argentina experiences natural disasters and severe weather, including:

• volcanic activity
• earthquakes
• flooding
• dust storms
• bushfires
• landslides and avalanches

Land border crossings can close due to earthquakes, landslides, or severe weather conditions, including heavy snowfalls. The land border with Chile is particularly prone to closures due to severe weather conditions, especially during winter months. You can check the status of all land border crossings here. 

If there's a natural disaster:

• know your hotel's evacuation plans
• always carry your passport in a waterproof bag
• keep in touch with family and friends
• check the media and other local sources for information
• follow the advice of local authorities

More information:

• Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System
• VAAC Buenos Aires 

Volcanos and earthquakes

Volcanos on the border of Argentina and Chile could erupt at any time.

Earthquakes can also occur, particularly in provinces bordering the Andes.

Flooding

Flooding is seasonal. It's more common in the northern and eastern provinces of Argentina. Flooding may disrupt local transport and essential services.

Heavy rains may cause occasional flash floods in other areas, including the province of Buenos Aires. Monitor local media and follow instructions given by the local authorities.

Bushfires

Bushfires can occur throughout the year and can spread rapidly. If you find yourself in or near the affected areas of any fire, monitor local media reports and follow the advice of the local authorities.

More information:

• Bushfires

Insect-borne diseases

Diseases spread by insects are a risk in Argentina. These include:

• dengue
• yellow fever
• chikungunya
• Zika virus (regional)

These diseases are serious and can be fatal.

Outbreaks can happen throughout the year and as far south as Buenos Aires, particularly when warm weather combines with rainfall. There have been severe dengue outbreaks across northern and eastern Argentina, including Buenos Aires. Insect repellent can be difficult to purchase during these months as well. We recommend bringing insect repellent in your checked luggage.

Yellow fever is a potentially fatal virus spread by mosquitoes. It's prevented by vaccination. Get vaccinated before you travel.

US CDC recommends yellow fever vaccinations for all travellers going to Corrientes and Misiones provinces.

Zika virus is a risk in the northern areas of Argentina. 

Pregnant women and their unborn babies are particularly at risk. If you're pregnant:

• discuss any travel plans with your doctor
• defer non-essential travel to affected areas

To protect yourself against diseases spread by insects:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

More information:

• Infectious diseases

Hantavirus

Infected rodents spread hantavirus pulmonary syndrome. It's widespread in:

• northern regions of the provinces of Salta and Jujuy
• central regions of the provinces of Buenos Aires, Santa Fe, and Entre Rios
• the northeast region of the province of Misiones
• northern Patagonia, in the provinces of Neuquen, Rio Negro and Chubut

To protect yourself from hantavirus infection:

• avoid contact with live or dead rodents, burrows or nests
• avoid places where dust is raised, such as from sweeping and vacuuming their droppings
• choose a campsite that is open and dry
• don't rest in tall grasses or haystacks
• remove food sources that may attract rodents

Altitude sickness

If you travel to an area higher than 2500m, you can develop altitude sickness.

Altitude sickness can be deadly. It can affect anyone, even if you're physically fit.

Your risk of altitude sickness increases if you:

• ascend too quickly
• have had altitude sickness before
• exercise or drink alcohol before you can adjust to the altitude
• have health problems that affect breathing

If you'll be travelling above 2500m:

• seek advice from your doctor before you travel
• obtain travel insurance that covers mountain rescue

Other health risks

Outbreaks of waterborne, foodborne, parasitic and other infectious diseases occur. This includes:

• hepatitis
• tuberculosis
• typhoid
• rabies

To reduce your risk of illness:

• boil drinking water or drink bottled water in rural areas
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid raw and undercooked food, such as salads
• avoid contact with dogs and other mammals

If you're bitten or scratched by an animal, get medical help straight away.

Get medical advice if you suspect food poisoning or have a fever or diarrhoea.

Most medical facilities are of a reasonable standard particularly in the larger cities, including Buenos Aires. Medical services can be limited in remote areas.

You may need to pay cash before private medical clinics will treat you. This includes for emergency care.

Drugs

Penalties for drug offences are severe and can include long prison terms, even for small amounts.

More information:

• Carrying or using drugs

Surrogacy

If you plan to take part in commercial or altruistic surrogacy arrangements in Argentina, be aware of all legal and other risks involved. Research prospective agencies and clinics to ensure that you're dealing with a reputable organisation.

Get comprehensive and independent legal advice from an Argentine lawyer with specialisation in this area of law. 

There's no specific legislation that regulates surrogacy and all surrogacy arrangements are subject to ongoing developments in Argentine law. This applies to both the surrogacy arrangements as well as administrative procedures such as issuing of birth certificates and travel arrangements for babies born through surrogacy. 

Argentine authorities may consider surrogacy arrangements to be illegal. Criminal investigations into surrogacy agencies, and associated service providers, including medical clinics, legal advisers and notary publics have occurred. Be aware if there are any local legal issues surrounding your surrogacy arrangement, authorities may stop you entering the country, or your child leaving. You need to find out which visa is appropriate for you. You may wish to seek legal advice from an Argentine lawyer with specialisation in this area of law.

The Australian Government can't intervene in visa or border clearance decisions of another country. Seek legal advice in your destination.

On 22 October 2024 the Supreme Court of Argentina ruled that the name of the surrogate (the woman who carried the child) must be included on the child’s birth certificate as one of the two listed parents.

Spanish is the official language in Argentina, and you may need to engage the services of a translator for several differing scenarios, including engaging with your lawyer and medical provider. 

The Australian Embassy can't provide:

• legal advice about surrogacy
• information on clinics or agencies
• translation/interpretation services

You may need to spend several months in Argentina before and after the birth, to complete Argentine processes. Don’t confirm travel plans until you’ve finalised local processes, Australian citizenship and passport processes. If unforeseen legal complications arise, this period could be considerably prolonged.

More information:

• Going overseas for international surrogacy
• Going overseas to adopt a child

Dual nationals staying in Argentina for more than 180 days must leave Argentina on an Argentine passport.

Applying for an Argentine passport can take time. You must present documents proving your identity. If you're an Australian resident, you may have to provide proof of your address in Australia.

The Australian Embassy can't help you apply for an Argentine passport or other identity documents.

More information:

• Dual nationals

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Visas

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact an embassy or consulate of Argentina for details about visas, currency and customs regulations.

Visa-free travel for short stays

As a tourist, you can stay for up to 90 days without a visa, but you'll need evidence that you intend to depart the country within the 90 days, for example:

• a return or onward ticket
• a valid passport

Officials may also ask for proof of accommodation and evidence that you have enough money or a credit card to cover your trip.

If you are travelling on a passport other than a regular passport (for example, official, diplomatic or emergency) and/or for a reason other than tourism, you may require a visa. Please contact the nearest Argentine Consulate/Embassy  for further information and to apply for a visa.

Visas aren't available on arrival. You must obtain your visa before you travel.

Entry into Argentina

Biometric entry procedures are in place at all international airports and ferry terminals.

Argentine immigration officials may not stamp your passport on entry or exit. Should you require evidence of entry/exit, click here to fill out a form on the migration agency website. 

Travelling with children

Children younger than 18 years may need to provide an authorisation or a letter of consent from the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) who aren't travelling with them.

Children younger than 18 years who normally reside in Argentina or have resided in the country for one year or more need legal notarised authorisation from the non-accompanying parent(s) to leave the country if travelling alone or with only one parent or legal guardian.

Children younger than 13 years must have a translated and apostilled authorisation to enter the country if one or both parents and/or legal guardian(s) are not travelling with them.

When a child is travelling with both parents, be prepared to prove you're the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) (birth certificate or court documents). Parents of children younger than 18 years who were born in Argentina or normally reside in Argentina need to prove they’re the parents when leaving Argentina.  

For more information, visit Argentina’s Immigration website: instructions on travelling with minors.

Contact the nearest Argentine Embassy or Consulate for guidance.

More information:

• Advice for people travelling with children

Yellow fever vaccination

You may need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter Argentina. Some airlines may want to see one when you leave.

More information:

• International health and travel

Travel via or to Brazil

Please see our Travel Advice for Brazil. Australians need a visa to enter Brazil. To learn more about Brazil’s visa requirements please contact an embassy or consulate of Brazil.

Travel to Antarctica 

If you’re boarding an Antarctic cruise ship please see Travel to Antarctica and the Arctic.

Travel via the United States

If you're travelling through the US, you must meet US entry or transit requirements.

Check your visa needs well before you travel. Contact the nearest embassy or consulate of the United States.

More information:

• Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA)
• Department of Homeland Security

Validity

Lost or stolen passport

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier

The Peso (ARS) is the official currency of Argentina. Most major hotels in Buenos Aires will exchange US dollars. Check local sources for advice on buying foreign currency. Don't exchange money on the street, or with someone offering exchange services on the street. You may receive counterfeit pesos or become the victim of a crime.

Credit/debit cards are widely accepted. You should carry a photocopy of the identity page of your passport or a photo ID in case you are required to prove you are the owner of the card.

Ask your bank in Australia if your ATM card will work and if it has an affiliate bank in Argentina, as many local machines will not accept foreign cards. 

Credit card fraud is widespread. Take care when making online payments. Check the amount before making payments on a card machine and use contactless payment methods when possible.  Check your bank statements for unauthorised charges. 

Hiking

Mountain activities, such as hiking, can be dangerous, especially if you're unprepared. Trails aren't always marked, and weather conditions can change rapidly. 

To reduce your risks if you intend to hike in Argentina:

• never hike alone and always use a global position system (GPS)
• register your details with local park authorities
• give details of your plans and contact details to family or close friends
• research the area you plan to visit, including any natural hazards
• monitor local media for weather advice
• carry emergency and first aid equipment with you
• wear proper clothing and take with you the necessary equipment for the activity.
• stay on marked trails

More information:

• Going overseas for sports and adventure

Driving permit

To drive a vehicle, you'll need a current Australian driver's licence (digital driver’s licences may not be accepted). You should check with the rental car company whether you also need to have an international driver permit. You may need to present further identification.

Residents must get an Argentine driver's licence.

Rail travel

Petty crime is common in trains and subways and in railway stations.

When travelling on public transportation you should carry your backpack or purse on your chest, not on your back.

Taxis

It is more secure to book radio taxis and 'remises' (chauffeured cars):

• by telephone
• at the airport arrivals hall
• on official mobile apps

To reduce your risks if you take a taxi:

• book taxis in advance rather than hailing on the street
• use ride-hailing apps which maintain a record of the driver and the route and often don't require a cash transaction
• don't share with strangers
• keep doors and windows locked and valuables out of sight.

Air travel

Overbooking on domestic flights, technical problems at the airport, protests and strikes are common in Argentina and can result in:

• significant delays
• missed connections

Check Argentina's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

If you're flying within Argentina, monitor local media for airport updates.

More information:

• Air travel

Boat travel

Riverboat operators often use basic vessels for river tours. You should always wear a life jacket, as boat accidents can occur. 

Buenos Aires, Puerto Madryn and Ushuaia are popular destinations for international cruise lines, including for travel to Antarctica.

For your safety, if you intend to take a cruise:

• check the onboard medical facilities meet your needs
• know the costs of medical treatment onboard
• get enough travel insurance, including cover for pre-existing conditions and medical evacuation

More information:

• Going on a cruise
• General health advice
• Going overseas for sports and adventure

Accessibility

People with disabilities may have trouble with accessibility and accommodation in Argentina. 

Federal laws mandate access to buildings for people with disabilities, but it is rare for these to be fully applied. Many provinces don't have similar laws.

More information:

• Disabilities

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider
• employer
• airline

Fire and rescue services

Call 100.

Call 911 (English language services are only available in the city of Buenos Aires).

Medical emergencies

Call 107.

Call 911 (English language services are only available in the city of Buenos Aires).

Police

Call 911 (English language services are only available in the city of Buenos Aires).

Tourist police stations, or Comisarías del Turista (where there are English-speaking officers), are in:

• Buenos Aires: Corrientes 436, call or WhatsApp +54 9 11 5050 9260 // Email: divseguridadcorredoresturisticos@policiadelaciudad.gob.ar
• Mendoza: San Martín 1143, call +54 261 413 2135

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

The Australian Government aims to provide high quality consular assistance. There are limits to what we can do. Read the Consular Services Charter to understand how we can assist you overseas.

You can contact the Australian Embassy in Buenos Aires.

Australian Embassy, Buenos Aires

Villanueva 1400
(C1426BMJ)
Buenos Aires, Argentina

Phone: +54 11 4779 3500
Website: argentina.embassy.gov.au
Facebook: Australia en Argentina, Uruguay y Paraguay
Instagram: ausemb_ar
X: @EmbAustraliaBA

Check the Embassy’s website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia