United States Visa RequirementsFor Argentina passport holders
Argentine citizens require a visa to visit the United States. The B-1/B-2 non-immigrant tourist and business visa must be obtained from the US Embassy in Buenos Aires before travel, with a non-refundable application fee of 185 USD.
Argentina passport holders require a visa to enter United States.
Apply on the CEAC portal (ceac.state.gov). Pay the 185 USD MRV fee (non-refundable). Complete the DS-160 form. Schedule an interview at the US Embassy, Avenida Colombia 4300, Palermo, Buenos Aires. Attend the interview with your passport, DS-160 confirmation, fee receipt, and supporting documents (ties to Argentina, financial statements, travel history). Processing after approval is typically 3 to 5 business days.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Current Travel Situation
Argentina to United States: What You Need to Know
Argentina was removed from the US Visa Waiver Program (VWP) in 2002 following Argentina economic crisis, and has not been reinstated. This means Argentine passport holders cannot use ESTA and must apply for a B-2 tourist visa in advance. The process involves an application, biometrics, and a consular interview. Wait times for interviews at the US Embassy in Buenos Aires can be significant.
Practical Tips
American Airlines, United, Aerolineas Argentinas, and LATAM fly Buenos Aires (EZE) to multiple US gateways (MIA, JFK, LAX, IAH). Embassy interview wait times can range from a few weeks to several months; apply as early as possible. Bring strong evidence of ties to Argentina (employment, property, family). Visa denial rate for Argentines has historically been moderate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Argentine citizens need a visa for the United States?
Yes. Argentina is not part of the US Visa Waiver Program (VWP) and Argentine passport holders cannot use ESTA. A non-immigrant visa (typically B-1/B-2 for tourism and business) must be obtained from the US Embassy in Buenos Aires before travel.
How do Argentines apply for a US tourist visa?
Apply on the Consular Electronic Application Center (ceac.state.gov). Pay the 185 USD non-refundable MRV fee. Complete the DS-160 online form. Schedule a biometric appointment and consular interview at the US Embassy, Avenida Colombia 4300, Palermo, Buenos Aires. Bring all required documents to the interview.
What is the interview wait time for Argentine applicants at the US Embassy?
Wait times for B-2 visa interviews in Buenos Aires have varied significantly, ranging from a few weeks to several months depending on demand and staffing. Check the Embassy website for current appointment availability. Expedited appointments are available in some cases for urgent travel.
What documents strengthen a US visa application for an Argentine citizen?
Evidence of strong ties to Argentina is the most important factor: stable employment (especially a formal work contract), property ownership, a bank account with consistent savings, a letter from your employer, and family responsibilities in Argentina. Previous travel history to countries like Europe or Australia also strengthens applications.