Visas
Citizens of most Western European countries, the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and most of Latin America can enter Argentina visa-free for up to 90 days as tourists. Check current requirements with the Argentine consulate or embassy in your country before traveling.
Currency
The currency is the Argentine peso (ARS). Argentina's exchange rate situation has been volatile for years. As of early 2026, the government has largely unified the official and unofficial rates following currency deregulation in 2025, making credit and debit card use much more straightforward than it was previously.
Pay in pesos (ARS) when using a foreign card — never let a terminal convert to USD. Bring some clean, large-denomination US dollar or euro notes as backup; small or worn bills are sometimes refused at exchange offices.
ATM withdrawals work but fees can be high. Exchange offices (casas de cambio) in major cities offer competitive rates. Keep receipts for all exchanges.
Health
No vaccinations are required for entry unless arriving from yellow fever zones. Yellow fever vaccination is recommended if you plan to visit the northeast (Iguazú, Misiones, Corrientes). Tap water is generally safe to drink in Buenos Aires and major cities.
Travel insurance is strongly recommended — Argentina has good private hospitals in the cities, but healthcare costs can be significant.
Safety
Argentina is generally safe for travelers by South American standards. Buenos Aires warrants the usual big-city caution: watch for pickpockets in crowded areas like San Telmo, La Boca, and on the Subte, and avoid displaying expensive gear conspicuously. Petty theft and bag-snatching are the most common issues. Violent crime against tourists is relatively rare but not unknown.
Patagonia and the northwest are very safe. Take sensible precautions in any unfamiliar area at night.
Communications
Mobile coverage is good in cities and along main highways but patchy in remote Patagonia. Local SIM cards are available and cheap. Wi-Fi is widespread in hotels, cafes, and restaurants.
Electricity
220V, 50Hz. Plugs are the angled three-pin type (IRAM 2073 type I). Adapters are widely available in Argentina.