The Argentina Medical Visa, Explained

The processing time for the visa application is approximately 30 business days from the date the file is generated. This timeline begins once the application payment is confirmed. However, there is no specific resolution period as it depends on the volume of applications.

Yes. There is an option to obtain an appointment faster by paying an extra fee when filing the residency application. See the visa fees page for details. Have also in mind that there is a tourist visa for medical reasons, which is less complicated to obtain. If you only need to come once for a short period, it might be better ton consider this option.

Yes. There are prerequisites before applying for the visa. These include not having participated in the program before, not having a criminal record, proving sufficient funds to cover initial stay expenses, having a return ticket reservation or the necessary funds to acquire it, having medical and accident insurance that covers hospitalization and repatriation costs throughout the stay, and paying the corresponding consular fees. Additionally, a consular interview is required. For non-Catholic religious visas involving temporary residence in the country, the process must be done in person at the Consular Representation of the Argentine Republic corresponding to the foreigner's domicile. The applicant must present certain documentation, including a valid passport with a minimum validity of 6 months from the date of entry into the country and at least one blank page available, two current 4x4cm front-facing color photos with a white background, a completed visa application form signed by the applicant, and proof of habitual residence in the consulate's jurisdiction.

Yes. There are specific financial requirements for immigration to Argentina. You must be able to prove you have sufficient funds to cover the initial expenses of your stay and to purchase a return ticket if you do not already have one. You are also required to have medical and accident insurance that covers hospitalization and repatriation costs for the duration of your 12-month stay. The consular fees and visa tariffs must also be paid. The consular authority may require a bank statement, credit card, or other proof of sufficient economic means to support your stay and studies.

No. The law does not limit the number of times you can apply for a medical visa. It states that patients under medical treatment are allowed to stay in the country for one year, and this period can be extended. The visa also allows for multiple entries and exits. The medical visa does not allow you to acquire the permanent residency. Therefore, if you plan to come regularly, it might be interesting to apply for another type of visa, which would allow you to get permanent residency, thus reducing immigration procedures in the future.

Yes. You can bring dependents or family members to Argentina together with you under a medical visa, but only if the main visa applicant is minor, or if the health problem is important enough to require assistance from someone. Accepted family members are the spouse, children, or parents of the main visa applicatant.

The duration of a medical visa in Argentina is up to three years (two years for Mercosur citizen). The visa is usually given for 1 year, and can be renewed.

Yes. The medical visa in Argentina allows for the extension of authorization to direct family members, legal representatives, or caregivers of elderly, disabled, or sick individuals who, due to the severity of their condition, should remain with companions.

Medical visa holders are not allowed to engage in any work or business activities in Argentina unless they are expressly authorized by the National Immigration Directorate.

If your treatment finishes earlier than anticipated, you may have the option to switch to a different visa type or category. However, this must be done within 30 days after the expiration of your current visa. If you apply for a visa extension or change of visa category or subcategory after this period, you will be charged an additional 50% of the fee for the visa process. If you do not apply within the specified period, your right to request an extension or change of visa category or subcategory will be automatically forfeited.

Yes. You can switch to a different visa type while residing in Argentina on a medical visa. The law states that foreigners can change their immigration category or subcategory without needing to leave Argentine territory. However, the specific requirements and documentation needed for the visa change will depend on the visa type you are switching to.

Yes. It is possible to renew this visa. You must renew it before it expires though. You can file the renewal application starting from 60 days before the expiry date, up to 10 days. If you are late, it is possible to renew the visa up to 30 days after the expiry date, paying an additional fee. After 30 days following the expiry date, it is no longer possible to renew a visa.

No. The medical visa does not qualify for permanent residency, then citizenship application. If your end goal is to obtain permanent residency or citizenship, we recommend you apply for another temporary visa category at start. If you are already on a medical visa, you shall change category first. Then, once you meet the requirements, you can apply for permanent residency.