Passive Income Residency in Argentina

Learn how to apply for Passive Income (Rentista) Residency in Argentina—ideal for those with passive income from abroad. Discover requirements, benefits, and how to live legally without working locally.

CITIZENSHIPRESIDENCYLEGALEXPATS

6/27/20253 min read

Approved Stamp visa and passport document
Approved Stamp visa and passport document

If you dream of living in Argentina and have a stable income without working locally, the Rentista Residency could be your perfect path. It’s one of the most accessible ways to obtain temporary residency in Argentina—especially for retirees, digital investors, or property owners with regular income from abroad.

🧾 What Is the Rentista Residency?

The Rentista Residency is a form of temporary residency for foreigners who have passive income from legal sources outside Argentina. This means you don’t need a job in Argentina—you simply need to prove you can support yourself financially while living here. It grants you a three-year temporary residence permit, which is renewable.

The Rentista Residency is regulated under Article 23, subsection (b) of Law No. 25.871, as implemented by Decree No. 616/2010 and DNM Provision No. 1.732/2023, as amended by Provision No. 3446/2023.

✅ Who Qualifies for Argentina's Rentista Residency?

You can apply for Rentista Residency if you:

  • Have a regular monthly income from abroad (not earned by working in Argentina)

  • Can legally transfer that income into Argentina

  • Want to live in the country for a year or more, without working locally

💸 Accepted Sources of Passive Income:

  • Rental income from real estate

  • Pensions or annuities

  • Investment income (interest, dividends, etc.)

  • Trust fund disbursements

  • Royalties

  • Other documented, stable income from abroad

💰 Income Requirements for Argentina's Rentista Residency

While there’s no fixed income threshold established by law, in practice, immigration authorities typically require a monthly income equivalent to five times the minimum statutory salary, which as of May of 2025 is AR$308,200 (approximately US$265). That means you’d need to demonstrate a minimum monthly income of around US$1,325. This amount:

If you’re bringing family members (spouse, children), you’ll need to prove additional income to cover them as well.

🗂️ Required Documents for Rentista Residency in Argentina

To apply, you’ll generally need the following:

📌 Personal Identification:

  • Valid passport

  • Recent 4x4 cm color photo

  • Migration card or entry stamp

📌 Proof of Income:

  • Bank statements showing consistent passive income

  • Contracts, deeds, or other legal documentation (e.g., rental agreements, trust declarations)

  • Proof of income transfers to Argentina (optional but helpful)

📌 Background Checks:

  • Argentine criminal background certificate (for applicants 16+)

  • Criminal record certificates from your home country and from any other country where you have resided for more than one year within the past three years.

  • Sworn statement confirming no criminal history (completed at the immigration office)

📌 Proof of Address in Argentina:

  • Utility bill in your name, or certificate of domicile from the local police

⏳ How Long Does this Residency Last?

  • The initial residency is granted for up to 3 year, and can be renewed

  • After 2 years (if you're from a Mercosur country) or 3 years (if not) of continuous temporary residency, you may apply for permanent residency

🪪 The Rentista Residency allows you to:

  • Live legally in Argentina

  • Open a local bank account

  • Enroll in public or private healthcare

  • Apply for a DNI (Argentine ID)

📍 How to Apply for Argentina's Rentista Residency

You can apply for the Rentista Residency through the Dirección Nacional de Migraciones (DNM). It's strongly recommended to:

  • Prepare translations and legalizations (apostilles) of foreign documents

  • Consult a migration lawyer or visit a CAJ (Access to Justice Center) if you need help

You can also begin the process online through Argentina’s immigration portal and then complete it in person.

🌟 Why Choose Rentista Residency?

Many expats and early retirees choose this residency because:

  • It’s less complicated than work visas

  • It offers a clear path to permanent residency

  • It allows you to enjoy life in Argentina at your own pace—without the pressure of finding a local job.

✨ Final Tip When Getting a Passive Income Residency in Argentina

If you already have stable passive income and a desire to immerse yourself in Argentine culture, the Rentista Residency is one of the most straightforward and rewarding ways to start your new life.

🧭 Ready to take the next step?

Visit the Dirección Nacional de Migraciones or contact your nearest CAJ for assistance.

Passive Income Residency Printable
Passive Income Residency Printable

Explore more posts in our Legal & Taxes category