My biggest concern over the last few weeks has been actually passing customs and getting into Argentina (legally). Argentina is relatively liberal towards American tourists but there are still rules and regulations that I need to be aware of before the trip. Because I only purchased a one-way ticket into Buenos Aires I’m afraid they won’t let me in because I don’t have “proof of departure” plans. After calling the Argentina Consulate the first time last week the nice lady (Monica) made it very clear that “I need to show proof of coming in and out of the country within 90 days”. (90 days is the allotted time for American Citizens to travel into Argentina without a proper visa).
So instead of buying a second plane ticket back into the US, which would be very expensive I decided to book a ferry to Uruguay in mid-December. Which I am told by the Consulate and many other travelers that this would re-set my 90-day tourist visa. I booked it through Buquebus which is the primary company who runs these charters. It was not easy. The only way the site worked was if I did the whole thing in Spanish and you have to create an account during the process. Long story short it finally processed and I plan on printing the e-ticket they gave me and I will bring that through customs with me as proof of departure. Thanks for the help google translate.
Also, after my call again to the Argentina Consulate today I found out that I can also renew my 90-day tourist visa by going to the Immigration Department (or migraciones) in Buenos Aires. I’ll have to wait and see what this process is like, but it’s good information to have none-the-less.
Getting A Visa:
Because of time constraints and lack of knowledge I am not getting a visa before I go. From what I understand it is a pretty lengthy process that involves a lot of documentation. I am going to look into getting a work visa once I get to Argentina if the opportunity presents itself. Visa Requirements usual entail completed application form, police reports from the US, passport, occasional letter of acceptance from an Argentine institution and a medical examination report. For a student Visa I would need to be enrolled in a University and then I would report to the Immigration Department to change my status. All this seems like a lot of work so I am going evaluate the situation before I apply.
I will update this post when I get more information in the meantime most travel books will have some type of general documentation requirement information (i.e. “Let’s Go Buenos Aires”) but for the most accurate visa information & travel requirements I suggest checking out these sites:
The most important thing you can do is call the Embassy or Consulate of the country you wish to visit and get their advice.
Side Note: I call more than 3 times to make sure they give me the same answers every time and to make sure I’m not missing anything. Probably a bit much but I think it’s worth it.
Argentina Consulate in New York: 212.603.0400
One Response
Hi Gareth, what are the major documents & details needed while applying for an Australian PR? Because it is a lengthy process so I’m planning to make everything ready whenever I’ll apply. Thanks!