Argentina

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Travel cards

Buenos Aires uses the SUBE card for public transport, including buses, Subte (metro) and suburban trains. Travelers can purchase and top up a physical SUBE card at authorized kiosks, stations and selected shops. A digital SUBE option is also available on compatible Android phones. Contactless bank cards and mobile payments are increasingly accepted on supported routes, but coverage varies. Outside Buenos Aires, SUBE operates in many cities, although some destinations use different payment systems.

Plug adapter

Argentina primarily uses Type I sockets, featuring three flat pins, although Type C outlets can also be found. The standard voltage is 220V at 50Hz. Travelers should bring a Type I adapter or a universal travel adapter. European two-pin plugs may fit some outlets but are not universally compatible. Devices designed only for 110–120V will require a voltage converter.

Visa

Argentina offers visa-free entry for up to 90 days to tourists from many countries, including most European nations, the United States, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. Other travelers may need a tourist visa or qualify for an Electronic Travel Authorization (AVE), depending on their nationality and immigration history. Eligible remote workers can apply for Argentina’s Digital Nomad Residence, allowing an initial stay of up to 180 days, with a possible extension. Tourist stays may also be extendable through immigration authorities. Requirements vary by nationality, so check before traveling.

Holidays

1 JanuaryNew Year's Day
16–17 FebruaryCarnival
23 MarchTourism Day (Non-working Day)
24 MarchDay of Remembrance for Truth and Justice
2 AprilMalvinas War Veterans Day
3 AprilGood Friday
1 MayLabour Day
25 MayMay Revolution Day
15 JuneGeneral Martín Miguel de Güemes Memorial Day
20 JuneGeneral Manuel Belgrano Memorial Day
9 JulyIndependence Day
10 JulyTourism Day (Non-working Day)
17 AugustGeneral José de San Martín Memorial Day
12 OctoberDay of Respect for Cultural Diversity
23 NovemberNational Sovereignty Day
7 DecemberTourism Day (Non-working Day)
8 DecemberImmaculate Conception Day
25 DecemberChristmas Day

Safety

Argentina is generally a safe destination for travelers, including solo visitors, although crime levels vary by city and neighborhood. Pickpocketing, phone theft, bag snatching and tourist scams are common concerns in busy areas of Buenos Aires and other major cities. Avoid displaying valuables, use reputable transport services and exercise extra caution after dark. Demonstrations and strikes can occasionally disrupt public transport and travel plans. Most tourist destinations, including Patagonia and Mendoza, can be explored safely with normal precautions, but travelers should remain aware of their surroundings.

Natural disasters

Argentina faces several natural hazards due to its diverse geography. Earthquakes occur mainly along the Andes, particularly around Mendoza, San Juan and northwestern Argentina. Volcanic eruptions near the Chilean border can produce ash clouds and disrupt flights. Heavy rainfall can cause flooding in Buenos Aires and northern provinces, while wildfires threaten Patagonia and other dry regions, especially during summer. Severe thunderstorms, hailstorms and extreme heat can also occur. Tropical cyclones and typhoons are not typical hazards in Argentina. Travelers should monitor local warnings and follow emergency instructions.

ATM fees

Argentine ATMs commonly charge fees for withdrawals using foreign-issued cards, but there is no fixed nationwide fee. Charges vary by bank, ATM network and card issuer, and withdrawal limits can be relatively low. Your home bank may also apply international withdrawal and currency conversion fees. Always check the displayed fee before confirming a transaction and choose to be charged in Argentine pesos (ARS) rather than your home currency. Paying directly by card can help reduce the need for frequent cash withdrawals.