Argentina Tightens Work Visa Rules: Foreign Workers May Face Start Date Delays
Argentina has quietly introduced new immigration rules that could slow down how quickly foreign workers can begin employment in the country. The National Immigration Directorate has updated its processing method for in-country work authorization applications — and the change affects both Transitory Work Permits and Temporary Residence Visas.
Key Update: No More Automatic Provisional Certificates
Previously, foreign nationals who booked an appointment through Argentina’s RADEX online system would receive a provisional residence certificate, or precaria, immediately. This document acted as a temporary work permit, allowing workers to start their job right away — even before their physical appointment.
That’s no longer the case.
Under the new rules, the precaria is now only issued after the applicant attends their in-person appointment and submits a complete application. This marks a significant departure from Argentina’s former fast-track process.
What This Means for Workers and Employers
This change could delay the start date for foreign employees by up to ten days, depending on the type of application:
- Standard applications may take 7–10 extra days.
- Fast-track applications could face a 1–2 day delay.
For employers, especially those managing tight project timelines or relying heavily on international hires, these delays could affect staffing and onboarding schedules.
How Foreign Workers Should Prepare
To avoid hiccups in their relocation or new job role, applicants should:
- Book RADEX appointments early
- Make sure all required documents are ready before the visa appointment
- Align job start dates with expected processing times
What Employers Should Do
Companies hiring foreign talent in Argentina are advised to:
- Build in a buffer of at least one week to account for the new rule
- Verify documentation ahead of the applicant’s appointment to prevent further delays
- Inform new hires clearly to ensure they don’t begin working prematurely
Final Thoughts
While the aim of this policy update is likely improved administrative control, it does introduce added friction for both employers and expats in Argentina. A bit of extra preparation and communication will now be essential to keep hiring and onboarding running smoothly.
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