Looking to move to Argentina in the next 5 years, need some advice...

[te_rojo]

Hi everyone! As the title says, I want to move to Argentina and most likely gain citizenship. I know this forum is for expatriates, but I presume it's still a good place to ask for tips and advice for the general process of moving. Some hopefully relevant information: I'm from the US and in my early 20s. I currently have a basic tech support job, and make around $20/hr, before taxes, recently switched to full time hours. I've been learning Spanish for a little bit, but strongly lacking in the speaking and listening comprehension sections, so definitely a beginner.

How much should I save up? I have around $20k right now, and assuming I still have my current job and pay, I'll have at least $50k in savings the next five years, most likely more.

How to start the process? I'm unsure of how to gain temporary residency and hopefully move toward permanent residency. I don't have any external fixed income so the rentista visa wouldn't work. I'm not looking to study in Argentina, so I couldn't apply for a student visa. I'm not fluent enough to find a local job and get a work visa, at least not yet. But even if I was, is it legal to find employment while on a tourist visa? I ask because I don't see how I'm supposed to get hired before traveling to Argentina.

How difficult is it to find employment as a foreigner? In Buenos Aires? In a different city, like Córdoba? Small town? Would remote employment be a viable option? Are there jobs that don't necessarily need or require native-level fluency? I'm unsure of how proficient I'll be with Spanish in a few years...

What does the cost of living look like? And final-ish question: what other things are there to research and think about, in regards to moving to Argentina? Thank you so much to anyone who replies. Any information is highly appreciated!

 

[Uncle Wong]

Hi everyone! As the title says, I want to move to Argentina and most likely gain citizenship. I know this forum is for expatriates, but I presume it's still a good place to ask for tips and advice for the general process of moving. Some hopefully relevant information: I'm from the US and in my early 20s. I currently have a basic tech support job, and make around $20/hr, before taxes, recently switched to full time hours. I've been learning Spanish for a little bit, but strongly lacking in the speaking and listening comprehension sections, so definitely a beginner.

How much should I save up? I have around $20k right now, and assuming I still have my current job and pay, I'll have at least $50k in savings the next five years, most likely more.

How to start the process? I'm unsure of how to gain temporary residency and hopefully move toward permanent residency. I don't have any external fixed income so the rentista visa wouldn't work. I'm not looking to study in Argentina, so I couldn't apply for a student visa. I'm not fluent enough to find a local job and get a work visa, at least not yet. But even if I was, is it legal to find employment while on a tourist visa? I ask because I don't see how I'm supposed to get hired before traveling to Argentina.

How difficult is it to find employment as a foreigner? In Buenos Aires? In a different city, like Córdoba? Small town? Would remote employment be a viable option? Are there jobs that don't necessarily need or require native-level fluency? I'm unsure of how proficient I'll be with Spanish in a few years...

What does the cost of living look like? And final-ish question: what other things are there to research and think about, in regards to moving to Argentina? Thank you so much to anyone who replies. Any information is highly appreciated!

This is a great forum to ask anything.How much you need saved probably depends on how much you spend. It is easy to overstay here without any penalties. Without any external fixed income it would be difficult for the rentista. But I read if you have some money you could set up an LLC and it could pay you. Look up some old posts and I think someone did that option. Maybe it was @StatusNomadicus. I am not sure if he is still in Argentina. Haven't seen any posts in a long time.

Applying for a student visa should be easy too. Many people posted it is not easy to find a job here as a foreigner. Remote work sounds like the best option. Salaries sound like they are low in BA.

Why do you want to move to Argentina? If you are in your early 20's that might not be a good time to move here. How many times have you been here before?

 

[RN in BA]

Hi everyone! As the title says, I want to move to Argentina and most likely gain citizenship. I know this forum is for expatriates, but I presume it's still a good place to ask for tips and advice for the general process of moving. Some hopefully relevant information: I'm from the US and in my early 20s. I currently have a basic tech support job, and make around $20/hr, before taxes, recently switched to full time hours. I've been learning Spanish for a little bit, but strongly lacking in the speaking and listening comprehension sections, so definitely a beginner.

How much should I save up? I have around $20k right now, and assuming I still have my current job and pay, I'll have at least $50k in savings the next five years, most likely more.

How to start the process? I'm unsure of how to gain temporary residency and hopefully move toward permanent residency. I don't have any external fixed income so the rentista visa wouldn't work. I'm not looking to study in Argentina, so I couldn't apply for a student visa. I'm not fluent enough to find a local job and get a work visa, at least not yet. But even if I was, is it legal to find employment while on a tourist visa? I ask because I don't see how I'm supposed to get hired before traveling to Argentina.

How difficult is it to find employment as a foreigner? In Buenos Aires? In a different city, like Córdoba? Small town? Would remote employment be a viable option? Are there jobs that don't necessarily need or require native-level fluency? I'm unsure of how proficient I'll be with Spanish in a few years...

What does the cost of living look like? And final-ish question: what other things are there to research and think about, in regards to moving to Argentina? Thank you so much to anyone who replies. Any information is highly appreciated!

Be careful. I was going to do the same thing as you. I am older than you in my early 30's. I came down here and I am fully bilingual nurse and it was difficult to get a job without a DNI. There were private gigs but they all were very low pay jobs. Now maybe things are different. I read salaries doubled but so did the cost of living. Some things went up 200% to 300% I read.

My mom talked me out of moving convincing me that I'm in my prime years to move money and to do it later. I really loved BA so I understand why you want to do it!

Doubt you will find any decent job there. Remote work is best job for most expats. For cost of living do a search for @Argentina Expat. He did a post on cost of living but it is older and costs are higher now but start there.

 

[RN in BA]

@FuturoBA posted some post of living posts on this post

F

Post in thread 'A newsletter for expats in Buenos Aires'

Aug 8, 2024

Hey all,

The survey is out!

It ended up being just about Buenos Aires (lack of responses in other areas).

Interesting facts:

- Median cost of living is $1,550
- Median rent is $650
- Rent is almost always 40% of total monthly expenses

Here's more information: https://argentinaexpat.com/cost-of-living-buenos-aires/

Great info seems to be inline with albeit slightly more, $1550 vs $1488 more than what's shown here.

The Earth Awaits - Buenos Aires, Argentina

Check out my cost of living in Buenos Aires, Argentina for a family of 2!

www.theearthawaits.com

But I love how your report...

• FuturoBA

• 

You might want to ask him. He said he is moving down to BA later this year.

 

[James Bond]

Hi everyone! As the title says, I want to move to Argentina and most likely gain citizenship. I know this forum is for expatriates, but I presume it's still a good place to ask for tips and advice for the general process of moving. Some hopefully relevant information: I'm from the US and in my early 20s. I currently have a basic tech support job, and make around $20/hr, before taxes, recently switched to full time hours. I've been learning Spanish for a little bit, but strongly lacking in the speaking and listening comprehension sections, so definitely a beginner.

How much should I save up? I have around $20k right now, and assuming I still have my current job and pay, I'll have at least $50k in savings the next five years, most likely more.

How to start the process? I'm unsure of how to gain temporary residency and hopefully move toward permanent residency. I don't have any external fixed income so the rentista visa wouldn't work. I'm not looking to study in Argentina, so I couldn't apply for a student visa. I'm not fluent enough to find a local job and get a work visa, at least not yet. But even if I was, is it legal to find employment while on a tourist visa? I ask because I don't see how I'm supposed to get hired before traveling to Argentina.

How difficult is it to find employment as a foreigner? In Buenos Aires? In a different city, like Córdoba? Small town? Would remote employment be a viable option? Are there jobs that don't necessarily need or require native-level fluency? I'm unsure of how proficient I'll be with Spanish in a few years...

What does the cost of living look like? And final-ish question: what other things are there to research and think about, in regards to moving to Argentina? Thank you so much to anyone who replies. Any information is highly appreciated!

Do a search on this forum for residency and you will see some information on residency along with some links for immigration attorneys. You probably won't be able to navigate it alone so talk to someone that can give you the best advice on which route to take.

You could apply for a student visa. I think some people have taken that approach. Try doing a search for student visa and read how they did it. Most just overstay and start the process after living here 2 years.

It is difficult to get a job in Argentina if you aren't fluent in Spanish and you don't have your residency. Everyone is competing for remote jobs too so not easy. Many expats are leaving not coming to BA now.

Why do you want to come to BA? For many, it's typically because they met someone. BA is a great city. Don't get me wrong. Lived there many years but I left last year for Spain as cost of living skyrocketed up. Cost of living just depends on your lifestyle.

They have decent and very basic Airbnb's of $500 dollars a month all the way up to $3,000 dollars a month. Something decent in a good neighborhood probably budget about $800 a month plus up to $300 a month (might be high but just to factor in increases) so on rent maybe $1,100 dollars a month. Transportation costs depends if you're taking public transport or taking rideshares around. I would budget maybe $200-$300 a month on transportation.

What has gotten really expensive is food. Restaurants have really gone up. You can cook at home and save money but going out to eat has gotten expensive. How much are you spending dining out or groceries back home? You will probably spend the same on that here.

Not sure if you will get medical insurance but that has gone up too. You are young so you might not need it but if you wanted to buy a medical insurance policy probably would be about $300 dollars a month for a plan.

 

[te_rojo]

This is a great forum to ask anything.How much you need saved probably depends on how much you spend. It is easy to overstay here without any penalties. Without any external fixed income it would be difficult for the rentista. But I read if you have some money you could set up an LLC and it could pay you. Look up some old posts and I think someone did that option. Maybe it was @StatusNomadicus. I am not sure if he is still in Argentina. Haven't seen any posts in a long time.

Applying for a student visa should be easy too. Many people posted it is not easy to find a job here as a foreigner. Remote work sounds like the best option. Salaries sound like they are low in BA.

Why do you want to move to Argentina? If you are in your early 20's that might not be a good time to move here. How many times have you been here before?

Ahh, don't judge but my primary reason is to move to be closer with my boyfriend who is from Argentina. I know I'm young and relationships don't last. Trust me I've definitely considered the possibility that we may not even be together in 5 or 10 years, but I want to make sure I'll know what exactly goes into moving in case I'm still dead set on Argentina in a few years. I'll add this bit to my main post, I think.

I've visited once so far, back in September 2024, and intend on visiting again this year and the following years. I suppose now that I think about it, I'm not opposed to returning to college (I've already got my A.S. for IT), but I worry about the language barrier mostly, as well as how much being an international student would cost. And thank you for the note about the setting up an LLC; that's something I haven't thought of.

 

[te_rojo]

Be careful. I was going to do the same thing as you. I am older than you in my early 30's. I came down here and I am fully bilingual nurse and it was difficult to get a job without a DNI. There were private gigs but they all were very low pay jobs. Now maybe things are different. I read salaries doubled but so did the cost of living. Some things went up 200% to 300% I read.

My mom talked me out of moving convincing me that I'm in my prime years to move money and to do it later. I really loved BA so I understand why you want to do it!

Doubt you will find any decent job there. Remote work is best job for most expats. For cost of living do a search for @Argentina Expat. He did a post on cost of living but it is older and costs are higher now but start there.

Hmm, maybe I should think about 10 years, rather than 5 years. Thank you for sharing your experience and letting me know about ArgentineExpat's post.

 

[te_rojo]

Do a search on this forum for residency and you will see some information on residency along with some links for immigration attorneys. You probably won't be able to navigate it alone so talk to someone that can give you the best advice on which route to take.

You could apply for a student visa. I think some people have taken that approach. Try doing a search for student visa and read how they did it. Most just overstay and start the process after living here 2 years.

It is difficult to get a job in Argentina if you aren't fluent in Spanish and you don't have your residency. Everyone is competing for remote jobs too so not easy. Many expats are leaving not coming to BA now.

Why do you want to come to BA? For many, it's typically because they met someone. BA is a great city. Don't get me wrong. Lived there many years but I left last year for Spain as cost of living skyrocketed up. Cost of living just depends on your lifestyle.

They have decent and very basic Airbnb's of $500 dollars a month all the way up to $3,000 dollars a month. Something decent in a good neighborhood probably budget about $800 a month plus up to $300 a month (might be high but just to factor in increases) so on rent maybe $1,100 dollars a month. Transportation costs depends if you're taking public transport or taking rideshares around. I would budget maybe $200-$300 a month on transportation.

What has gotten really expensive is food. Restaurants have really gone up. You can cook at home and save money but going out to eat has gotten expensive. How much are you spending dining out or groceries back home? You will probably spend the same on that here.

Not sure if you will get medical insurance but that has gone up too. You are young so you might not need it but if you wanted to buy a medical insurance policy probably would be about $300 dollars a month for a plan.

Much thanks, I'll look up the residency information and see about talking to an attorney. And blegh, I figured it'd be hard to get a job without residency. Yeah, I do want to go because I've been dating someone from Argentina. He doesn't live in B.A., but I'd rather be in B.A. and live a few hours away from him than be countries apart, lol. Thanks for giving some estimates about living spaces. I'm glad there can be cheaper options there than in the States, Food-wise, I'm spending around $150-200, depending on how often I eat out vs. home. Ack, insurance is something I hadn't thought about...

 

[FuturoBA]

Things are constantly changing, it's hard to know what the COL will be like in 5 months much less in 5 years. As far as getting citizenship, there's an attorney who states you can apply as soon as you arrive although he's polarizing where depending on who you ask, and may be more of an nontraditional route. https://www.rubilarcitizenship.com/citizenship I believe said attorney used to post here and on other platforms but doesn't seem to be as active, so it would be better to do your due diligence.

 

[earlyretirement]

Ahh, don't judge but my primary reason is to move to be closer with my boyfriend who is from Argentina. I know I'm young and relationships don't last. Trust me I've definitely considered the possibility that we may not even be together in 5 or 10 years, but I want to make sure I'll know what exactly goes into moving in case I'm still dead set on Argentina in a few years. I'll add this bit to my main post, I think.

I've visited once so far, back in September 2024, and intend on visiting again this year and the following years. I suppose now that I think about it, I'm not opposed to returning to college (I've already got my A.S. for IT), but I worry about the language barrier mostly, as well as how much being an international student would cost. And thank you for the note about the setting up an LLC; that's something I haven't thought of.

Love is a big reason why many expats end up moving here. Where did you meet your boyfriend @te_rojo? Here in BA? It sounds good that you are formulating a game plan.

Much thanks, I'll look up the residency information and see about talking to an attorney. And blegh, I figured it'd be hard to get a job without residency. Yeah, I do want to go because I've been dating someone from Argentina. He doesn't live in B.A., but I'd rather be in B.A. and live a few hours away from him than be countries apart, lol. Thanks for giving some estimates about living spaces. I'm glad there can be cheaper options there than in the States, Food-wise, I'm spending around $150-200, depending on how often I eat out vs. home. Ack, insurance is something I hadn't thought about...

It's tougher to get a good job here without having a DNI but not impossible. I talk to expats that have been living here as "perma-tourists" for many years and they have not had issues living here but most of them don't depend on jobs here. Realistically if you move to Argentina to be with your boyfriend you will either move to his town or he will need to move to BA so see how viable that is for him. BA is much more expensive vs. other cities.

If you are healthy and have no kids, you can probably just manage to just pay doctors/hospitals as you might need them if you get sick. Medical care is much cheaper than in the USA but prices are going up. It still may make sense to have a medical policy.

It would be a good exercise to make a spreadsheet with ALL of your expenses you are currently spending in your town. Then just plug in the numbers here for Argentina. Post on this forum and many great people are willing to share information. This forum is all about sharing information on Argentina.

Argentina is an amazing country. Not as affordable as it used to be but still much cheaper than living in the USA for many cities. Rentals here are very affordable compared to the States. I'd say food costs are a little less here at the grocery store depending on what you are buying. Probably if you budget what you spending on food in the USA and use that same budget that would be good for your budget.

Here is a list of things that I have on my spreadsheet before I moved to Argentina. I think it would be applicable for anyone to add up their budget.

In my experience, people always underestimate what they will spend vs. overestimate.

-Rent (if you don't own your property)
- Property taxes if you own
-Phone (Land line and Cell phone)
- Utilities (gas, water, electricity, cable, internet, etc)
- HOA fees/expensas each month
- Maintenance and repairs (if you own a property)
- Car payments
- Car insurance
- Auto Fuel each month for each car
- Registration fees for your car each year
- Maintenance on your car to include car washes and oil changes
-Parking (various times when you're out and about plus if you don't have a garage in your apartment and have to rent one)
- Home/rental insurance for your property
- Life insurance
- Health insurance premiums
- Dental insurance premiums
- Medical/Dental expenses (what insurance won't cover)
- Prescription medications
- School expenses for kids if applicable (tuition, stuff for school, ballet classes, etc)
- Babysitter expenses
- Annual fee for Credit Cards
- Clothes for kids and yourself
- Toys for kids
- Dry Cleaning
- Health club / gym
- Taxi/Uber fares which are inevitable.
- Beauty (hair salon for hair cuts, color, nails, make up, etc)
- Extracurricular activities dues/fees
- Entertainment (movies, theatre, plays, Zoo, concerts, sporting events, etc --)
- Magazine/newspaper/Ipad subscriptions
- Dining out at restaurants
- Grocery budget
- Retirement savings contributions
- Kids college fund savings contributions
- Charity/donations
- Travel / vacation expenses
- Federal/State/local income taxes
- Any revolving debt payments you might have
- Bad habit type stuff (alcohol, smoking, etc)
- Emergency savings fund for any major health issues
- Non reimbursed office/work expenses and supplies

 

[Spend Thrift]

Things are constantly changing, it's hard to know what the COL will be like in 5 months much less in 5 years. As far as getting citizenship, there's an attorney who states you can apply as soon as you arrive although he's polarizing where depending on who you ask, and may be more of an nontraditional route. https://www.rubilarcitizenship.com/citizenship I believe said attorney used to post here and on other platforms but doesn't seem to be as active, so it would be better to do your due diligence.

True! It is hard to predict expenses from one year to another never mind 5-10 years from now! It was cheap when I moved here a little over a year ago and now it is not cheap.

I looked at Rubilar's website but I couldn't find any testimonials. But it seems like he has been around forever. I did a consultation with Celano & Associates https://www.celano.com.ar/ and they were very informative. I believe a few people on this forum have used him. It would be worth talking to him to see the best circumstances for you.

Love is a big reason why many expats end up moving here. Where did you meet your boyfriend @te_rojo? Here in BA? It sounds good that you are formulating a game plan.

It's tougher to get a good job here without having a DNI but not impossible. I talk to expats that have been living here as "perma-tourists" for many years and they have not had issues living here but most of them don't depend on jobs here. Realistically if you move to Argentina to be with your boyfriend you will either move to his town or he will need to move to BA so see how viable that is for him. BA is much more expensive vs. other cities.

If you are healthy and have no kids, you can probably just manage to just pay doctors/hospitals as you might need them if you get sick. Medical care is much cheaper than in the USA but prices are going up. It still may make sense to have a medical policy.

It would be a good exercise to make a spreadsheet with ALL of your expenses you are currently spending in your town. Then just plug in the numbers here for Argentina. Post on this forum and many great people are willing to share information. This forum is all about sharing information on Argentina.

Argentina is an amazing country. Not as affordable as it used to be but still much cheaper than living in the USA for many cities. Rentals here are very affordable compared to the States. I'd say food costs are a little less here at the grocery store depending on what you are buying. Probably if you budget what you spending on food in the USA and use that same budget that would be good for your budget.

Here is a list of things that I have on my spreadsheet before I moved to Argentina. I think it would be applicable for anyone to add up their budget.

In my experience, people always underestimate what they will spend vs. overestimate.

-Rent (if you don't own your property)
- Property taxes if you own
-Phone (Land line and Cell phone)
- Utilities (gas, water, electricity, cable, internet, etc)
- HOA fees/expensas each month
- Maintenance and repairs (if you own a property)
- Car payments
- Car insurance
- Auto Fuel each month for each car
- Registration fees for your car each year
- Maintenance on your car to include car washes and oil changes
-Parking (various times when you're out and about plus if you don't have a garage in your apartment and have to rent one)
- Home/rental insurance for your property
- Life insurance
- Health insurance premiums
- Dental insurance premiums
- Medical/Dental expenses (what insurance won't cover)
- Prescription medications
- School expenses for kids if applicable (tuition, stuff for school, ballet classes, etc)
- Babysitter expenses
- Annual fee for Credit Cards
- Clothes for kids and yourself
- Toys for kids
- Dry Cleaning
- Health club / gym
- Taxi/Uber fares which are inevitable.
- Beauty (hair salon for hair cuts, color, nails, make up, etc)
- Extracurricular activities dues/fees
- Entertainment (movies, theatre, plays, Zoo, concerts, sporting events, etc --)
- Magazine/newspaper/Ipad subscriptions
- Dining out at restaurants
- Grocery budget
- Retirement savings contributions
- Kids college fund savings contributions
- Charity/donations
- Travel / vacation expenses
- Federal/State/local income taxes
- Any revolving debt payments you might have
- Bad habit type stuff (alcohol, smoking, etc)
- Emergency savings fund for any major health issues
- Non reimbursed office/work expenses and supplies

Wow! That is quite the comprehensive list!

 

[Spend Thrift]

Ahh, don't judge but my primary reason is to move to be closer with my boyfriend

No one will judge you. If I got a dollar for every dumb thing I did for a boyfriend I'd be rich. 🤣

 

[Uncle Wong]

Ahh, don't judge but my primary reason is to move to be closer with my boyfriend who is from Argentina. I know I'm young and relationships don't last. Trust me I've definitely considered the possibility that we may not even be together in 5 or 10 years, but I want to make sure I'll know what exactly goes into moving in case I'm still dead set on Argentina in a few years. I'll add this bit to my main post, I think.

Just don't rush into anything. How long as the relationship lasted? I did a few long distance relationships and they are very difficult. Relationships can last but I have done my fair share of long distance romance. It is tough enough to make a relationship work in the same town.

Just take it slow. I am no expert on BA but been there a few times now. I would not worry about spending money on immigration attorneys right now. Just first see if you want to be here. Come a few times. Moving to a foreign country is not a rush decision. What does your boyfriend do for work?

 

[bowtiedcarpincho]

Hi everyone! As the title says, I want to move to Argentina and most likely gain citizenship. I know this forum is for expatriates, but I presume it's still a good place to ask for tips and advice for the general process of moving. Some hopefully relevant information: I'm from the US and in my early 20s. I currently have a basic tech support job, and make around $20/hr, before taxes, recently switched to full time hours. I've been learning Spanish for a little bit, but strongly lacking in the speaking and listening comprehension sections, so definitely a beginner.

How much should I save up? I have around $20k right now, and assuming I still have my current job and pay, I'll have at least $50k in savings the next five years, most likely more.

How to start the process? I'm unsure of how to gain temporary residency and hopefully move toward permanent residency. I don't have any external fixed income so the rentista visa wouldn't work. I'm not looking to study in Argentina, so I couldn't apply for a student visa. I'm not fluent enough to find a local job and get a work visa, at least not yet. But even if I was, is it legal to find employment while on a tourist visa? I ask because I don't see how I'm supposed to get hired before traveling to Argentina.

How difficult is it to find employment as a foreigner? In Buenos Aires? In a different city, like Córdoba? Small town? Would remote employment be a viable option? Are there jobs that don't necessarily need or require native-level fluency? I'm unsure of how proficient I'll be with Spanish in a few years...

What does the cost of living look like? And final-ish question: what other things are there to research and think about, in regards to moving to Argentina? Thank you so much to anyone who replies. Any information is highly appreciated!

20 usd/h is enough to live comfortably here.
Also been to Córdoba and Mendoza they are a bit cheaper and beautiful cities, but Spanish is more necessary.
I could give you more info if you want ( I'm an argie living in BA and earning in usd in the US)

 

[Blockchain]

Ahh, don't judge but my primary reason is to move to be closer with my boyfriend who is from Argentina. I know I'm young and relationships don't last. Trust me I've definitely considered the possibility that we may not even be together in 5 or 10 years, but I want to make sure I'll know what exactly goes into moving in case I'm still dead set on Argentina in a few years. I'll add this bit to my main post, I think.

I've visited once so far, back in September 2024, and intend on visiting again this year and the following years. I suppose now that I think about it, I'm not opposed to returning to college (I've already got my A.S. for IT), but I worry about the language barrier mostly, as well as how much being an international student would cost. And thank you for the note about the setting up an LLC; that's something I haven't thought of.

How did you meet your boyfriend? Just online?

 

[earlyretirement]

Just don't rush into anything. How long as the relationship lasted? I did a few long distance relationships and they are very difficult. Relationships can last but I have done my fair share of long distance romance. It is tough enough to make a relationship work in the same town.

Just take it slow. I am no expert on BA but been there a few times now. I would not worry about spending money on immigration attorneys right now. Just first see if you want to be here. Come a few times. Moving to a foreign country is not a rush decision. What does your boyfriend do for work?

This is great advice. Just take things slow. I have also been in a few long-distance relationships including once a girlfriend from Argentina while I lived in Dallas and also a girlfriend that lived in Rio when I lived in the USA. I was fortunate that I could fly down every other weekend or fly them to the USA so we saw one another often but it had it's challenges.

Don't overthink things and listen to @Uncle Wong and proceed with caution. I agree it's not necessary to talk to immigration attorneys now. You don't even know where the relationship will go and laws could change later when you're ready to make a move.

Just see where the relationship goes before talking to attorneys.

20 usd/h is enough to live comfortably here.
Also been to Córdoba and Mendoza they are a bit cheaper and beautiful cities, but Spanish is more necessary.
I could give you more info if you want ( I'm an argie living in BA and earning in usd in the US)

I think much just depends on what quality of life you are used to. Everything is totally subjective based on the quality of life you are used to. I found if you're not eating out a ton in the USA then you probably won't do the same thing here. But it will be different from one person to another.

I do for what the OP is mentioning $20 USD per hour with no kids you can live a good life. With kids more difficult. The cost of living has jumped up quite a bit. I was having lunch with Bowtied Mara from X yesterday and he was commenting that for a married couple with 2 kids now living a decent quality of life including medical insurance and dining out occasionally now the cost of life in Buenos Aires is probably monthly salary of about $6,000 USD per month including sending them to private schools.

@bowtiedcarpincho is spot on target that cost of living in Mendoza and Cordoba are much more affordable.

 

[bowtiedcarpincho]

This is great advice. Just take things slow. I have also been in a few long-distance relationships including once a girlfriend from Argentina while I lived in Dallas and also a girlfriend that lived in Rio when I lived in the USA. I was fortunate that I could fly down every other weekend or fly them to the USA so we saw one another often but it had it's challenges.

Don't overthink things and listen to @Uncle Wong and proceed with caution. I agree it's not necessary to talk to immigration attorneys now. You don't even know where the relationship will go and laws could change later when you're ready to make a move.

Just see where the relationship goes before talking to attorneys.

I think much just depends on what quality of life you are used to. Everything is totally subjective based on the quality of life you are used to. I found if you're not eating out a ton in the USA then you probably won't do the same thing here. But it will be different from one person to another.

I do for what the OP is mentioning $20 USD per hour with no kids you can live a good life. With kids more difficult. The cost of living has jumped up quite a bit. I was having lunch with Bowtied Mara from X yesterday and he was commenting that for a married couple with 2 kids now living a decent quality of life including medical insurance and dining out occasionally now the cost of life in Buenos Aires is probably monthly salary of about $6,000 USD per month including sending them to private schools.

@bowtiedcarpincho is spot on target that cost of living in Mendoza and Cordoba are much more affordable.

I'm jealous you got to chat with the OG (BowTiedMara).

Another example but not from BA city:

My friends (no kids single late 20s working as software engineers locally) make around 2500 to 3000 usd a month (around 20/H usd). Rent is around 300 to 400 for a 3 bedroom apartment in GBA ( Greater Buenos Aires) they live in some of the nicer areas of GBA. Life is good, they get to go on holidays each year, go out for dinner every month at least once or twice. Have a used car and once every 2 or 3 years plan an international flight.
Some of them even can afford maids cleaning once a week.
One of them just bought his first apartment at 27yo after 3 years of working full-time as a SE locally, he lived with his parents to save up.

So I would guess they save 500 usd per month in the best case 250 in the worst.

If you are two bringing income to a household then it's a lot more easier than this.

 

[Kiki]

Hi everyone! As the title says, I want to move to Argentina and most likely gain citizenship. I know this forum is for expatriates, but I presume it's still a good place to ask for tips and advice for the general process of moving. Some hopefully relevant information: I'm from the US and in my early 20s. I currently have a basic tech support job, and make around $20/hr, before taxes, recently switched to full time hours. I've been learning Spanish for a little bit, but strongly lacking in the speaking and listening comprehension sections, so definitely a beginner.

How much should I save up? I have around $20k right now, and assuming I still have my current job and pay, I'll have at least $50k in savings the next five years, most likely more.

How to start the process? I'm unsure of how to gain temporary residency and hopefully move toward permanent residency. I don't have any external fixed income so the rentista visa wouldn't work. I'm not looking to study in Argentina, so I couldn't apply for a student visa. I'm not fluent enough to find a local job and get a work visa, at least not yet. But even if I was, is it legal to find employment while on a tourist visa? I ask because I don't see how I'm supposed to get hired before traveling to Argentina.

How difficult is it to find employment as a foreigner? In Buenos Aires? In a different city, like Córdoba? Small town? Would remote employment be a viable option? Are there jobs that don't necessarily need or require native-level fluency? I'm unsure of how proficient I'll be with Spanish in a few years...

What does the cost of living look like? And final-ish question: what other things are there to research and think about, in regards to moving to Argentina? Thank you so much to anyone who replies. Any information is highly appreciated!

Argentina can be an amazing place to live, but there are definitely things to consider before making the move.

First off, having remote work is a huge advantage. Buenos Aires (especially) has gotten pretty expensive lately, and while $50k in savings is a solid cushion, relying on local wages would be tough, especially as a foreigner without fluent Spanish. Tech support jobs pay way better in the U.S. than anything similar here, so keeping your remote job would be your best bet.

For residency, since you don’t qualify for a rentista or student visa and finding a local job before arriving is unlikely, your best option is probably entering as a tourist and applying for residency once you’re here. The "digital nomad visa" exists but isn't widely used, and work visas usually require a company to sponsor you, which is rare unless you have highly in-demand skills. A lot of expats renew their tourist status by leaving and re-entering, though that’s not a long-term solution if you want citizenship.

As for jobs, finding something locally without strong Spanish can be tough outside of teaching English or niche expat-oriented roles. Buenos Aires has more opportunities, but it’s also much pricier than other cities. Córdoba and other smaller cities are cheaper, but also have fewer job options. If your Spanish improves and you want to integrate into the job market, it’d be easier in person, but again, salaries are low.

Cost of living depends on your lifestyle. Rent, especially in USD, can be expensive in BA, but everyday expenses like food and transportation can still be affordable compared to the U.S. Inflation is wild, so prices change constantly.

Biggest things to think about:

• Have a remote income if possible.
• Keep an eye on inflation/currency issues.
• Improve your Spanish, it’ll make a huge difference.
• Research legal pathways to residency if you want to stay long-term.
• Be prepared for some bureaucracy, it’s part of the experience.

Hope that helps!

 

[earlyretirement]

I'm jealous you got to chat with the OG (BowTiedMara).

Another example but not from BA city:

My friends (no kids single late 20s working as software engineers locally) make around 2500 to 3000 usd a month (around 20/H usd). Rent is around 300 to 400 for a 3 bedroom apartment in GBA ( Greater Buenos Aires) they live in some of the nicer areas of GBA. Life is good, they get to go on holidays each year, go out for dinner every month at least once or twice. Have a used car and once every 2 or 3 years plan an international flight.
Some of them even can afford maids cleaning once a week.
One of them just bought his first apartment at 27yo after 3 years of working full-time as a SE locally, he lived with his parents to save up.

So I would guess they save 500 usd per month in the best case 250 in the worst.

If you are two bringing income to a household then it's a lot more easier than this.

Bowtied Mara is a great guy. I had dinner with him and my best friends last year. He is a really intelligent guy. We were laughing about all our experiences in Argentina, especially running companies here. I did it on a much larger scale than he did but anyone that has had a company here can talk about challenges they had. We always chat via Whatsapp as well. Enjoy chatting with him. People that have done a lot of business in Argentina understand the environment here like no one else.

$300 to $400 USD for a 3 bedroom is very low. What part of the city is that in? It's tougher to find that the closer you are in nicer neighborhoods of CABA but there definitely are some bargains the further out you go.

That is awesome to hear your friend bought his own place. That is really the key in a place like Argentina. Over the long haul, you must be an owner of property vs. a renter if you plan to stay in Argentina over the long haul. I think it's awesome how people are willing to sacrifice and save up living at home with their parents until later in life. I know many people that did the same thing but they all own now.

 

[Vero]

I'm jealous you got to chat with the OG (BowTiedMara).

Another example but not from BA city:

My friends (no kids single late 20s working as software engineers locally) make around 2500 to 3000 usd a month (around 20/H usd). Rent is around 300 to 400 for a 3 bedroom apartment in GBA ( Greater Buenos Aires) they live in some of the nicer areas of GBA. Life is good, they get to go on holidays each year, go out for dinner every month at least once or twice. Have a used car and once every 2 or 3 years plan an international flight.
Some of them even can afford maids cleaning once a week.
One of them just bought his first apartment at 27yo after 3 years of working full-time as a SE locally, he lived with his parents to save up.

So I would guess they save 500 usd per month in the best case 250 in the worst.

If you are two bringing income to a household then it's a lot more easier than this.

Once you get outside of the ritzy neighborhoods of CABA you can get some fantastic deals. Typical Argentine says more money than the typical American. Foreigners buy a lot of junk they don't need. Because electronics and other goods are so expensive we spend less on consumer goods. But this could be changing now that people can buy things with no import taxes. I worry that we will get stuck like Americans buying so much junk we don't need.