Call 100.
Call 911 (English language services only available in the city of Buenos Aires).
Call 107.
Call 911 (English language services only available in the city of Buenos Aires).
Call +54 9 11 5050 9260, for multilingual tourist police (only in the city of Buenos Aires).
Call 911 (English language services only available in the city of Buenos Aires).
Exercise normal safety precautions in Argentina.
Exercise normal safety precautions in Argentina.
Exercise a high degree of caution in Rosario.
Exercise a high degree of caution in Rosario due to the threat of crime and violence.
Full travel advice: Safety
Full travel advice: Health
Full travel advice: Local laws
Full travel advice: Travel
Full travel advice: Local contacts
Crime rates are significantly higher than in Australia. Thefts and robberies are common, especially in Buenos Aires city and its metropolitan area, as well as in other major cities, such as Rosario, Cordoba, Mar del Plata and Mendoza.
Armed robbery and other violent crimes occur across Argentina including in major tourist areas of:
Criminals may use violence if victims resist. If you're robbed, hand over your cash and valuables without resistance.
Exercise a high degree of caution in the city of Rosario due to drug-related crime and violence. Public transport and taxis have been affected. Monitor local media and follow the advice of local authorities.
Stay alert when travelling in the tri-border area between Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay, including when visiting Iguazú Falls. Criminal activity, including drug trafficking and the smuggling of illicit goods occurs in the region and can involve violence. Plan international border crossings carefully and ensure you cross before nightfall.
Thefts and robberies are common, particularly in Buenos Aires city and its metropolitan area, as well as in other major cities, such as Rosario, Cordoba, Mar del Plata and Mendoza.
Avoid lower socioeconomic urban areas where crime is more likely to occur, including ‘villas’ or shanty towns. Avoid isolated streets, especially after dark, and take extra care on public transport, in crowded pedestrian zones and in tourist areas.
Distraction thefts are common in public areas, such as:
Thieves may try to start a conversation with you, offer to help wipe a stain off your clothing, or pretend to be street vendors. They may place items on top of your belongings and then take both the item and your belongings. Common targets could be your wallet or mobile phone.
Robberies are common in taxis.
Robbery and theft hotspots in tourist areas of Buenos Aires include:
Be alert in La Boca and stay within the designated tourist area, as violent thefts often occur on neighbouring streets. Avoid La Boca after nightfall. Arrange transport directly to and from the La Boca tourist area. Walking to La Boca is not recommended.
Theft from rental vehicles is common across the country. Do not leave unattended belongings in your vehicle, including your luggage.
To reduce your risk of crime:
There have been reports of foreign tourists being robbed or assaulted after inviting someone they recently met, either online or in person, into their accommodation.
Drinks and food can be spiked and could put you at risk of robbery or assault. Foreign tourists have been drugged and robbed of their belongings.
Kidnapping occurs across the world with political, ideological and criminal motives. Foreigners, including Australians, have been kidnapped overseas while travelling. Kidnaps can happen anywhere, anytime, including in destinations that are typically at lower risk.
Kidnappings, virtual kidnappings and express kidnappings have occurred in Argentina.
The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers.
More information:
Crimes against car passengers occur throughout the country. Thieves often target cars stopped at traffic lights and parked vehicles.
Robberies involving motorcycles, 'motochorros', are common in larger cities. Thieves usually work in pairs and one person operates the motorbike while the other jumps off and steals belongings from pedestrians. They may also snatch items from inside vehicles.
Some criminals pose as taxi operators at airports and rob passengers. They may work with other taxi drivers.
To reduce your risks while taking taxis or driving:
If you're held up, don't resist.
Protests and demonstrations are common particularly in Buenos Aires and other major cities. Organised strikes are frequent and may disrupt transport systems, including airports, airlines and hotels. Contact your travel provider for information on disruptions.
In Buenos Aires, focal points for protests include:
During demonstrations and protests, streets may be blocked, and public transport disrupted. These can turn violent.
Football matches can turn violent. Monitor local media to be aware of any unrest.
To protect yourself during periods of unrest:
More information:
On 28 February, the Argentine Government raised the national security level following events in the Middle East. There may be increased security measures in public places, including places of worship, Jewish institutions, critical infrastructure and other sensitive targets. You should also expect increased security controls at border crossings and entry points.
Bomb attacks have occurred in Argentina.
Terrorism is a threat worldwide. Terrorist attacks could occur anywhere and at any time. Be alert to possible threats, especially in public places. Terrorists may target tourist areas or other places frequented by foreigners and where large crowds may gather.
Possible targets include:
To stay safe:
If there’s an attack, leave the area as soon as it's safe to do so.
More information:
Pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers should be careful in Argentina. You're more likely to die in a car accident in Argentina than in Australia as:
More information:
Argentina experiences natural disasters and severe weather, including:
Natural disasters and severe weather can disrupt transport and essential services. Land border crossings may close due to earthquakes, landslides, or severe weather conditions, including heavy snowfall. The land border with Chile is particularly prone to closures due to severe weather conditions, especially during winter months. River crossings with Paraguay may also close if water levels rise significantly.
You can check the status of all land border crossings here.
Volcanoes on the border of Argentina and Chile could erupt at any time and cause an evacuation. Ash from volcanic eruptions can disrupt air transportation and cause airport closures.
Earthquakes can also occur, particularly in provinces bordering the Andes, Mendoza and San Juan are at higher risk.
In the event of an earthquake or volcanic eruption monitor local media and follow instructions from local authorities.
Flooding is seasonal and more common in the northern and eastern provinces of Argentina. Flooding may disrupt local transport and essential services.
Heavy rain can cause occasional flash floods in other areas, including the province of Buenos Aires. Monitor local media and follow the advice of local authorities.
Bushfires can occur throughout the year and can spread rapidly. They may lead to road closures and affect air quality. If you’re in or near an area affected by a bushfire, monitor local media and follow the advice of local authorities.
More information:
Dust storms, landslides and avalanches can occur. These hazards may affect travel and access to roads and border crossings, particularly during periods of severe weather.
If there's a natural disaster:
More information:
We don't provide a comprehensive list of health risks, diseases or outbreaks for every destination. Before you travel, check the latest health advice from the Australian Centre for Disease Control (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO).
Diseases spread by insects are a risk in Argentina. These include:
These diseases are serious and can be fatal.
Outbreaks can happen throughout the year and as far south as Buenos Aires, particularly when warm weather combines with rainfall. There have been severe dengue outbreaks across northern and eastern Argentina, including Buenos Aires.
Yellow fever is a potentially fatal virus spread by mosquitoes. It's prevented by vaccination. Get vaccinated before you travel.
US CDC recommends yellow fever vaccinations for all travellers going to Corrientes and Misiones provinces.
Zika virus is a risk in the northern areas of Argentina.
Pregnant women and their unborn babies are particularly at risk. If you're pregnant:
To protect yourself against diseases spread by insects:
More information:
Hantavirus continues to be a risk in Argentina, it's generally spread through contact with infected rodents.
Infected rodents spread hantavirus pulmonary syndrome. It's widespread in:
To protect yourself from hantavirus infection:
If you travel to an area higher than 2500m, you can develop altitude sickness.
Altitude sickness can be deadly. It can affect anyone, even if you're physically fit.
Your risk of altitude sickness increases if you:
If you'll be travelling above 2500m:
Outbreaks of waterborne, foodborne, parasitic and other infectious diseases occur. This includes:
To reduce your risk of illness:
If you're bitten or scratched by an animal, get medical help straight away.
Get medical advice if you suspect food poisoning or have a fever or diarrhoea.
Most medical facilities are of a reasonable standard particularly in the larger cities, including Buenos Aires. Medical services can be limited in remote areas.
You may need to pay cash before private medical clinics will treat you. This includes for emergency care.
Penalties for drug offences are severe and can include long prison terms, even for small amounts.
More information:
If you plan to take part in commercial or altruistic surrogacy arrangements in Argentina, be aware of all legal and other risks involved. Research prospective agencies and clinics to ensure that you're dealing with a reputable organisation.
Get comprehensive and independent legal advice from an Argentine lawyer with specialisation in this area of law.
There's no specific legislation that regulates surrogacy and all surrogacy arrangements are subject to ongoing developments in Argentine law and courts. This applies to both the surrogacy arrangements as well as administrative procedures such as issuing of birth certificates and travel arrangements for babies born through surrogacy.
Argentine authorities may consider surrogacy arrangements to be illegal. Criminal investigations into surrogacy agencies, and associated service providers, including medical clinics, legal advisers and notary publics have occurred. Be aware if there are any local legal issues surrounding your surrogacy arrangement, authorities may stop you from entering the country, or your child from leaving. You need to find out which visa is appropriate for you. You may wish to seek legal advice from an Argentine lawyer with specialisation in this area of law.
The Australian Government can't intervene in visa or border clearance decisions of another country.
On 22 October 2024 the Supreme Court of Argentina ruled that the name of the surrogate (the woman who carried the child) must be included on the child’s birth certificate as one of the two listed parents.
Spanish is the official language in Argentina, and you may need to engage the services of a translator for several differing scenarios, including engaging with your lawyer and medical provider.
The Australian Embassy can't provide:
You may need to spend several months in Argentina before and after the birth, to complete Argentine processes. Don’t confirm travel plans until you’ve finalised local processes, Australian citizenship and passport processes. If unforeseen legal complications arise, this period could be considerably prolonged.
More information:
Dual nationals staying in Argentina for more than 180 days must leave Argentina on an Argentine passport.
Applying for an Argentine passport can take time, especially if you do not hold a valid national identification. You must present documents proving your identity. If you're an Australian resident, you may have to provide proof of your address in Australia.
The Australian Embassy can't help you apply for an Argentine passport or other identity documents.
More information:
Due to enhanced border security measures in Argentina following the situation in the Middle East, some travellers are experiencing delays or being refused entry into the country.
Contact an embassy or consulate of Argentina for details about visas, currency and customs regulations.
If you’re travelling on an ordinary passport as a tourist, you can stay in Argentina for up to 90 days without a visa. You'll need evidence that you intend to depart the country within the 90-day period, for example:
Immigration officials may also ask for proof of accommodation and evidence that you have sufficient funds or a credit card to cover your trip.
If you are travelling on a passport other than an ordinary passport, for example, an official, diplomatic or emergency passport or travelling for a purpose other than tourism, you may require a visa.
Visas aren't available on arrival. You must obtain your visa before you travel.
Biometric entry procedures are in place at all international airports and ferry terminals. These may include a digital photograph and digital fingerprints.
Argentine immigration officials do not usually stamp passports on entry or exit. Should you require evidence of entry/exit, click here to fill out a form on the migration agency website.
Children younger than 18 years may need authorisation or a letter of consent from any parent or legal guardian who isn't travelling with them. Requirements depend on the child's circumstances, including their age, residency and travel arrangements.
Children younger than 18 years who normally reside in Argentina, or who have resided in Argentina for one year or more need a legal, notarised authorisation from any non-accompanying parent or parents to leave Argentina if travelling alone or with only one parent or legal guardian.
Parents of children younger than 18 who were born in Argentina or normally reside there must be prepared to prove their parentage when leaving Argentina.
Children younger than 13 years must have a translated and apostilled authorisation to enter Argentina if one or both parents or legal guardians are not travelling with them.
For more information, visit Argentina’s Immigration website: instructions on travelling with minors.
Contact the nearest Argentine Embassy or Consulate for guidance.
More information:
You may need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter Argentina. Some airlines may want to see one when you leave.
More information:
Please see our Travel Advice for Brazil. Australians need a visa to enter Brazil. To learn more about Brazil’s visa requirements please contact an embassy or consulate of Brazil. The Embassy of Australia cannot help you to obtain a Brazilian visa nor apply for one.
If you’re boarding an Antarctic cruise ship, see Travel to Antarctica and the Arctic.
If you're travelling through the US, you must meet US entry or transit requirements.
Check your visa needs well before you travel. Contact the nearest embassy or consulate of the United States.
More information:
The Peso (ARS) is the official currency of Argentina. Most major hotels in Buenos Aires will exchange US dollars. Check local sources for advice on buying or selling foreign currency. Don't exchange money on the street, or with someone offering exchange services on the street. You may receive counterfeit pesos or become the victim of a crime.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted. You should carry a photocopy of the identity page of your passport or a photo ID in case you are required to prove you are the owner of the card.
There have been reports of some travellers experiencing problems using their Australian issued cards when trying to withdraw cash from ATM machines. If your ATM card doesn't work at one ATM, try another one or exchange cash at an exchange house.
Credit card fraud is widespread. Take care when making online payments. Check the amount before making payments on a card machine and use contactless payment methods when possible. Check your bank statements for unauthorised charges.
More information:
Mountain activities, such as hiking, can be dangerous, especially if you're unprepared. Trails aren't always marked, and weather conditions can change rapidly.
To reduce your risks if you intend to hike in Argentina:
More information:
To drive a vehicle, you'll need a current Australian driver's licence, digital driver’s licences are usually not accepted. You should check with the rental car company whether you also need to have an international driving permit. You may need to present further identification.
Residents must get an Argentine driver's licence.
Petty crime is common on trains and subways and in and around railway stations.
When travelling on public transportation you should carry your backpack or purse on your chest, not on your back.
It is more secure to book radio taxis and 'remises' (chauffeured cars):
To reduce your risks if you take a taxi:
Overbooking on domestic flights, technical problems at the airport, protests and strikes are common in Argentina and can result in:
If you're flying within Argentina, monitor local media for airport updates.
Check Argentina's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.
More information:
Riverboat operators often use basic vessels for river tours. You should always wear a life jacket, as boat accidents can occur.
Buenos Aires, Puerto Madryn and Ushuaia are popular destinations for international cruise lines, including for travel to Antarctica.
For your safety, if you intend to take a cruise:
More information:
People with disabilities may have trouble with accessibility and accommodation in Argentina.
Federal laws mandate access to buildings for people with disabilities, but it is rare for these to be fully applied. Many provinces don't have similar laws.
More information:
Depending on what you need, contact your:
Call 100.
Call 911 (English language services are only available in the city of Buenos Aires).
Call 107.
Call 911 (English language services are only available in the city of Buenos Aires).
Call 911 (English language services may only be available in the city of Buenos Aires).
Tourist police stations, or ‘Comisarías del Turista’ (where there are English-speaking officers), are in:
Always get a police report when you report a crime.
Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.
The Australian Government aims to provide high quality consular assistance. There are limits to what we can do. Read the Consular Services Charter to understand how we can assist you overseas.
Villanueva 1400
(C1426BMJ)
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Phone: +54 11 4779 3500
Email: consular.buenosaires@dfat.gov.au
Website: argentina.embassy.gov.au
Facebook: Australia en Argentina, Uruguay y Paraguay
Instagram: ausemb_ar
X: @EmbAustraliaBA
Check the Embassy’s website for further details on opening hours and any temporary closures.
In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:
Be the first to know official government advice when travelling.