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Argentina

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Latest updates: Safety and security - update about nationwide movement restrictions

Risk level(s)

COVID-19 – Global travel advisory

Effective date: March 13, 2020

Avoid non-essential travel outside Canada until further notice.

This advisory overrides other risk levels on this page, with the exception of any risk levels for countries or regions where we advise to avoid all travel.

More about the Global travel advisory

Argentina - Take normal security precautions

Take normal security precautions in Argentina.

Safety and security

COVID-19 - Nationwide movement restrictions

Nationwide movement restrictions are in place and may vary depending on the province. Circulation permits are required nationwide and some provinces may request medical certificates for entry.

You must wear a face covering in public.

Exceptions by province – Argentina government (in Spanish)

Crime

Distraction thefts commonly occur in:

Be suspicious of strangers approaching you to distract you.

Pickpockets and bag snatchers often work in pairs or groups and employ a variety of ruses to divert their victim’s attention. Common scams include:

In some cases, thieves on foot work with thieves on motorcycles, “motochorros,” to snatch purses and backpacks.

Armed robberies and muggings occur in urban centres. While most victims are not physically injured, criminals may use violence if opposed. If robbed, hand over your cash and valuables without resistance.

Avoid walking alone after dark, especially in the downtown areas of major cities.

If you are a victim of a crime, inform the police and get a police report. It is not possible to file a police report from abroad or for the Canadian embassy to do it on your behalf.

Buenos Aires

In Buenos Aires, be cautious in all tourist areas, particularly in:

In La Boca, always remain on Caminito Street. Violent thefts often occur in neighbouring streets. Avoid the area after dark.

Mendoza

In Mendoza, crime has increased considerably. Some incidents involve violence. Be cautious and alert at all times, particularly in the bus terminal and General San Martín Park. Avoid walking in unpopulated areas at night.

Vehicle theft

Theft from unattended vehicles, especially rental cars, is common throughout the country, particularly in Bariloche and Mendoza. Belongings are stolen from the trunk of parked cars.

Kidnapping

Though not common, express kidnappings involving tourists have occurred in Argentina. Victims are usually abducted for a few hours and forced to withdraw money from ATMs in order to be released.

Tri-border area

When travelling to Iguazú Falls, exercise caution when crossing the tri-border area between Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay, where criminal activities are known to occur.

Avoid crossing these borders in local taxis or buses after dark.

Demonstrations

Demonstrations, roadblocks and strikes may occur throughout the country at any time.

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

More about mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Public transportation

Use a “remise” (private car with driver) for travel to and from Buenos Aires’ Ministro Pistarini International Airport, also know as Ezeiza International Airport. If you are arriving at Ezeiza, go to an established remise stand in the arrivals area.

Call radio-taxis instead of hailing taxis on the street, particularly in Buenos Aires. If hailing a taxi, ensure that it is marked “radio-taxi” and that the company’s name and telephone number are clearly visible.

Do not share taxis with strangers. Carry small bills to pay for taxi fares. Unscrupulous taxi drivers sometimes trade counterfeit bills for good ones.

There have been several accidents resulting in deaths and injuries involving intercity trains connecting with Buenos Aires.

Road safety

Pedestrians, cyclists and drivers should exercise extreme caution in Argentina, as it has one of the highest traffic accident rates in the world. Many drivers ignore traffic lights and speed limits.

Be particularly vigilant when stopped at traffic lights. Keep windows closed and doors locked at all times due to the risk of theft.

Air travel

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

General information about foreign domestic airlines

Domestic flights are frequently delayed or rescheduled as a result of work stoppages and technical problems at the airports.

Trekking and adventure sports

Ensure that the recreational activities you choose are covered by your travel insurance and that sporting equipment is safe and in good condition.

Many operators do not conduct regular safety checks.

If you intend to trek:

Mount Aconcagua

Prior to ascending Mount Aconcagua, contact the Mendoza Tourism Board for more information:

More about trekking in Aconcagua Provincial Park - Government of Mendoza

Stay on marked paths. Respect the mandatory itinerary provided by the park.

General security information

If you are planning to attend a soccer game, ensure that the stadium is located in a safe area. Monitor news reports to determine if violence is expected during or following the game.

Entry/exit requirements

COVID-19 - Entry, exit and transit restrictions and requirements

In an attempt to limit the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19), most governments have implemented special entry and exit restrictions and requirements for their territory. While some countries have started to ease some of these measures, most remain in place.

Before travelling, verify if the local authorities of both your current location and destinations have implemented any specific restrictions or requirements related to this situation. Consider even your transit points, as many destinations have implemented strict transit rules which could disrupt your travel.

These could include:

Additional restrictions can be imposed suddenly. Airlines can also suspend or reduce flights without notice. Your travel plans may be severely disrupted, making it difficult for you to return home. You should not depend on the Government of Canada for assistance related to changes to your travel plans.

Foreign diplomatic offices in Canada – Global Affairs Canada

COVID-19 - Flights suspension

Many airlines have suspended their flights to Argentina and many airports in the region have been closed.

Contact your airline or tour operator regarding your travel plans.

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Argentine authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with foreign diplomatic missions and consulates in Canada.

Passport

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for the expected duration of your stay in Argentina.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest diplomatic mission for your destination.

Useful links

Visas

Tourist visa: Not required
Business visa: Not required
Student visa: Required

Other entry requirements

Upon entry into and exit from Argentina, all passengers, regardless of their citizenship, are submitted to biometrics checks, such as digital fingerprints and a digital photograph, at the immigration counter.

Dual citizenship

Canadian-Argentine dual citizens may leave Argentina on their Canadian passport if they entered on that passport within the last 180 days. Once this period has elapsed, they must leave on a valid Argentine passport.

Laws about dual citizenship

Children and travel

Learn about travel with children.

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Health

Related Travel Health Notices
Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably six weeks before you travel.
Vaccines

Routine Vaccines

Be sure that your routine vaccines, as per your province or territory, are up-to-date regardless of your travel destination.

Some of these vaccines include: measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Vaccines to Consider

You may be at risk for these vaccine-preventable diseases while travelling in this country. Talk to your travel health professional about which ones are right for you.

Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A is a disease of the liver spread through contaminated food and water or contact with an infected person. All those travelling to regions with a risk of hepatitis A infection should get vaccinated.

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is a disease of the liver spread through blood or other bodily fluids. Travellers who may be exposed (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) should get vaccinated.

Influenza

Seasonal influenza occurs worldwide. The flu season usually runs from November to April in the northern hemisphere, between April and October in the southern hemisphere and year round in the tropics. Influenza (flu) is caused by a virus spread from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Get the flu shot.

Measles

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

Yellow Fever - Country Entry Requirements

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

Risk

  • There is a risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

  • Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

  • Vaccination is recommended depending on your itinerary.
  • There is currently a shortage of the yellow fever vaccine in Canada. It is important for travellers to contact a designated Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre well in advance of their trip to ensure that the vaccine is available.
  • Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
  • Protect yourself from mosquito bites.

About Yellow Fever
Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada
* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

Food/Water

Food and Water-borne Diseases

Travellers to any destination in the world can develop travellers' diarrhea from consuming contaminated water or food.

In some areas in South America, food and water can also carry diseases like cholera, hepatitis A, schistosomiasis and typhoid. Practise safe food and water precautions while travelling in South America. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!

Travellers' diarrhea
  • Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.
  • Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.
  • The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.
Typhoid

Typhoid is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.


Insects

Insects and Illness

In some areas in South America, certain insects carry and spread diseases like American trypanosomiasis (Chagas disease), chikungunya, dengue fever, leishmaniasis, malaria, onchocerciasis (river blindness), West Nile virus , yellow fever and Zika virus.

Travellers are advised to take precautions against bites.

Chikungunya

There is currently a risk of chikungunya in this country. Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

Dengue
  • In this country, dengue fever is a risk to travellers year-round.  It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
  • Dengue fever can cause severe flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to dengue haemorrhagic fever, which can be fatal.
  • The level of risk of dengue fever changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. After a decline in reported dengue cases worldwide in 2017 and 2018, global numbers have been steeply rising again.
  • Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
  • Protect yourself from mosquito bites. There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue fever.
Zika Virus

Zika virus is a risk in this country.

Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.

Pregnant women and women planning a pregnancy should visit a health care professional before travelling to discuss the potential risks of travelling to this country. Pregnant women may choose to avoid or postpone travel to this country.

Travel recommendations:

  • Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
  • If you are pregnant, always use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact with anyone who has travelled to this country for the duration of your pregnancy.
  • Women: Wait 2 months after travel to this country or after onset of illness due to Zika virus (whichever is longer) before trying for a pregnancy. If your male partner travelled with you, wait 3 months after travel or after onset of illness due to Zika virus (whichever is longer).
  • Men: Wait 3 months after travel to this country or after onset of illness due to Zika virus (whichever is longer) before trying for a pregnancy.

For more travel recommendations, see the travel health notice: Zika virus: Advice for travellers


Malaria

Malaria

There is no risk of malaria in this country.


Animals

Animals and Illness

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, monkeys, snakes, rodents, and bats. Certain infections found in some areas in South America, like rabies, can be shared between humans and animals.


Person-to-Person

Person-to-Person Infections

Crowded conditions can increase your risk of certain illnesses. Remember to wash your hands often and practice proper cough and sneeze etiquette to avoid colds, the flu and other illnesses.

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV are spread through blood and bodily fluids; practise safer sex.


Medical services and facilities

Medical facilities are good in Buenos Aires but limited elsewhere. Certain medications may not be available.

Hospital physicians often expect immediate cash payment for medical care, so ensure you have access to sufficient funds. Contact your insurance company promptly if you are referred to a medical facility for treatment.

See Travel Insurance for more information.

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

Laws and culture

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.

Illegal activities

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines.

Driving

You should carry an international driving permit.

More about the International Driving Permit

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Argentina.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Argentina, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements.

General information for travellers with dual citizenship

Money

The currency is the Argentine peso (ARS).

Foreign credit and debit cards are accepted in main cities. When using credit cards, ensure that your card remains in your view. You may be required to produce photo identification, such as a driver’s licence or a photocopy of your passport, when paying with a credit card.

Cash withdrawals from foreign bank accounts at ATMs are subject to low limits per withdrawal and per day. Substantial service charges may apply when using non-Argentine bank cards. Check with your bank before leaving Canada.

Natural disasters and climate

Seismic activity

The provinces of San Juan and Mendoza are in a seismic zone and are subject to earthquakes.

More about seismic activity in Argentina - National institute of seismic prevention (in Spanish only)

Volcanoes

Several volcanoes in the Andes region on the border with Chile can erupt at any time and cause the evacuation of local residents. Ash emanating from volcanic eruptions can disrupt air transportation and cause airport closures. Debris from erupting volcanoes may clog rivers and cause them to overflow, which could in turn cause flash floods and landslides.

If you live or are travelling in areas near volcanoes, monitor local news for current information and follow the advice of local authorities.

Border crossings can close due to earthquakes or severe weather conditions.

Flooding

Seasonal flooding may occur in Argentina’s northern provinces and heavy rains may cause flash floods in the province of Buenos Aires. Keep informed of regional weather forecasts and plan accordingly.

Assistance

Local services

Emergency services

In case of emergency, dial:

  • police: 911 / 101
  • tourist police:
    • in Buenos Aires: +54 11 4323-8900 ext. 116311; mobile: +54 911 5050 3293 or +54911 5050 9260
    • in Mendoza: +54 261 413 2135
  • medical assistance:
    • in Buenos Aires: 107
    • outside Buenos Aires: 911
  • firefighters: 911 / 100

Consular assistance

Emergency consular services

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Embassy of Canada to Argentina, in Buenos Aires, will be temporary closed to in-person visits until further notice.

If you need emergency consular assistance, contact the Embassy by email or telephone.

Buenos Aires - Embassy of Canada
Street AddressTagle 2828, C1425EEH Buenos Aires, ArgentinaTelephone54 (11) 4808-1000Fax54 (11) 4808-1111Emailbairs-cs@international.gc.caInternetwww.argentina.gc.caServicesPassport Services AvailableFacebookEmbassy of Canada to ArgentinaTwitter@CanadaArgentina

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada in Buenos Aires and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

You may make a collect call (via the international operator at 000) to the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa at 1-613-996-8885.


The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. The Government of Canada takes the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provides credible and timely information in its Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad. In the event of a large-scale emergency, every effort will be made to provide assistance. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

See Large-scale emergencies abroad for more information.

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