Banking & Finance
From opening an account to wiring money home, banking in Argentina has its own set of rules. This guide walks you through all of them.
Banking Overview in Argentina
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Currency | Argentine peso (ARS) $ |
| Bank Account for Foreigners | May be possible — confirm with the bank |
| Access Difficulty | Medium |
| Remote Opening | No |
| Wise Available | No |
| N26 Available | No |
Opening a Bank Account in Argentina
Foreign nationals may be able to open a bank account in Argentina, but we have not independently verified this — confirm the current rules directly with the bank, in writing, before you rely on it. The process difficulty is rated as medium, which means you should expect some bureaucracy and possibly language barriers.
Required Documents
- Valid passport or national ID
- Proof of address / residence registration
- Residence permit (if applicable)
- Tax identification number (if available)
- Initial deposit (amount varies by bank)
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Banks in Argentina — remote & non-resident opening
Named banks operating in Argentina, and what our automated research found about non-resident remote account opening (no branch visit required). This has not been verified by a human reviewer — use it as a starting point and confirm directly with the bank.
| Bank | Remote opening | Confidence | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Banco de la Nación Argentina | May require an in-person visit — confirm with the bank directly | High | Requires CUIT, Argentine visa and in-person branch appointment, no remote non-resident opening. |
| Banco Galicia | May require an in-person visit — confirm with the bank directly | High | Requires DNI or passport plus Argentine domicile, online option needs local residency documents. |
| Banco Macro | May require an in-person visit — confirm with the bank directly | High | Requires DNI and CUIL and Argentine domicile, in-person, no remote non-resident opening. |
| Banco Santander Argentina | May require an in-person visit — confirm with the bank directly | High | Local retail bank requiring DNI or residency and Argentine domicile, in-person. |
| BBVA Argentina | May require an in-person visit — confirm with the bank directly | Medium | Serves residents and non-residents but requires CUIL local domicile and in-person, no remote opening. |
Last checked 2026-06-22 · Source: official bank websites, gathered via automated research that has not been reviewed by our founder — treat every row as a lead, not a verified fact, and confirm directly with the bank before you rely on it. Research confidence: High = clear supporting evidence found · Medium = partial or indirect evidence · Low = weak or conflicting evidence · Unrated = no confidence assessment recorded (unreviewed automated research).
Digital Banking Options
Wise (TransferWise)
Wise has limited availability in Argentina. While you may be able to send money to Argentina, full local account features may not be available. Check their website for the latest on Argentina-specific services.
N26
We have no record of N26 operating in Argentina — check N26's own country list, as their coverage changes. You may need to consider local digital bank alternatives or traditional banks.
International Transfers
When transferring money to or from Argentina, consider these factors:
- Exchange rate: The currency is ARS. Always compare the offered rate with the mid-market rate.
- Transfer fees: Transfer fees vary — compare providers like Wise for the best rates.
- Transfer speed: Bank-to-bank (SWIFT) transfers take 2-5 business days. Digital services often complete within 1-2 days.
- Regular transfers: If sending money home regularly, set up a recurring transfer to lock in better rates.
Salary and Everyday Banking
The average salary in Argentina is approximately €772 per month. Your employer will typically require a local bank account for salary deposits. Most banks offer:
- Debit card (Visa or Mastercard)
- Online banking portal and mobile app
- Direct debit setup for rent and utilities
- ATM withdrawals (check fee policies)
Tips for Expats
- Ask about expat-friendly packages: Some banks offer special accounts for foreign residents with English-language support and lower fees.
- Get a local phone number first: Most banks require a local mobile number for SMS verification. Set this up before visiting the branch.
- Use a multi-currency card: A multi-currency travel card (Wise, Revolut) saves you exchange fees during the transition period.
- Set up online banking immediately: Most routine transactions can be handled online or via app, saving you queues and branch visits.
- Learn key banking terms: A few words in the local language go a long way at the bank counter and when reading statements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a residence permit to open a bank account in Argentina?
Many banks in Argentina require a residence permit or proof of address before opening an account. Requirements vary between banks, so shop around.
Is cryptocurrency banking available in Argentina?
Cryptocurrency regulation in Argentina varies. Some banks allow crypto-related transactions while others restrict them. Dedicated crypto exchanges operate in many countries. Check local regulations before trading or holding crypto assets in Argentina.
Are there any fees for maintaining a bank account in Argentina?
Many banks in Argentina charge monthly maintenance fees ranging from $2 to $15. Some offer free accounts if you maintain a minimum balance or receive a regular salary.
How do ATM withdrawals work in Argentina?
ATMs are widely available in Argentina. Your bank's ATM network is usually free; out-of-network ATMs may charge $1-5 per withdrawal. International cards may incur additional fees.
What happens to my bank account if I leave Argentina?
Most banks in Argentina allow you to keep your account open even after leaving, though some may require an address in Argentina. It is advisable to switch to a basic or non-resident account to avoid unnecessary fees. Close standing orders and direct debits before leaving.
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About the author
António Mira is the founder of whereTOemigrate. For over a decade he has worked at the intersection of Portuguese real estate and overseas business, helping international clients navigate the cross-border decisions that come with relocating. He sits on the board of CCIAP (Portuguese-Arab Chamber of Commerce), the Portuguese-Saudi Business Council, and the Portugal-Hong Kong Business Association — always with one focus: enabling overseas business and human mobility into and out of Portugal.
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