Entry Process

Entering Argentina from Chile is straightforward thanks to Mercosur agreements.1 Here’s the simple process:

1. Prepare Your ID

You can enter Argentina with either:

• Chilean national ID card (cédula de identidad)2
• Chilean passport

The ID card is sufficient and more convenient for most border crossings.

2. Arrive at Border

At the border checkpoint, you’ll:

• Present your ID or passport to Chilean exit control
• Receive an exit stamp
• Proceed to Argentine entry control
• Present your ID or passport
• Fill out a migration card (provided free)

3. Keep Your Migration Card

You’ll receive a tourist card that you must keep for your entire stay. Return it when exiting Argentina. Take a photo as backup.

Popular Border Crossings

Chile and Argentina share dozens of border crossings along the Andes.1

Winter Warning: Many Andean crossings close during winter (June-September) due to heavy snow. Check conditions before traveling.

Driving to Argentina

If you’re driving a Chilean vehicle across the border:1

Required Documents:

• Vehicle registration (padrón del vehículo)
• Valid driver’s license
• Notarized authorization letter if you’re not the registered owner
• Valid insurance covering Argentina

Getting Insurance:

• Purchase at the border from insurance offices
• Or buy online in advance from Argentine insurers
• Chilean insurance typically doesn’t cover Argentina

Important Notes:

• Rental cars often cannot cross international borders (check with company)
• Keep all vehicle documents accessible at the border
• Some crossings have vehicle inspections

What You Can Bring

Argentina has customs regulations on goods entering the country:

Allowed Without Declaration:

• Personal effects and clothing
• Camera, laptop, phone for personal use
• Gifts up to US$300 value
• 400 cigarettes and 2 liters of alcohol

Restricted/Prohibited:

• Fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy (agricultural controls)
• Plants and seeds
• Large amounts of cash (over US$10,000 must be declared)
• Weapons and certain medications

Extending Your Stay

Chilean citizens can stay 90 days per visit.1 To stay longer:

Option 1: Border Run Exit to Chile briefly and re-enter for a new 90-day period. This is common and accepted for occasional extensions.

Option 2: Immigration Extension Apply at Dirección Nacional de Migraciones offices in Argentina. Extensions are granted for valid reasons.

Option 3: Temporary Residency As a Mercosur citizen, Chileans can apply for temporary residency in Argentina, allowing legal stay and work for 2 years (renewable to permanent residency).2

Tips for a Smooth Crossing

1. Check border hours: Some crossings have limited hours, especially in winter
2. Arrive early: Popular crossings like Los Libertadores get busy during holidays
3. Bring both ID and passport: Some situations may require passport
4. Have cash: Not all border facilities accept cards
5. Check weather: Mountain crossings close during snowstorms
6. Keep migration card safe: You need it to exit Argentina

Currency and Money

• Argentina uses the Argentine Peso (ARS)
• Exchange rates fluctuate significantly
• Many places accept US dollars at competitive rates
• ATMs available but may have withdrawal limits
• Credit cards widely accepted in cities
• Carry cash for smaller towns and border areas

If Entry is Refused

Entry refusal is extremely rare for Chilean citizens but can occur for:

• Expired or damaged ID/passport
• Outstanding immigration violations from previous visits
• Serious criminal record
• Missing vehicle documentation when driving

If refused, you’ll receive an explanation. Most issues can be resolved by obtaining valid documents or paying outstanding fines.