In a significant step to strengthen bilateral ties and boost tourism, the Argentine government has announced that Indian passport holders with valid US tourist visas no longer need an Argentine visa or Electronic Travel Authorization (AVE) to enter the country. The decision, published in the Official Gazette, is effective immediately.
What the New Policy Means
Ordinary passport holders from India can now travel to Argentina hassle-free, provided they carry a current US visa. The National Immigration Directorate will verify eligibility in coordination with relevant authorities before granting entry. Importantly, no additional fees or applications will be required, removing a major barrier for Indian travelers.
Building on Previous Initiatives
This reform follows Argentina’s similar visa waiver last month for China and the Dominican Republic. The move is part of a broader effort to reinvigorate inbound tourism and reduce bureaucratic hurdles under President Javier Milei’s deregulation agenda.
Diplomatic Push and Tourism Potential
Tourism Secretary Daniel Scioli praised the measure, calling it a step to “facilitate inbound tourism and support Argentine sports.” Deregulation Minister Federico Sturzennegger highlighted that more than 2.2 million Indians traveled to the US in 2024, and with the US granting over one million visas annually to Indians, the new policy could significantly expand Argentina’s visitor base.
The change also follows diplomatic nudges from Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his July meeting with President Milei in Buenos Aires, underscoring India’s growing importance in Argentina’s global outreach strategy.
Economic and Cultural Impact
With bilateral trade already valued at $6 billion annually, closer people-to-people ties are expected to further strengthen cooperation in technology, agriculture, renewable energy, and sports. Tourism contributes more than 5% to Argentina’s GDP, and tapping into India’s expanding outbound travel market could add millions in revenue.
Iconic destinations such as Patagonia, Iguazu Falls, and Buenos Aires are likely to benefit most as airlines and travel agencies ramp up promotions targeting Indian tourists.
