On Wednesday, Argentina’s right-wing President Javier Milei issued a decree introducing strict immigration controls aimed at limiting the influx of migrants into the South American country. The move aligns closely with immigration restriction policies once implemented by former U.S. President Donald Trump and marks a significant shift from Argentina’s historically open stance toward immigration.
At a campaign rally for Buenos Aires City Legislature candidate Manuel Adoni, who also serves as the presidential spokesperson, Milei emphasized the need to “respect our history and make Argentina great again.” The new administrative order imposes tougher requirements on immigrants seeking citizenship, including a mandate for continuous residence in Argentina for at least two years or making a substantial financial investment within the country. Immigrants applying for permanent residency must provide proof of income or sufficient funds and must have no criminal record in their home country.
A notable aspect of the decree is the requirement that foreign nationals pay for public healthcare and education services, which have traditionally been free since legislation introduced by former President Néstor Kirchner in 2003. Additionally, all travelers entering Argentina must now have valid health insurance coverage. According to Adoni, public hospitals spent approximately $100 million last year treating foreign nationals, a figure he cited without presenting official documentation. He asserted that these measures are designed to ensure the sustainability of the public health system and to prevent it from becoming a “profit center” subsidized by Argentine taxpayers.
The decree also streamlines the process for deporting undocumented immigrants, those with forged immigration documents, or foreigners convicted of minor offenses. Previously, deportations were limited to individuals convicted of crimes with sentences of three years or more. The new order directs the judiciary to expedite immigration court proceedings, which are often lengthy.
This shift in policy has generated significant debate and criticism. Argentina has long prided itself on its tradition of welcoming immigrants from Latin America, the Arab world, Asia, and more recently Russia, providing pathways to citizenship and access to essential public services. Critics warn that the new measures challenge this legacy and may exacerbate rising anti-immigrant sentiments.
Several provinces in northern Argentina, as well as Buenos Aires City, have already begun charging non-resident foreigners for medical services. The decree also allows universities to charge foreign students for studying abroad. These changes come amid substantial government budget cuts that have placed public universities and hospitals under financial strain, forcing them to reconsider service provision models.
Supporters of the policy argue that these reforms protect national resources and prioritize Argentine citizens, while opponents express concern that the changes could undermine Argentina’s historical openness and social cohesion.
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