Reform of the Argentine Citizenship Regime by Naturalization

DNU 366/2025: Reform of the Argentine Citizenship Regime by Naturalization

The Emergency and Necessity Decree (DNU) No. 366/2025, issued on May 29, 2025, introduced substantial changes to migration policy regarding the acquisition of Argentine citizenship by naturalization.

The main innovation is the change of jurisdiction, transforming a historically judicial process into an administrative and digital procedure under the authority of the National Directorate of Migration (DNM).
This new system has been in operation since October 6, 2025.

I. From Judicial to Administrative Process

Law No. 346 on Citizenship was amended, eliminating the involvement of the Federal Courts in the initial application stage.

New role of the DNM:
The National Directorate of Migration now holds exclusive authority to receive, evaluate, and grant citizenship by naturalization.

Digitalized process:
The application is initiated entirely online through the RaDEX system (Remote Processing of Foreigners’ Residency), available on the official Migration website.
The goal is to streamline procedures, although the digital format requires greater documentary accuracy and strict compliance with formal requirements.

Essential condition:
The applicant must be physically present in Argentina at the time of initiating the application.

II. Residency: Continuous, Legal, and Without Leaving the Country

Basic requirement (Art. 2, Sec. 1, Law 346):
Foreign nationals over 18 years old, holding temporary or permanent residence, may apply for citizenship if they can prove continuous and legal residence in Argentina for the two years prior to the application.

Stricter definition of “continuous residence”:
The reform introduces a more restrictive interpretation:

“A foreign national will be deemed to have resided continuously in the country if they have not left Argentina at any time during the two-year period.”

III. Strengthened Documentary Requirements

Although the procedure is simplified through its digital start, the DNU reinforces documentary requirements aimed at proving the applicant’s genuine ties to Argentina and regular economic situation.

Proof of livelihood:
Applicants must submit documentation supporting their professional or employment activity and means of sustenance in the country, such as CUIT/CUIL certificates or equivalent documentation.

Criminal background:
An updated Criminal Record Certificate, issued by the National Registry of Recidivism, must be submitted.