Visa Process Overview
Below is a general overview of your expected student visa or residence permit application process. Step-by-step instructions on how to apply for your student visa will be posted below as soon as they are updated for your specific departure cycle. As instructions are posted for your program and cycle, you will receive an email notification.
The visa application process, including requirements and fees, are subject to change.
What type of visa do I need?
You will be applying for a Transitory Visa for Cultural Exchange, which is a type of student visa for Argentina.
How do I apply for the visa?You must apply for your visa through the Consulate Office of the Argentine Embassy which has jurisdiction over your state. You will either be required to apply in-person with your passport and additional required documents or you may be able to send them to the Consulate to be processed. The Consulates of Houston, Los Angeles, New York, and Washington DC require in-person appointments.
What documents will I need to collect in order to apply for the visa?- United States Passport valid for at least six months after your return
- Visa Application Form
- Passport-sized Photographs
- FBI Background Check - for applicants 16 and older upon arrival in Argentina (requires an Apostille and must be officially translated into Spanish)
- Parental Consent Form (Who needs to sign?) (may require an Apostille)
- Birth Certificate (may require an Apostille)
You will also receive additional documents from AFS-USA and AFS-Argentina necessary for applying for your visa.
Requirements may vary between Consulates. Additional documents may be required. Do not begin collecting your documents until you are notified by AFS.
When do I apply for the visa?You must begin applying for your visa six months before your departure.
How much will the visa cost?The current visa fee is approximately $250 USD. You will pay $50 USD to the Argentine Consulate in the USA when you submit your visa application and $200 USD to immigration officials in Argentina. AFS-USA will bill you for the $200 USD.
Are there any other expected costs?There are many additional costs involved in obtaining, translating, notarizing, legalizing, or mailing the required documents. There may also be additional costs associated with traveling to the Consulate for an in-person appointment.
Are any of these costs covered in my AFS program tuition?No, your program fee does not cover any of the costs related to obtaining your passport or visa.
Can I travel before the start of my program?You should not plan any excursions outside of the United States three months prior to your program. If you travel before the start of your program, you will run the risk of not being able to participate on your program.
Full Visa Instructions
If you are participating in a Year or Semester program to Argentina, you will be notified when the full visa instructions are available. Do not begin the visa process until you are notified by AFS.
If you are participating in a summer program to Argentina departing in June 2012, please see the Visa Information for the Summer Program.
Fees and requirements are determined by immigration authorities and are subject to change at any time. For help with any terms, please view the Visa Glossary.
