Argentina Waives Visa Requirement for Chinese and Dominican Citizens with U.S. Visas
The measure, published in the Official Gazette, aims to boost tourism and business based on principles of reciprocity and the strengthening of air connectivity.
The Government of Argentina has established a visa waiver for citizens of the People's Republic of China and the Dominican Republic who hold a valid and current visa issued by the United States. The decision, which applies exclusively to entries for tourism and, in the case of China, also for business, was formalized through Resolution 316/2025, published this Monday in the Official Gazette.
The new regulation eliminates the need to process not only an Argentine consular visa but also the Electronic Travel Authorization (AVE), a permit that was previously required. According to the resolution signed by the Vice-Chief of Staff of the Interior, Lisandro Catalán, this flexibility is based on Argentina's confidence in the rigorous evaluation processes that the United States conducts to issue its visas.
Key Information on the New Measure
Beneficiaries: Citizens of China and the Dominican Republic.
Requirement: Hold an ordinary passport and a valid, current United States visa for a similar migratory category (tourism or business).
Length of Stay: Up to 90 days for Dominican citizens (tourism) and up to 30 days for Chinese citizens (tourism and business).
Extension: A one-time extension of the stay can be requested.
Simplification: Eliminates the need for an Argentine consular visa and the Electronic Travel Authorization (AVE).
The official text argues that the measure aligns with a principle of diplomatic reciprocity. In this regard, it notes that China implemented a unilateral visa exemption for Argentine citizens, effective between May 2024 and May 2026. Similarly, the Dominican Republic already allows visa-free entry for Argentine tourists.
Policy Rationale and Future Steps
The Secretary of Tourism, Environment, and Sports, Daniel Scioli, celebrated the initiative on his social media, describing it as "one more step towards simplification, freedom of movement, and smart tourism."
Expanding on the measure's justification, Federico Sturzenegger, a presidential advisor on deregulation, offered additional context. Sturzenegger explained that the historical restriction on the Dominican Republic originated when the country "was considered a hub for human trafficking," but stated that "that is in the past." Regarding China, he described hindering access for visitors from a country that offers "unparalleled potential to sell tourism services to" as "indefensible."
In a social media post, the official framed this resolution as "a first step," anticipating that it is an improvement "that we will surely have to expand much more." Sturzenegger revealed the measure originated from a request by Scioli, which was "immediately received" by Foreign Minister Diana Mondino, and that his deregulation team is now working to broaden its scope.
Impact on Air Connectivity
This migratory facilitation comes at a time of expanding air connectivity between Argentina and the Caribbean. The Dominican low-cost carrier Arajet recently announced the launch of flights between Punta Cana (PUJ) and Córdoba (COR), its second destination in the country.
With this addition, the airline will operate a total of 18 weekly flights to Argentina. Arajet's network in the country will be structured as follows:
Punta Cana (PUJ) – Buenos Aires (EZE): 13 weekly flights.
Santo Domingo (SDQ) – Buenos Aires (EZE): 2 weekly flights.
Punta Cana (PUJ) – Córdoba (COR): 3 weekly flights.
The simplification of entry requirements for Dominican citizens could generate an increase in passenger demand on these routes. As for the Chinese market, although there are no direct operations, the measure could encourage travelers from that country to choose Argentina as a destination, using the numerous air hubs in the Americas and Europe for their connections.
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