Rentista Visa for Germans
Complete guide to obtaining the Rentista Visa (Residency for Passive Income) as a German citizen. Specific requirements, timeline, and process for Germany passport holders.
Overview for German Citizens
The Rentista Visa is for individuals with stable passive income from sources outside Argentina. This includes rental income, dividends, pension income, investment returns, or other passive revenue streams. As a German citizen, you have visa-free entry to Argentina for 90 days that affect your pathway to this visa.
Special Considerations for Germans:
- •The Germany-Argentina tax treaty helps prevent double taxation on your pension/investment income.
Is This Visa Right for You?
The Rentista Visa is designed for:
- Retirees with pension income
- Property owners with rental income
- Investors with dividend/interest income
- People with trust fund income
- Those with royalties or licensing income
- Anyone with stable passive income from abroad
Requirements for Germans
Income Requirement
Proof of minimum $1,500-2,000 USD monthly passive income
Additional Requirements
- • Income must be from passive sources (not employment)
- • Income must be stable and documented
- • Valid passport (6+ months)
- • Clean criminal record (apostilled)
- • Proof of address in Argentina
Document Checklist for Germans
As a German citizen, you'll need these documents:
- Valid passport
- Proof of passive income (bank statements, contracts, etc.)
- Documentation of income source (property deeds, investment statements, pension letters)
- Criminal background check (apostilled)
- Birth certificate (apostilled)
- Passport photos
- Proof of address in Argentina
- Criminal background check from Germany (apostilled) - Führungszeugnis from Germany with apostille
Timeline & Process
Processing Time
60-90 days
Visa Duration
1 year (renewable)
Path to Citizenship
After 2 years of temporary residency, can apply for permanent residency → citizenship
Step-by-Step Process
Entry to Argentina
Germans can enter visa-free for 90 days. Use this time to prepare your application.
Gather Documents
Obtain all required documents from Germany. Note: Documents must be apostilled in Germany before travel.
Submit Application
Apply at the Dirección Nacional de Migraciones (DNM) in Buenos Aires or your local migraciones office.
Receive Precaria
You'll receive a temporary authorization (precaria) allowing you to stay legally while processing.
Collect Residency Card
Once approved, collect your DNI (residency card) and enjoy your new life in Argentina!
Costs
Pros & Cons
Advantages
- +No need for employment
- +Designed for financially independent individuals
- +Can lead to permanent residency
- +Flexible - no work restrictions in Argentina
- +Good for retirees and investors
Considerations
- •Must prove ongoing passive income
- •Higher income requirements than some other visas
- •Income must be from passive sources only
- •Annual renewal required initially
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work in Argentina with a Rentista Visa?
Yes, unlike the Digital Nomad Visa, the Rentista Visa allows you to work for Argentine employers or start a business if you choose.
What counts as passive income?
Rental income, dividends, interest, pension income, royalties, licensing fees, and trust distributions. Employment income does NOT qualify.
How do I prove my income?
Bank statements showing regular deposits, contracts, property deeds, pension letters, investment statements - all showing consistent income of at least $1,500-2,000 USD monthly.