The Reciprocity Fee
In the past, Australian citizens traveling to Argentina on an Australian passport were required to pay a reciprocity fee of US $100.00 (AU $126.31) when traveling to Argentina for either business or tourism. While the reciprocity fee was valid for multiple entries into the country and was good for a year, it was apparently a deterrent to tourism.
The reciprocity fee also required extra paperwork for those traveling on an Australian passport. Travelers had to keep the electronic receipt with their passports to show to their airline and again to immigration authorities when arriving in Argentina, where it had to be validated to enter the country.
However, that extra complication involved in traveling to Argentina is now gone.
The Lifting of the Reciprocity Fee
As of July 1, 2017, Argentina has lifted the reciprocity fee for Australian citizens entering Argentina.
This parallels the lifting of equivalent fees for Canadian and United States citizens within the previous year, and it’s part of a general loosening of travel restrictions, all part of the Argentinian government’s efforts to make the country more affordable and more competitive as a travel destination.
Another big plus for Australian and other foreign visitors coming to Argentina: If you pay for your accommodations with an international credit or debit card, you receive a direct refund of Argentina’s 21-percent VAT. Previous currency restrictions have also been lifted, making it possible to count on a fair exchange rate when using credit cards, ATMs and banks.
Remaining Requirements for Entering Argentina from Australia
Now that the reciprocity fee has been discontinued, travel to Argentina is much easier. You need a valid ordinary passport and a return ticket. You may have to provide an Argentinian address or show that you have enough funds for your stay. If you are traveling for reasons other than business or tourism, you may need a visa. You’re typically allowed to stay 90 days when you enter Argentina, and you can usually extend that for another 90 days.
With the lifting of the reciprocity fee and the loosening of other restrictions, as well as improved air travel, Argentina hopes to see increased tourism from other countries, including from Australia, over the next few years.