Argentina Moves Closer to U.S. Visa Waiver Program

argentina Kicks Off Push for US Visa Waiver program Amid High-Level Security Talks

Buenos Aires, Argentina – Argentina is set to begin the formal process of rejoining the United states’ Visa Waiver Program (VWP) starting Monday, a move that could significantly ease travel for Argentine citizens heading to the U.S. for tourism or business. The development comes as Javier Milei’s government hosts a key U.S. official, Secretary of National Security Kristi Noem, a strong proponent of border security and a figure closely aligned with former President Donald trump.

While the initiation of the process marks a notable step, sources confirm that entry into the VWP is not immediate. Argentina must first successfully navigate a series of rigorous evaluations and security checks to demonstrate compliance with U.S. standards. Historically, the VWP application process for other nations has spanned several months, contingent on meeting specific criteria and the political will of both governments.

To qualify for the VWP, countries are required to meet stringent requirements in areas such as counter-terrorism, law enforcement, immigration control, document security, and border management. Crucially, this includes maintaining a low non-immigrant visa refusal rate, issuing secure travel documents, and fostering close collaboration with U.S. law enforcement and counter-terrorism agencies.

Argentina previously enjoyed VWP status between 1996 and 2002, before its removal by the George W. Bush management during the severe economic crisis of 2001.

Secretary Noem’s visit, following a postponement due to the passing of Pope Francis, underscores the strengthening diplomatic ties between the two nations. Her arrival marks the fourth high-ranking U.S. official to meet with President Milei, following visits from Treasury Secretary Scott Betting, Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and southern Command Head Alvin Holsey. These engagements are reciprocal, with key Argentine ministers, including Foreign Affairs Minister Gerardo Werthein and Interior Minister Luis Petri, having recently visited Washington D.C. for crucial meetings.

The rapport between Milei and individuals associated with the Trump administration was evident in April of this year when both figures were honored at the American patriots gala hosted at Mar-a-Lago.Noem,who served as Governor of South Dakota from 2019 to 2025,gained national prominence for her staunch opposition to COVID-19 mandates,including mask-wearing and lockdowns,positions that mirrored those of Donald Trump.

What is the primary metric currently driving Argentina’s progress towards joining the U.S. Visa Waiver Program?

Current Status & Recent Developments

As of July 27, 2025, Argentina is significantly advancing in its efforts to join the U.S. Visa Waiver Program (VWP). This program allows citizens of participating countries to travel to the United States for tourism, business, or transit for stays of 90 days or less without obtaining a visa. The key metric driving this progress is a sustained reduction in visa refusal rates. Recent data indicates Argentina has met the crucial threshold of less than 3% visa refusal rate for B-1/B-2 visas – a primary requirement for VWP eligibility.

This improvement is largely attributed to economic stabilization efforts within Argentina adn enhanced vetting procedures implemented by the Argentine government in collaboration with U.S. authorities. The U.S. Department of State continuously monitors these rates,and consistent adherence to the 3% threshold is vital for continued progress.

Understanding the Visa Waiver Program Requirements

The VWP isn’t simply about eliminating visa requirements. It’s a rigorous program with specific criteria. beyond the visa refusal rate, Argentina must demonstrate:

Information Sharing: Robust data sharing agreements with U.S. law enforcement and intelligence agencies regarding criminal records and travel history.

Secure Travel Documents: Possession of e-passports – passports with an embedded electronic chip containing biometric information. Argentina fully implemented e-passports in 2023.

Law Enforcement Cooperation: Active collaboration with U.S. authorities on counterterrorism and transnational crime efforts.

Reporting Lost or Stolen Passports: A system for reporting lost or stolen passports to INTERPOL.

Adherence to Program Rules: Commitment to upholding the terms of the VWP, including participation in the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA).

Timeline & Expected Implementation

While a definitive date hasn’t been announced, experts predict Argentina could be officially added to the VWP in late 2025 or early 2026. The process involves several stages:

1. Continued Monitoring: The U.S. Department of State will continue to monitor Argentina’s visa refusal rates and compliance with other VWP requirements.
2. Congressional Notification: If Argentina maintains eligibility, the Department of State will notify the U.S.Congress.
3. Public Comment Period: A period for public comment will follow the Congressional notification.
4. Official Designation: Following the comment period and Congressional review, the Secretary of Homeland Security will make the final designation.

Benefits for Argentine Travelers

Joining the VWP will offer important advantages for Argentine citizens traveling to the U.S.:

Simplified Travel: No more lengthy visa submission processes and interviews.

Reduced Costs: Eliminates visa application fees, which can be substantial.

Increased Spontaneity: Allows for more flexible travel planning, as trips can be arranged with shorter notice.

Boost to Tourism & Business: Expected to increase tourism and business travel between Argentina and the United States.

Enhanced Bilateral Relations: Strengthens the relationship between the two countries.

ESTA: What Argentine Travelers Need to Know

Once Argentina is included in the VWP, travelers will need to obtain approval through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) before traveling to the U.S. ESTA is a fully online application process.

Here’s what to expect:

application Fee: Currently $21 USD (subject to change).

Processing Time: typically takes 72 hours, but it’s recommended to apply well in advance of travel.

Validity: ESTA authorization is generally valid for two years or until the passport expires,whichever comes first.

Eligibility: Not all travelers are eligible for ESTA. Individuals with certain criminal records or medical conditions might potentially be denied.

Official Website: https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/ – Always use the official website to avoid scams.

Impact on U.S.-Argentina Relations

The potential inclusion of Argentina in the VWP is a positive growth for U.S.-Argentina relations. It signifies increased trust and cooperation between the two countries. This move is also seen as a reward for Argentina’s efforts to address U.S. security concerns and improve its immigration controls. The increased travel and economic activity resulting from the VWP are expected to further strengthen the bilateral relationship.

Practical Tips for Argentine Travelers

Monitor official Announcements: Stay updated on the latest news and announcements from the U.S. Department of State and the Argentine Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Ensure Passport Validity: Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the U.S.

Familiarize Yourself with ESTA: Review the ESTA application requirements and process on the official website.

Plan Ahead: Even after the VWP is implemented, apply for ESTA well in advance of your travel dates.

Be Prepared for Scrutiny: while the process will be simplified, U.