The Argentine Republic is a country in South America where they love to dance tango, play football and enjoy every moment. The government is ready to accept up to 100 thousand emigrants a year, so for Russians who have money or a sought-after profession, a desire to work, and the ability to do business, they can quickly become full citizens. But life in Argentina is very different from what is usual at home. Is it worth moving to this wonderful country or is it better to limit yourself to a tourist trip?
Standard of living
Those who dream of a well-paid job and easy adaptation in a prosperous society should immediately look for another direction for immigration. But those who want to live among magnificent nature, on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean or at the foot of the Andes, and often participate in all kinds of holidays, will not regret the move.
Food prices in Argentina in 2021 are quite high compared to the average salary. But specific numbers depend greatly on the region, season, and even store. State prices are set for vegetable oil, sugar and some other products. There are a lot of vegetables and fruits, fish, shrimp on the shelves, but they are not cheap.
Population
Argentina is one of the largest countries in South America. In terms of territory, it is second only to Brazil. But the population in Argentina, due to the climate and terrain, is smaller than in Colombia. The country has a population of about 43.5 million people. And most of them are descendants of emigrants.
Argentinean temperament
As elsewhere in Latin America, it is not customary to hide emotions here. Loud quarrels and violent displays of joy are a common occurrence on city streets. But unlike Russians, it is not typical for Argentine men to immediately start a fight when a conflict arises. Usually they limit themselves to uttering all known curses, and then disperse, and sometimes make up.
For most Argentine women, the main value is family. They rarely strive to make a career, but they dream of great love and children. Couples do not always register their marriage. Argentina has a very kind attitude towards children. They can shout, play pranks, run into the cafe, distract waiters and other visitors, but no one reprimands them.
Diasporas in Argentina
Argentina's population is more than 44 million people. From the point of view of the composition of the inhabitants, what is interesting is not only how many people live in Argentina, but also who they are, because this is a multinational country, a country of immigrants.
The indigenous population is the descendants of the Spaniards, Italians, Irish, French, Arabs and others. Along with the old, there is also new immigration, represented by a large number of diasporas.
Russian diaspora
In general, there is no organized Russian community in Argentina. The bulk of Russian migrants arrived here as a result of the revolutions of the early 20th century and the Great Patriotic War. There are not many new emigrants. In most cases, they moved during the perestroika era.
The way Russians are treated in Argentina can be said this way: they arouse friendly interest. In general, Argentines know as much about Russians as Russians know about Argentines.
Russians who have recently moved to Argentina are mainly hired to work or open small businesses, for example, hairdressers, laundries, and tire shops. Larger businesses can be afforded by those who have lived here for a long time - from 20 years.
Ukrainian diaspora
Argentina currently has about 300 thousand Ukrainians. The main flows of migrants flocked here during the period between the two world wars, in the post-war years, and also after 1993. At that time, the Ukrainian diaspora in Argentina was of interest to the local economy due to the large number of skilled labor.
Now in Argentina there are about 40 Ukrainian public organizations focused on different spheres of life (religion, culture, youth). Most of them are part of the Ukrainian Central Representation in Argentina. There are Ukrainian Sunday schools, churches, and newspapers are published. The diaspora plays a huge role in cooperation and interaction between Argentina and Ukraine.
Belarusian diaspora
It is noteworthy that Belarusians in Argentina began to be mentioned in the second half of the 19th century. Further streams of immigrants, as in the case of Russians and Ukrainians, arrived in the 20th century during the inter- and post-war periods and after the collapse of the Soviet Union.
Initially, Belarusians mastered the pampas by developing agriculture. Now they are also employed in the service sector, industry, and represent a qualified workforce.
Currently, about 120 thousand Belarusians live in Argentina. There are Belarusian and Belarusian-Ukrainian association clubs. Also in 2010, the center of Belarusian culture “Kastus Kalinovsky” opened.
Kazakh diaspora
The Kazakh diaspora in Argentina is small. It has about 500 people. These are mainly immigrants from Kazakhstan who moved here in the 1990s. In December 2021, Kazakh woman Irina Wagner opened the Kazakh Cultural Center in the city of Rosario for anyone interested in the history and traditions of Kazakhstan.
So, Argentina is a multinational country. The way of life here seems interesting, the bright colors and excellent climate attract many migrants and tourists. If you want to continue living in this country, learn as much as possible about the peculiarities of the local mentality and social structure.
Employment in the country
Finding a job in Argentina is difficult. The number of unemployed local people and visitors from poorer countries in Latin America is very high. But by taking part in competitions for various vacancies, it is possible for Russians to find work in Argentina. Both diplomas received in the Russian Federation or the USSR, as well as the ability to work, are valued. Most Argentines do not strive to devote maximum energy and time to work. They communicate a lot, drink mate and do everything very leisurely. But it is important to have a good command of the language.
The average salary in Argentina in 2021 is about $800. But the amount of remuneration in the contract may vary significantly. Specialty, experience, reputation, region and company are important.
Job search
Job vacancy announcements are regularly published in local media. They can also be found on the Internet. The applicant must be prepared that his candidacy will be considered along with 10-15 others. While in Russia, you can also take advantage of the help of agencies offering employment abroad. This method is optimally suited for qualified specialists in the field of oil and gas production and mechanical engineering. There are not very many offers, and there are even fewer people willing to sign a contract with a foreigner.
Demanded specialties and salary levels
Unskilled personnel receive $400-600. Specialists, depending on the region, experience and specialty - from $1000 to $5000. The highest paid professions are doctor, lawyer, engineer, chemist, programmer, as well as electrician and mechanic.
Registration for work
Russian and Soviet diplomas are not recognized in Argentina, so they must be confirmed. Only after this can you apply for specialist vacancies. At the interview, you should immediately clarify whether official employment will involve signing a contract. Many emigrants are forced to accept illegal work, but this deprives them of all social protection and worsens their prospects for obtaining citizenship.
Required documents
To sign a contract with an employer, you must present an ID card and a diploma, if required. The contract must be concluded in writing and certified by the seal of the organization.
Salaries in Argentina
Argentina's GDP level is not the highest - 23 thousand dollars per person. The lowest salary in Argentina is 3-4 dollars per hour. And at the same time, there are quite a lot of people willing to work, even with such pay, twelve hours a day. The country has a high unemployment rate. Finding work in Argentina can also be difficult for foreigners. The minimum established salary is about $550, the average is $800. At the same time, people with minimum wage do not pay income tax.
Average salaries by city:
- Buenos Aires: $800-900;
- Mendos: 600;
- Rosario: 700.
A highly qualified specialist receives from $1,200. The highest paying area is IT; even at the beginning of your career you can earn about $1,500 per month.
Argentine women receive a monthly pension of 300-400 dollars in the event of the death of their breadwinner. In Argentina, the practice of “black” wages is quite common: when the employer pays the official minimum, and the rest bypasses the tax office. We can conclude that the financial standard of living in Argentina is not very high.
This is what Argentinean money looks like - pesos
Education system
The country has overcome illiteracy, but the desire to learn is not one of its national virtues. A significant proportion of young people do not complete high school. The quality of education is higher than in most other Latin American countries, but inferior to European ones.
Preschool
Available for children from 2-3 to 5 years old. It is not mandatory, but in poor families they send their children to kindergartens so that the mother has the opportunity to work. Also, some are attracted by the fact that there the child is prepared for school. In almost all institutions, both private and public, Spanish is spoken.
School
It is divided into primary and secondary (6 and 5-6 years, respectively). It is compulsory for all children, but in many poor families they study for no more than 8-9 years. Public schools are free. Teaching is conducted in Spanish. From the 4th grade, a second language is included in the program. It can be either English, French or Italian.
A school has been opened for the children of Russian specialists and diplomatic workers at the Russian Embassy in Argentina.
Higher
Studying at the country's 38 public universities is also free, but for admission you must successfully pass exams. 47 private universities and institutes have also been opened. The quality of education both provide is quite high. Their diplomas attract employers in all countries of Latin America, but for those who plan to later work in the USA, Europe or Russia, it is more advisable to study there.
Medicine in Argentina
Medicine in Argentina can be paid (insurance) or free. Anyone can receive treatment for free. This opportunity is provided even to foreigners and immigrants. It is enough to have a foreign passport. True, the state of free clinics is deplorable, unless they live at charitable expense. But despite this, the doctors are very polite and attentive. And their qualifications are in no way inferior to doctors from private clinics, because a private doctor is required to work at least once a week in a municipal hospital. It is not customary to give bribes or “thank yous” to doctors.
To get an appointment at a free hospital, you need to get a special coupon. It can be ordered by phone. However, it will not be possible to call a doctor at home; under any circumstances, you will have to go to the hospital yourself. Home visits to the doctor are covered by government insurance.
An ambulance arrives in cases where the patient is away from home. In Argentina, free first aid centers are common - Centos de Asistencia Primaria de Salud (CAPS). Their activities are aimed at those who do not have health insurance or in cases where urgent care is required. Argentina has a mandatory vaccination program. You can get vaccinated free of charge in public medical institutions.
Paid healthcare is at a fairly high level. The abundance of patients from different countries, even from the USA, is proof of this.
Types of paid medicine
Paid healthcare is divided into several types:
- Work insurance. Every working taxpayer receives it. Part is paid by the employer, part by the patient himself.
- Prepaid insurance. This type of insurance is concluded independently. The client pays a certain amount of money monthly.
- Cash payment. If you want to get an appointment out of turn, then you need to pay the set price for such a service to the clinic’s cash desk.
Insurance makes it possible to be treated in more comfortable conditions, you can call a doctor at home, and also receive medications at a discount. True, some drugs are provided free of charge in public hospitals.
Medicine
Health care in Argentina is at a higher level than in other Latin American countries. Consultations in clinics and treatment in public clinics are free of charge not only for citizens of the country, but for all people located on its territory. The main difference from the Russian system is the high salaries of medical personnel, so donations are not accepted here. Even without them, patients are provided with quality treatment and care. This explains the popularity of childbirth in Argentina.
In addition to public clinics, there are also private clinics. They are much better equipped, but the level of training of doctors is the same. Another advantage of private clinics is the absence of queues. Public hospitals do not have an appointment system and there is often a wait of several hours for an appointment.
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Attitude to work and rest among Argentines
Life in Argentina is unhurried, local residents are people who can be called slow, and these qualities are manifested in everything, including in their attitude to work. They are little concerned about wasting time, both their own and that of others. This property of the Argentines should be treated with patience and understanding, since no one has yet succeeded in remaking this national trait. If you call a plumber to your home, be prepared that he may not show up at the appointed hour or even day without explanation.
Most residents of this country get up late and gladly use quiet time in their daily routine, due to which all the main points of the daily routine, especially lunch and dinner, shift in time. Argentines like to have dinner with their families, accompanying this time with customary rituals and long conversations, the topics of which can be very different.
Residents of the country spend a lot of time communicating with relatives and friends, visiting, and receiving guests in their home. Young Argentines prefer clubs; for older people, cafes and restaurants are a kind of clubs where they dine, learn the latest news from waiters, and play cards and dice. Polo, running, football, cycling, and going to the gym are the favorite activities of half of Argentina's residents.
Video story about life in the country
A family of Ukrainian immigrants talks in detail about all the features and nuances of life in this country.
Features of immigration to Argentina
The country's authorities are interested in the arrival of educated and hard-working people. Unlike most European countries, no one creates artificial obstacles for them when looking for work, renting and buying housing, or educating children. But you shouldn’t expect any special help: social benefits are not paid, so you should carefully consider options for how to immigrate to Argentina. A person must rely on himself.
Methods
You can become a citizen of the country or obtain the right of permanent residence on the following grounds:
- employment;
- Studying at the University;
- family reunification;
- marriage;
- opening your own business;
- obtaining refugee status.
To emigrate from Russia to Argentina, it is advisable to have at least minimal savings. They will make it much easier to survive the period of adaptation and find your place in society.
Employment
The most popular way. Suitable for people over 18 and under 60 years of age. It is also important that there are no serious health problems or a criminal record. You can find an employer and conclude a contract with him, and then apply for a one-year immigration visa without leaving Russia. But some prefer to fly to the country as a tourist. Finding a job while already in Argentina is much easier. A residence permit is issued based on the signed contract. After a year, it can be extended, after another 3 years - to obtain permanent residence, after the remaining 12 months - to submit an application for citizenship. These deadlines apply to those planning to settle in Buenos Aires. In some provinces they have been reduced by 2 times. It is also possible to obtain permanent residence after 6 months for those who have purchased real estate in the country.
Studying at the University
A residence permit is also provided to students admitted to a public or private university. But there is one peculiarity - persons under 18 years of age can enter the country only if accompanied by their father, mother or guardian. After graduating from university, the chances of finding a job and staying in Argentina increase significantly.
Family reunion
This right can be used by those who have parents or children who are citizens of the country. Often Russian women enter Argentina as tourists and give birth. In this case, the child automatically receives citizenship, and the parents receive a permanent residence permit.
Marriage
Another way to emigrate is to marry an Argentine. Women, unlike men, do not seek unions with foreigners. In this case, citizenship can be obtained without knowing the language, without having a job and without income.
Starting your own business
The authorized capital of the company must be at least $100,000. You only need to pay a quarter of this amount right away, and the rest over the course of the year.
Starting a business from scratch in Argentina is quite risky. All industries value their clients, and they prefer to cooperate with trusted partners. It is safer to choose a ready-made enterprise.
Buying a property
Some hope to obtain a residence permit, and then citizenship, after purchasing an apartment or house. This will provide an opportunity to improve your living conditions. Real estate prices in Argentina are significantly lower than in large Russian cities. However, it is impossible to quickly obtain a passport in this way. The right to permanent residence arises only after 6 months of stay in the country, only if you have enough income to live on and good command of the Spanish language.
But buying a house in Argentina is beneficial for those who plan to rent it out. Demand for rental property in tourist regions is consistently high.
Investing in the country's economy
Moving to Argentina for permanent residence is also possible if you deposit $100,000 into your bank account. This amount is also allowed to be invested in the country's securities. However, the money must be declared in Russia. It will not be possible to bring cash without confirming its origin and opening an account in a local bank.
For refugees
It is possible to obtain political asylum in the country if there is a real threat to life and health or imprisonment in the homeland. This method is most often used by entrepreneurs from whom they are trying to take away their business, journalists who have encountered problems due to their professional activities, and representatives of sexual minorities.
For volunteers and financially independent individuals
Those who have an income of over $1,200 per month paid by foreign banking institutions can take advantage of the Rentier program.
Volunteers who are willing to work for free on various projects enter Argentina on the condition that the organizers provide financial guarantees that they will be provided with money for everyday expenses and medical insurance.
Features of the standard of living in Argentina
Compared to other Latin American countries, the standard of living of the population in Argentina is one of the highest. The absence of a huge gap between rich and poor, low unemployment, per capita GDP of 20 thousand dollars - all this allows us to draw this conclusion. In addition, the population has high literacy, which is also an important indicator.
Education in Argentina
The Argentine education system is considered one of the most advanced in the world. The literacy rate of the population is 95%.
Education in Argentina is divided into the following stages:
- preschool education (children aged from 45 days to 5 years are admitted to kindergartens);
- primary school;
- secondary school education;
- vocational school;
- higher education.
School education is compulsory. The training lasts 12 years. Primary school – Primaria – takes 6-7 years, secondary school – Secundaria – 5-6 years. Higher public educational institutions in Argentina are free, but about 10% of students receive scholarships. There are also private universities, but the cost of studying there is often so high that only the wealthy can afford it.
Work and salaries
The labor market in Argentina is represented by a standard list: from vacancies in the service sector to specialties requiring highly qualified workers. Salaries range from 300 to 4 thousand dollars and above.
Immigrants planning to work must first of all know Spanish. Without it, you can only get a job as a laborer, waiter, or similar jobs with low pay.
Pension system
Currently, the retirement age in the country is 60 years for women and 65 for men. To receive a pension in Argentina, you must have at least 30 years of work experience. Missing years can be purchased using individual quotas.
Pension issues are handled by the organization ANSES (Administration of Social Security). It is an analogue of the Russian Pension Fund. Not only citizens of the country, but also foreigners who have an indefinite residence permit have the right to a pension.
Real estate market in Argentina
Real estate objects include commercial and residential premises. The latter, in turn, can be divided into apartments and private houses - villas, cottages, etc. Currently, the price of real estate is quite low compared to European indicators. This also attracts Russian buyers, as well as the fact that all non-residents of the country have the right to purchase real estate.
Everyone can choose for themselves where it is better to live in Argentina: in high-rise Buenos Aires or beach Miramar, a quiet suburb or ski Cerro Castor. You can also choose a purchase method - cash, installments or mortgage.
Business in Argentina
Argentina can be considered a country of small businesses. It is this that is most accessible and widespread here. To register a business, it is enough to issue a CUIL (analogous to a TIN) and contact a special accountant (Contador public) for registration. The latter prepares the documents, and then registers the business with the tax service.
Immigrants also have the right to open their own business. To do this, it is enough to satisfy simple requirements: to be of legal age, not to suffer from dangerous diseases, to have the necessary means and not to be prosecuted.
Medical system
Medical services in Argentina are free for everyone - both citizens and guests of the country, and even illegal immigrants. The test results are automatically stored in the doctor’s computer. Doctors usually combine practice in government agencies and private clinics. Therefore, the main advantage of the latter is the absence of queues and speed of service.
As for other foreigners, medicine in Buenos Aires is becoming increasingly popular for Russians, since high-quality treatment can be obtained for minimal funds.
It is especially worth noting the birth in Argentina. Like other types of medical services, childbirth support in public medical clinics is absolutely free. A baby born in Argentina automatically receives citizenship. His parents, even being in the status of illegal immigrants, have the right to obtain a permanent residence permit and subsequently citizenship.
This opens the way to a large number of countries, since Argentines have a visa-free regime with a long list of countries.
Argentine transport system
Transport in Argentina is represented by various means of transportation. The most developed network of highways throughout the country. Both personal cars and public transport, in particular buses, travel along them. In addition, rail and air travel are popular. The latter are also in demand within the country. First of all, this is due to the large distances between the tourist centers of the state.
One indicator of how ordinary people live in Argentina is the functioning of public transport. In cities, many use it: buses and their variant - collective, as well as the metro in Buenos Aires and trams, the use of which is being revived. The availability of such transport makes it possible to reduce the load on roads by reducing the number of personal cars.
Cost of living in Argentina
One of the indicators of a country’s economic well-being can be considered the cost of living in Argentina. It is 6,660 pesos - approximately $414 - per person. There is also such an indicator as the family cost of living – 12,740 pesos (about $800).
It's also worth considering the cost of food. Food prices in Argentina in 2021 can be considered quite affordable. This is due to the fact that the country is focused on agricultural development. For food per day you need 10-20 dollars. Here are the average prices for some products (of course, in the capital they will be slightly higher):
| Product | Approximate price, rub. | Approximate price, dollars |
| Milk, l | 75 | 1.25 |
| Bread, pcs. | 65 | 1 |
| Potatoes, kg | 36 | 0.6 |
| Apples, kg | 75 | 1.25 |
| Oranges, kg | 68 | 1.1 |
| Local cheese, kg | 570 | 9.5 |
| Chicken breast, kg | 300 | 5 |
Procedure for obtaining a residence permit in 2021
The country is interested in emigrants, so bureaucratic procedures are simplified as much as possible. But it is important to comply with all legal requirements. A residence permit in Argentina must be obtained for anyone who plans to work, study, do business or stay in the country for more than 1 year (the period of validity of a tourist visa).
Required documents
To obtain a residence permit you must provide:
- questionnaire and application;
- birth certificate;
- valid international passport;
- educational documents;
- information about marital status;
- certificates of no criminal record, health status;
- diplomas and certificates confirming professional training.
You also need to confirm the reasons for living in the country - a contract with an employer, the presence of your own business or investments, information about the birth of a child in Argentina, an order for enrollment in a university, a sponsorship letter or a bank account statement.
Reasons for refusal
The authorities may not give permission to reside in Argentina. Most often this happens when false information is reported. They also refuse due to non-confirmation of financial solvency, presence of serious health problems, or violation of laws.
Pros of living
- No discrimination based on nationality . Residents of this multinational state are loyal to immigrants. Here, unlike many other countries, there are no areas densely populated by people of the same nationality. The population treats people of different races and nations equally well; in particular, Russians are treated very kindly.
- Ease of obtaining citizenship . Becoming a citizen is not that difficult. After living in the country for 2 years, you need to collect the necessary documents and submit them to the migration service. The country does not deport anyone. Children born to Argentine parents automatically receive citizenship. That is, if a migrant has become a citizen of the country, then his children will not have problems obtaining citizen status.
- Argentine temperament . In this country, it is customary to treat visitors warmly and kindly. The locals are very polite and attentive, and this is not done for show, but sincerely and from the heart. But it is worth noting that it is not always necessary to take the promises made by the Argentines seriously: they give them to please the interlocutor and do not intend to keep them. Argentines are sociable and cheerful, they try to help people and do it selflessly, for “thank you.”
- Stunning nature . All the most beautiful things can be seen here - lakes, rivers, waterfalls, beaches, giant mountains... Many tourists come here only to admire the beauty of the local nature. In their free time from work, the lucky ones who live here permanently can swim in the ocean, laze on the beach, conquer the highest mountain peaks, or simply enjoy the unforgettable landscapes.
- Delicious cuisine . It is most likely impossible to live as a vegetarian in this country. All residents of Argentina love meat and know how to cook it. The variety of different delicious beef dishes will definitely not leave anyone indifferent. There is also pasta, pizza and mind-blowing desserts! All products are locally produced, high quality and tasty, as agricultural development is maintained at a decent level. The most popular drink is the national mate tea. It is brewed in a special vessel in a special way and drunk through a long metal straw. Locals love it about the same way Russian people love kvass.
- Siesta . What Russian, sitting in a stuffy office in the summer, does not dream of a siesta! But here it’s everyday life: from 13-00 to 17-00, local residents leave offices, institutions, shops and go home to leisurely eat, sleep and relax during the afternoon heat. Isn't this heaven on earth!
How to become a full citizen of Argentina
Having received permanent residence, you can live in the country for an unlimited time, travel abroad, receive education and medical care. You cannot only hold high government positions and participate in elections. It is worth seriously considering the need for an internal passport as a citizen of Argentina. Upon receipt, it is necessary to renounce Russian citizenship.
But for those who have lived in the country for a long time and have made their final choice, it is often a stable connection with the state that is important. Many are looking for ways to obtain Argentine citizenship for Russian citizens in the shortest possible time. In Buenos Aires, this can only be done after living for 1 year after obtaining permanent residence. In some provinces - as early as 6 months.
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