Moving to Argentina

Amidst the fragile economic crisis worldwide, Argentina keeps its promise of a European like- lifestyle on a bargain price. The low cost of living gives expats and travelers an opportunity to discover a burgeoning economy while enjoying a vibrant life.

Defined as the "land of silver," Argentina lives up to its reputation of being the most developed country in Latin America. The country's promising economic market is attractive to both small and large investors.

Argentina is the second largest country and has the third largest population in South America. The estimated total population was 40,134,425 in 2009, ranking 33rd in total population worldwide. The annual population growth rate was 0.92 percent in 2008 and the population density is low at 15 people per square kilometer.

Politically, the framework of the government is a federal representative democratic republic, headed by the president. It consists of 23 provinces and autonomous cities. Argentina is classified as an upper-middle income country by the World Bank.

Argentina's currency is the Peso, denoted as AR$. Abundant in natural resources, main exports include soy, corn, wheat and livestock products.

Buenos Aires, the capital city, popularly known as the "Paris of South America," showcases both the traditional and modern Argentina to expats and travelers. Buenos Aires is a 24-hour city buzzing with life and plenty of restaurants, bars and nightclubs. Historically, Argentina is known as the birthplace of tango so expats can dance their night away. It is a diverse area that is home to three million of the total population.

Argentina's biggest draw is the equal treatment of expats and citizens. Owning a home is possible without the obligation either to be a citizen or to pay any contributions.

The country's weather varies according to the location; the north boasts subtropical weather and the south is the coldest area. Expats from Europe and the US should note that the winter season is from June to September.

Argentina is officially a Roman Catholic country, but expats are free to practice their own religion.

Expats moving with their family are lured by the education and health care systems. The literacy rate of Argentina is currently at 97 percent. Moreover, access to public education is free from elementary to university levels as funding comes from taxes.

To make life easier for expats, it is advisable to learn some basic Spanish, the official language of Argentina. Though this is neither a prerequisite nor a necessity, it allows one to connect more easily with the local communities. On average, one in ten people working in large establishments speak basic English.

Hordes of immigrants from Italy and Spain migrate to Argentina.? Applications to settle in the Argentine Republic are through the National Immigrations Office: For more entry requirements and information you can visit their website: http://www.migraciones.gov.ar/

Foreign residents are not allowed to vote in national elections, but are allowed to vote in some provincial elections. In order to be eligible to vote, you must obtain a National Identity Card or DNI (best compared to a social security number) and enroll in a special register. The Ministry of Domestic Affairs website provides more information for expats on voting procedures. http://www.mininterior.gov.ar/elecciones/electores/voto_ce.asp

With high literacy level, low infant mortality rate, abundant natural resources, and an export-oriented agriculture, living in Argentina answers the call for a better place to live and work.