Retiring in Argentina: US Tax Guide for American Retirees
Argentina is an attractive retirement destination for Americans, drawn by its European-style culture, vibrant arts scene, and low cost of living (in USD terms). Argentina's worldwide income taxation and complex currency situation create unique US filing questions for retirees. FileAbroad helps American retirees in Argentina navigate these cross-border questions.
Social Security Abroad
You can collect US Social Security benefits while living in Argentina. There is no U.S.-Argentina Social Security agreement in force. Social Security is generally taxable only in the US.
Pension & Retirement Account Income
US pensions, IRAs, and 401(k) distributions are generally taxable only in the US. However, if you are an Argentine tax resident, Argentina may also tax this income.
FEIE Limitations for Retirees
FEIE does NOT apply to pension or Social Security income. Retirees must rely on FTC or other strategies. FTC may be available if Argentina taxes your retirement income. Argentina's tax rates (up to 35% plus provincial taxes) make FTC valuable.
Medicare Abroad
Medicare does not cover healthcare outside the US. Retirees in Argentina need private insurance or Argentine public healthcare. Healthcare costs in Argentina are low and quality is high.
Cost of Living & Housing
Argentina has a very low cost of living in USD terms, but inflation is extremely high. Housing, healthcare, and daily expenses are affordable in USD. Buenos Aires is the most popular destination.
Visa/Residency for Retirees
Argentina does not have a specific retirement visa. Americans can enter on a tourist visa (up to 90 days) and apply for temporary residence. Long-term residence requires meeting specific criteria.
Currency Considerations
Argentina's currency situation is complex. The Argentine peso (ARS) has experienced extreme volatility. Multiple exchange rates exist (official, blue dollar, MEP). This affects FBAR reporting and retirement income planning.
Common Mistakes Retirees Make in Argentina
- Assuming FEIE covers retirement income — It does not.
- Not reporting Argentine bank accounts on FBAR — All foreign accounts are reportable.
- Not understanding currency controls — Multiple exchange rates affect FBAR reporting.
- Not planning for Medicare gap — Medicare doesn't cover you abroad.
- Forgetting state tax — If you moved from California or New York, state tax residency rules may follow you.
When to Get Professional Help
You should consider professional help if you have retirement income from multiple sources, foreign accounts exceeding $10,000, property ownership in Argentina, currency control questions, or complex income situations.
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FileAbroad explains U.S. federal tax and U.S. international information-reporting consequences of documented foreign facts. It does not provide foreign-country legal or tax representation, valuation opinions, banking or remittance advice, or advice on what a foreign authority will accept.
Scope statement reviewed 2026-08-30 · FileAbroad product/content owner