The Revenue and Customs Control Agency (ARCA) has updated and unified the regulations regarding the entry and exit of cash, precious metals, and other monetary instruments into the country. These modifications are in line with the recommendations of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), of which Argentina has been a member since 2000.
According to the new resolution, travelers entering or leaving the country must declare to customs if they are carrying cash (in national or foreign currency), bearer negotiable instruments (such as checks), and minted precious metals valued at equal to or exceeding USD 10,000 (or equivalent in other currencies).
Travelers exceeding the specified amount must complete a form along with their declaration. To declare the entry of these goods, the OM 2249-A form must be completed, issued by customs and signed by the declarant. In the case of exiting legal tender national currency and negotiable instruments in this currency, the OM 2250-B form must be used, available on the ARCA website.
Regarding the exchange rate, for entry into the country, the buyer exchange rate from the close of the previous business day is considered, according to information provided by the Bank of the Argentine Nation. For exit, the seller exchange rate at the close of the previous business day is used, as stated by the same bank.
It is important to highlight that non-compliance with these provisions may lead to sanctions and precautionary measures as established in the Customs Code. ARCA will notify the Financial Information Unit (UIF) of any suspicious conduct related to money laundering or financing of terrorism. Those who do not declare the entered money may face penalties.
Some exceptions regarding declaration apply to travelers in transit, provided they have correctly declared the money or instruments upon entering the country using the OM 2249-A form and specifying "Transit". The limit amounts apply to individuals over 16 years old and emancipated adults, while for non-emancipated minors under 16 years old, the limit is 50% of the values established for adults.
These new regulations came into effect 10 business days after their publication in the Official Bulletin.
