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Argentina Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for Chinese Citizens
Last updated: January 2025
For many travelers, visiting Argentina remains a dream, and now for the Chinese, it can be easier, by getting an ETA rather than a visa. A more comfortable, faster, and easier entrance into Argentina will be allowed for tourism or business with an ETA. On this page, we break down all you need to know about applying for the Argentina ETA as a Chinese citizen so you can have a smooth application process.
What is the Argentina ETA for Chinese Citizens?
The Argentina Electronic Travel Authorization, or ETA, refers to the online visa waiver system that allows the citizens of eligible countries to travel for short stays to the country without necessarily going to a consulate to apply for a visa. The main aim of ETA is tourism or business-related purposes, and it was meant to be more accessible than the normal way of seeking permission to travel. The ETA, more importantly, will save the Chinese citizens from applying for a visa conventionally, provided the applicant qualifies under certain eligibility criteria.
Eligibility Criteria for Chinese Nationals
The Chinese nationals are eligible to apply for the Argentina ETA under certain conditions. In order to qualify, the Chinese nationals must have any of the following:
- A valid B1/B2, J, O, P (PI1-P2-P3), E, or H1-B American Visa or
- A valid Schengen visa - type C - issued by any state member of the Schengen Area, or
- Permanent residency in the United States or in any state member of the Schengen Area.
With any one of these options, you could apply for an ETA instead of a regular visa. Otherwise, if your country does not have either a U.S. or a Schengen visa, you will need to continue at the consulate with the usual procedure.
Validity Period and Length of Stay of the Argentina ETA
For tourism and business, the Argentina ETA will allow Chinese citizens with 90 days of stay in Argentina. This authorization allows multiple entries within its period of validity, provided each stay does not exceed 90 days. Furthermore, the ETA is usually valid for 3 months starting from its issue date, so you are supposed to plan your trip within that period.
Documents Needed to Apply for the ETA
Before actually starting with your application process for the Argentina ETA, make sure you have the following with you:
- Valid Passport: It should be valid for a minimum of 6 months beyond your planned date of entry into Argentina.
- U.S. or Schengen Visa: If required, it must be valid and cover the length of your stay in Argentina.
- Photo: One recent, passport-size photo, following standard visa photo criteria.
- Travel Itinerary: Details of the trip dates you will be visiting the country, return, or onward ticket.
- Proof of Accommodation: Can include hotel reservation, confirmation of a rental, or invitation letter by the host in Argentina.
- Credit or Debit Card: You will need either one in order to pay the ETA application fee online.
How to Apply for the Argentina ETA
The application process for the Argentina ETA is quite simple and entirely online. You only need to follow the following steps:
Step 1: Visit the Official ETA Application Website
Log in to the official website for your Argentina ETA application. Avail your personal details to make the payment, which should not be on an unsecured internet connection.
Step 2: Online Application Form
Fill out the application form with your personal information, passport details, and travel plans. Do not forget to include information about your U.S. or Schengen visa and double-check all the information so as not to incur delays or rejections in your application.
Step 3: Attach Documents and Pay the Fee
Attach scanned copies of your passport, visa, and other required documents. Pay the non-refundable ETA processing fee using your credit/debit card.
Application Fee of the ETA for Chinese Citizens
It is easy to pay for the Argentina ETA from China, and the process is web-based. Once you have submitted an application for an ETA, you are going to be required to make a pre-payment that is non-refundable using your credit or debit card. You will need to confirm the current cost because the price is subject to change at any moment in time.
Be sure that all of your information is correct, as the fee is non-refundable-even in the case of a denied application. Once paid for, you will receive your confirmation and your ETA will be in process.
Entry into Argentina Using the ETA
Upon arrival in Argentina, you'll be asked to present immigration with the following documents: your printed ETA approval valid passport U.S. or Schengen visa proof of accommodation travel itinerary proof of sufficient funds to support your stay in Argentina. The immigration officer may ask you the purpose of your visit, so be ready to disclose all the information concerning your travel plans. Once cleared, you can stay in Argentina for a maximum period of 90 days.
Tips for Successful Application of ETA
Following are some tips that will make your ETA application process smooth and effective:
- Apply Early: While the processing time is generally minimal, make it at least 2 to 3 weeks before your expected date of travel to account for unexpected delays.
- Check Visa Validity: Make sure that your U.S. or Schengen visa will still be valid during your stay in Argentina. An already-expired visa automatically denies your application for an ETA.
- Double-Check Information: A mistake in your personal information, passport number, or travel dates may result in delays or even rejections; thus, double-check all information carefully before submitting the form.
- Have a Backup: In addition to printing your ETA, save a digital copy on your phone or in cloud storage for your trip in case you lose the printed version.
Travel Tips and Considerations for Chinese Travelers
Here are some essential travel tips and considerations for your trip to Argentina:
- Best Time to Visit
Argentina's climate is varied, so plan accordingly. The best seasons to visit would be the spring-from September through November-and autumn-from March to May-fine in the majority of the country during these months. However, during the summer time (from December to February), it can become unbearably hot in the north and center, while winter from June to August is cold in Patagonia and in the Andes.
- Money and Currency
The Argentine Peso, abbreviated as ARS, is the currency of Argentina. One may want to have some cash in hand because small restaurants or shops may take only cash and do not accept credit cards. There will be no problem finding an ATM because they are found almost everywhere. However, exchange rates and fees differ between ATMs. U.S. dollars are accepted at most places in tourist areas; however, always check on the current exchange rate before making payments.
- Safety
It is generally safe in Argentina for tourists, but having said that, one should be very aware of petty theft-especially in very large cities like Buenos Aires. Avoid displaying valuables when out in public, be always mindful of one's surroundings, and use registered taxis or ride-sharing apps to travel anywhere.
- Transport options
Public transportation in the big cities includes buses and subway service, called Subte in Buenos Aires, and is fairly efficient and not so expensive. Taxis abound-just take only those that are officially recognized. Consider domestic flights for longer journeys, or overnight buses, which occur frequently and are comfortable.
- Language
Spanish is the official language of Argentina. Although in tourist areas one is likely to find people who could speak in English, it would be helpful if the visitor could learn basic phrases of Spanish, especially for interacting in smaller towns or more rural areas.
- Cultural Etiquette
The people are warm and social; greetings include a cheek kiss between men and women or among women. Dining out is common, but dinner does not usually commence until 9pm or even later. Tipping is expected, at about 10% in restaurants.
- Health and Insurance
Ensure health is covered under your travel insurance, as private medical attention to the best standards may be quite costly in Argentina. No specific vaccinations are required, but if you intend to visit the jungle area, a yellow fever vaccination may be recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions
Am I able to extend my stay beyond 90 days with an ETA?
No, the longest stay available with an ETA is 90 days. Any longer stay requires application for an extension with the immigration authorities after arrival in the country.
Can I use the Argentina ETA for other purposes, like studying or working?
No, the ETA is strictly for tourism or short-term business visits. If you intend on working, studying, or undertaking any other activities beyond this in the long term, you will have to make an application for the relevant visa.
What are the documents required in applying for an ETA?
Chinese Citizens: passport valid for at least six months beyond intended stay in Argentina, valid US visa, or Schengen visa, or ESTA, proof of accommodation, return or round-trip flight reservation, and recent passport photo.
How Long Does an ETA Take to Get Processed?
On average, receiving an ETA from Argentina takes 10 working days, but it is highly recommended to apply well in advance of the set travel dates should there be any unexpected delays.
How can Chinese citizens apply for the Argentina ETA?
The application for the Argentina ETA is done online through the official website. This application mode involves submission of an application form, upload of required documents, and payment of the processing fee through credit or debit card. If approved, an ETA would be granted by email.
Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general guidance and subject to change. For current information, refer to the official websites before lodging an application. Please note that this page was last updated in January 2025; thus, some visa rules might change.