Argentina Payment Methods and Currency Exchange Guide

Argentina uses the Argentine Peso (ARS) as its official currency. Payment methods and currency exchange practices may differ from other countries, and travelers should be aware of local regulations and common issues.

• Official Currency: Argentine Peso (ARS)
• Accepted Payment Methods: Cash is widely used. Credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express) are accepted in most urban areas, hotels, and large retailers. Smaller businesses may only accept cash.
• Contactless & Mobile Payments: Contactless card payments are increasingly available in major cities. Mobile wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay) have limited acceptance. Local apps like Mercado Pago are popular.
• ATM Availability: ATMs are common in cities and airports. International cards are generally accepted, but withdrawal limits and fees apply. Some ATMs may run out of cash during high demand periods.
• Currency Exchange: Exchange is available at banks, official exchange offices (“casas de cambio”), and airports. Black market exchange is illegal and not recommended.
• Foreign Currency Restrictions: Large cash transactions may be subject to scrutiny. Some businesses may offer discounts for cash payments in USD, but official rates apply at banks and ATMs.
• Cash Import/Export Limits: Travelers may bring up to USD 10,000 (or equivalent) without declaration. Amounts above this must be declared to customs.
• Transaction Fees: Foreign card transactions may incur surcharges (typically 3–5%) and ATM withdrawal fees (ARS 300–800 per transaction as of 2024).
• Common Issues: Notify your bank before travel to avoid card blocks. Carry small denominations for taxis and small purchases. Counterfeit bills can occur; check notes carefully.
• Major Banks: Banco de la Nación Argentina, Banco Santander Río, BBVA Argentina.
• Regulations: The Central Bank of Argentina regulates currency exchange. Official advisories are available at argentina.gob.ar.