CONTENT|CONTENU

TRAVEL REPORT
Argentina

1. RECENT UPDATES

Section 7 has been updated (H1N1).

See our Global Issues page for information on the H1N1 Flu Virus.

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2. WARNINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

There is no Official Warning for this country.

Argentina

Exercise normal security precautions

Exercise high degree of caution

Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid all travel

Demonstrations, roadblocks and strikes may occur in Buenos Aires and throughout the country at any time. This may result in transportation disruptions and fuel shortages. Canadians should monitor local news reports for updated information on the area they are planning to visit. Canadians should avoid demonstrations and never attempt to cross any blockades, even if they appear unattended.

The Argentine economy has recovered since past crises, and the political situation is stable. However, travellers should exercise a high degree of caution due to the risk of crime.

OFFICIAL REGISTRATION RECOMMENDATION: We offer a registration service for all Canadians travelling or living abroad. This service is provided so that we can contact and assist you in an emergency abroad, such as a natural disaster or civil unrest, or inform you of a family emergency at home. Registration can be done on-line or by contacting a Canadian government office abroad. For more information, see our FAQs on Registration of Canadians Abroad.

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3. SAFETY AND SECURITY

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety. The purpose of this Travel Report is to provide Canadians with up-to-date information to enable them to make well-informed decisions.

Crime

Distraction thefts commonly occur in public areas such as internet cafés, train and bus stations, the subway system, airports, restaurants and hotel lobbies, particularly in the cities of Buenos Aires and Mendoza. Pickpockets and bag snatchers often work in pairs and employ a variety of ruses.  A common scam involves spraying mustard on the tourist and then robbing him/her when supposedly helping clean the stain or to distract the tourist by asking questions while another person steals bags.

Armed robberies, though not common, may occur. While most victims are not physically injured, criminals usually do not hesitate to use force if they are confronted. Visitors are advised to immediately hand over cash and valuables. Ensure that personal belongings, passports and other travel documents are secure at all times, and carry a photocopy of your passport for identification purposes. Do not show signs of affluence, and do not carry large amounts of money. Stay aware of your surroundings when using Automated Banking Machines (ABMs). Avoid walking alone after dark, especially in the downtown areas of major cities.

In Buenos Aires, travellers should be cautious in all tourist areas, particularly in La Boca, San Telmo and Retiro. In La Boca, travellers should not leave the main tourist streets and definitely avoid the area after dark.

Crime has increased considerably in the city of Mendoza, with some incidents involving violence.  Travellers should be cautious and alert at all times and in particular avoid walking in unpopulated areas late at night.

You should exercise caution when travelling near Iguazú Falls, and elsewhere near the tri-border area between Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay, where criminal activities are known to occur. It is unadvisable to cross one of these borders after dark in local taxis or buses. Canadians are also reminded that a tourist visa is required to cross the borders with Brazil and Paraguay. Obtaining a visa can be a lengthy process, and visas should be obtained prior to departure from Canada.

Express kidnappings occasionally occur in larger cities like Buenos Aires. Kidnappers randomly pick victims from the street and demand a ransom or force them to withdraw money from ABMs. The victim is usually quickly released once the ransom is paid. Injuries have been reported when victims resist.

Assistance

A 24-hour police help line, with service in English, is available in Buenos Aires by dialling 101. In Buenos Aires, tourists may also contact the Comisaría del Turista (which reports to the Argentine Federal Police), Corrientes 346, tel.: 4346-5748. In Mendoza, the Policía Turística may be contacted at San Martín 1143, Mendoza, tel.: (0261) 413-2135, email: policiaturistica@mendoza.gov.ar. A multi-lingual countrywide toll-free hotline has been set up for tourist assistance and to report security incidents: 0800-999-5000 (e-mail: turista@policiafederal.gov.ar).

Security and Adventure Activities

Each year, numerous foreigners are injured or killed while trekking. It is recommended to prepare physically well in advance and to be informed on possible hazards, such as sudden fog or weather changes. Trekkers may experience acute mountain sickness at high altitudes, which can be deadly. Canadians should carry travel and health insurance. Insurance should include provision for helicopter rescue, medical evacuation, and treatment for accidental injury and medical emergencies.

Prior to ascending the Aconcagua, contact the Subsecretaria de Turismo at San Martín 1143, 5500 Mendoza, Argentina (country and area codes: 54-261/ tel.: 420-2800, 420-2458, or 420-2357/ fax: 420-2243/ e-mail: aconcagua@mendoza.gov). Mountaineers should stay on marked paths and respect the mandatory itinerary provided by the park.

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4. ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS

It is the sole prerogative of each country or region to determine who is allowed to enter. All countries or regions have special requirements for persons intending to reside for extended periods (usually more than 90 days) or who plan to work, study, or engage in non-tourist activities. To obtain information on specific entry requirements, contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) to be visited. Violations of entry and exit requirements may result in serious penalties.

The following information on entry and exit requirements has been confirmed with the Argentinean authorities. However, these requirements are subject to change at any time. It is the traveller's responsibility to check with the Embassy of the Argentine Republic or its consulates for up-to-date information.

A valid Canadian passport is required for Canadians intending to visit Argentina. The passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of your expected departure from the country. Passports are required as identification for internal flights.

Tourist Visa: Not required (for periods of three months or less)
Business Visa: Required
Student Visa: Required

Argentine officials have announced a reciprocity fee will be charged to citizens of countries that require a visitor visa for Argentine citizens, including Canada. Canadians will be required to pay this entry fee will at airports on arrival. An implementation date has not yet been announced.

A vaccination certificate is required for visitors coming from countries where cholera and yellow fever are endemic.

A departure tax is levied on all national and international flights. The departure tax can be paid in U.S. dollars or in Argentine pesos. Some credit cards are also accepted.

Exit of dual nationals and minors

Canadian-Argentine dual nationals may enter and leave Argentina on their Canadian passport only if their stay does not exceed 60 days. Once this period has elapsed, they must leave on a valid Argentine passport. The Argentine passport application process is lengthy, and the Embassy of Canada in Buenos Aires is not able to assist Canadian citizens in obtaining Argentine passports or other identity documents.

A Certificate of Canadian Citizenship is not a travel document. A Canadian passport is the only reliable and universally accepted travel and identification document available to Canadians for the purpose of international travel. Canadian citizens returning to Canada who present other documents, such as a Certificate of Canadian Citizenship, birth certificate, provincial driver’s license, or foreign passport, instead of a Canadian passport, may face delays or be denied boarding by transport companies.

Therefore, in many cases, Canadian-Argentine dual nationals might need to show both their Argentine passport (where the Argentine exit stamp will be placed) and their Canadian passport (as a proof of their right to enter Canada) when exiting Argentina.

Any adult travelling with children may be required to show evidence of parental/custodial and/or access rights. Foreign and Canadian authorities may also require evidence that the adult has the consent of the parents, legal guardian, and/or the court to travel with the children. Some countries or regions may not permit children to enter or, in some cases, leave the country or region without proper documentation such as a letter of consent or a court order.

In addition, Argentine-Canadian minors (under 21) and Canadian minors having resident status in Argentina are subject to local regulations when leaving Argentina.

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Selling, altering, or allowing another person to use your passport is a criminal offence. It could lead to the laying of charges and imprisonment if convicted. It could also lead to the denial of future passport services.

Special and diplomatic passport holders should verify all visa requirements for this and other destinations, as they may differ from those that apply to regular passport holders.

Although same-sex marriages are legal in Canada, many countries or regions do not recognize them. Attempting to enter as a same-sex married couple may result in refusal by local officials. For more information, contact the foreign government office accredited to Canada.

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5. CANADIAN GOVERNMENT CONTACTS

You can obtain consular assistance and further consular information at the following address:

Argentina - BUENOS AIRES, Embassy of Canada
Address: Tagle 2828, C1425EEH Buenos Aires, Argentina
Tel.: 54 (11) 4808-1000
Fax: 54 (11) 4808-1111
E-Mail: bairs-cs@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.argentina.gc.ca

For emergency assistance after hours, call the Embassy of Canada in Buenos Aires and follow the instructions. You may also make a collect call (via the international operator at 000) to the Department in Ottawa at 1-613-996-8885.

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6. TRAVEL HEALTH

The Public Health Agency of Canada and the World Health Organization (WHO) report on disease outbreaks that occur throughout the world. For the latest travel health advisories and related information, visit the Public Health Agency of Canada’s Travel Health Web site.

The Public Health Agency of Canada strongly recommends that your travel plans include contacting a travel medicine clinic or physician six to eight weeks before departure. Based on your individual risk assessment, a health care professional can determine your need for immunizations and/or preventive medication and advise you on precautions to avoid disease. Travellers are reminded to ensure that their routine (childhood) immunizations (e.g., tetanus, diphtheria, polio, and measles) are up to date.

Standards of medical care may differ from those in Canada. Treatment may be expensive, and payment in advance may be required. Travellers are advised to arrange for medical insurance prior to departure. Prescription medications should be kept in the original container and packed in carry-on luggage.

The Public Health Agency of Canada also recommends that travellers who become sick or feel unwell on their return to Canada seek a medical assessment with their personal physician. Travellers should inform their physician that they have been travelling or living outside of Canada.

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7. ADDITIONAL HEALTH INFORMATION

Argentina’s Ministry of Health is reporting a significant increase in the number of confirmed H1N1 Virus cases and deaths. A Health Emergency Alert has been declared in most provinces. For more information, please see the Ministry’s website (in Spanish only).

Individuals with asthma, sinus, and bronchial problems may experience health problems in Buenos Aires due to the polluted atmosphere.

It is advisable to take measures against water-borne and mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever. There has been a significant increase in the incidence of dengue fever throughout Argentina. Local authorities are monitoring the situation. Travellers should monitor local media reports for updates.

Medical facilities are good in Buenos Aires but limited elsewhere, and will often expect immediate cash payment for services.

Certain medication may not be available. Canadians should therefore carry sufficient prescription medicine for their needs.

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8. LAWS AND CUSTOMS

You are subject to local laws. A serious violation may lead to a jail sentence. The sentence will be served in local prisons.

Canadians arrested or detained have the right to contact the responsible Canadian government office (embassy, high commission, etc.) listed in Section 5 above. Arresting officials have a responsibility to assist you in doing so. Canadian consular officials can provide a list of local lawyers upon request.

The procedures required in legal proceedings or police investigations may be different from the procedures in force in the Canadian legal system. Canadians wishing to undertake such proceedings can expect to face long delays and additional efforts in order to resolve their case. The Government of Canada cannot intervene in ongoing legal proceedings in other countries or regions, unless requested to do so by local authorities. Such requests are rare.

Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines.

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9. TRAVEL AND CURRENCY

Pedestrians, cyclists and drivers should exercise extreme caution in Argentina, as this country has one of the highest traffic accident rates in the world. Most drivers ignore traffic lights and speed limits. Travellers should bear this in mind before considering driving in Argentina.

Pay special attention when stopped at traffic lights. Keep windows closed and doors locked at all times.

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended.

Although public transportation is generally reliable and safe, travellers should use a "remise" (private car with driver) for travel to and from the local airports. The best way to obtain a remise is to call for one or go to an established remise stand at the airports or hotels. Call radio-taxis instead of hailing taxis off the street, particularly in Buenos Aires. If hailing a taxi, ensure that it is marked "radio-taxi" and that the company's name and telephone number are clearly visible. Do not share taxis with strangers.

Domestic flights are frequently delayed or rescheduled as a result of work stoppages and technical problems at the airports.

See our FAQ on transportation in order to verify if national airlines meet safety standards.

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The currency is the Argentine peso. US dollars may be accepted by some tourist-oriented businesses. Travellers should always carry some pesos. When using credit cards, ensure your card remains in view. You may be required to produce photo ID (such as a driver’s licence or a photocopy of your passport) when paying with a credit card. However, some local businesses (mainly in the provinces) may refuse to accept credit cards.

Cash withdrawals from foreign bank accounts at ABMs are subject to low limits per withdrawal and per day. We suggest you verify with your bank before leaving Canada.

Canadian currency and traveller's cheques are not widely accepted worldwide. Check with your bank for information on automated banking machine (ABM) services outside Canada. You can also check the VISA ATM locator page or the MasterCard ATM locator page for the addresses of ABMs around the world. Verify with your financial institution whether your bank card can be used with ABMs abroad. Some countries use chip and/or personal identification number (PIN) technology for credit cards. Check with your bank to find out if your credit card will be accepted abroad. Credit cards and debit cards should be used with caution due to the potential for fraud and other criminal activity. ABMs should be used during business hours inside a bank, supermarket, or large commercial building. Leave copies of your card numbers with a family member in case of emergency.

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10. NATURAL DISASTERS AND CLIMATE

Many of the northern provinces of Argentina suffer from seasonal flooding, which can lead to disruptions in transportation, delivery of foodstuffs, etc. Travellers should keep informed of regional weather forecasts and plan accordingly.

The Andes are located in an active seismic zone, particularly the provinces of Mendoza and San Juan.

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11. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Returning to Canada

Traveller's Checklist

Health and Travel Insurance: Do not rely on your provincial health plan to cover all expenses if you get sick or are injured while abroad. It may cover nothing or only a portion of the costs. Understand the terms of your supplementary insurance policy. Some credit cards offer their holders health and travel insurance. Do not assume the card alone provides adequate coverage. Carry details of your insurance with you. Also, tell your travel agent, a friend or relative, and/or travelling companion how to contact your insurer. Get a detailed invoice from the doctor or hospital before you return to Canada. Always submit original receipts for any medical services or prescriptions received abroad. Most insurance companies will not accept copies or faxes.

Cancelling a scheduled trip abroad could cost you money. Before cancelling a scheduled trip, you should discuss the matter with your travel agent, your travel insurer, or the airline. The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller.

Adoption: Provincial and territorial authorities in Canada are responsible for authorizing international adoptions. If you are thinking of adopting a child abroad, you must first obtain information about the adoption regulations of the province or territory in which the child will reside. While adoption is a provincial/territorial responsibility, Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) is responsible for allowing an adopted child entry into Canada. Entry can be refused if the child does not hold the appropriate immigrant visa. A visa may be denied, even if the adoption has already been completed. For more information contact CIC at 1 888 242-2100 (in Canada only), check the CIC Web site or contact your provincial or territorial government.

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12. ANNEX

N/A

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