Express appointments for Mercosur nationals resume on limited basis

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? Argentina has resumed express appointments for Mercosur nationals on a limited basis of 50 appointments per day.

What does the change mean? The resumption of some appointments ends the suspension of the express appointment service, but Mercosur nationals should still anticipate delays of approximately two months. In urgent cases, earlier appointments are available at an alternate location.

• Implementation time frame: Ongoing.
• Visas/permits affected: Express appointments.
• Who is affected: Mercosur nationals applying for residency.
• Impact on processing times: Express appointments are limited to 50 per day and are currently delayed by two months. Standard appointments are delayed by six months.  
• Business impact: Employers should anticipate delays and adjust business schedules accordingly.
• Next steps: Mercosur nationals must confirm their express appointment on the immigration portal. A separate application center outside the city has been opened to accommodate urgent cases.

Background: The express appointment system was implemented for Mercosur nationals as an alternative to standard appointments, but Argentina’s National Immigration Office suspended the express appointment system in February due to high demand.

BAL Analysis: The availability of limited express appointments is intended to better control the high volume in Mercosur residence applications in recent months. Companies should anticipate that the limited availability of appointments will continue in the short term as immigration authorities work toward a long-term solution. Applicants seeking an urgent appointment or assistance in arranging transportation to the remote location should contact their BAL professional.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group and our network provider located in Argentina. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.

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