Travel Report for Argentina

Country Profile for
Argentina

TRAVEL REPORTS:

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TRAVEL REPORT

Last Updated: July 12, 2006 14:08 EDT
Still Valid: December 8, 2006 23:04 EST

Argentina

1.	INTRODUCTION
2.	ATTENTION
3.	SAFETY AND SECURITY
4.	LOCAL TRAVEL
5.	NATURAL DISASTERS AND CLIMATE
6.	LOCAL LAWS AND CUSTOMS
7.	ASSISTANCE FOR CANADIANS ABROAD
8.	ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS
9.	MONEY

10.	GENERAL INFORMATION
11.	TRAVEL MEDICINE PROGRAM
12.	ADDITIONAL HEALTH INFORMATION
13.	RETURNING TO CANADA
14.	INTERNATIONAL ADOPTIONS
15.	TRAVEL TIPS
16.	HEALTH AND TRAVEL INSURANCE
17.	FOR MORE INFORMATION
18.	ANNEX

1. INTRODUCTION

No changes have been made to this Travel Report.

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2. ATTENTION

OFFICIAL REGISTRATION RECOMMENDATION: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada offers a registration service for Canadians travelling or residing abroad. Canadians should register with the responsible Canadian government office in this country if they are going to be there for longer than three months. Registration can be done on-line or by calling the responsible Canadian government office abroad to request a registration form. Canadians visiting for less than three months are strongly advised to: (a) leave a detailed travel itinerary and contact information with family or friends in Canada; (b) provide family with the emergency number for Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada (1 800 267-6788 or 613-944-6788); and (c) keep the phone number of the responsible Canadian government office on hand (see Section 7 below).

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3. SAFETY AND SECURITY

Though the economic and political crisis of 2001-2002 is over and the recovery has been strong, its consequences are still evident in Argentina. Demonstrations, protests, marches and strikes, some violent, may occur in the capital, Buenos Aires, throughout the country and on main highways. Most large demonstrations take place in the vicinity of Plaza de Mayo and Congreso. Groups of demonstrators (piqueteros) may also block major roads into and out of the capital, causing delays and possibly a change in route. Local transportation services may be disrupted. Canadians should not attempt to cross blockades, even if they appear unattended.

Because of the unpredictable nature of these demonstrations and the potential for violence, Canadian citizens resident in or visiting Argentina should exercise caution, avoid large gatherings and demonstrations, and monitor local news reports.

Crime, including bag snatching and armed robberies, occurs in the street, in taxis and in restaurants. Distraction thefts commonly occur in public areas such as Internet cafés and train and bus stations (particularly in the cities of Buenos Aires and Mendoza). 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. Street crimes can sometimes turn violent. In Buenos Aires, travellers should be particularly cautious in tourist areas such as San Telmo, Puerto Madero, La Boca, Plaza San Martín, Avenida 9 de Julio, Florida St., Recoleta, Tigre and Ezeiza International Airport. La Boca district, a popular tourist area, should be avoided after dark. Pickpockets often work in pairs and employ a variety of ruses. They are also active on public transportation. 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. Avoid walking alone after dark, especially in the downtown areas of major cities.

"Express kidnappings" occur in larger cities like Buenos Aires. Kidnappers randomly pick victims from the street and demand a ransom. The victim is usually quickly released once the ransom is paid. Injuries have been reported when victims resist.

A 24-hour police help line, with service in English, is available in Buenos Aires by dialling 101. Tourists may also contact the Comisaría del Turista (which reports to the Argentine Federal Police), 346 Corrientes, tel.: 4346-5748. A multi-lingual toll-free hotline has been set up for tourist assistance and to report security incidents: 0800-999-5000 (e-mail: turista@policiafederal.gov.ar).

ACONCAGUA: When trekking the Aconcagua, mountaineers should stay on marked paths and respect the mandatory itinerary provided by the park. Many popular trails go over passes as high as 6,962 metres (approx. 22,834 ft.). Trekkers may experience acute mountain sickness (AMS) at high altitudes. AMS can be deadly. Trekkers should be well informed on possible hazards, such as sudden fog or weather changes. Each year, numerous foreigners are injured or killed while trekking the Aconcagua. 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 Secretaria de Turismo at the following address: 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.ar .).

Canadians intending to trek in Argentina should read our publication Out on a Limb: Advice for the Adventure Traveller.

IGUAZU: Iguazú Falls (Argentina) and Foz de Iguazú (Brazil) are both popular tourist destinations. Travellers often cross the border to view the falls and visit the cities on both sides. You should exercise caution when travelling near the tri-border area of Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay, where criminal activities are know to occur.

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4. LOCAL TRAVEL

Exercise caution and common sense when travelling by motor vehicle, as Argentina has one of the highest accident rates in the world. Drivers are aggressive, especially in Buenos Aires. Speed limits and traffic signals are often ignored. Road conditions are good throughout the country. Pay special attention when stopped at traffic lights. Keep windows closed and doors locked at all times.

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. Passengers have been robbed and forced to withdraw funds from bank machines by "taxi drivers" and their accomplices.

Domestic flights are usually dependable. However, in recent months, wage disputes have led to work stoppages, stranding passengers nationwide.

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended.

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5. 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.

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6. LOCAL 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 7 below. Arresting officials have a responsibility to assist you in doing so. Canadian consular officials can provide a list of local lawyers upon request.

The Department publishes A Guide for Canadians Imprisoned Abroad, specifically targeted at incarcerated Canadians. Its prime objective is to inform Canadian detainees, their families, and friends about available assistance and advice.

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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7. ASSISTANCE FOR CANADIANS ABROAD

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

Argentina - BUENOS AIRES, Embassy of Canada
Address: 2828 Tagle, C1425EEH Buenos Aires
Postal Address: P.O. Box 1598, C1000WAP Correo Central, Buenos Aires, Argentina
Tel.: 54 (11) 4808-1000
Fax: 54 (11) 4808-1012
E-mail: bairs@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.buenosaires.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 to the Department in Ottawa at 613-996-8885 or use the services offered by Canada Direct.

Canada Direct, offered by Canada's major telecommunications companies, provides travellers with toll-free and hassle-free access to the Canadian telephone network. The Canada Direct access number from Argentina is 0-800-222-1004 where a Canadian operator is always available. For more information, call 1 800 561-8868 or visit the Canada Direct Web site.

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8. ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS

The following information on entry and exit requirements has been confirmed with the Argentinian authorities and, to the best of our knowledge, was valid on May 25, 2006. However, entry and exit requirements are subject to change.

It is the sole prerogative of each country to determine who is allowed to enter. All countries 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 country or countries to be visited. Violations of entry and exit requirements may result in serious penalties.

Foreign Affairs

Canada

’s Office of Protocol provides contact details for the Embassy of the Argentine Republic and its consulates, where you can obtain further information on entry and exit requirements.

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
Business Visa: Required
Student Visa: Required

A departure tax is levied on most international flights. The departure tax can be paid in U.S. dollars or in Argentinian pesos based on current exchange rates. Some credit cards are also accepted.

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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 visa requirements for this and other countries, as they may differ from those that apply to regular passport holders.

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, Argentine citizens must leave on a valid Argentine passport. The Argentine passport application process is lengthy, and the Embassy of Canada is not able to assist Canadian citizens in obtaining Argentine passports or other identity documents. In addition, Argentine-Canadian minors (under 21) and Canadian minors having resident status in Argentina are subject to local regulations when leaving Argentina.

Airlines may not allow Canadian-Argentine dual nationals travelling on an Argentine passport plus a Canadian citizenship card to board flights bound for Canada. Please note that a Canadian passport is the only reliable and universally acceptable document that proves your right to return to Canada.

In many cases, this means that dual nationals will need to show both their Argentine passport (where the Argentine exit stamp will be placed) and their Canadian passport (proof of their right to enter Canada) when exiting Argentina. Canadian visas are not meant to be issued to Canadian citizens on a foreign passport for entry into Canada.

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 may not permit children to enter or, in some cases, leave the country without proper documentation such as a letter of consent or a court order.

Although same-sex marriages are legal in Canada, many countries 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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9. MONEY

The currency is the Argentinian peso. When using credit cards, ensure your card remains in view. You may be required to produce photo ID (such as a driver’s licence and a photocopy of your passport) when paying with a credit card. Some local businesses may, however, refuse to accept credit cards. Canadian currency and traveller's cheques are not widely accepted worldwide. Check with your bank for information on ATM services in other countries. You can also check the VISA ATM locator page or the MasterCard ATM locator page for the addresses of ATMs around the world. Your bank can advise if you need a new personal identification number (PIN) for overseas access to your account. Credit cards and debit cards should be used with caution due to the potential for fraud and other criminal activity. ATMs 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. GENERAL INFORMATION

Argentina (capital: Buenos Aires) is located in southeastern South America, east of the Andes. It is bordered by Chile, the Atlantic Ocean, Uruguay, Bolivia, Paraguay, and Brazil. Spanish is the official language. English, Italian, German, and French are also spoken.

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11. TRAVEL MEDICINE PROGRAM

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 Medicine Program 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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12. ADDITIONAL HEALTH INFORMATION

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

Medical facilities are good but will often expect immediate cash payment for services. Certain medication may not be available.

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13. RETURNING TO CANADA

Please consult the Current Issue on returning to Canada.

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14. INTERNATIONAL ADOPTIONS

Provincial and territorial authorities in Canada are responsible for authorizing international adoptions. If you are thinking of adopting a child from another country, 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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15. TRAVEL TIPS

Please consult our Traveller's Checklist.

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16. 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.

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17. FOR MORE INFORMATION

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18. ANNEX

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