Argentina - Money
Currency & Money
Argentine Peso (ARS; symbol AR$) = 100 centavos. Banknotes are in denominations of AR $20,000, 10,000, 2,000, 1,000, 500, 200, 100, 50, 20, and 10. Coins are in denominations of $10, 5, 2, and 1. Centavos 50, 25, 10, 5, and 1 are still legal tender but have fallen into disuse due to their diminished purchasing power.
US dollars are widely accepted in hotels, tourist centres, and for large transactions. As both peso and dollar prices may sometimes be denoted with just "$", it's advisable to confirm the currency when in doubt.
Credit and debit cards are accepted in urban areas. In remote regions, it's prudent to carry sufficient cash.
ATMs (cajeros automáticos) are widely available in Argentina, particularly in cities, towns, and tourist areas. However, daily withdrawal limits are often low due to currency devaluation, with many ATMs limiting withdrawals to a few thousand pesos per transaction.
In addition, fees for international withdrawals can be high, usually over 10% per transaction, plus any fees from your home bank.
Visitors to Argentina can import up to US$10,000 or its equivalent without declaring.
Exporting foreign currency for amounts higher than US $10,000 or its equivalent in other currencies is prohibited. Minors aged between 16 and 21 can exit Argentina with a maximum of US $2,000 or its equivalent in other currencies, and minors under 16 years old can exit Argentina with a maximum of US $1,000 or its equivalent in other currencies.
Argentina has a dual exchange rate system: the official exchange rate and the "blue dollar" (dólar blue) market.
Banks and cases de cambio operate official currency exchange offices. They provide rates that are regulated by the government, and that often means rates that are less favourable for travellers.
The "blue dollar", on the other hand, refers to the informal exchange rate offered by unofficial money changers, often significantly higher than the official exchange rate. This market exists due to currency controls and economic instability, and it can offer better value for foreign currency (especially USD). The safest way to access the blue dollar rate is through Western Union or official financial services offering cash remittances. Avoid street changers (arbolitos) as this carries safety risks and the possibility of receiving counterfeit money.
Travellers should bring USD or Euros in cash to exchange at better rates.
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