Buenos Aires-Argentina’s President Javier Milei has initiated a stringent immigration policy, echoing measures previously implemented in the United States. The decree, issued Wednesday, introduces stricter regulations on immigration, sparking debate and drawing comparisons too former U.S. President Donald Trump.

Key Changes in Immigration Policy

• Citizenship Requirements: Immigrants must now reside in Argentina for two uninterrupted years or make a considerable financial investment to qualify for citizenship.
• Residency Criteria: Applicants for permanent residency are required to demonstrate proof of income or “sufficient means” and provide clean criminal records from their countries of origin.
• Deportation Powers: The government can now more easily deport migrants who enter the country illegally, submit falsified documents, or commit minor offenses.Previously, deportation was limited to those convicted of crimes with sentences exceeding three years.
• Judicial Fast-tracking: The decree mandates expedited processing of immigration court cases.

Government Rationale and Comparisons

Presidential spokesperson Manuel Adorni embraced comparisons to the U.S., stating it was time to honor our history and make Argentina great again. He asserted that the new regulations address chaos and abuse brought by some newcomers.

Criticism and Context

Critics argue that the timing of the decree, coinciding with upcoming legislative elections, suggests a politically motivated strategy. Pablo Ceriani Cernadas, vice president of a U.N. committee, accused the government of politicizing migration for electoral purposes and distorting reality.

Argentina’s 2022 census indicated that foreign residents constitute a small percentage of the population. the census revealed that out of 46 million residents, onyl 1.93 million were foreign-born, marking the lowest proportion since 1869.

Healthcare and Education Access

the decree introduces fees for foreigners accessing Argentina’s public healthcare and education systems. It also requires all travelers to possess health insurance. Adorni claimed that public hospitals spent approximately $100 million on treating foreigners last year, though he did not provide specific evidence.

According to Adorni, This measure aims to guarantee the sustainability of the public health system, so that it ceases to be a profit center financed by our citizens.

The new policy also allows universities to charge tuition fees to international students, a significant change given Argentina’s tradition of free public education.

Historical Perspective

Historically, Argentina has welcomed immigrants from various regions, including Europe, the Arab world, Asia, and, more recently, Russia. These newcomers were often granted citizenship and access to public services. However, the current economic climate, marked by significant budget deficits and spending cuts, has prompted a reevaluation of these policies.

“Health Tours” and Regional Precedents

Right-wing politicians have long criticized what they term health tours, where individuals cross borders to receive medical treatment. Several provinces and the city of Buenos Aires have already implemented charges for non-resident foreigners seeking healthcare.