Published on 1 February 2026

Argentina: Employment

Argentina has progressive labour and social legislation. The duration of work may not exceed eight hours per day or 48 hours per week, and applies to any person employed in public or private enterprises.

The number of holidays granted depends on length of service, and ranges from 14 calendar days for persons who have worked less than 5 years, to 35 calendar days for persons who have worked more than 20 years. The unemployment rate is very high, so it is often difficult for foreign jobseekers to find work.

SECO: Information on countries

Further information about working in Argentina

Work permit

In addition to a valid visa and registration with the Federal Administration of Public Income (AFIP – Administración Federal de Ingresos Públicos), a work permit is required to work in Argentina. This can be applied for at the Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security (Ministerio de Trabajo, Empleo y Seguridad Social).

Entry permit as an employee (es)

Further information on entry permits is available on the website of the Argentine immigration service.

Finding a job

As Argentina has a very high unemployment rate, the labour market for foreigners is practically non-existent. The Swiss-Argentine Chamber of Commerce publishes job advertisements and ‘job wanted’ advertisements. Global internet search engines are useful.

Cámara de comercio Suizo Argentina (es)

Swiss-Argentine Chamber of Commerce

Recognition of educational qualifications

The Ministry of Education (Ministerio de Educación) is responsible for the recognition of school and university qualifications. Ministerial Decree No. 2388/15 regulates the recognition of professional qualifications awarded by technical colleges or universities of applied sciences (i.e. non-university tertiary level educational institutions) abroad.

Recognition of certificates, diplomas, primary and secondary school qualifications (es)

For more information on the recognition of foreign diplomas, please visit the website of the Argentine authorities.

Self-employment and starting your own business

The Ministry of Productive Development (Ministerio de Desarrollo Productivo) issues information on becoming self-employed and setting up a business. Switzerland and Argentina signed an agreement on investment protection on 12 April 1991. Foreign investors can transfer capital and profits abroad.

Swiss citizens can also contact Switzerland Global Enterprise or the relevant chamber of commerce.