How to Set Up an Entity in Argentina

Argentina remains one of the most attractive markets in Latin America for foreign investors thanks to its large consumer base, diversified economy, and strategic access to regional markets such as MERCOSUR. For companies looking to establish a local presence, whether to serve clients domestically, export to nearby markets, or hire talent, opening a legal entity allows full operational control, local contracting, and compliance with Argentine law.

That said, registering a company in Argentina involves multiple administrative steps, local regulations, and careful attention to corporate governance, tax, and compliance requirements. The process is generally manageable; many entity types can be set up in a matter of days or weeks, but navigating naming rules, document formalities, tax registration, and banking can be challenging. The benefits include limited liability, the ability to operate under local corporate law, access to local banking, and full ownership and control over business operations.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, or financial advice. Always consult official sources before acting.

What does “opening an entity” mean in Argentina?

In Argentina, “opening an entity” means registering a local legal entity (e.g., a corporation or limited liability company) with the relevant registry, obtaining tax identification (CUIT), and fulfilling local requirements such as a registered address and corporate bank account. Once registered, the entity can legally operate, sign contracts, hire employees, and issue invoices under Argentine law.

Entity overview in Argentina

Below is a summary of the key aspects you should know when planning to set up a company in Argentina. Most foreign-investor companies choose the structure that offers limited liability and flexible governance.

Step-by-step guide: How to open an entity in Argentina

Step 1: Choose the right structure

The main entity types are:

• S.A.S. (Sociedad por Acciones Simplificadas): Suitable for startups or foreign investors seeking fast incorporation, minimal capital, and flexibility. It allows a single shareholder (natural or legal person) and simplified governance.
• SRL (Sociedad de Responsabilidad Limitada): Common for small to medium businesses; offers liability protection with a limited number of partners (2–50), and more straightforward management compared to an S.A.
• S.A. (Sociedad Anónima): More appropriate for larger businesses, particularly if you plan to raise capital, issue shares, or scale operations. Requires at least two shareholders.
• Branch / Foreign Company Branch (Sucursal): If you prefer to operate as an extension of an existing foreign company rather than a separate local entity. This requires appointing a local representative.

Your choice depends on your business size, plans for growth or capital raising, need for governance flexibility, and administrative preferences.

Step 2: Verify business name availability

You must choose a unique company name and check availability with the registry. Most providers or legal advisers handle this step on your behalf. The name must not duplicate existing entities and typically must include the entity type (e.g., “S.A.” or “S.A.S.”).

Step 3: Prepare incorporation documents

Required documents generally include:

• Founders’ identification (passport or national ID for individuals; registration documents for legal entities)
• Proof of registered address in Argentina (e.g., lease agreement or property deed)
• Articles of incorporation/bylaws — defining shareholders, share capital, corporate purpose, governance, and ownership structure
• Bank confirmation or evidence of capital deposit (when capital requirement applies)
• (If applicable) Power of Attorney (POA) for a local representative if the founders cannot be present

Step 4: Register with IGJ

Submit the incorporation package online. Depending on the entity type, certain formalities like notarization and apostille of founders’ signatures may apply.

Once approved, the company becomes legally registered, receiving a corporate registration number and official status as a local entity.

Some providers note that after registration, the publication of an official announcement in the “Boletín Oficial” may be required.

Step 5: Register for tax and social security

After incorporation, you must register with the national tax authority, Administración Federal de Ingresos Públicos (AFIP), to obtain a tax-identification number (CUIT) for the new company.

If you plan to hire employees, you also must register as an employer with the Social Security authorities for payroll and social contributions.

Step 6: Open a corporate bank account

Once corporate registration and tax-ID (CUIT) are obtained, you can open a local bank account. Many Argentine banks allow accounts in pesos and, in some cases, in foreign currency. KYC documentation will include proof of local address, company registration, and directors’ IDs.

Opening a bank account is generally required for depositing share capital and managing ongoing operations.

Step 7: Set up payroll and employment compliance

If hiring employees, you must comply with Argentine labor laws: execute compliant employment contracts, register employees through the social security system, withhold payroll taxes, and contribute employer social charges.

Many companies in Argentina outsource payroll and benefits administration to local providers, due to regulatory complexity.

Discover how Elemental Enzymes accelerated regulatory approvals and market entry with Deel.

Post-registration obligations

Once your entity is up and running, you must comply with ongoing obligations under Argentine law:

• Tax and financial reporting: Submit corporate income tax returns (annually) and VAT returns (typically monthly or quarterly per AFIP rules), following national accounting standards
• Employer and social security registration: As an employer, you will also be responsible for payroll reporting and the monthly payment of social security contributions for employees
• Corporate registers: Keep accurate records of all shareholders, directors, beneficial owners, and any changes; report such changes to IGJ
• Compliance tracking: Maintain an internal calendar or compliance system to track filing deadlines, tax payments, social security contributions, and regulatory renewals
• Licenses and renewals: Depending on the business activity and jurisdiction (province or municipality), you may need trade licenses or sector-specific permits; renew them as required
• Recordkeeping: Retain accounting, payroll, HR, and transaction records for the period required by law (often several years) for potential audits
• Employment law compliance: Ensure all employment contracts, benefits, social security contributions, and labor regulations (e.g., termination rules, hours, safety) are followed in accordance with Argentine law

Taxes and financial considerations

You're responsible for:

• Corporate income tax: 25–35% depending on taxable income bracket
• VAT (GST): Standard rate is 21%
• Payroll/social contributions: Employer and employee contributions required; rates depend on social security, pension, and labor regulations
• Accounting standards: Entities typically maintain financial statements per Argentine accounting and tax regulations; audit requirements may apply depending on company size or capital thresholds

Discover how Climate-KIC navigated complex restructuring with Deel.

Expand internationally with Deel

Whether you’re hiring through an EOR or establishing your own local entity, Deel’s all-in-one platform gives you everything you need to expand into the United Kingdom—quickly, compliantly, and with confidence. From market entry to ongoing operations, Deel helps you hire, onboard, and manage teams seamlessly from day one.

With Deel, you can:

• Test new regions using Deel’s local entities through our Employer of Record service—hire employees compliantly, delegate payroll and taxes, and access localized employment contracts.
• Open entities with Deel Entity Setup, where our team manages everything—from incorporation and tax registration to coordination with local experts.
• Centralize your compliance and records with Deel Entity Management, including automated filings, calendar reminders, and visibility across all entities.
• Integrate with Deel Payroll and Deel HR for compliant payments, benefits, and workforce oversight—all in one platform.

For companies transitioning from the EOR model to owned entities, Deel ensures a smooth handover and consistent compliance every step of the way. Enter new markets, onboard talent, and manage your global workforce—all through one unified platform.

FAQs

How long does it take to open an entity in Argentina?
Typically, 9–14 days (1–3 weeks) from filing to registration under standard processing timelines. Find out how long setup takes with our Entity Setup Calculator

What is the minimum capital required?
It depends on the structure: for S.A., commonly AR$100,000 (or equivalent), while S.A.S. requires only minimal capital; SRL capital depends on business activity and can be flexible.

Can foreign companies own 100% of an entity in Argentina?
Yes, full foreign ownership is permitted for all major entity types such as SRL, S.A., and S.A.S.

Do I need a local director or representative?
For S.A., a resident director or legal representative is generally required. For S.A.S. or SRL, this is often not mandatory, though a registered address in Argentina is required.

How much does it cost to register an entity?
Costs vary depending on entity type, legal representation, notary/apostille, and associated services; typical professional quotations range from USD 2,500 to USD 7,500 equivalent. Find out the setup cost with our Entity Setup Calculator.

Can I hire employees before the entity is fully registered?
Typically, no hiring and formal employment requires a registered entity, CUIT, and employer social security registration. However, Deel’s Employer of Record (EOR) offers a compliant alternative to onboard staff immediately while entity setup is in progress.

Can Deel help me open an entity in Argentina?
Yes. Deel Entity Setup manages the end-to-end process — from registration to tax setup — and ensures compliance with local regulations on your behalf.

Does Deel offer ongoing compliance and payroll support?
Yes. Deel offers both managed services and self-service tools to help you stay compliant.

If you’re using Deel Entity Management, Maintenance, EOR, or Payroll, our team handles payroll, benefits, filings, and compliance obligations on your behalf.

For teams managing their own entities, Deel Compliance Hub makes staying compliant simple by providing real-time regulatory updates, risk alerts, and workforce insights across 150+ countries. Proactively manage compliance with our Compliance Monitor, Workforce Insights, and an AI-powered Worker Classifier, staying ahead of changing employment laws.

Can I switch from Deel EOR to my own entity later?
Yes. Deel supports seamless transitions when you’re ready.