The Government of Javier Milei is working on a new immigration law to combat illegal immigration and seeks for Congress to pass it before the end of 2025. The Argentine president included this initiative in the reform package presented during the opening of the 143rd regular session of Congress. Among the main proposed changes are the implementation of fees for non-resident foreigners in health and education sectors, the streamlining of deportation processes for immigrants involved in criminal activities, the establishment of stricter requirements for obtaining residency, and a reinforcement of border controls. The Ministry of Justice indicated that the drafting of the new regulatory framework is in process and responds to a direct request from Minister Mariano Cúneo Libarona. Javier Milei, presidente de Argentina. The Migration Law 25.871, in effect since 2003 and modified in 2010, will be reviewed with the aim of tightening regulations and ensuring that public services are funded and used primarily by Argentine citizens.
The proposed reforms
Milei's Government is promoting a fee scheme for foreigners in health and education services, following the model of some provinces that have already adopted similar measures. In Salta, Mendoza, Santa Cruz, and Jujuy, charges for healthcare to non-residents were implemented, which reduced the so-called "healthcare tours." In Salta, for example, a fiscal saving of $60 million in a single hospital was recorded. Regarding the university sector, President Javier Milei stated that "universities must charge those who are not permanent residents," although the final decision will depend on Congress. However, the Executive doesn't rule out advancing by decree if the project doesn't progress in the legislative sphere. The project also seeks to modify the criteria for the deportation of foreigners with criminal records or caught in flagrante delicto. Javier Milei, presidente de Argentina. Presidential spokesperson Manuel Adorni announced that more crimes will be included as grounds for immediate expulsion. Likewise, those attempting to enter with false documentation or with intentions different from those declared will be rejected at the border. Currently, Article 6 of Law 25.871 establishes that the State must guarantee equal access to health, education, justice, and social security for immigrants. However, this provision could be eliminated or significantly modified in the new regulatory framework. Another initiative of Milei's Government will be to reinforce border controls with Chile, Bolivia, Paraguay, Brazil, and Uruguay, with the aim of preventing the illegal entry of people. To this end, new radars will be installed and infrastructure at international control centers will be optimized. The goal is to reduce illicit activities such as drug trafficking and smuggling. Javier Milei's Government is also closely observing some policies applied by President Donald Trump in the United States. It has been reported that certain measures promoted by the American president could serve as a reference for the development of the new immigration legislation in Argentina.
