Do China passport holders need a visa to visit AR?

Chinese ordinary passport holders need a visa for Argentina by default. However, if you hold a valid U.S. visa (B1/B2, B2, J, B1, O, P, E, H-1B) or U.S. green card, you can enter visa-free for up to 30 days under Resolution 316/2025 — no consular visa or AVE needed. Argentina does not grant general visa-free entry to Chinese ordinary passport holders, so the default pathway is a consular tourist visa applied for at an Argentine embassy or consulate. Since July 21-22, 2025 (Resolution 316/2025), there is an important shortcut: Chinese nationals who hold a valid and current U.S. visa (categories B1/B2, B2, J, B1, O, P (P1/P2/P3), E, or H-1B) or a valid U.S. permanent resident card may enter Argentina for tourism or business WITHOUT any Argentine visa and without the Electronic Travel Authorization (AVE). This visa-free entry permits an initial stay of up to 30 days, extendable once for the same duration (a further 30 days) through the National Directorate of Migration (DNM); status cannot be changed to residence from within Argentina. Chinese travelers who do NOT hold a qualifying U.S. visa or green card must obtain a traditional tourist visa from an Argentine consulate before travel. A separate AVE electronic authorization (linked to a U.S. visa) historically existed and is still referenced, but for U.S.-visa holders the 2025 exemption makes it largely redundant. Because most Chinese tourists do not necessarily hold a U.S. visa, the conservative and correct headline classification is visa-required, with the U.S.-visa exemption as the key shortcut. Verify your specific eligibility with the Argentine consulate before booking.