Should I Apply for the Rentista/Pensionado Visa in the US or Argentina?

[daveholman]

Hi, just to introduce myself - I am new to the forum, having recently 99% decided to retire to Buenos Aires. I have visited Argentina a few times in the past, and always loved the vibe in BsAs.

Obviously, a large part of the decision is financial. It's just a fact I can stretch my pension farther there than I can in the US. Mostly because I am selling a large house I no longer need or want, and can live there without a car and the related expenses.

I have weighed several options for relocation and Argentina just keeps being a better choice. Other options have been ruled out either because of crime, weather, or the new language/culture just being a little more than I am ready to take on. My Spanish is a little rusty, but I did go to grade school in Puerto Rico and I have lived in Southern California most of my life, so it won't take long to become fluent again (if I can get the accent right. lol)
Right now, I am looking at probably March 1 to head south.

My question today is, would it be better to get the rentista/pensionado visa while I'm still in the States, or apply once I am there?

I am leaning towards just renting a place short term and doing all the paperwork once I get there. I am a little worried about committing to a year long lease from 6000 miles away.

 

[rob0001]

You get it here in Argentina...arrive as a tourist...change while here.

 

[Stantucker]

Eight years ago I found it much easier to do it through the Argentine consulate in Atlanta, but things may have changed in general, and I don't know if all consulates would be as helpful as ours was.

 

[daveholman]

Eight years ago I found it much easier to do it through the Argentine consulate in Atlanta, but things may have changed in general, and I don't know if all consulates would be as helpful as ours was.

Something tells me the bureaucracy will be annoying anywhere. I guess I might as well wait it out in Argentina. lol