Guide · 5. FX and capital controls
FX and capital controls: current rules
Last verified: 24 Oct 2026 · Status: Changing
Version 1 summary, verified 24 Oct 2026. The full template (step by step, costs, comparison, traps) for this topic is coming in a later phase.
Key rules
Controls on individuals were largely lifted in April 2025. Controls on companies remain, in a lighter form. The rules live in the BCRA's consolidated text on Exterior y Cambios, last updated 14 Sep 2026.
- Individuals. Since Communication A 8226 (issued 11 Apr 2025, effective 14 Apr 2025), individuals can buy foreign currency in the official market without prior BCRA approval.
- Dividends. Companies can pay dividends to non resident shareholders through the official market when the profits come from audited annual financial statements for fiscal years starting on or after 1 Jan 2025 (point 3.4.4.1 of the consolidated text). Older retained earnings still need one of the conditional routes, such as new foreign direct investment inflows, BOPREAL bonds or prior BCRA approval.
- Imports and services. Since 14 Apr 2025, goods can be paid without a BCRA minimum term, unrelated party services from accrual, and related party services after 90 days.
- The 90 day cross restriction. A company that accesses the official market cannot trade securities settled in dollars (MEP or CCL) for 90 days before or after. Communication A 8417 of 9 Apr 2026 widened the sworn statement to anyone sending foreign currency abroad.
- RIGI projects. A RIGI project vehicle has its own access route for profits on foreign direct investment (point 3.4.4.3) and a stepped release from export proceeds repatriation. See RIGI.
BCRA FX rules change often, sometimes weekly. Always check the consolidated text on the day of the transaction.