Argentina has progressive labour and social legislation. The duration of work may not exceed eight hours per day or 48 hours per week, and applies to any person employed in public or private enterprises.
The number of holidays granted depends on length of service and ranges from 14 calendar days for persons who have worked less than 5 years to 35 calendar days for persons who have worked more than 20 years. The unemployment rate is very high, so it is often difficult for foreign jobseekers to find work.
In addition to a valid visa and registration with the Administración Federal de Ingresos Públicos (AFIP – federal administration of public income), a work permit is required to work in Argentina. This can be applied for at the Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security (Ministerio de Trabajo, Empleo y Seguridad Social).
As Argentina has a very high unemployment rate, the labour market for foreigners is practically non-existent. The Swiss-Argentine Chamber of Commerce publishes job advertisements and 'job wanted' advertisements. Global internet search engines are useful.
The education ministry (Ministerio de Educación) is responsible for the recognition of school and university qualifications. Ministerial Decree No. 2388/15 regulates the recognition of professional qualifications awarded by technical colleges or universities of applied sciences (i.e. non-university tertiary level educational institutions) abroad.
The Ministerio de Desarrollo Productivo (ministry of productive development) issues information on becoming self-employed and setting up a business. Switzerland and Argentina signed an agreement on investment protection on 12 April 1991. Foreign investors can transfer capital and profits abroad.
Swiss citizens can also contact Switzerland Global Enterprise or the relevant chamber of commerce.
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