In a move that could significantly impact many professionals and small businesses in Argentina engaged in exporting services, the Central Bank (BCRA) has eliminated the annual cap of USD 36,000 for service exporters. Additionally, banks will no longer be allowed to charge commissions for receiving foreign currency transfers into personal accounts (except for properly documented third-party fees). Moreover, a 30-day deadline has been established to settle certain goods exports according to their tariff codes. These changes, now in effect, mark a significant step toward facilitating international trade from Argentina.
Removal of the USD 36,000 Cap for Service Exporters
Until recently, professionals, freelancers, and individuals exporting services abroad could benefit from a special regime that exempted them from up to USD 36,000 annually in mandatory foreign currency settlement requirements under Argentine exchange controls.
With BCRA Communication A 8330, that cap has now been removed. As of its effective date (September 18, 2025), service exporters can receive foreign currency payments into local bank accounts without mandatory conversion to pesos or being subject to any annual threshold.
This change provides greater operational flexibility to a fast-growing sector of the knowledge economy, including software development, consulting, design, and other professional services.
What conditions still apply?
- Invoices and proper tax documentation must support the operation.
- Funds must be deposited within regulatory time limits (typically within 20 business days of receipt).
- Transactions must be conducted through local financial institutions and deposited into dollar-denominated accounts.
This reform not only removes operational barriers but also encourages the formalization of foreign income in Argentina’s financial system.
Ban on Bank Commissions for Incoming Foreign Transfers
Complementing the elimination of the USD cap, Communication A 8330 also stipulates that banks may no longer charge their own commissions for crediting foreign currency transfers into residents’ personal accounts.
However, banks may pass on third-party costs (such as intermediary bank fees) only if they are adequately documented.
It means that when receiving payments from abroad, exporters should:
- Ensure that local banks are not applying unjustified charges.
- Request documentation for any third-party fees.
- Maintain organized accounting records to support any expense deductions.
This change promotes transparency and reduces the operational burden for those exporting services.
30-Day Settlement Deadline for Certain Goods Exports
In the case of goods exports, BCRA Communication A 8137/2024 introduces a 30-day calendar deadline to bring in and settle foreign payments for specific tariff codes.
Specifically, it applies to exports of goods listed under selected tariff positions (e.g., agricultural or derived products as defined in the annex to the regulation).
This 30-day deadline replaces or updates earlier, more rigid settlement requirements. The regulation also provides different timelines (e.g., 20 business days) for other types of exports, including services, advances, and pre-financing.
For goods exporters, this means they must structure their operations to ensure that funds from abroad are received and settled within the new timeline.
Practical Benefits and Operational Considerations
Expected Benefits
- Greater flexibility for service exporters: they can now receive unlimited dollar payments and retain them without immediate conversion to pesos.
- Lower operational costs thanks to the ban on local bank commissions for crediting transfers (except documented third-party fees).
- Increased predictability for goods exporters, with clear deadlines (30 days) for specific product categories.
- Encourages the formalization of international earnings within the Argentine financial system.
Key Considerations and Challenges
- Compliance with documentation, including contracts, invoices, and accounting records, is essential to support operations.
- Coordination with local banks is crucial to ensure accurate implementation and transparent fees.
- Exporters must monitor settlement deadlines to avoid foreign exchange violations.
- Tax implications must be considered, as foreign income may trigger local tax liabilities (e.g., income tax, VAT).
- Given Argentina’s rapidly changing regulatory environment, staying informed is crucial.
These reforms from the BCRA represent a paradigm shift for service and goods exporters operating in Argentina. Removing the USD 36,000 limit, banning unjustified bank fees, and setting more precise settlement deadlines offer operational and financial advantages—if managed effectively.
To take full advantage of these new rules, it’s essential to work with professional advisors in tax, accounting, and banking. If you’d like us to assess how these changes apply to your specific business, please do not hesitate to contact us. We can help you navigate your exports with confidence and efficiency.