The Argentine government has mandated that non-resident foreigners must pay for their healthcare services in national hospitals, sparking controversy nationwide. The new policy, introduced through Decree 366/2025, amends the Migration Law and outlines specific requirements for foreign patients seeking non-emergency medical care. Under this regulation, non-permanent residents will need either health insurance coverage or prior payment for their treatments, while emergency care remains free regardless of residency status. Permanent residents, however, retain access to the public healthcare system on par with Argentine citizens, though they must present valid documentation proving their status upon admission. The decree was signed by Health Minister Mario Lugones and includes detailed provisions regarding exceptions for emergency situations. According to the annex of the decree, which was accessed by Clarín, all medical services aimed at evaluating, diagnosing, stabilizing, and treating conditions that pose immediate risks to life, organs, or functions are exempt from charges. However, once the emergency has been addressed, subsequent treatments can be billed to the patient or their insurer. This distinction between emergencies and routine care has raised concerns among medical professionals and institutions about how it will be implemented in practice. In Córdoba province, the implementation of the new rule has generated uncertainty among local hospital authorities. The resolution, issued by the National Ministry of Health under number 1066/2026, applies specifically to the National Clinical Hospital and the National Maternity Hospital. Rogelio Pizzi, former dean of the Faculty of Medical Sciences at the University of Córdoba, noted that these institutions must comply with the law but remain unclear about its practical application. He emphasized that non-resident foreigners without permanent residency and a national ID card would have to pay for their care, stating that the hospital staff would follow the legal framework even if some aspects remain ambiguous. Pizzi highlighted potential challenges in distinguishing between emergencies and urgent cases, noting that the latter could lead to financial obligations for foreign patients. He expressed concern over the possible conflict between the new policy and the humanitarian principles guiding medical education. “We train health professionals in a faculty known for its strong humanistic values,” he said. “We take the Hippocratic Oath seriously, aiming to save lives, promote health, and alleviate suffering.” Meanwhile, the provincial government in Córdoba clarified that the national directive does not apply to provincial hospitals. Local health officials confirmed that the existing system for recovering costs, through social security organizations, prepaid health plans, or the state, will continue to operate. This means that non-resident foreigners will only face direct billing in national hospitals managed by the federal government, such as the National Clinical Hospital and the National Maternity Hospital in Córdoba. The decision to charge non-resident foreigners for non-emergency healthcare comes amid broader changes affecting international students. On July 22, the government announced that universities can now charge tuition fees to foreign students. Subsecretary of University Policies, Alejandro Álvarez, explained that this change stems from Decree 366/2025, which modifies the Higher Education Law. Under the new rules, undergraduate studies at publicly funded institutions are free for Argentine nationals and permanent residents, but other foreign students may be subject to fees according to the terms outlined in the law. This move has drawn criticism from various quarters, with some media outlets accusing the government of launching an anti-foreigner campaign. Critics argue that the policies may deter international students and visitors, potentially impacting Argentina’s reputation as a destination for education and tourism. Others question whether the measures align with the country's long-standing tradition of offering universal healthcare access, regardless of nationality. As the new regulations come into effect, medical facilities across the country are preparing to adjust their procedures accordingly. Hospitals are being advised to ensure compliance with the updated guidelines, including verifying the residency status of incoming patients and managing billing processes for non-residents. While the government maintains that emergency care will remain accessible to all, the practical implications of the policy remain to be fully tested in real-world scenarios.
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