Banking System in Argentina
The banking system in Argentina comprises numerous national and international banks. For foreigners or tourists, you’ll find the following information about banks and banking services in Argentina extremely useful
Major Banks in Argentina
- Banco de la Nación Argentina: As the largest national bank, it boasts many branches throughout the country. Check out its Website.
- Banco Santander Rio: This bank forms part of the international Santander group. For more details, visit their Website.
- Banco Galicia: Standing as one of the leading private banks in the country, you can explore more on their Website.
- Banco Macro: This major private bank in Argentina also plays a significant role. Dive into its services on its Website.
- BBVA Banco Francés: Another integral part of the international BBVA group, it offers comprehensive services. Get more info on their Website.
For Foreigners and Tourists
International banks such as Santander and BBVA can serve tourists better as they often provide flexible services. Additionally, they maintain connections with banks in other countries. In major cities and tourist areas, most places widely accept credit and debit cards. Notably, Visa and MasterCard dominate the market. While ATMs are prevalent, some might charge a fee for cash withdrawals. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to inquire about potential fees beforehand. In Argentina, fewer places accept Cashier’s checks, so you’d do better relying on cash or card transactions.
Currency
The Argentine peso (ARS) stands as the official currency of Argentina. Furthermore, you can exchange currency at banks, exchange bureaus, and even some hotels.
Safety
When using ATMs, exercise caution, especially at night. Moreover, in sparsely populated or unsafe areas, it’s a good practice to avoid withdrawing large sums of money.
Operating Hours
From Monday to Friday, most banks operate between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM or 4:00 PM. If you’re considering an extended stay in Argentina or have business plans, it would be wise to seek advice from a local expert or financial consultant about bank choices and services.