Blog · 2025-04-30

How to get a CUIL and CUIT in Argentina in 2025: a complete guide for foreigners

What are CUIL and CUIT in Argentina?

Argentina uses two unique identification numbers for individuals and legal entities:

• CUIL (Código Único de Identificación Laboral) - assigned to individuals and used for social security and employment purposes.
• CUIT (Código Único de Identificación Tributaria) - assigned to companies, entrepreneurs and the self-employed, and used for tax and financial transactions.

Both numbers are 11 digits long and are required for a wide range of official procedures across the country.

Why you need a CUIL

A CUIL is required to:

• take up formal employment;
• register with ANSES (the national social security administration);
• open a bank account;
• access healthcare through the social security system;
• apply for various social benefits and allowances.

How to get a CUIL

How you obtain a CUIL depends on whether you already hold an Argentine identity document (DNI).

If you have a DNI

Your CUIL is assigned automatically when your DNI is issued. You can download the Constancia de CUIL (proof of CUIL) online:

• go to the ANSES website;
• select "Trámites en línea" and then "Obtener constancia de CUIL";
• fill in the form with your personal details;
• download and save the PDF of your Constancia de CUIL.

This certificate is valid for all official procedures and requires no signature or stamp.

If you don't have a DNI

Foreign nationals without a DNI can obtain a temporary CUIL by visiting an ANSES office in person. You will need:

• a passport or Precaria;
• proof of registration with the immigration authorities;
• proof of address in Argentina (for example, a rental contract or a utility bill).

Once you receive your DNI, you must update your CUIL by contacting ANSES to merge the temporary and permanent numbers.

Why you need a CUIT

A CUIT is required to:

• register with the tax authority, AFIP;
• start a business or work as a self-employed person (Monotributista);
• carry out financial transactions, including issuing invoices and paying taxes;
• open business bank accounts;
• bid for tenders and enter into contracts with government bodies.

How to get a CUIT

A CUIT is issued through the tax authority, AFIP:

• go to the AFIP website;
• select "CUIT Digital" and complete the online form, providing your personal details, CUIL number, proof of address and income information (if applicable);
• once your application is submitted, you will receive a CUIT to use for all your tax and financial transactions.

For foreign nationals without a DNI, the process may require an in-person visit to an AFIP office with a passport and other supporting documents.

Frequently asked questions

Can the CUIL and CUIT be the same number?

Yes. For individuals, the CUIT often matches the CUIL, particularly for those registered as self-employed (Monotributista).

Do I need a CUIT to open a bank account?

A CUIT is required to open a business bank account. For personal accounts, a CUIL is sufficient.

Can I get a CUIT without a CUIL?

No. A CUIT requires an existing CUIL, since the CUIL is what identifies you as an individual.

FAQ