Payment Service Provider (PSP) License in Argentina
Argentina’s Payment Service Provider (PSP) licence, issued by the Central Bank of Argentina (BCRA) under Circular A 6859 and related resolutions, authorises firms to process, route, and settle electronic transactions — including merchant acquiring, payment gateway infrastructure, and digital payment intermediation — without holding client funds or issuing stored value.
The framework sits alongside a distinct Electronic Money Institution (EMI) regime: a PSP licence covers transaction processing; wallet-based or stored-value services require separate BCRA authorisation. PSPs are also registered as sujetos obligados with the Financial Intelligence Unit (UIF), triggering ongoing AML/KYC obligations, risk self-assessments, and suspicious activity reporting from day one of operations.
Argentina’s payments market is significant — over PKR 36 trillion in digital transactions annually — but its operational context is challenging: Argentine banks apply enhanced due diligence to PSPs, and cross-border FX transactions face capital controls. Most PSPs rely on fintech PSPs or offshore accounts for banking. Ongoing compliance costs including external AML audits and UIF filings typically run USD 15,000–20,000 annually.
A ready-made Argentine PSP provides an existing BCRA-registered entity with AML documentation and CVU IBAN infrastructure in place, compressing setup compared to a new registration (typically 4–6 months).
Legasset assists clients with both ready-made PSP acquisitions and new BCRA registrations — regulatory filings, AML programme setup, banking strategy, and local compliance officer onboarding.
Ready to Buy Argentinian PSP Licenses
Argentinian PSP Licensed Company for Sale #1
- Licensed for payment services, including IBAN issuing (CVU) in ARS.
- Offers local ARS instant transfers and USD accounts.
- Prepaid and debit card issuing capabilities.
- Authorizations for card acquiring and card processing.
- Fully compliant with regulations for payment account management and electronic transfers.
- Provides payment gateway services for seamless transactions.
- Clean history with no liabilities, ready for immediate operations.
PSP License in Argentina for Sale #2
- BCRA registration in 2025.
- Clean company status.
- Bank account opening support.
- International client onboarding.
- Ready for transfer.
Activities:
- Payment Account Management
- Payment Processing
- Issuance of Payment Instruments
- Electronic Transfers
- Payment Gateway Services
Related LatAm and payment licences
Key Takeaways for Argentinian PSP License
- Regulated by BCRA with strict oversight. Payment Service Providers (PSPs) in Argentina must register with the Central Bank of Argentina (BCRA) and comply with AML/KYC regulations, including mandatory monthly transaction reports and periodic compliance audits.
- No minimum capital, but financial stability is required. Unlike banks, PSPs do not need an initial capital deposit, but they must prove operational liquidity and maintain a sound risk management framework to avoid license suspension.
- Cross-border transactions face restrictions. Due to Argentina’s capital controls, PSPs cannot freely exchange ARS to foreign currencies without central bank approval. Transactions above US$10,000 may trigger additional regulatory scrutiny.
- Ongoing compliance costs exceed US$15,000 annually. PSPs must cover audit expenses (US$3,000–US$5,000 per year), regulatory reporting fees, and cybersecurity upgrades to meet BCRA Resolution 117/2023 requirements.
- Banking access is limited. Many Argentine banks refuse to onboard PSPs due to AML concerns. Most firms rely on EMI solutions or offshore banking, which may require additional compliance approvals.
- Legasset provides full support. We assist in acquiring ready-made PSPs or setting up new entities, handling BCRA registration, AML program setup, and securing banking partnerships.
What You Need to Know About the PSP License in Argentina
Table of Contents
A Payment Service Provider (PSP) license in Argentina, regulated by the Central Bank of Argentina (BCRA), enables companies to offer digital payment processing, electronic wallets, prepaid cards, and merchant services. Businesses with this license can act as intermediaries between merchants and financial institutions, facilitating online payments, mobile transactions, and cross-border settlements under Argentina’s financial regulations.
However, the license does not grant authorization to hold customer funds as deposits, issue credit, or provide banking services. Additionally, PSPs operating in Argentina must comply with foreign exchange controls, financial transaction taxes, and strict AML reporting.
Regulatory Framework and Compliance
The BCRA requires all PSPs to register under the Registro de Proveedores de Servicios de Pago que Ofrecen Cuentas de Pago and meet strict financial reporting obligations, anti-money laundering (AML) controls, and consumer protection rules. Key regulations include:
- AML & KYC Compliance. PSPs must implement real-time transaction monitoring, suspicious activity reporting (SAR), and customer due diligence (CDD) as per Law 25.246 on Money Laundering Prevention.
- Foreign Exchange & Capital Controls. Due to Argentina’s restrictions on USD transactions, PSPs dealing with international payments must navigate BCRA Circular A7030, which limits foreign currency access.
- Taxation. PSPs are subject to 21% VAT on financial transactions and corporate tax rates up to 35%, with additional 0.6% financial transaction tax on incoming and outgoing funds.
Why PSP Argentina Matters Now
With Argentina’s digital payments market expanding, the BCRA has intensified PSP oversight, ensuring compliance with stricter financial regulations. The MiCA framework in the EU and global AML trends are pushing payment firms to seek fully compliant structures. This license is ideal for fintech companies, e-commerce platforms, and cross-border payment providers looking to enter Latin America’s second-largest economy with a legal and tax-efficient structure.
How Legasset Supports PSP Licensing
Businesses can either purchase a ready-made PSP with existing BCRA registration or apply for a new license. Legasset provides end-to-end licensing support, covering:
- Regulatory filings and compliance structuring
- AML/KYC program development
- Corporate tax planning
- Banking solutions & alternative financial services
Whether setting up a new payment provider or acquiring an operational PSP, we ensure full regulatory compliance and a smooth transition into Argentina’s highly regulated financial sector.
Eligibility Requirements for Obtaining a PSP License in Argentina
To obtain a Payment Service Provider (PSP) license in Argentina, a company must register under the Registro de Proveedores de Servicios de Pago que Ofrecen Cuentas de Pago with the Central Bank of Argentina (BCRA). Eligible applicants include:
- Argentinian corporations (S.A. or S.R.L.). Only locally registered entities can apply. Foreign businesses must incorporate in Argentina.
- Minimum Shareholder Requirements. No restrictions on nationality, but all beneficial owners must pass AML due diligence checks.
- Director & Compliance Officer Criteria. At least one director must be resident in Argentina. A dedicated AML compliance officer is mandatory.
Financial and Capital Requirements
While the BCRA does not impose a fixed minimum capital requirement, PSPs must demonstrate financial solvency and maintain a segregated account for client funds. Key financial obligations include:
- Tax Compliance: PSPs are subject to 21% VAT on financial transactions and 35% corporate income tax.
- Financial Transaction Tax: 0.6% levy applies to all outgoing and incoming transactions.
Local Presence and Regulatory Oversight
PSPs must maintain a registered office in Argentina and comply with:
- AML & KYC Obligations. Periodic transaction monitoring, client verification, and suspicious activity reporting (Law 25.246).
- Financial Reporting. Annual audits and quarterly compliance filings with the BCRA.
- Currency Control Compliance. PSPs handling cross-border payments must follow BCRA Circular A7030, restricting USD access.
Required Documentation & Application Timeline
Applicants must submit:
- Corporate registration documents
- Ultimate Beneficial Owner (UBO) disclosure
- AML policies & risk assessment framework
- Financial statements proving operational capability
Approval can take 3 to 6 months, depending on BCRA’s review process and the applicant’s compliance track record.
Hidden Costs & Compliance Challenges
While government registration fees are minimal, PSPs face additional costs:
- Annual audit costs starting from $5,000
- Ongoing AML compliance expenses ($10,000+ per year)
- Potential banking difficulties due to Argentina’s currency controls
Getting through these regulatory and financial moments requires a structured compliance strategy. Legasset assists businesses in ensuring a smooth registration process, ongoing compliance, and risk management.
Pros & Cons of Acquiring an Argentinian PSP License
+ Direct access to Argentina’s $40B+ digital payments market. The PSP license enables businesses to process online transactions, offer digital wallets, and provide fintech services in one of Latin America’s fastest-growing economies.
+ No minimum capital requirement. Unlike financial institutions, PSPs are not required to maintain a fixed minimum capital, making it an attractive option for startups and international fintech firms.
+ Flexible company structure. The license can be held by a local or foreign entity, and directors/shareholders do not need to be residents, allowing international investors to operate remotely.
+ Regulatory oversight without banking restrictions. PSPs fall under BCRA’s fintech framework but do not require a full banking license, avoiding stringent reserve requirements while still being legally recognized.
+ Lower operational costs compared to banks. While compliance costs exist, PSPs are exempt from capital adequacy ratios and major financial stability contributions, reducing long-term expenses.
- Stringent AML/KYC obligations. PSPs must adhere to BCRA’s AML framework, conduct enhanced due diligence on high-risk clients, and submit suspicious activity reports (SARs) to UIF - non-compliance can lead to fines exceeding ARS 10M ($11,000+ USD).
- Banking access is limited. Argentine banks are reluctant to onboard PSPs, particularly those processing crypto-related payments or handling international transactions. Many PSPs must use EMIs or offshore banking solutions.
- Currency controls impact cross-border payments. Argentina enforces strict FX regulations, imposing a 30% “PAIS” tax + 60% exchange rate gap on USD transactions, which significantly affects foreign remittances. PSPs must navigate local currency settlement risks.
- Regulatory unpredictability. The BCRA frequently revises fintech regulations, and compliance costs could increase unexpectedly. PSPs must monitor regulatory shifts to avoid disruption.
How to Get a PSP License in Argentina
Acquiring a PSP license in Argentina involves registering with the Central Bank of Argentina (BCRA) and ensuring full AML compliance with the Financial Intelligence Unit (UIF). Businesses can either purchase a ready-made PSP entity or apply for a new one from scratch.
A ready-made PSP company allows immediate operations but requires a due diligence process before transfer. New registrations require approval from BCRA and UIF, with compliance obligations that impact long-term operations.
Step-by-Step PSP Licensing Process in Argentina
- Step 1: Register an Argentine Company 2-4 weeks
To apply for a PSP license, businesses must register an SAU (Simplified Joint-Stock Company) or SRL (Limited Liability Company) under Argentine law.
Key Documents: Company formation documents, UBO declaration, director registry.
Estimated Cost: $1,500 - $3,000 for legal registration fees. - Step 2: Submit BCRA PSP Registration 4-8 weeks
Businesses must submit a PSP authorization request to BCRA, outlining their financial operations and risk management policies.
Key Documents: Business model description, financial structure, AML procedures.
Estimated Cost: $5,000 - $8,000 in legal and compliance fees. - Step 3: AML/KYC Compliance Approval 6-12 weeks
PSPs must register with the Financial Intelligence Unit (UIF) for AML compliance and submit KYC policies, transaction monitoring procedures, and suspicious activity reporting protocols.
Key Documents: AML/KYC policy, risk assessment, compliance officer details.
Estimated Cost: $3,000 - $7,000 annually for compliance and audit requirements. - Step 4: Establish Banking & Payment Infrastructure 8-12 weeks
Securing banking access in Argentina is difficult due to high-risk classifications for PSPs. Many firms rely on EMIs, offshore accounts, or stablecoin-based solutions.
Key Documents: Proof of compliance, bank application, operational licenses.
Estimated Cost: Variable - opening accounts requires minimum balances of $10,000+. - Step 5: Final Approval & Operational Setup 12-18 weeks
Once BCRA and UIF compliance requirements are met, the PSP can begin operations. Ongoing reporting obligations, financial audits, and UIF filings apply.
Key Documents: UIF registration confirmation, operational license.
Estimated Cost: $10,000+ annually for regulatory compliance and legal upkeep.
What PSPs Must Maintain After Licensing
Securing an Argentinian PSP license is just the first step – ongoing compliance with Banco Central de la República Argentina (BCRA) and the Unidad de Información Financiera (UIF) is mandatory. Businesses must implement strict AML/KYC policies, financial reporting, and tax filings to maintain their license. Non-compliance can lead to hefty fines, operational restrictions, or full license revocation.
Key Regulatory Requirements for Licensed PSPs
AML/KYC Obligations. PSPs must verify customer identities, monitor transactions for suspicious activity, and submit Suspicious Transaction Reports (STRs) to the UIF. Regular internal audits and periodic compliance reviews are required to prevent money laundering risks.
Ongoing Financial Audits. PSPs must submit annual financial statements to the BCRA and, in some cases, undergo external audits by authorized financial examiners. The cost of audits varies based on transaction volume but typically ranges from $5,000 to $15,000 per year.
Tax and Accounting Responsibilities. PSPs are subject to corporate income tax (35%), VAT (21% on certain transactions), and financial transaction taxes on banking operations. International transactions may also incur withholding taxes, impacting revenue from foreign clients.
License Renewal and Fees. PSP licenses require renewal every 1-3 years, with fees ranging from $10,000 to $25,000, depending on the company’s size and compliance history.
Regulatory Reporting and UIF Filings. Monthly or quarterly financial activity reports must be submitted to BCRA and UIF, ensuring transparency in all payment transactions.
Restrictions on Business Expansion. Any changes to a PSP’s structure – new shareholders, business model shifts, or geographic expansion – require regulatory approval, often adding months to the timeline.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Failure to meet these obligations can result in:
- Fines ranging from $10,000 to $100,000 for late reporting, AML breaches, or operational discrepancies.
- Suspension of license for failing to implement risk controls or meeting capital requirements.
- Blacklist status by the UIF, limiting access to banking and financial services.
How Legasset Supports PSPs with Compliance
We provide ongoing regulatory guidance, audit preparation, and compliance structuring to help PSPs stay fully compliant. From AML policy implementation to tax efficiency strategies, our team ensures that your license remains in good standing.
Frequently Asked Questions About Purchasing an Argentinian PSP License
What is a PSP license in Argentina, and who needs it?
A Payment Service Provider (PSP) license in Argentina allows businesses to facilitate digital payments, process transactions, and provide financial services without being a traditional bank. Companies involved in e-wallet services, online payment gateways, remittance platforms, and fintech solutions typically require this license.
What are the key compliance requirements for PSPs in Argentina?
To operate legally, PSPs must comply with Banco Central de la República Argentina (BCRA) and Unidad de Información Financiera (UIF) regulations. This includes:
- AML/KYC compliance. Mandatory customer verification, suspicious transaction reporting, and risk assessments.
- Financial audits. Submission of annual reports and audit reviews to BCRA.
- Capital reserves. PSPs must maintain sufficient liquidity to ensure financial stability.
- Operational limits. Some PSPs face restrictions on handling crypto transactions, depending on their business model.
How long does it take to get an Argentinian PSP license?
The licensing timeline varies based on business structure, compliance readiness, and banking setup. Typically:
- New PSP applications take 3-6 months, depending on regulatory approvals.
- Purchasing a ready-made PSP company can be faster but still requires BCRA approval for ownership transfer(usually 4-8 weeks).
What are the ongoing costs of maintaining a PSP Argentina?
Apart from initial setup fees, PSPs must budget for:
- Regulatory renewal fees: $10,000 – $25,000 every 1-3 years.
- Annual financial audits: Typically $5,000 – $15,000, depending on transaction volume.
- Tax obligations: Corporate tax at 35%, VAT at 21% (on applicable transactions), and financial transaction taxes.
- AML compliance costs: Ongoing monitoring, reporting, and compliance staff expenses.
What banking challenges do PSPs face in Argentina?
While PSPs are legally recognized, local banks are selective when offering accounts. Many PSPs struggle with:
- Strict due diligence processes. Banks require extensive financial disclosures.
- Transaction limits. Some PSPs face restrictions on cross-border transactions.
- Alternatives. Many firms use EMIs, offshore banking, or stablecoin-based payment solutions to avoid local banking hurdles.
How can Legasset assist with PSP licensing in Argentina?
Legasset helps businesses secure an Argentinian PSP license from scratch or acquire a ready-made entity. Our services include:
- Full compliance support. Regulatory filings, AML structuring, and audit preparation.
- Banking solutions. Assistance in finding local and offshore banking partners.
- Ongoing regulatory guidance. Keeping businesses compliant with evolving BCRA and UIF rules.
Additional Links and Resources for PSP Licensing in Argentina
The BCRA is the primary regulatory authority overseeing payment service providers (PSPs) in Argentina. This site provides official regulations, licensing requirements, and compliance guidelines for fintech businesses operating in the payments sector.
II. Comisión Nacional de Valores (CNV)
The CNV supervises financial services in Argentina, including companies involved in digital payments and financial technology. This resource offers information on regulatory requirements and market oversight for PSPs.
III. Financial Intelligence Unit (UIF)
The UIF enforces AML and counter-terrorism financing (CTF) laws in Argentina. This site provides guidance on compliance obligations for PSPs, including transaction reporting and due diligence measures.
IV. Federal Administration of Public Revenue (AFIP)
AFIP is responsible for corporate taxation, VAT, and financial transaction levies applicable to PSPs. This resource outlines the tax obligations for digital payment businesses in Argentina.
V. Ministry of Economy – Argentina
The Ministry of Economy sets economic policies affecting financial institutions, including PSPs. Their website provides updates on financial sector regulations, fintech initiatives, and fiscal measures impacting payment processors.
