The social security system in Argentina offers a number of benefits for those who lose their jobs. Expats may be able to claim benefit payments but this will depend a great deal on the type of visa and whether or not the worker has been paying taxes. If you are in any doubt the best course of action is to consult an advisor at your local social security centre.

Unemployment benefit is paid to those who have lost their jobs. There is a 90 day application deadline for this benefit from the time the employment was terminated. The amount paid out will be between 150 and 300 pesos per month, depending on the salary earned from the position and it will only be paid for a certain amount of time. Again, this depends on the length of service in the job and other family benefits may be payable if the claimant has a family or other dependents.

There are two pension systems in Argentina. The first is a state-run pension scheme and the second is a system of private pension funds which are monitored by the state. Any employee in Argentina must choose within 90 days of beginning work which scheme they wish to use. If they do not make a decision they are automatically entered into the state scheme and cannot then change. Those who choose the private scheme may move their contributions between funds whenever they choose. Pensions are paid out when men reach the age of 65 and women reach the age of 60.

There is a separate pension which is payable for those who have to finish work early due to disability. There is also a system which will pay a pension to the spouse of a deceased person who has been claiming a pension.

Sickness and maternity benefits are both available for employees although these payments are made solely by the employer. Employees with less than five years of service will qualify for full pay for up to three months if they fall ill. This extends to six months for more than five years service and may be longer if the employee has dependents. Maternity benefit begins 45 days prior to the baby’s due date and continues for 45 days afterwards and is calculated on the average gross earnings before the leave is taken.

Expats from Britain will be able to claim their British pension in Argentina and the same may apply for those from other countries. To clarify individual positions it is advisable to consult the Pensions Department in your home country prior to travel. Those who are already in receipt of other benefits such as disability and sickness benefits may find that these are also transferable from their home country.