Planning a wedding in Argentina? Between picking the perfect venue and choosing between Malbec or Torrontés for the reception, there’s one more thing to consider—your financial future. Enter the prenuptial agreement—not exactly a topic for a rom-com, but definitely something that can help your marriage start on the right foot.
If you’re wondering how to get a prenup in Argentina, what the legal process looks like, and whether it’s even necessary, you’re in the right place. Let’s break it all down in a way that’s easy to understand—maybe even a little fun.
What Is a Prenuptial Agreement in Argentina?
A prenuptial agreement (contrato prenupcial) is a legal contract signed before marriage that outlines how a couple’s assets and debts will be managed during the marriage and in case of divorce. In Argentina, prenups are 100% legal and became more common after the 2015 Civil and Commercial Code reform.
But let’s get one thing straight: a prenup isn’t about lack of trust—it’s about smart planning. Think of it like travel insurance: you hope you’ll never need it, but if something goes wrong, you’ll be relieved you have it.
How to Sign a Prenup in Argentina – Step by Step
Step 1: Choose Your Marital Property Regime
Before saying “I do,” you and your partner must decide on one of these two legal property systems:
- Community Property (Sociedad Conyugal): Everything acquired during the marriage is shared 50/50 (unless inherited).
- Separate Property (Separación de Bienes): Each spouse keeps full ownership of their personal assets, including those acquired during the marriage.
💡 Which one should you pick? If you’re an entrepreneur, own property, or have significant savings, the separate property regime might be the better option.
Step 2: Consult a Notary Public (Escribano) or Lawyer
Prenups in Argentina must be written as a public deed (escritura pública), which means you’ll need to sign it before a notary public (escribano). A lawyer specializing in family law can also guide you through the process.
Step 3: Sign the Agreement Before the Wedding
Unlike in some countries, you cannot sign a prenup after you’re married in Argentina. It must be done before the wedding to be legally valid.
Step 4: Register the Agreement
Once signed, a note about your chosen property regime is added to your marriage certificate. This makes it enforceable against third parties (such as banks, creditors, and real estate institutions).
Step 5: Modifications (Only After One Year of Marriage)
While you can’t create a prenup after marriage, you can modify an existing agreement after at least one year—but only if both spouses agree.
Common Myths About Prenups (And Why They’re Wrong!)
🛑 “Prenups are only for rich people.”
✅ Nope! Even if you’re not a millionaire (yet), a prenup helps protect your finances, businesses, and personal property.
🛑 “Signing a prenup means we’re planning for a divorce.”
✅ Not at all. A prenup prevents financial conflicts during marriage and makes things easier if circumstances change.
🛑 “We don’t need a prenup because we trust each other.”
✅ A prenup isn’t about trust—it’s about clarity. Many happy couples use it simply to avoid future misunderstandings.
Can Foreigners Get a Prenup in Argentina?
Yes! If you’re planning a destination wedding in Argentina or you’re an expat getting married here, you can still sign a prenuptial agreement under Argentine law. However, if one or both of you are foreigners, you might need additional legal advice to ensure your prenup is valid internationally.
💡 Pro Tip: If you plan to move abroad, check whether your Argentine prenup will be recognized in your home country.
Checklist: What You Need for an Argentine Prenup
✔️ Discuss financial expectations with your partner
✔️ Decide between Community Property or Separate Property
✔️ Hire a notary public (escribano) or a lawyer
✔️ Sign the agreement before your wedding
✔️ Register the agreement with your marriage certificate
FAQ: Everything Else You Need to Know
❓ Can we sign a prenup after getting married in Argentina?
👉 No, but you can modify an existing agreement after one year of marriage.
❓ Does a prenup protect against debt?
👉 Yes! If you choose Separate Property, you won’t be responsible for your spouse’s debts.
❓ How much does a prenup cost in Argentina?
👉 Prices vary, but expect to pay between $500–$2,000 USD, depending on the lawyer and notary fees.
Argentina: The Perfect Wedding Destination (With or Without a Prenup!)
While you’re handling the legal side of marriage, don’t forget to enjoy the stunning locations Argentina has to offer for your wedding!
- 💍 Bariloche – Get married by the lake, surrounded by the Andes mountains.
- 💦 Iguazú Falls – Say “I do” with one of the world’s most spectacular waterfalls in the background.
- ❄️ Ushuaia – A breathtaking Patagonian adventure for couples who love the wild.
Let’s Capture Your Love Story!
Your wedding day should be about love, not legal jargon! Whether you’re eloping in Patagonia or planning a luxury Buenos Aires wedding, I’ll be there to capture every magical moment.
✨ Check out my latest wedding stories: Portfolio
📸 Explore wedding photography packages: Investment
💌 Let’s chat and plan your dream photoshoot: Contact
Final Thoughts
A prenuptial agreement in Argentina isn’t about doubting your love—it’s about securing your future. Think of it as setting your marriage up for success with clear financial expectations and peace of mind. So, while you’re planning your dream wedding, why not take a little time to ensure your financial foundation is just as strong as your love?
And once you’re done with that, let’s talk about something even more exciting—capturing your wedding day with breathtaking photography! 🎉
