• The U.S. plans to reinstate the Visa Waiver Program for Argentina, potentially taking two to three years.
• Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem praises Argentina's low visa overstay rate and its growing ties with the U.S.
• President Javier Milei's administration is viewed positively by the Trump administration for aligning with its policies.
• Online reactions celebrate Argentina's potential return to favor, indicating a shift in regional relationships.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is currently working on plans to reinstate Argentina in its Visa Waiver Program, allowing Argentine tourists to travel to the U.S. without a visa. This initiative could take up to two to three years to finalize and reflects a strengthening of ties between the two nations under President Javier Milei's administration, which has sought closer alignment with U.S. policies, according to Reuters, South China Morning Post, and Los Angeles Times.

During her visit to Buenos Aires, Secretary Noem noted that Argentina has the lowest visa overstay rate in Latin America and announced a statement of intent signed with Argentine officials to expedite Argentina's enrollment in the program. She emphasized that Argentina is becoming "an even stronger friend" of the U.S., which is crucial for both nations' border security efforts, as detailed by India Times and Los Angeles Times.

Milei's administration has made significant strides in reshaping Argentina's foreign policy in line with U.S. expectations, particularly in terms of immigration and security. This comes at a time when the country is experiencing growth in travel to the U.S., with a reported 25% increase in Argentine visitors this year alone, showcasing a renewed interest in U.S. tourism among Argentinians, according to Reuters and South China Morning Post.

The initial plans for reinstatement of the visa waiver program marks a pivotal change, moving away from the previous limitations imposed after the country faced economic hardships in the early 2000s. Historically, Argentines could travel without a visa from 1996 to 2002, and this restoration highlights a significant diplomatic shift under the current administration, as noted in reports from Los Angeles Times and India Times.

Public reactions online are overwhelmingly positive, with netizens expressing optimism about the future of Argentina's relations with the U.S. and viewing Milei's administration as a harbinger of stability and growth. The administration's focus on fostering these relationships is seen as beneficial not only for Argentina but also for U.S. interests in the region, according to Reuters and India Times.