That chill down your spine. The trip is tomorrow, you take out your wallet to check the documents and... your DNI is expired. Or maybe you need it for an urgent procedure. Before panic sets in, take a deep breath: there is a solution. The Argentine government offers urgent issuance options for the DNI, but the differences between them can be confusing.
This definitive guide goes straight to the point. We will explain the crucial difference between the Express DNI and the 24-Hour DNI, how much they cost, where to request them, and the exact step-by-step process for you to resolve your issue today.
Express DNI vs. 24-Hour DNI: What is the Real Difference?
This is the number one and most important question. Although both are fast, they work in different ways and serve distinct needs. Understanding this is the first step to not wasting time or money.
โ Express DNI
Think of it as a "priority shipment." You carry out the procedure at an authorized center, and the new DNI is sent to your home by mail in a very short period.
- Delivery Time: Between 48 and 96 business hours.
- How It Works: The process is expedited and sent with maximum priority.
- Ideal For: Those who have a few days of leeway and prefer to receive the document at home.
โก 24-Hour DNI
This is the real "emergency service." You carry out the procedure at a specific post and pick up the completed document at the same location the next day.
- Delivery Time: 24 continuous hours.
- How It Works: The DNI is produced with absolute priority for pick-up on-site.
- Ideal For: Cases of extreme urgency, such as a flight the following day.
Price Table 2025: How Much Does Urgency Cost?
Peace of mind has a price, but knowing the exact amount helps with planning. The cost difference between the services is significant.
Type of Procedure | Approximate Cost | Delivery Time |
---|---|---|
Regular DNI | $3,000 pesos | Up to 25 business days |
Express DNI | $8,000 pesos | 48 to 96 business hours |
24-Hour DNI | $13,000 pesos | 24 hours (for pick-up) |
Reference values. Always confirm the current fee on the official Renaper website before starting the procedure.
Where to Apply? List of Authorized Documentation Centers
You cannot request these services anywhere. They are only available at specific Renaper posts prepared for urgent procedures.
- Ezeiza Airport: Open 24 hours a day, every day. Ideal for those about to board.
- Jorge Newbery Aeropark: Also has a quick service post.
- Renaper Documentation Centers: Various locations in Buenos Aires and the main provincial capitals offer the service. It is essential to check on the Renaper website which center near you is authorized for the "Express" procedure.
CalenUP Tip for Your Planning
The timeframe for the Express DNI is in business days. If you request it on a Friday, the 96 hours can extend until the following Wednesday due to the weekend. Before counting on your fingers, check our holiday calendar in Argentina to ensure that an unexpected holiday won't delay your delivery!
Step-by-Step to Request Your Urgent DNI
- Check the Location: Confirm on the Renaper website which is the nearest authorized center for the service you want (Express or 24 Hours).
- Schedule an Appointment (if necessary): For the Express DNI in urban centers, it is usually necessary to schedule an appointment via the "Mi Argentina" app. For airport posts, the service is usually on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Pay the Specific Fee: At the time of the procedure or online, you will need to pay the fee corresponding to the chosen urgent service.
- Bring Your Previous DNI: Bring your current DNI (even if expired). If it's due to loss or theft, bring the police report.
- Wait or Pick Up: If you opted for Express, wait for delivery to your home. If you opted for 24 Hours, return to the same location the next day to pick up your new document.