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Argentina ANMAT Medical Device Registration: Complete Guide for Foreign Manufacturers (2026)

Everything you need to know about ANMAT medical device registration in Argentina — covering classification (Classes I–IV), Declaration of Conformity vs full review pathways, HELENA submission system, fees, timelines, authorized representative requirements, GMP compliance, and 2026 regulatory updates.

Ran Chen
Ran Chen
Global MedTech Expert | 10× MedTech Global Access
2026-04-0524 min read

Introduction

Argentina is the third-largest medical device market in Latin America and a key entry point for manufacturers targeting the Southern Cone. With a population of over 46 million, a mixed public-private healthcare system, and growing demand for advanced medical technology, Argentina presents a meaningful commercial opportunity for medical device companies worldwide. The country is also a founding member of Mercosur (alongside Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay, and Bolivia), which means regulatory work done for Argentina can be leveraged across the bloc.

But Argentina is not a market you can enter casually. The regulatory authority — ANMAT (Administracion Nacional de Medicamentos, Alimentos y Tecnologia Medica) — maintains a structured, multi-step registration process with its own classification system, documentation requirements, authorized representative mandate, and quality system expectations. Foreign manufacturers who assume that an FDA clearance or CE mark translates directly into Argentine market access quickly discover that ANMAT requires dedicated preparation.

This guide covers every aspect of medical device registration in Argentina: ANMAT's role, risk classification for both medical devices and IVDs, the two registration pathways (Declaration of Conformity and Full Technical Review), documentation requirements, fees, timelines, the authorized representative structure, GMP compliance, the HELENA electronic submission system, important 2025-2026 regulatory updates, and post-market obligations. By the end, you will have a clear roadmap for bringing your medical device to the Argentine market.

Who Is ANMAT?

ANMAT — Administracion Nacional de Medicamentos, Alimentos y Tecnologia Medica (National Administration of Drugs, Food and Medical Technology) — is Argentina's national regulatory authority for health products. Functionally equivalent to the US FDA, ANMAT is responsible for ensuring that pharmaceuticals, medical devices, food products, and cosmetics marketed in Argentina are effective, safe, and of high quality.

For medical devices specifically, ANMAT exercises authority over:

  • Pre-market registration and evaluation of medical devices and in vitro diagnostics (IVDs)
  • Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) compliance verification, including inspection of manufacturing facilities
  • Post-market surveillance including technovigilance, adverse event reporting, and field safety corrective actions
  • Import and export control for medical products entering or leaving Argentina
  • Labeling and advertising oversight for medical devices
  • Clinical trial regulation for medical device studies conducted in Argentina

ANMAT is an observer member of both the International Medical Device Regulators Forum (IMDRF) and the International Council for Harmonisation (ICH). Its participation in these international bodies, combined with Argentina's Mercosur membership, has driven ongoing modernization and harmonization of the country's regulatory framework with international standards.

Key Regulatory Framework

Argentina's medical device regulatory framework is built on a series of provisions (disposiciones) issued by ANMAT. The most important are:

Provision Scope
Provision 969/1997 Clinical trial regulations for medical products
Provision 2318/2002 Labeling requirements (Annex III.B)
Provision 727/2013 Additional labeling requirements (Annex V)
Provision 3266/2013 Good Manufacturing Practices for medical products
Provision 9688/2019 Registration, modification, renewal, transfer, and cancellation procedures
Provision 8194/2023 Good technovigilance practices
Provision 11467/2024 Essential safety and performance requirements
Provision 64/2025 Updated registration requirements for medical products
Disposition 8799/2025 Simplified approval for Class I/II medical devices and IVD A/B
Disposition 4446/2025 Streamlined importation for low-risk products
Disposition 224/2026 Used and refurbished medical device import rules

Argentina Medical Device Market Overview

Argentina's medical device market is driven by several structural factors:

  • Large population — Over 46 million people with a healthcare system that combines a large public sector (covering the majority of the population) with a robust private sector
  • Mercosur integration — Argentina's membership in Mercosur facilitates trade with Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay, and Bolivia, and the bloc's regulatory harmonization efforts mean that documentation prepared for Argentina can be adapted for neighboring markets
  • Import-dependent for advanced technology — While Argentina has domestic manufacturing capability for some medical products (particularly disposables and basic devices), the country relies heavily on imports for advanced medical technology, creating opportunities for foreign manufacturers
  • Ongoing regulatory modernization — ANMAT has introduced several significant reforms in 2025-2026, including simplified approval pathways for low-risk devices and streamlined importation procedures

The combination of market size, import dependence for advanced devices, Mercosur synergies, and regulatory modernization makes Argentina an increasingly attractive target for medical device market entry in Latin America.

Classification System

Argentina uses a risk-based classification system for medical devices that is broadly aligned with the IMDRF (formerly GHTF) framework. The system is split into two parallel tracks: one for medical devices and one for in vitro diagnostics (IVDs).

Medical Device Classification

Class Risk Level Description Examples
Class I Low risk Devices that do not penetrate the body or do so only superficially; failure unlikely to cause serious harm Bandages, tongue depressors, examination gloves, manual surgical instruments, hospital beds
Class II Low-Moderate risk Devices that may contact or penetrate the body with limited duration or invasiveness Hypodermic needles, surgical sutures, powered surgical instruments, blood pressure monitors, contact lenses
Class III Moderate-High risk Devices that penetrate the body through surgical intervention or are implanted for extended periods; or devices that support or sustain life Orthopedic implants, cardiac catheters, dialysis equipment, ventilators, infusion pumps, intraocular lenses
Class IV High risk Devices implanted in direct contact with the heart, central nervous system, or central circulatory system; or devices incorporating biological materials or medicinal substances Cardiovascular stents, pacemakers, heart valves, defibrillators, spinal cord stimulators

IVD Classification

IVDs are classified separately using a four-tier system (Classes A through D):

Class Risk Level Description Examples
Class A Low risk IVDs for diagnosis of non-infectious diseases Clinical chemistry analyzers, basic hematology reagents
Class B Moderate risk IVDs for diagnosis of infectious diseases (except those in Class C) Tests for common bacterial infections, basic serology
Class C High risk IVDs for sexually transmitted diseases, blood-borne pathogens, and blood group identification HIV test kits, hepatitis B/C tests, blood typing reagents
Class D Very high risk IVDs intended for self-assessment by patients Home-use glucose monitors, self-testing pregnancy kits

Classification determines which registration pathway applies, the depth of technical review, documentation requirements, and the overall timeline and cost.

Registration Pathways

Argentina has two primary registration pathways for medical devices, determined by risk classification.

Pathway 1: Declaration of Conformity (DoC)

The Declaration of Conformity pathway applies to Class I and Class II medical devices. It is a streamlined process with reduced technical scrutiny compared to the full review pathway.

Key characteristics:

  • The manufacturer submits a formal Declaration of Conformity along with supporting documentation
  • ANMAT performs an administrative review rather than a full technical evaluation
  • The authorized representative (Argentina Authorized Representative, or AAR) must maintain a complete technical dossier and make it available upon ANMAT request or during audits
  • ANMAT review timeline: 15-30 working days

Pathway 2: Full Technical Review

The Full Technical Review pathway applies to Class III and Class IV medical devices. ANMAT conducts a comprehensive evaluation of the device's safety, performance, and quality.

Key characteristics:

  • Full technical dossier submission including labeling, testing data, GMP compliance evidence, performance and safety data, and risk management documentation
  • ANMAT evaluates all technical aspects of the submission
  • Approval is issued through a formal administrative act (acto administrativo)
  • ANMAT review timeline: 60-110 working days

Pathway Comparison

Feature Declaration of Conformity (Class I/II) Full Technical Review (Class III/IV)
Applicable classes Class I, Class II Class III, Class IV
Type of review Administrative (document completeness) Full technical evaluation
Technical scrutiny Limited Comprehensive
ANMAT review time 15-30 working days 60-110 working days
Total timeline (typical) 60-120 working days 12-15 months
Approval mechanism Registration upon administrative acceptance Formal administrative act
Full dossier maintained by AAR (available for audit) Submitted to ANMAT
Risk management report Required for implants, IUDs, blood bags; Class II+ Required

Registration Process Step-by-Step

The following outlines the step-by-step process for registering a medical device in Argentina.

Step 1: Appoint an Argentina Authorized Representative (AAR)

Foreign manufacturers without a legal presence in Argentina must appoint an Argentina Authorized Representative (AAR). The AAR acts as the legal representative and registration holder, manages all communication with ANMAT, and assumes legal responsibility for the device in Argentina. A Technical Director must also be appointed.

Step 2: Determine Classification

Classify your device according to ANMAT's risk classification system (Class I-IV for medical devices, Class A-D for IVDs). Classification determines the applicable registration pathway, documentation requirements, and review timeline.

Step 3: Prepare the Technical Dossier

Compile the complete technical documentation package required for your device's risk class. This includes the technical file, risk management report, labeling, Instructions for Use (IFU), test data, GMP/ISO 13485 certificates, and Certificate of Free Sale (CFS).

Step 4: Compile the Registration Application

Prepare the registration form and all supporting documents. All documentation must be in PDF format and digitally signed by both the Legal Representative and the Technical Director.

Step 5: Submit via the HELENA System

Submit the registration application electronically through ANMAT's HELENA platform. The HELENA system is ANMAT's electronic submission portal for all medical product registrations.

Step 6: ANMAT Review

Before the formal review begins, ANMAT's Medical Device Registry Office (Subdireccion de Registro de Productos Medicos) conducts a preliminary formal review of the application within 10 consecutive days to verify documentation completeness. If the dossier is incomplete or irregular, ANMAT notifies the need for additional information before proceeding.

After the preliminary review, ANMAT evaluates the submission based on the applicable pathway:

  • Class I/II: Administrative review (15-30 working days)
  • Class III/IV: Full technical review (60-110 working days)
  • IVDs: 60-90 working days

Step 7: Address Deficiencies (If Applicable)

If ANMAT identifies deficiencies in the submission, the AAR must respond within the specified timeframe. This may add additional time to the overall process.

Step 8: Registration Granted

Upon successful review, ANMAT issues the registration. The registration is valid for 5 years from the date of issuance.

Step 9: Import and Market the Device

With the registration in hand, the device can be imported and marketed in Argentina. The AAR manages import-related documentation and customs procedures.

Required Documentation

The documentation requirements vary by device class and registration pathway. The table below summarizes the key documents required.

Document Class I Class II Class III Class IV IVD
Registration form (via HELENA) Required Required Required Required Required
Certificate of Free Sale (CFS) from recognized countries Required Required Required Required Required
GMP certificate / ISO 13485 Required Required Required Required Required
Technical file Required Required Required Required Required
Risk management report (ISO 14971) If implant, IUD, blood bag Class II+ Required Required Required
Labeling per ANMAT specifications Required Required Required Required Required
Instructions for Use (IFU) Required Required Required Required Required
Test data / reports Required Required Required Required Required
Declaration of Conformity Required Required Not required Not required Varies
Digital signatures (Legal Rep + Technical Director) Required Required Required Required Required

Key Documentation Notes

  • Certificate of Free Sale (CFS): Must be issued by a recognized authority from Australia, Canada, Japan, the United States, or the European Union. Alternatively, a GMP certificate (aligned with ISO 13485) may be submitted.
  • GMP Certificate: ANMAT recognizes GMP certificates equivalent to ISO 13485:2016. Argentina has its own GMP standard (ANMAT-MDS) that is aligned with ISO 13485:2016.
  • Risk Management Report: Required for all implants, IUDs, and blood bags regardless of class. For Class II and above, a risk management report per ISO 14971 is generally required.
  • Format: All documentation must be submitted in PDF format through the HELENA system, digitally signed by both the Legal Representative and the Technical Director.
  • Language: Documentation should be prepared in Spanish or accompanied by certified Spanish translations, as required by ANMAT.

Fees and Costs

ANMAT charges registration fees based on device classification. The following table shows the current fees in Argentine Pesos (ARS) with approximate US Dollar equivalents.

Device Category Fee (ARS) Fee (Approximate USD)
Medical Device Class I 215,000 ~$155
Medical Device Class II 276,800 ~$195
Medical Device Class III 367,200 ~$260
Medical Device Class IV 513,000 ~$360
IVD Class A/B 194,700 ~$140
IVD Class C/D 241,200 ~$173

Important note on costs: These are ANMAT's registration fees only. The total cost of market entry also includes AAR retainer fees, technical dossier preparation, translation costs, legal fees, import logistics, and ongoing post-market compliance costs. The ARS/USD exchange rate is volatile; always verify current fees on ANMAT's official website before budgeting.

Timelines

Timelines for medical device registration in Argentina depend on the device classification and the applicable review pathway.

Classification ANMAT Review Period Total Typical Timeline
Medical Device Class I/II (Declaration of Conformity) 15-30 working days 60-120 working days
Medical Device Class III/IV (Full Technical Review) 60-110 working days 12-15 months
IVDs 60-90 working days 6-12 months
GMP Certification 60 working days from application Variable

The total timeline includes preparation of the technical dossier, compilation of documentation, AAR appointment, submission, ANMAT review, and any deficiency responses. For Class III and IV devices, the extended timeline reflects the depth of technical evaluation and the likelihood of at least one round of deficiency queries from ANMAT.

Authorized Representative Requirements

Foreign manufacturers without a legal entity in Argentina must appoint an Argentina Authorized Representative (AAR). This is a mandatory legal requirement — you cannot register a medical device without one.

Role and Responsibilities of the AAR

The AAR serves as the legal representative and registration holder for the foreign manufacturer in Argentina. The AAR's responsibilities include:

  • Holding the registration on behalf of the foreign manufacturer
  • Submitting and managing all registration applications with ANMAT
  • Serving as the primary point of contact for all ANMAT communications, inspections, and inquiries
  • Assuming legal responsibility for the device in Argentina
  • Managing import documentation and working with Argentine customs authorities
  • Coordinating post-market obligations including technovigilance reporting and registration renewals
  • Maintaining a complete technical dossier for Class I/II devices (available for ANMAT audit or request)

Technical Director

In addition to the AAR, a Technical Director must be appointed. The Technical Director is a qualified professional who assumes technical responsibility for the registered products. Both the Legal Representative and the Technical Director must digitally sign all registration documentation submitted to ANMAT.

Selecting an AAR

Choosing the right AAR is a strategic decision with long-term implications. Consider the following:

  • Regulatory expertise — The AAR should have demonstrated experience with ANMAT processes, classification determinations, and registration management for your device category
  • Legal standing — The AAR must be a legally constituted Argentine entity with the appropriate authorizations
  • Independence vs. distributor model — Some manufacturers appoint an independent regulatory firm as AAR to maintain control over registrations, while others appoint their commercial distributor. Using an independent AAR provides flexibility to change distributors without transferring registrations
  • Continuity — Changing AAR requires a transfer process. Choose an entity you expect to work with long-term
  • Post-market capability — The AAR must be able to handle technovigilance obligations, respond to ANMAT queries, and manage renewals

Practical tip: Appointing your commercial distributor as the AAR may seem convenient, but it ties your regulatory authorization to your commercial relationship. If you later switch distributors, you may need to transfer your registrations — a process that takes time and resources. Consider using an independent regulatory representative to decouple your regulatory and commercial relationships.

GMP/QMS Requirements

ANMAT requires evidence of Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) compliance as part of the medical device registration process. Argentina's GMP standard (ANMAT-MDS) is aligned with ISO 13485:2016.

GMP Compliance Pathways

Manufacturers can demonstrate GMP compliance through:

  • ISO 13485 certification — A current ISO 13485:2016 certificate from a recognized certification body is generally accepted by ANMAT
  • ANMAT GMP inspection — ANMAT may conduct its own inspection of manufacturing facilities, with a timeline of approximately 60 working days from application
  • GMP certificates from recognized authorities — Certificates from regulatory authorities in Australia, Canada, Japan, the United States, or the European Union may be considered

Key GMP Expectations

ANMAT's GMP requirements cover:

  • Quality management system documentation
  • Design and development controls
  • Production and process controls
  • Document and record control
  • Supplier and subcontractor management
  • Corrective and preventive action (CAPA) processes
  • Internal audits and management review
  • Product release and distribution records
  • Complaint handling and adverse event reporting

GMP Timeline

GMP certification through ANMAT typically takes approximately 60 working days from the date of application. If your device requires an ANMAT inspection of your manufacturing facility, additional scheduling time should be factored in.

Practical tip: If you already hold ISO 13485:2016 certification from a recognized certification body, start the GMP documentation early in your registration planning. Ensure your ISO 13485 certificate is current and covers the specific device(s) you intend to register in Argentina.

HELENA Submission System

ANMAT's HELENA system is the electronic submission platform used for all medical product registrations. All registration applications, modifications, renewals, and related submissions must be filed through HELENA.

Key Features of the HELENA System

  • Electronic submission — All documents are submitted digitally; no paper submissions are accepted
  • PDF format requirement — All files must be in PDF format
  • Digital signatures — All documentation must be digitally signed by both the Legal Representative and the Technical Director
  • End-to-end tracking — The system allows tracking of submission status throughout the review process

Preparing for HELENA Submission

Before submitting through HELENA, ensure that:

  1. Your AAR has an active HELENA account and is registered with ANMAT
  2. All documents are prepared in PDF format
  3. All documents carry valid digital signatures from both the Legal Representative and the Technical Director
  4. The complete dossier is organized according to ANMAT's document structure requirements
  5. Registration fees are paid and payment confirmation is available

2026 Regulatory Updates

Argentina's medical device regulatory landscape has undergone significant changes in 2025-2026. Manufacturers planning market entry should be aware of the following key updates.

Disposition 8799/2025: Simplified Approval for Low-Risk Devices

This disposition introduced a simplified approval pathway for Class I/II medical devices and IVD Class A/B products. Key provisions include:

  • Businesses can operate in declared facilities while awaiting ANMAT inspection
  • Manufacturers must report significant changes within 30 days
  • Reduced administrative burden for low-risk device registrations
  • Streamlined documentation requirements for qualifying devices

This is the most significant process improvement for low-risk device manufacturers in recent years, potentially reducing the time and cost of market entry for Class I/II devices.

Disposition 4446/2025: Streamlined Importation for Low-Risk Products

Effective August 6, 2025, this disposition dramatically simplified the importation process for low-risk medical products:

  • Class I/II importers no longer need authorization for each import
  • Instead, importers submit a notification via sworn statement (declaracion jurada) within 48 hours of import
  • This affects approximately 70% of all medical product imports by volume
  • The change eliminates a significant bureaucratic bottleneck that had historically delayed market access for low-risk devices

Disposition 224/2026: Used and Refurbished Medical Device Imports

Published February 2, 2026, this disposition establishes a new framework for importing used and refurbished medical devices into Argentina. Key provisions:

  • Devices can be imported under three scenarios: refurbished abroad, used without mandatory refurbishment, or imported for refurbishment within Argentina
  • Single-use devices are excluded — they cannot be imported under this framework
  • Class I/II devices: Import Notice required within 48 hours
  • Class III/IV devices: Prior authorization from ANMAT is required before import
  • The framework opens a new channel for cost-effective medical technology access while maintaining regulatory oversight

Provision 64/2025: Updated Registration Requirements

This provision updated the general registration requirements for medical products, including modifications to documentation expectations and procedural requirements for new registrations, modifications, renewals, and cancellations.

Mercosur Harmonization

Argentina's participation in Mercosur continues to drive regulatory convergence across the bloc. Ongoing harmonization efforts include:

  • Aligned classification rules across Mercosur member states
  • Shared GMP framework based on ISO 13485
  • Coordinated post-market surveillance approaches
  • Potential for mutual recognition of certain regulatory decisions in the future

Practical tip: These 2025-2026 updates collectively represent the most significant regulatory modernization for Argentine medical device registration in years. The simplified approval pathway (Disposition 8799/2025) and streamlined importation rules (Disposition 4446/2025) together reduce the barrier to entry for low-risk devices. Manufacturers should work with their AAR to confirm how these changes apply to their specific products and registration timeline.

Post-Market Surveillance

Registration in Argentina is not a one-time event. ANMAT requires ongoing post-market compliance from all registration holders.

Registration Renewal

  • Medical device registrations are valid for 5 years from the date of issuance
  • Renewal must be submitted within 90 days prior to the expiry date
  • Failure to renew on time results in registration lapse, requiring a new registration from scratch

Periodic Safety Update Reports (PSURs)

Registration holders must submit Periodic Safety Update Reports to ANMAT, providing comprehensive safety data on the marketed device. PSURs summarize:

  • Worldwide safety experience with the device
  • Adverse event reports and trends
  • Risk-benefit reassessment
  • Any field safety corrective actions taken

Adverse Event Reporting

ANMAT's technovigilance system requires reporting of adverse events associated with medical devices. This is governed by Provision 8194/2023 (Good Technovigilance Practices). The AAR is responsible for ensuring timely reporting of:

  • Serious adverse events (death, life-threatening conditions, hospitalization, disability)
  • Device malfunctions that could lead to serious harm
  • Field safety corrective actions and recalls

ANMAT Audits and Inspections

ANMAT conducts audits and inspections of registration holders, importers, and distributors. These may include:

  • Good Distribution Practice (GDP) inspections
  • Quality Management System (QMS) audits
  • Facility inspections
  • Document and record reviews

Manufacturers and their AARs should maintain complete, current documentation and be prepared for ANMAT inspections at any time.

Ongoing Risk Management

Registration holders must implement risk management measures based on ongoing safety data, in accordance with ISO 14971 principles. This includes:

  • Continuous monitoring of device performance in the Argentine market
  • Updating risk management files as new information becomes available
  • Implementing corrective actions when safety concerns are identified
  • Reporting significant changes to ANMAT as required

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does medical device registration take in Argentina?

It depends on the classification. Class I/II devices (Declaration of Conformity pathway) typically take 60-120 working days total, with ANMAT review taking 15-30 working days. Class III/IV devices (Full Technical Review pathway) typically take 12-15 months total, with ANMAT review taking 60-110 working days. IVDs generally take 6-12 months.

Do I need an in-country representative?

Yes. Foreign manufacturers without a legal entity in Argentina must appoint an Argentina Authorized Representative (AAR). The AAR acts as the legal representative and registration holder, manages all communication with ANMAT, and assumes legal responsibility for the device in Argentina. A Technical Director must also be appointed. This is mandatory — you cannot register without an AAR.

What is the Declaration of Conformity pathway?

The Declaration of Conformity (DoC) pathway is available for Class I and Class II medical devices. The manufacturer submits a formal Declaration of Conformity with supporting documentation. ANMAT performs an administrative review (document completeness check) rather than a full technical evaluation. The AAR must maintain a complete technical dossier available for ANMAT audits and requests. This pathway is faster and less burdensome than the Full Technical Review.

Can I use my FDA clearance or CE marking?

An FDA clearance, CE marking, or approval from recognized authorities (Australia, Canada, Japan, US, EU) supports your ANMAT application, particularly through the Certificate of Free Sale (CFS) requirement. However, ANMAT conducts its own review — a foreign approval does not result in automatic registration in Argentina. Existing approvals from reference authorities can strengthen your submission and may facilitate the review process.

What is the HELENA system?

HELENA is ANMAT's electronic submission platform for all medical product registrations. All registration applications must be submitted through HELENA in PDF format, with digital signatures from both the Legal Representative and the Technical Director. The system provides end-to-end tracking of submission status.

How long is the registration valid?

Medical device registrations in Argentina are valid for 5 years. Renewal must be submitted within 90 days prior to the expiry date. If the registration lapses, a new registration must be filed from scratch.

What changed with the 2025-2026 regulatory updates?

Several significant changes took effect. Disposition 8799/2025 introduced simplified approval for Class I/II devices and IVD A/B, allowing businesses to operate in declared facilities while awaiting inspection. Disposition 4446/2025 (effective August 6, 2025) eliminated per-shipment import authorization for Class I/II devices, replacing it with a 48-hour sworn statement notification — affecting roughly 70% of all medical product imports. Disposition 224/2026 (February 2026) created a framework for importing used and refurbished devices, with Class I/II requiring 48-hour import notice and Class III/IV requiring prior authorization.

Is ISO 13485 required?

ANMAT requires evidence of GMP compliance. ISO 13485:2016 certification from a recognized certification body is generally accepted. Argentina's own GMP standard (ANMAT-MDS) is aligned with ISO 13485:2016. Alternatively, GMP certificates from recognized regulatory authorities (Australia, Canada, Japan, US, EU) may be considered.

What are the post-market obligations?

Registration holders must submit Periodic Safety Update Reports (PSURs) to ANMAT, report adverse events through the technovigilance system, implement ongoing risk management measures, comply with ANMAT audits and inspections (GDP, QMS), and renew registrations within 90 days of the 5-year expiry date. The AAR manages these obligations on behalf of the foreign manufacturer.

Can I import used or refurbished medical devices?

Yes, under the new framework established by Disposition 224/2026 (effective February 2, 2026). Devices can be imported refurbished abroad, used without mandatory refurbishment, or imported for refurbishment within Argentina. Single-use devices are excluded. Class I/II devices require an Import Notice within 48 hours. Class III/IV devices require prior ANMAT authorization.

What documents need to be in Spanish?

Labeling and Instructions for Use (IFU) must comply with ANMAT's labeling specifications and should be in Spanish. Technical documentation submitted through HELENA should be prepared in Spanish or accompanied by certified Spanish translations as required by ANMAT. All documents must be in PDF format with digital signatures.

How much does registration cost?

ANMAT registration fees range from approximately 194,700 ARS ($140 USD) for IVD Class A/B to 513,000 ARS ($360 USD) for Medical Device Class IV. These are government fees only — the total cost of market entry also includes AAR fees, technical dossier preparation, translation, legal fees, and ongoing compliance costs. The ARS/USD exchange rate is volatile, so verify current fees before budgeting.