Argentina has said it will tighten its historically loose migration rules, as libertarian President Javier Milei cuts costs and deepens his political alignment with hard-right leaders in the US and Europe.

Argentina would ban people convicted of crimes from entering, rapidly deport those who commit crimes inside the country, set financial requirements for residency and charge migrants to access public healthcare and education, presidential spokesperson Manuel Adorni told reporters on Wednesday.

“We have for a while had an immigration regime that invites chaos and abuse,” Adorni said, citing heavy spending on public services for foreigners. “It’s time to honour our history and make Argentina great again.”