SUBE cards are credit card sized cards that allow you to preload payment and board public transportation in Buenos Aires, greater Buenos Aires other cities in Argentina such as Rosario, Mendoza and Bariloche without the need for a paper ticket.

SUBE works not just for the subte (subway) but also for colectivos (buses), trenes (trains), and some ferries in Buenos Aires and other cities.

It should be noted that as of late 2024, subte stations now accept direct credit or debit card payments, so travelers don’t strictly need a SUBE card if they only use the subway occasionally.

For buses and trains, SUBE is still the standard, so having one makes day-to-day travel smoother.

Those who register their cards with the government to track aggregated user patterns and tax dodgers, pay only 45% of the full fare.

Students, retirees, and low-income groups can get further subsidies.

Whether privacy is worth the higher fare is a personal decision but one subway worker in Catedral station said a surprising number of people — almost half — dont’ register their cards.

The tracking is part of Buenos Aires’ efforts to operate as a smart city.

This tracking helps city planners analyze traffic flow, optimize bus and subway routes, and understand peak travel patterns — so it doubles as a tool for urban planning.

In sum, if you don’t care about privacy, you pay less.

How to get the SUBE card

To obtain the SUBE card, head to one of the 200 citywide locations that stocks them including Correo Argentino, subte stations or register online if you don’t mind Argentina’s big brother tracking your movements.

You will need to bring your ID (either a national identity card or passport), fill in a short form, and pay about a US$1 to purchase the card.

How to Top Up the SUBE Card

The SUBE cards can be charged at subway stations and other places that display the SUBE sign, usually kiosks.

Simply hand over the amount you want to charge up, put your card on the reader and wait for your credit to be uploaded.

Some kiosks, or Sube stations allow recharge via credit/debit card and with a local card you can do it online via the Sube app.

Check here to find a list of place in your area to charge your card.

What to do if you Lose your SUBE Card?

If you lose your SUBE card, you need to report it, or you will lose your credit and won’t be able to get a new one.

This can be done online or by calling 0800-777-SUBE (7823).

If you can deal with the dystopia, there is a WhatsApp chatbot called SUBI reachable at +54 9 11 6677-7823.

The bot allows you to check your balance, deactivate the card and recover your PIN number.

Damaged cards can sometimes be replaced for free if registered.

There is a small procedural charge to report a card lost, stolen or broken Sube card.

—by Rosie Hilder, updated by Ande Wanderer.

 

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