Álvarez made his international debut in October 1998, as a replacement, in a match against Paraguay.

He next played international rugby in May 2001, against Uruguay and Canada, and was capped another three times at the end of the season, in matches against Wales, Scotland and the All Blacks.

He played six internationals during the 2002 season, three during June, and three during the November Tests series.

He played in games against France and South Africa in June 2003, and played another three games in August, and was then included in Argentina's squad for the 2003 Rugby World Cup in Australia.

He played in the games against Namibia and Ireland during the World Cup pool stages.