Guide to Residency in Paraguay

Obtaining a residency visa in Paraguay is not always easy, but our Guide to Residency in Paraguay gives newcomers an overview of the steps involved and advice from others who have already navigated the process.

• Gather Required Documents
  • Valid passport
  • Birth certificate (apostilled and translated into Spanish)
  • Police clearance certificate from your country of origin (apostilled and translated into Spanish)
  • Marriage certificate, if applicable (apostilled and translated into Spanish)
• Choose the Type of Residency
  • Permanent Residency: For those who wish to live indefinitely in Paraguay.
  • Temporary Residency: For those who wish to live in Paraguay for a specific period.
• Visit the Dirección General de Migraciones
  • Address: Nuestra Señora de la Asunción, Paraguay
  • Website: http://www.migraciones.gov.py/
• Apply for a Tax Number (RUC)
  • Visit the Subsecretaría de Estado de Tributación (SET) website: https://www.set.gov.py/
  • Fill out the online form and submit it.
  • Print the confirmation and keep it for your records.
• Open a Bank Account
  • Choose a local bank and visit a branch with your passport and RUC number.
  • Fill out the application form and deposit the initial amount required.
• Obtain a Police Certificate in Paraguay
  • Visit the nearest police station with your passport and a copy of your passport photo page.
  • Request a Certificado de Antecedentes Penales.
• Complete the Application Form
  • Obtain the application form from the Dirección General de Migraciones website or office.
  • Fill out the form accurately and completely.
• Submit the Application
  • Gather all required documents, including the application form, passport, birth certificate, police clearance certificates, and other relevant documents.
  • Submit the application at the Dirección General de Migraciones office.
  • Pay the application fee.
• Wait for Approval
  • The processing time varies, so be patient.
  • Check the status of your application periodically by contacting the Dirección General de Migraciones.
• Register with the Registro de Identificación de las Personas (RENAPER)
  • Once your residency is approved, visit the RENAPER office to register.
  • Website: https://www.renaper.gov.py/
• Obtain Your Cédula de Identidad
  • After registering with RENAPER, you will receive your Cédula de Identidad, which is your Paraguayan ID card.

Additional Information

It is recommended to seek professional assistance from a lawyer or immigration consultant to ensure all documents are correctly prepared and submitted.

Learning basic Spanish will be beneficial as most official procedures are conducted in Spanish.

What tips do expats have about residency and visas in Paraguay?

"In order to visit Paraguay, foreign nationals must obtain a visa prior to their arrival. The process of applying for a visa involves submitting an application form, a valid passport, a passport-sized photograph, and proof of sufficient funds to cover the duration of the stay. Depending on the purpose of the visit, additional documents may be required. In order to obtain residency in Paraguay, foreign nationals must submit an application form, a valid passport, a passport-sized photograph, proof of sufficient funds to cover the duration of the stay, and a criminal background check. Depending on the purpose of the residency, additional documents may be required. Once the application is approved, the foreign national will be issued a residency card, which must be renewed every two years," commented one member living in Paraguay.