Paraguay Temporary Residency Guide: Step-by-Step Roadmap
Your Essential Roadmap to Obtaining Temporary Residency (Residencia Temporal) in Paraguay, under Law No. 6984 ⁄2022.
Date
November 2025
Purpose
This guide simplifies the process of obtaining Temporary Residency so you can focus on building your future, enjoying freedom, and creating stability for you and your family in Paraguay.
Executive Summary
This guide is for individuals seeking to obtain Temporary Residency (Residencia Temporal) in Paraguay under the new Law No. 6984 ⁄2022 . This legal status is valid for up to two full years and allows you to live, work, study, and settle in Paraguay
What it includes
A quick pre-screen checklist to confirm your readiness.
A detailed, step-by-step process for visa-exempt applicants.
A comprehensive list of required documents to bring from abroad.
Answers to Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about work, travel, and renewals.
How to use it
Follow the Quick Pre-Screen Checklist first.
If you answer “yes” to all questions, proceed to the Detailed Step-by-Step Process for a sequential guide to completing your application in Paraguay.
Introduction
Starting a new chapter abroad can feel overwhelming but it doesn’t have to be. With our guide, we simplify the process of obtaining Temporary Residency so you can focus on what truly matters: building your future, enjoying freedom, and creating stability for you and your family. Paraguay stands out for its straightforward residency process, low taxation, and welcoming immigration policies, making it one of the easiest countries in the region to start a new chapter. Here, you’ll find not only opportunity but also the space to build a life with balance, freedom, and long-term potential.
Residency Types & Definitions
Visa vs. Temporary vs. Permanent vs. Citizenship
| Status | Description | Validity | Authority |
| Visa | Temporary entry permission required for certain nationalities before arrival, allowing entry to initiate the residency process | Varies (typically up to 90 days) | Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores (Ministry of Foreign Affairs) |
| Temporary Residency (TR) | Initial long-term status, currently granted for two years under Law 6984 ⁄22 | Two years | Dirección Nacional de Migraciones (National Directorate of Migration) |
| Permanent Residency (PR) | Grants the right to reside indefinitely, typically sought after two years of TR | PR card must be periodically renewed | Dirección Nacional de Migraciones (National Directorate of Migration) |
| Citizenship | The highest status, achieved through a formal, mandatory judicial naturalization process following a required period of established residency. | Indefinite | Corte Suprema de Justicia (Supreme Court of Justice) |
Rights and Obligations of Residents
Residents possess rights comparable to citizens, including access to public health and education systems, property ownership, and legal employment (once the Cédula is issued). Applicants must provide a Sworn Statement (Declaración Jurada) confirming their commitment to comply with the National Constitution and all national laws.
Quick Pre-Screen Checklist (5-minute go/no-go)
Answer “yes” to all questions to proceed with the application process.
If you answer “no” to any, fix that block first.
| Question | Yes | No | Notes |
| Is your Passport valid now and for at least 6 months more? | Check expiration date early, renew if necessary before traveling or filing | ||
| Can you obtain a national criminal record(s) from each country you lived in during the last 3 years? | It must be: From the last 6 months, the more recent, the better Apostilled or legalized (depending on the country).Plan ahead: processing and apostille can take several weeks | ||
| Can you produce Vida y Residencia at your Paraguayan address? | Required to show where you live in Paraguay, it is usually obtained through a local police station near your residence | ||
| Will names and dates match across all certificates and your passport (or do you have a legalized name-linking affidavit)? | Ensure names, surnames, and birthdates match across: PassportBirth certificateMarriage/divorce certificates (if applicable)Criminal recordsIf there are differences (e.g., spelling, order, maiden names), prepare a legalized affidavit linking names. | ||
| Can you afford fees and translation/notary costs in Paraguay? | Carry cash for payments where cards are not accepted |
Step-by-Step Process Overview (Visa-Exempt Applicants)
This overview is for applicants whose nationality does not require a visa to enter Paraguay.
1. Enter Paraguay visa-free and ensure the entry stamp or migration slip is kept.
2. Apply at Interpol for fingerprinting.
3. Obtain Interpol Certificate.
4. Obtain Vida y Residencia at the local police station (Comisaría).
5. Get the Paraguayan Criminal Background Certificate (Antecedentes Informáticos) from Identificaciones.
6. Translate and notarize foreign documents (official translations by a CSJ (Supreme Court) matriculated translator and authentication by a local Escribano Público).
7. Submit file at Migraciones, paying the fee (Gs. 2,787,550), providing fingerprints/photo, and signing sworn statements.
8. Receive Precaria (a 90-day temporary card).
9. Wait 60–120 business days.
10. Collect Temporary Residency Card (valid 2 years).
11. Apply for Cédula (National ID) at Identificaciones.
Detailed Step-by-Step Process
Step 1 – Enter Paraguay
| Detail | Requirement |
| Action | Arrive through Silvio Pettirossi International Airport (Luque). |
| Note | Keep your entry stamp visible in your passport. |
Step 2 Obtain Interpol Certificate
| Detail | Requirement |
| Purpose | Verify your identity and international background. |
| Location | 📍Interpol Office |
| Office Hours | Monday to Friday: 07:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m |
| Duration | Process takes about 1-3 business days after applying. You must be physically present. |
| Validity | The document is valid for 3 months from the date of issue. |
| Cost | Payment of ~PYG 220,000 |
| You’ll Need | Application formCertified copy of foreign passport (with stamp or entry ticket)Two recent passport-size photos (3×4 cm, white background). |
| Note | The procedure includes fingerprinting and data entry into the system (e.g., ink fingerprinting). If you upgrade to Permanent Residency later, you will need a new/valid certificate again. |
Step 3: Obtain Vida y Residencia
| Detail | Requirement |
| Purpose | Confirms that you are physically residing at a specific address and that you are currently living in Paraguay. |
| Location | Visit the Comisaría (local police station) closest to your address. |
| Duration | The certificate is normally ready within 24 hours. |
| You’ll Need | Passport Interpol document Address proof Two photocopies of the Paraguayan witnesses ID (cédula) Bill receipt Photos |
Step 4: Obtain Paraguayan Criminal Certificate
| Detail | Requirement |
| Official Name | Certificado de Antecedentes para Extranjeros |
| Purpose | Confirms the absence of criminal records within Paraguay’s national police system |
| Office Hours | Monday to Friday: 5:30am to 6:00pm Saturdays: 6:00am to 11:00 am |
| Duration | Issued immediately, you must be present in person |
| Validity | Valid for 3 months from the date of issue |
| Cost | Cover the processing fee (~15 USD) 68.000 PYG in cash, using PYG/guaraníes |
| You’ll Need | A copy of your passport |
Step 5: Translations and Notarizations
| Detail | Requirement |
| Translation | All foreign documents must be translated by an Paraguayan official translator (Supreme Court registered) You can check it here: 🌐Certified Translators – CJS |
| Notarization | Then taken to an Escribanía (notary office) for authentication by a local Escribano Público |
| Timing | Do this before Migraciones submission |
Step 6: File Submission at Migraciones
| Detail | Requirement |
| Location | 📍National Direction of Migration |
| Office Hours | Monday to Friday: 7:00 am to 2:30 pm |
| Contact | Telephone: +595 21 411 2000 |
| Action | Arrive at the Migration Office, take a number and wait for your turn |
| Submission | Bring all documents (foreign + local), plus copies, and migration fee in cash |
| Biometrics | Give fingerprints, signature, and photo at the counter |
| Precaria | You’ll receive a yellow paper called Residencia Precaria (temporary ID valid 90 days) |
| Precaria Purpose | This yellow card allows you to stay in Paraguay, work, study, and exit/reenter the country while the Residencia Temporal is processed. It regularizes the applicant’s stay during processing, preventing overstay fines |
Fees Payable at Migraciones
| Item | Cost (USD) | Cost (PYG) | Notes |
| Temporary Residency Filing Fee | $393 | 2,787,550 | Primary application fee |
| Radication Certificate | $31,46 | 223,004 | Required if you will apply for Cédula and Permanent Residency later |
| Visa Fee (if applicable) | $31,46 | 223,004 | Paid if you do not have a Visa |
| Total (Max) | $456 | 3,233,558 | (~$460 USD approx) |
| Estimated Total Budget | $500–700 | 3,543,932 – 4,961,505 | Includes government fees, notarized copies, translations, etc |
Step 7: Waiting & Card Collection
| Detail | Requirement |
| Waiting Period | Wait 60 -120 days |
| Notification | Receive email notification to collect |
| Collection | Collect at Migraciones |
| You’ll Need | Passport, old Precaria, and tracking document |
| Inspection | Inspect spelling, nationality, and date validity (2 years) |
| Collection Deadline | You have 12 months from issuance to collect your Carnet de Residencia Temporal. Failure to do so requires restarting the process with all costs |
Step 8: Apply for Cédula (National ID)
| Detail | Requirement |
| Action | After receiving the residency card, go to Identificaciones again |
| You’ll Need | Passport, residency card, and Interpol + local certificates |
| Fee | 8.500 PYG |
| Duration | Ready in 30 business days |
Rights & Benefits of Temporary Residency
Once you have your Temporary Residency and Cédula, you can:
- Open bank accounts.
- Register a business or RUC.
- Lease or purchase property.
- Enroll children in school.
Can You Work on a Temporary Residency?
Yes, temporary residents are allowed to work legally in Paraguay. You can:
- Open a business
- Sign employment contracts
- Work as a freelancer or remote worker
- If you’re employed locally, your employer may request your Cédula and residency documents before signing a contract
Diplomatic / Official Visa
This type of visa applies to diplomats, government officials, and representatives of international organizations traveling on official missions. If you’re moving to Paraguay for personal, business, or residency purposes, this category does not apply to you.
Tourist / Technician Visa
Most foreigners who come to Paraguay will need a Tourist or Technician Visa. This visa is required for those visiting the country for:
- Tourism or personal travel
- Business meetings or conferences
- Short-term professional or technical work
Visa Requirements & Application
Before applying for residency, it’s important to confirm whether your nationality requires a visa to enter Paraguay.
The visa is typically valid for up to 90 days, and in many cases, it can be extended depending on your plans or migration process. You can check whether your nationality requires a visa and apply online.
Online Visa Application
🌐 Online Visa Application – Ministry of Foreign Affairs
- To complete the Paraguayan visa application, you must meet the following basic requirements:
- A 3×4 passport-sized photo in JPG format, recent, with a white background, frontfacing (not profile) without accessories.
- A color image of the passport.
- A color image of visas granted by other countries, including electronic visas.
- An invitation letter from an individual or legal entity residing in Paraguay.
- Proof of financial solvency (work certificate, bank certificate, or other suitable document to be reviewed).
- A criminal record certificate from your country of residence, duly legalized and/or apostilled.
- Hotel reservation and/or accommodation.
- Flight itinerary or terrestrial transport tickets, or declaration of entry into Paraguayan territory.
File Requirements
These documents must be in PDF format, except for the portrait photo. Additionally, each attached file must not exceed 1 MB.
Process Note
The Paraguayan consular office processing your request and the Passport and Consular Services Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs may request additional documentation. If the application was completed correctly, you will be verified by a consular office. After the first review, if applicable, you will be assigned a date and time for an interview, which will be sent to the email address provided.
Invitation Letter Content
Full name, address, RUC/ID, contact info, applicant’s data, travel dates, and purpose. Must be notarized in Paraguay, sometimes legalized at the consulate.
Required Documents (Pre-Arrival)
This is the complete list of documents mandated by Law 6984 ⁄22 that you must bring from abroad:
| Document | Apostille/ Legalization Required | Notes |
| Valid Passport or National Identity Document | No | Must be valid for at least 6 months more |
| Visa Consular | No | Only if required by your nationality. Must be verified |
| Certificado de Nacimiento | Yes | Required for all applicants |
| Certificado de Estado Civil | Yes | Marriage Certificate, Divorce Decree, or Death Certificate of spouse, if applicable |
| Certificado de Antecedentes Penales o Policiales (Criminal Records) | Yes | From the country of origin and any country of residence during the last three years (for applicants aged 14 and older). Must be issued ≤90 days before filing |
| Proof of Entry | No | Stamped migration slip |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long is the Temporary Residency valid, and how can I extend it?
Residencia Temporal lasts two years. You can reapply with all documents (Pasaporte válido / Valid Passport, Certificado de antecedentes penales / Criminal Record Certificate, specific documents, translations) around month 21 for a two-year extension or apply for Residencia Permanente (Permanent Residency, valid for 10 years)
What documents will I receive during the process?
Carnet de Residencia Precaria / Precarious Residency Carnet:
Issued upon application, valid for 90 days.
Carnet de Residencia Temporal / Temporary Residency Carnet
Issued 45-100 business days after application, valid for two years, usable for a Cédula de Identidad Paraguaya / Paraguayan Identity Card.
Can I apply if I’ve overstayed my 90-day visa-free entry?
Yes, but you’ll pay a ~$75 fine. Apply within the 90-day visa-free period to avoid this.
Can I complete the process on my own?
Yes, it is possible to complete the process independently, provided that you can demonstrate a verified residential address to the local Police Precinct in order to obtain the Certificado de Vida y Residencia (Life and Residency Certificate), which is required for the Interpol Background Check.
Warning: Applicants staying in temporary accommodations may find this step challenging. In such cases, our team can handle the entire procedure on your behalf, ensuring the certificate is properly issued without the need for your direct involvement.
Can I marry a Paraguayan without being a resident?
Yes, with personal documents translated into Spanish, fees paid to the Bureau of Vital Statistics, and a certified translator for the ceremony if needed.
Does marrying a Paraguayan speed up residency or ID?
Marriage may ease obtaining a Cédula de Identidad Paraguaya / Paraguayan Identity Card but doesn’t change the residency process.
Can I travel in and out of Paraguay during the application process?
Yes, the Carnet de Residencia Precaria / Precarious Residency Carnet allows you to exit and re-enter Paraguay during its 90-day validity while your application is processed. The Carnet de Residencia Temporal / Temporary Residency Carnet also permits travel for its two-year duration.
What happens if I provide false documents?
False documents or absence over one year may lead to rejection, cancellation, or expulsion.
What Does “Power of Attorney” Mean?
A Power of Attorney is a simple legal document that lets us act on your behalf in Paraguay for your residency process. It allows us to submit your application, sign forms, and handle follow-ups if you can’t stay in the country the whole time. The POA is only for these specific tasks and doesn’t give full control over your affairs. It must be signed here with a notary or abroad (with legalization/apostille). This way, we can keep your process moving even if you’re not physically in Paraguay.
Can I bring pets to Paraguay?
Yes. Paraguay allows the import of pets such as cats and dogs, but you must comply with veterinary health requirements. Typically, this includes a valid vaccination record, microchip, and a recent veterinary health certificate (apostilled or legalized depending on your country). Your pet may also need an import permit from SENACSA (Paraguay’s National Service for Animal Quality and Health). Always check updated regulations before traveling.
How long must I stay in Paraguay each year to keep my residency valid?
There is no strict minimum stay requirement for temporary residency holders. However, if you are absent for very long periods (several years), Migraciones may question your ties to Paraguay when you apply for renewal or permanent residency. To be safe, it is recommended to spend at least one short visit per year in Paraguay
What if my passport expires before my Temporary Residency card?
Your residency remains valid, but you must update your residency file with Migraciones once you obtain your new passport. The information on your TR card and Cédula must always match your current passport. Failing to update could cause delays when renewing your residency or applying for permanent status.
Concluding Remarks
Temporary residency in Paraguay is one of the world’s most accessible legal pathways to relocation. With the right preparation and this guide, your future in Paraguay starts here.
Appendix A: Fees & Locations
Key Office Locations
| Office | Location | Office Hours | Contact |
| Dirección Nacional de Migraciones | National Direction of Migration | Monday to Friday 7:00 am to 2:30 pm | +595 21 411 2000 |
| Interpol | Interpol Office | Monday to Friday, 07:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. | +595 21 480 199 |
| Identificaciones | Informática – Policía Nacional – Departamento de Informatica | Mon-Fri: 5:30am to 6:00pm. Saturday: 6:00am to 11:00 am | +595 21 663 555 |
| Comisaría | Local Police Station (closest to your address) | Varies | N/A |
Government Fees (Guaraníes – PYG)
| Item | Cost (PYG) | Step Notes | Notes |
| Interpol Certificate | ~220,000 PYG | Step 2 | Valid for 3 months |
| Paraguayan Criminal Certificate | 68,000 PYG | Step 4 | Valid for 3 months (~15 USD) |
| Temporary Residency Filing Fee | 2,787,550 PYG | Step 6 | Primary application fee |
| Radication Certificate | 223,004 PYG | Step 6 | Required for Cédula/Permanent Residency later |
| Visa Fee (if applicable) | 223,004 PYG | Step 6 | Paid if you do not have a Visa |
| Cédula Application Fee | ~8,500 PYG | Step 8 | National ID |
| Total (Max) | 3,530,058 PYG | N/A | Total of all listed government fees |
| Estimated Total Budget | USD 500– 700 | N/A | Includes government fees, notarized copies, translations, etc |
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