Citizenship / Naturalization
Paraguayan citizenship available after 3 years of permanent residency. One of the fastest paths to citizenship in the Americas (total ~5 years from arrival). Requirements include Spanish or Guarani language proficiency, ability to write national anthem lyrics from memory, and physical presence of at least 6 months per year during the 3-year period. Paraguay allows dual citizenship on a reciprocal basis (if your home country allows it). Paraguayan passport provides visa-free access to 147+ countries including Schengen Area. Naturalization handled by Supreme Court of Justice, currently taking 12-18 months due to demand.
Key Requirements:
- •3 years of permanent residency
- •Physical presence of 6+ months per year during those 3 years
- •Spanish or Guarani language proficiency
- +4 more requirements
Family Reunification
Residency pathway for family members of Paraguayan citizens or permanent residents. Covers spouses, children (under 18 or dependent), and parents. Follows similar process to standard temporary residency but with family relationship documentation. Spouse of Paraguayan citizen may have expedited path. Children born in Paraguay are automatically citizens.
Key Requirements:
- •Proof of family relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificate)
- •Sponsor must be Paraguayan citizen or permanent resident
- •Standard residency documents (passport, background check, etc.)
- +2 more requirements
Permanent Residency
Indefinite residence status with no expiration or mandatory renewals. Available after completing 21 months of temporary residency. ID card valid for 10 years (renewable). Grants full rights equivalent to citizens except voting. Can apply no earlier than 90 days before temporary permit expiration. Starting January 2026, immigration will verify visit history during temporary period (must not have been outside Paraguay for 365+ consecutive days). Allows travel throughout Mercosur countries without passport.
Key Requirements:
- •Completed 21+ months of temporary residency
- •Valid Paraguayan Cedula
- •Proof of financial solvency (bank statement with $5,000 or employment proof)
- +3 more requirements
SUACE Investor Residency
Direct path to permanent residency through business investment, bypassing the 2-year temporary residency requirement. Minimum investment of $70,000 USD that can be deployed gradually over 10 years. Investment options include commercial real estate, business equipment, operating costs, or agricultural ventures. Processed through SUACE (Unified System for Opening and Closing Companies) one-stop shop. Ministry of Industry and Commerce certifies investor status. Processing in approximately 90 days. Permanent residence card valid for 10 years.
Key Requirements:
- •Minimum $70,000 USD investment commitment
- •Business plan approved by SUACE
- •Company registration in Paraguay
- +5 more requirements
Temporary Residency
The standard pathway for expats seeking to live in Paraguay. Two-year validity with conversion to permanent residency after 21 months. No income or investment requirements since 2022 reforms (removed $5,000 deposit requirement). Must apply in person at immigration offices in Asuncion to provide biometrics. Grants full rights to live, work, and invest throughout Paraguay. Minimal stay requirement: must not stay outside Paraguay more than 365 consecutive days. Starting January 2026, visits will be verified when applying for permanent residency. Cedula (national ID) required within 12 months of approval.
Key Requirements:
- •Valid passport with 6+ months validity
- •Birth certificate (apostilled and translated to Spanish)
- •Criminal background check from home country and countries of residence in past 3 years
- +4 more requirements