What documents do I need for Paraguay temporary residency and how long does it take?

Getting temporary residency in Paraguay has become much simpler since the 2022 immigration reforms (Law 6984/22). Here's everything you need to know:

Required Documents:

From Your Home Country (Apostilled + Translated to Spanish):

1. Birth Certificate

• Must be apostilled (if your country is part of Hague Convention)
• Or legalized through consulate chain
• Spanish translation required

1. Criminal Background Check

• From your country of citizenship
• From any country where you lived 6+ months in past 3 years
• Typically valid for 6 months from issue date
• Apostilled and translated

1. Interpol Clearance Certificate

• Can be obtained in Paraguay
• Or from your home country

1. Valid Passport

• At least 6 months validity remaining
• Copies of photo page

Obtained in Paraguay:

1. Medical Certificate (Certificado Médico)

• From approved Paraguayan doctor
• Basic health check
• Cost: ~$30-50

1. Sworn Declaration

• Statement to respect Paraguayan laws
• Provided at immigration office

1. Certificate of Personal Data from Paraguayan Police

• Proves no criminal record in Paraguay
• Obtained at police headquarters

The Application Process:

Step 1: Prepare Documents (Before Arrival)

• Gather birth certificate and background checks
• Get apostilles in your home country
• Have everything translated to Spanish by certified translator

Step 2: Arrive in Paraguay

• Enter as tourist (most nationalities get 90 days)
• Bring all prepared documents

Step 3: Complete Local Requirements (1-2 weeks)

• Medical exam
• Paraguayan police clearance
• Interpol check (if not done abroad)

Step 4: Submit Application

• In-person at Direccion General de Migraciones
• Located in Asuncion
• Biometrics taken (photos, fingerprints)
• Pay application fee (~$336)

Step 5: Wait for Approval (1-3 months)

• Processing time varies
• Can check status online

Step 6: Get Cedula (4-8 weeks after residency approved)

• Apply for national ID card
• Required for banking, many other activities
• Must apply within 12 months of residency approval

Timeline Summary:

Costs:

Important Notes:

• In-Person Required: You must apply in person in Asuncion for biometrics

• No Financial Proof: The 2022 reforms removed the $5,000 deposit requirement

• Tourist Status: You can start the process on tourist status

• Validity: Temporary residency is valid for 2 years, converts to permanent

• Stay Requirements: Starting January 2026, you must not have been outside Paraguay for 365+ consecutive days during the temporary period

DIY vs. Lawyer:

Most people can handle this process themselves if they:

• Speak basic Spanish (or bring a translator)
• Have patience for bureaucracy
• Have straightforward circumstances

Consider a lawyer if:

• You have complex immigration history
• Language is a significant barrier
• You want the fastest, least stressful process

The process is straightforward compared to most countries. The main requirement is patience with bureaucracy and ensuring your documents are properly apostilled and translated.