How to Get Residency in Paraguay (Full 2026 Guide)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Foreigners Seeking Legal Residency in Paraguay
Published: 1 Feb 2025
Edited: 14 May 2026
Embedded Files
Image source: UNDP
Why Paraguay?
Paraguay has become one of South America’s most attractive destinations for global citizens seeking stability, privacy, and a favorable tax environment.
Its territorial taxation system, streamlined residency process, and low cost of living make Paraguay an ideal “Plan B” destination - especially for those seeking to optimize their taxes and establish a new fiscal residency in a stable, business-friendly country.
Residency Framework under Law 6984/22
The Ley 6984/2022 (new Migration Law) establishes three key residency categories:
1. Temporary Residency
Temporary Residency (“Radicación o Residencia Temporal”) grants the right to reside, work, study, or operate a business in Paraguay for two years.
Key Advantages
No investment or income requirement
Work authorization included
Eligible for conversion to permanent residency after 21 months
Access to Paraguayan ID (Cédula) and MERCOSUR benefits
Main Requirements
2. Permanent Residency
Permanent Residency (“Radicación o Residencia Permanente”) allows you to live indefinitely in Paraguay and renew your Cédula every 10 years. There are two paths:
I. Conversion from Temporary to Permanent
After 21 months, holders of temporary residency may apply for permanent status.
Documents required:
Valid passport + Paraguayan ID
Temporary residence card
Updated background checks (Interpol + Informatica + Local Police)
Proof of address (Certificado de Vida y Residencia)
Proof of professional or economic activity (employment contract, RUC registration, etc.)
No minimum income is specified, but some proof of solvency must be shown.
II. Direct Permanent Residency via SUACE (Investor Route)
For entrepreneurs ready to establish a business in Paraguay, the SUACE system (Sistema Unificado de Apertura y Cierre de Empresas) allows an immediate grant of permanent residency.
This option falls under Article 46 of Law 6984/22, exempting investors from the 2-year temporary period.
3. SUACE Investor Residency
SUACE acts as a one-stop window connecting Migraciones, the Ministry of Industry & Commerce, the Tax Authority (SET), and other agencies to formalize company incorporation and investor registration.
Main SUACE Steps (Simplified)
Prepare investment documentation:
Application form
ID and apostilled criminal records
Interpol certificate from Paraguay
Local police criminal records
Sworn Declaration of investment commitment
Project Profile of the company
Obtain the “Constancia del Inversionista”
Issued by the Vice-Ministry of Industry and Commerce, confirming your eligibility as investor.
Apply for Permanent Residency
With the Constancia + standard migratory documents at Migraciones under the SUACE regime.
Comparative Summary
Professional Insight
While Paraguay offers one of the most flexible frameworks in the region, the difference between a straightforward process and months of delay often comes down to technical accuracy and timing:
Apostille and translation standards must match Law 6984 requirements.
Health, Interpol and Informatica documents expire quickly.
SUACE applications require a complete Project Profile and sworn investment declaration.
At Reside Paraguay, our team of legal and administrative specialists handles these steps daily, ensuring your application complies with current regulations and is accepted without delays.
Final Thoughts
Obtaining residency in Paraguay remains one of the most accessible and practical options in Latin America for foreigners looking for a second residency, a long-term Plan B, or a more tax-efficient base. The process is relatively straightforward, but it still requires proper preparation: documents must be issued correctly, apostilled or legalized when necessary, translated into Spanish, and submitted in the right order once in Paraguay.
Whether you choose temporary residency, later conversion to permanent residency, or the SUACE investor route, the key to avoiding delays is having a complete and well-organized file before starting the procedure. With the right guidance, Paraguay can offer not only legal residency, but also a stable foundation for banking, tax registration, business activity, and long-term international planning.
Get Started Now
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse