Blog · 2024-03-18

How to get residency in Paraguay: four routes to a residence permit in 2025

Obtaining Paraguayan residency is becoming increasingly popular among foreigners looking for an affordable, stable and comfortable way to relocate to South America. Paraguay offers a streamlined residency process, low taxes, a warm climate and an easy pace of life. Thanks to visa-free entry for citizens of many countries and a flexible immigration policy, it is considered one of the most open nations in the region. This article explains how to obtain Paraguayan residency in 2025 - from the basic no-grounds route to options based on employment, study and religious work.

How to obtain Paraguayan residency: the main options for foreigners

Residency in Paraguay appeals to many foreigners precisely because the process is so straightforward. So how do you get it? Here are the main routes.

1. Residency with no specific grounds

The simplest way to obtain Paraguayan residency is to arrive in the country and file an application. Russia and Paraguay have a visa-free arrangement, but a visa is still required in order to submit a residency application. Applications take roughly six months to process. Residency is granted for two years and can be renewed once for an equal term.

2. Residency through employment

To obtain residency through employment, you must provide a formal job offer. This permit is valid for one year and, as long as you keep the position, can be renewed five times for equal terms.

3. Residency through study

Foreigners enrolled at Paraguayan educational institutions can apply for residency. The permit is valid for one year and can be renewed five times for equal terms.

4. Residency for religious workers

Paraguayan residency is available to religious workers who belong to organisations recognised in the country. The permit is valid for one year and can be renewed five times for equal terms.

The benefits of Paraguayan residency

• Visa-free travel across South America, including to Argentina and Brazil.
• The ability to open a business and a bank account.
• Access to education and healthcare, and eligibility for a driver's licence.
• Tax optimisation: a flat 10% rate, with no tax on property, capital gains or foreign-source income.
• A low cost of living and a warm climate.
• A fast track to citizenship, available after four years - two years as a resident and two as a permanent resident.

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