Paraguay citizenship by naturalization is available to foreigners who have legally resided in the country for at least three years, offering one of the fastest and most accessible naturalization routes in Latin America.
With a streamlined process, low financial barriers, and access to regional benefits, Paraguay has become a strategic destination for expats seeking a second passport.
This guide answers key questions such as:
- How to be eligible for naturalization in Paraguay
- How long does it take to become a citizen of Paraguay?
- How much does it cost to become a citizen of Paraguay?
- What are the benefits of being a Paraguay citizen?
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The information in this article is for general guidance only. It does not constitute financial, legal, or tax advice, and is not a recommendation or solicitation to invest. Some facts may have changed since the time of writing.
How Do I Become a Citizen of Paraguay by Naturalization?
To become a citizen of Paraguay by naturalization, you must meet the country’s legal requirements for residency, language ability, and social integration, then apply through the national court system.
- Minimum of 3 years of permanent residency in Paraguay. This period may be shortened in certain cases, such as marriage to a Paraguayan citizen or having Paraguayan-born children.
- Be at least 18 years old, with legal capacity to act under the law.
- A clean criminal record, both domestically and internationally.
- Demonstrated integration into Paraguayan society, including basic Spanish proficiency and familiarity with local customs and values.
The naturalization application is formally submitted to the Paraguayan Civil Registry and reviewed by the Supreme Court of Justice.
Applicants are typically required to provide documentation of residency, income, character references, and legal status in the country.
How Much Does It Cost to Become a Citizen of Paraguay?
Standard expenses include:
- Government filing fees: Typically costs around $340, depending on the jurisdiction and required certifications.
- Optional legal assistance: Hiring an immigration attorney or legal advisor can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $6,000, especially for applicants with unusual circumstances or complex documentation.
- Translation and apostille services: Foreign documents must be translated into Spanish and legalized, which adds additional costs depending on the number of pages and countries involved.
Fees and procedures may differ slightly depending on the local civil registry office or consulate involved in the process.
How Much Does It Cost to Get Permanent Residency in Paraguay?
- Government fees: The application fee for permanent residency typically ranges from $150 to $350, depending on where the application is filed and currency fluctuations.
- Supporting documentation: Additional expenses apply for apostilled background checks, medical certificates, and certified Spanish translations of foreign documents. These costs usually total around $200 to $400, depending on the number of documents and their country of origin.
- Bank deposit: As of late 2022, the once-mandatory $5,000 deposit into a Paraguayan bank account is no longer required. However, some applicants still choose to make the deposit voluntarily, as it may demonstrate financial stability and help streamline the approval process.
Applicants may also opt to hire immigration facilitators or lawyers, which can significantly increase the overall cost typically by $1,000 to $3,000, depending on the level of service and complexity of the case.
How Many Citizenships Can You Have in Paraguay?
Paraguay generally allows dual citizenship, though it officially recognizes this only with countries that offer reciprocity agreements.
- In practice, many naturalized citizens retain their original nationality without issue, particularly if their home country also permits dual citizenship.
- Renunciation is not typically required, but the legal stance may vary depending on your nationality and how Paraguay interprets reciprocity.
- It’s essential to check with your country of origin, as some may restrict or disallow multiple citizenships altogether.
What Are the Benefits of Paraguay Citizenship?
- Visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 145 countries, including most of Latin America, parts of Europe, and Asia.
- Live and work freely across MERCOSUR countries including Argentina, Brazil, and Uruguay without needing a separate visa or permit.
- Gain access to Paraguay’s public healthcare and education systems, which are available to citizens at low or no cost.
- Favorable tax treatment: Paraguay operates on a territorial tax system, meaning foreign income is not taxed, making it attractive for remote workers and retirees.
Is Paraguay a Rich or Poor Country?
Paraguay is officially classified as an upper-middle-income country by the World Bank, reflecting a steady trajectory of economic development rather than extreme wealth or poverty.
The country has experienced consistent GDP growth over the past two decades, largely fueled by agricultural exports particularly soy, beef, and hydroelectric power.
This growth has helped reduce poverty and expand the middle class, although rural areas still face challenges in infrastructure, education, and healthcare access.
Urban centers like Asunción continue to modernize, offering more services and opportunities, while the broader macroeconomic environment remains stable.
Paraguay benefits from low inflation, manageable public debt, and a business-friendly tax system, including low corporate and personal tax rates.
For naturalization candidates, Paraguay offers a favorable combination of opportunity, affordability, and long-term stability.
Conclusion
With just three years of permanent residency and minimal integration hurdles, eligible applicants can secure full rights as Paraguayan citizens including visa-free travel, MERCOSUR mobility, and tax-friendly living.
While dual citizenship is allowed in many cases, requirements may vary depending on your home country’s laws.
As Paraguay continues to grow economically while maintaining a low cost of living, its citizenship becomes increasingly attractive to retirees, investors, and expats seeking long-term regional opportunities.
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