Paraguay residency is genuinely straightforward—when you do it right. The process takes 60-90 days for most applicants. But we regularly see people stuck for 4-6 months because of preventable mistakes.
After helping hundreds of clients navigate Migraciones, we've identified the seven mistakes that cause the most delays. Each one is easy to avoid if you know what to watch for.
Apostille Errors
The Problem: This is the #1 cause of delays. We see it weekly: apostilles on photocopies instead of originals, apostilles from the wrong authority, or documents that were never apostilled at all.
Real Example
A US client had his FBI background check apostilled by a notary. Problem: FBI documents must be apostilled by the US Department of State, not a state notary. He had to request a new FBI check, wait 8 weeks, and get the correct apostille. Total delay: 10 weeks.
The Fix:
- • Apostilles go on original documents only—never copies
- • Federal documents (FBI, federal courts) → US Department of State
- • State documents (birth certificates, state courts) → State Secretary of State
- • The apostille must be physically attached or reference the exact document
- • Double-check before leaving your home country
Using Non-Certified Translations
The Problem: Paraguay requires translations by a traductor público—a sworn translator registered with the Paraguayan Supreme Court. Translations done abroad, even by certified translators, are not accepted.
Real Example
A German client arrived with professional translations done in Berlin. Migraciones rejected them immediately. She had to find a Paraguayan traductor público, wait for new translations (5 business days), and return. Delay: 2 weeks plus frustration.
The Fix:
- • Only use Paraguayan traductores públicos for official translations
- • Get translations done after arriving in Paraguay
- • Translate the apostilled document, not just the original
- • Budget 3-5 business days for translations
Expired Police Clearance
The Problem: Police clearance certificates are valid for only 6 months from the issue date. Many applicants get their documents early, then delays push them past expiration.
Real Example
A Canadian client got his RCMP check in March, planning to move in April. Life happened—he arrived in August. His police clearance expired. He had to request a new RCMP check from Paraguay or fly back. He flew back. Total delay: 6 weeks plus $1,500 in flights.
The Fix:
- • Request police clearance no more than 4 months before application
- • Factor in processing times: FBI takes 12-18 weeks, RCMP 8-12 weeks
- • If your move date is uncertain, wait before ordering documents
- • Track expiration dates on a calendar with reminders
Wrong Photo Specifications
The Problem: Paraguay requires specific photo dimensions (3x3 cm) with a white background. Standard passport photos from most countries don't meet these specs.
Real Example
A British applicant brought US-style passport photos (2x2 inches). Rejected at the window. He had to leave Migraciones, find a photo shop, get new photos, and return—losing his place in the queue. Same-day fix, but wasted 3 hours.
The Fix:
- • Get photos taken in Paraguay at a "foto carnet" shop
- • Specify: 3x3 cm, white background, recent (within 6 months)
- • Bring 4-6 copies (you'll need extras for various forms)
- • Photos should show face clearly, no glasses, neutral expression
Incomplete Document Sets
The Problem: Arriving at Migraciones without all required documents. Each missing item means another trip, another queue, another day lost.
Common Missing Items
- • Photocopies of all passport pages (not just the data page)
- • Proof of domicile (rental contract or utility bill)
- • Marriage certificate (if applying with spouse)
- • Children's birth certificates (if applying as family)
- • Second set of photocopies (they keep one, you keep one)
The Fix:
- • Use a comprehensive checklist before going to Migraciones
- • Make 2 complete photocopies of every document
- • Organize documents in a folder in order of review
- • Bring originals AND copies of everything
Arriving Late to Migraciones
The Problem: Migraciones operates 7 AM to 1 PM, but they stop taking new numbers well before closing. Arrive late and you won't be seen.
Real Example
An Australian client arrived at 11 AM, thinking he had two hours. They'd stopped issuing numbers at 10:30 AM because the queue was full. He returned the next day at 6:45 AM. Lost: one full day.
The Fix:
- • Arrive between 6:30-7:00 AM for shortest waits
- • Avoid Mondays (busiest day) and end of month (deadline rush)
- • Tuesday-Thursday mornings are typically calmest
- • Bring entertainment—waits of 2-3 hours are normal
Not Bringing Cash
The Problem: Migraciones only accepts cash payments in guaraníes. No cards, no dollars, no exceptions. Running out to find an ATM means losing your place.
The Fix:
- • Use a professional service that handles all payments for you
- • Bring a small amount of guaraníes for incidentals
- • Keep cash secure—Centro can be busy with pickpockets
- • Ask for receipts for every payment
The Bottom Line
Paraguay residency is one of the most accessible in the world. The requirements are clear, the costs are low, and the process is predictable—when you avoid these mistakes.
Before You Leave Home
- ✓ Apostille original documents correctly
- ✓ Time police clearance for 6-month validity
- ✓ Make multiple copies of everything
In Paraguay
- ✓ Use Paraguayan sworn translators
- ✓ Get proper 3x3 cm photos
- ✓ Arrive early with cash in guaraníes
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common mistake that delays Paraguay residency? +
The most common mistake is apostille errors - either missing apostilles entirely, having apostilles on copies instead of originals, or apostilles that don't match the issuing authority. This single issue causes more delays than any other.
How long are apostilled documents valid for Paraguay residency? +
Police clearance certificates are valid for 6 months from the issue date. Birth and marriage certificates don't expire but apostilles should be recent (within 1 year is safest). Always check current Migraciones requirements before applying.
Do I need certified translations for Paraguay residency documents? +
Yes, all documents not in Spanish require certified translation by a Paraguayan traductor público (sworn translator). Translations done abroad are not accepted. The translation must be of the apostilled document, not the original alone.
Can I use digital apostilles for Paraguay residency? +
Paraguay accepts electronic apostilles (e-Apostilles) from countries that issue them, including the United States. The e-Apostille must be printed and presented with the original document. Verify the e-Apostille can be validated online.
What happens if my documents are rejected at Migraciones? +
If documents are rejected, you'll need to correct the issue and return. This might mean getting new apostilles, new translations, or new documents entirely. The application doesn't proceed until all documents are accepted. Some issues can be fixed same-day; others require weeks.