Quick Answer
Paraguay residency processing takes 60-90 days on average. Paraguay residency applications must be submitted in person at Migraciones in Asunción. You need to visit Paraguay twice: once to apply (5-7 days) and once to collect your Cédula—or use a service that collects it for you. The Paraguay Cédula (national ID) is required to open bank accounts and register businesses.
Updated January 2026 | Source: Dirección General de Migraciones
5 Steps to Paraguay Residency
Document Preparation
2-4 weeksGather, apostille, and ship your documents. We review everything before you travel.
Travel to Paraguay
5-7 daysArrive in Asunción. We handle airport pickup (Standard+) and guide you through the process.
Biometrics & Submission
1-2 daysSubmit your application at Migraciones with our team. Provide fingerprints and photos.
Processing Period
4-8 weeksMigraciones reviews your application. We monitor progress and handle any requests.
Cédula Collection
1 dayReceive your national ID card. Standard+ packages include remote collection service.
Single Trip Option
Your Day-by-Day in Paraguay
Day 1: Arrival & Orientation
- • Arrive in Asunción (Silvio Pettirossi Airport)
- • Meet with lawyer/facilitator
- • Review all documents
- • Document translation begins (if not done remotely)
- • Get Paraguayan SIM card (Tigo or Personal recommended)
Day 2: Migraciones Submission (Most Important Day)
- • Arrive by 6:30-7:00 AM (office opens 7:00 AM)
- • Get queue number
- • Submit documents for review
- • Complete payment (handled by our team)
- • Biometrics: fingerprints + photo (before 12 PM cutoff)
- • Receive receipt and processing timeline
Day 3: Additional Steps
- • National Police clearance certificate
- • Interpol certificate (for non-MERCOSUR nationals)
- • Open bank account (requires proof of address)
- • Passport photos (4x4 cm format)
Days 4-5: Buffer Days
- • Handle any document issues
- • Complete any pending appointments
- • Explore Asunción
- • Depart (or stay to explore Paraguay)
What Happens at Migraciones
Address: Eligio Ayala 1271 c/ Manuel Domínguez, Centro, Asunción
Entry
Large government building in Centro district. Security check at entrance. Information desk issues queue numbers.
Main Hall
Waiting area with numbered seating. Screens display current number being served. Bring: water, snack, phone charger, something to read. AC can be cold—bring light jacket.
Document Review Window
Officer reviews entire document package. May ask questions (having facilitator helps). Common questions: purpose of residency, how long staying, where living.
Biometrics Area
Fingerprints (all 10 fingers) + photo. CLOSES AT 12:00 PM—don't miss this! Without biometrics, must return next day.
What to Bring to Migraciones
Documents
- ✓ Passport (original + copies)
- ✓ Apostilled birth certificate + translation
- ✓ Apostilled police clearance + translation
- ✓ Passport photos (4x4 cm, white background)
- ✓ Migraciones receipt (if returning)
Personal Items
- ✓ Small amount of local currency (Guaraníes)
- ✓ Water bottle, snack
- ✓ Phone charger
- ✓ Light jacket (AC is cold)
- ✓ Something to read/do
Common Delays & How to Avoid Them
| Delay Cause | Prevention |
|---|---|
| Document rejected | Use professional document prep, double-check spelling |
| Missed biometrics cutoff | Arrive by 6:30 AM |
| Translation errors | Use recommended certified translator |
| Expired police clearance | Get it 2-4 weeks before travel, not months ahead |
| Missing apostille | Verify BEFORE leaving home country |
| Holiday closures | Avoid Dec-Jan, check Paraguay holidays |
Avoid December-January
FAQ
How long does the entire process take?
From start to receiving your Cédula typically takes 60-120 days, depending on document preparation speed and government processing times.
Do I need to speak Spanish?
No. We provide Spanish interpretation at all government appointments. However, basic Spanish is helpful for daily life if you plan to spend time in Paraguay.
Can I leave Paraguay while my application is processing?
Yes, after submitting your application you can leave. You'll return to collect your Cédula (or we collect it for you with Standard+ packages).
How long do I need to stay in Paraguay for the residency process?
Plan for 5-7 days minimum. Day 1-2 for document submission and biometrics at Migraciones, Day 3 for additional steps (bank account, police certificate), and 2 buffer days for any issues. You can leave after biometrics and return later for your cédula.
What time should I arrive at Migraciones?
Arrive by 6:30-7:00 AM. The office opens at 7:00 AM and queues form early. Biometrics close at 12:00 PM—if you miss this cutoff, you must return the next day. Morning appointments move faster than afternoon.
Can someone else submit my documents for me?
Your lawyer/facilitator can submit documents on your behalf, but YOU must appear in person for biometrics (fingerprints and photo). There is no way to skip the biometrics appointment—it requires your physical presence.
What if I need to leave Paraguay before my residency is approved?
This is normal. Most applicants stay 5-7 days, complete biometrics, then return home while processing continues. Your lawyer can handle everything else. When approved, you return to pick up your cédula or have it shipped internationally.
How do I track my application status?
Your lawyer/facilitator tracks status through their Migraciones contacts. There is no public online portal. Processing typically takes 60-90 days. If you haven't heard anything after 90 days, your lawyer should follow up directly.
What happens if my application is delayed or rejected?
Delays are common (holidays, staff shortages). Rejections are rare with proper documentation. If rejected, it's usually a fixable document issue—get the corrected document and resubmit. Using a professional service significantly reduces rejection risk.