Paraguay Visa Guide

Who Does Not Need a Visa (Visa‑Free for ≤ 90 Days)

According to official Migraciones Paraguay, the following countries may enter Paraguay without a visa for stays up to 90 days:

Citizens of Mercosur and Associated States — such as Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay, Paraguay, Venezuela, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Perú, Bolivia — plus travelers from EU countries, UK, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and Israel, may enter Paraguay without a visa for stays up to 90 days. This is per the official Paraguayan consulates and Migraciones list.

Holders of passports from Australia, Canada, USA, New Zealand, Qatar, Oman, and Taiwan can receive a visa-on-arrival at Silvio Pettirossi International Airport. Fees are:

• Australia: $135 USD
  
• Canada: $150 USD
  
• USA: $160 USD
  
• New Zealand: $140 USD
  
• Taiwan: $100 USD

Full official list is available on Migraciones website: https://migraciones.gov.py/informacion-sobre-visas/

Who Must Obtain a Visa in Advance

Nationalities not on the visa-free list must apply for a Paraguayan visa before traveling—no visa on arrival option. This includes countries such as:

Pakistan, Palestine, Haiti, Nigeria, and others in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East

Step-by-Step: How to Apply
(For Those Who Need a Visa)

1. Check Visa Requirement
   Visit Migraciones’ visa info page to confirm if your nationality requires a visa mre.gov.py
   
2. Apply Online
   Use the “VisaEnLinea” portal from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to start a Non‑Resident Tourist Visa application

Prepare Documents
To complete the tourist visa application, you must have the following basic requirements:

• 3×4 photo in JPG format, updated with a white background, facing forward (not profile) without accessories;
• Color image of the passport;
• Color image of visas granted by other countries, including electronic visas;
• Invitation letter from a natural or legal person, domiciled in Paraguay;
• Proof of economic solvency (employment certificate, bank certificate, another suitable means to be analyzed);
• Criminal record certificate from your country of residence, properly legalized and/or apostilled;
• Hotel reservation and/or accommodation;
• Possible flight itinerary or tickets for land transportation and/or declare the way of entry to Paraguayan territory;
• The consular office and/or the Directorate of Passports and Consular Services of Paraguay may request additional documentation.

Pay Visa Fee

• Typical visa cost: $65 USD (single entry) or $100 USD (multiple entry) 

Attend Interview

After online submission and payment, wait for notification from the consulate to schedule an appointment (in person or via videoconference) 

Processing Time
Expect 5–15 business days after the interview for visa approval. It is recommended to apply at least 30 days before your planned travel

Receive Visa & Travel
Once approved, your visa will be stamped in your passport, allowing up to 90-day stays, with possible extensions through Migraciones in Paraguay.

Important Tips for Your Paraguay Visa Application

Getting a visa approved isn’t just about submitting forms—it’s about showing the consulate that you’re a genuine visitor and fully prepared. Here’s what you need to know:

Apply Early
Visa processing can take 5–15 business days, but in some countries it may take 30 days or more due to high demand or limited embassy appointments. Start your application at least 45 days before your planned travel date to avoid delays.

Financial Proof Matters
Embassies often request recent bank statements (3–6 months) showing steady income or savings. Make sure:

• The account is in your name.
• Avoid last-minute large deposits.
• Salaried workers include an employment certificate or recent pay slips.
• This demonstrates that you can cover your travel expenses.

Criminal Record Certificate
Most applicants must provide a police clearance certificate from their home country, apostilled or legalized for international use, and translated into Spanish if necessary. Start this early, as processing times in some countries can be long.

Flight & Accommodation Proof
You don’t need to pay for flights upfront. Book refundable tickets or hold reservations for your embassy appointment. Hotel bookings are fine, or you can use our fixer service for a local address ($100) if staying with friends/family isn’t an option.

Embassy Appointments
If there is no Paraguayan embassy in your home country, you may need to apply in a third country (e.g., Pakistanis often use embassies in UAE, Egypt, or Turkey). Plan ahead—some consulates require you to secure a visa to enter the third country as well.

At Border Control
A visa doesn’t automatically guarantee entry. Immigration officers may ask for:

• Return ticket
• Proof of funds
• Purpose of visit

Keep printed copies of your invitation letter, bank statements, and hotel booking.
At the border, say you are visiting for tourism or to visit friends, not for residency.

This is because:

Paraguay’s tourist visa or visa-free entry is granted for short visits—like tourism, business meetings, or visiting family. It’s not intended for immigration purposes.

If you mention you are coming specifically to apply for residency, the immigration officer may see this as entering with a different intention than the visa allows. This could lead to:

• Questions about your plans.
  
• Refusal of entry on the spot.
  
• Cancellation of your visa (for visa-required countries).

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I need a visa to enter Paraguay?

On the following link, you can view the countries whose nationals require a visa to enter Paraguay: https://migraciones.gov.py/informacion-sobre-visas/

How do I apply for a Paraguayan visa?

You must complete all the information requested in the digital visa application form and attach the required documentation. You will be sent an email confirming the proper reception of your application. The respective Paraguayan consular office will review your application, and if additional documentation is needed, you will be contacted via the email provided. Later, a date and time for an interview at the relevant Paraguayan consular office will be communicated to continue the process and bring the previously submitted documentation.

What requirements do I need to apply for a Paraguayan visa?

To complete the tourist visa application, you must have the following basic requirements:

• 3×4 photo in JPG format, updated with a white background, facing forward (not profile) without accessories;
• Color image of the passport;
• Color image of visas granted by other countries, including electronic visas;
• Invitation letter from a natural or legal person, domiciled in Paraguay;
• Proof of economic solvency (employment certificate, bank certificate, another suitable means to be analyzed);
• Criminal record certificate from your country of residence, properly legalized and/or apostilled;
• Hotel reservation and/or accommodation;
• Possible flight itinerary or tickets for land transportation and/or declare the way of entry to Paraguayan territory;
• The consular office and/or the Directorate of Passports and Consular Services of Paraguay may request additional documentation.

Invited by national institutions, private sector companies, educational, sports, religious institutions, individuals, etc.:

In addition to the requirements listed above, you must attach:

• Invitation letter indicating telephone contacts, email, and purpose of the visit.
• Copy of the Paraguayan identity card of the signer, authenticated by a notary.
• If it is a company: tax compliance certificate, RUC certificate, and registration certificate from the Treasury Advocate.

For duly justified reasons and with a restrictive criterion, the interview may be conducted by electronic means.

What if I am a minor?

Minors under 18 years old cannot apply for a visa on their own. In such cases, the process must be carried out by the parents or legal guardians, completing the digital visa application form. If the parents or legal guardians do not travel with the minor, they must provide written travel authorization according to the formalities of the country of residence.

Should the visa be processed at a consulate or an embassy of Paraguay?

The Paraguayan visa can be processed at the Republic of Paraguay’s consulates or at the consular sections operating at Paraguayan embassies.

Where can I see in which countries Paraguay has embassies and consulates?

On the following link, you can verify the countries where Paraguay has Embassies and consulates: https://www.mre.gov.py/index.php/representaciones

How do I apply for a visa if Paraguay doesn’t have an embassy or consulate in my country of residence?

When completing the online application form, the system will display the countries and cities where you can apply for a Paraguayan visa. In this regard, you must select the one closest to your country of residence. Once all the required information is completed and the necessary documents are attached, you will receive an email confirming the proper reception of your application. The relevant Paraguayan consular office will review your application, and if additional documentation is needed, you will be contacted through the email provided. Later, a date and time for an interview at the appropriate Paraguayan consular office will be communicated, which may be via electronic means, to continue with the process and bring the previously entered documentation in the digital form.

What happens if I was informed that my visa was approved and I am no longer in the country of the Paraguayan embassy or consulate where I processed my Paraguayan visa?

In communication with the consular representation handling your application, you may request to withdraw it from the nearest Paraguayan embassy or consulate in the country where you are. Example: You applied for the Paraguayan visa at the Embassy of Paraguay in Vienna, Austria, and were informed that it was approved, but you are now in Colombia and wish to continue your trip to Paraguay from there. In this case, you may request the withdrawal of the visa at the Paraguayan embassy in Bogotá.

How long does the visa application process take?

It is advisable to submit your visa application at least 30 days before your scheduled travel date to Paraguay.

Can I apply for a visa at a Paraguayan honorary consulate?

Paraguay’s honorary consulates abroad are not authorized to accept visa applications or other consular procedures.

Does having a Paraguayan visa entitle me to enter Paraguayan territory?

The granting of a Paraguayan visa means that your request to enter Paraguay has been reviewed by a Paraguayan consular authority and is eligible for entry. However, the decision on entry to national territory is the exclusive responsibility of Paraguay’s immigration authorities, who have the authority to authorize entry or inadmissibility of foreigners according to national legislation.