Paraguay Citizenship by Residency (2025)

How to Gain Paraguayan Citizenship by Residency in 2025

Paraguayan citizenship by residency offers one of South America’s simplest naturalization pathways, requiring just 3 years of permanent residency. Managed by the Dirección General de Migraciones (DGM) and the Ministry of the Interior, this process appeals to retirees, investors, and digital nomads seeking a low-cost, tax-friendly haven. A Paraguayan passport ranks 31st globally (136 visa-free destinations in 2025) and includes Mercosur benefits, enhancing its value.

With its affordable living, subtropical landscapes, and growing expat communities in Asunción and Ciudad del Este, Paraguay is a hidden gem. This 2025 guide details eligibility, residency requirements, application steps, and tips to secure your citizenship efficiently.

Who Qualifies for Citizenship by Residency?

Naturalization is straightforward, requiring permanent residency and minimal additional conditions. Here’s who qualifies:

Note: Paraguay doesn’t shorten residency for spouses or children of citizens—everyone follows the 3-year rule. Dual citizenship is fully permitted.

Residency Rules: The 3-Year Pathway

Paraguay offers immediate permanent residency, skipping the temporary visa phase common elsewhere. Here’s how it works:

• Permanent Residency: Granted via solvency (~$5,500 USD bank deposit or $35,000 USD property investment), work, or family ties; issued by DGM.
• Physical Presence: Must spend at least 6 months total in Paraguay over 3 years—no strict annual requirement, but 183+ days/year is recommended.
• Renewal: Residency ID (Cédula) renews every 10 years, but citizenship eliminates this.

Example: Lisa, a Canadian, secures permanent residency in May 2022 with a $5,500 USD deposit. She visits Paraguay 3 months/year and applies for citizenship in May 2025 after 3 years (9 months total presence).

Key Rule: Absences over 1 year require justification (e.g., work abroad) to maintain residency status.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Naturalization is processed by DGM and approved by the Supreme Court. Here’s the 2025 process:

1. Obtain Permanent Residency: Apply via DGM with solvency, work, or family proof.
2. Live in Paraguay: Complete 3 years with at least 6 months total presence.
3. Gather Documents: Residency Cédula, passport, birth certificate (apostilled/translated), police clearances (Paraguay + home country), proof of income/residence, 2 photos.
4. Submit Application: File Solicitud de Naturalización at DGM’s office in Asunción; pay PYG 1,500,000 (~$210 USD).
5. Review & Oath: Background check; if approved, swear oath before a judge.
6. Await Approval: 6-12 months; finalized via Supreme Court resolution.
7. ID & Passport: Register citizenship, get Paraguayan Cédula, and apply for a passport.

Timeline: 3.5-4 years total (3 years residency + 6-12 months processing).

Costs of Paraguayan Citizenship

Fees are affordable, with a notable initial deposit for residency:

Tips to Ensure Approval

• Use Solvency Route: $5,500 USD deposit is the easiest entry to permanent residency.
• Plan Visits: Spend 6+ months total over 3 years (e.g., 2 months/year).
• Learn Spanish: Not required, but helps with integration and interviews.
• Maintain Records: Keep proof of residence (e.g., utilities, lease) for audits.
• Hire a Facilitator: Local agents streamline DGM and court processes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

References & Resources

• DGM - Official residency and citizenship info.
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Passport services.
• Henley Passport Index - Passport ranking.