In September 2023, Paraguay implemented a new requirement for multiple nationalities to obtain a visa before applying for residency. Here's an in-depth look at how the updated residency program operates.
Visa Requirements for Paraguay
Paraguay's visa policy involves three main categories: "Ingreso," "Permanencia o residencia," and "Abono."
Ingreso: This indicates whether a person needs a visa to enter Paraguay.
Permanencia o residencia: This new column, introduced less than a year ago, specifies if a person needs a visa to apply for residency.
Abono: This column indicates whether a person can pay a small fee to bypass the need for a visa altogether.
Understanding the Visa Table
Ingreso: If this column states "SIN VISA," it means that the individual can enter Paraguay without a visa.
Permanencia o residencia: If this column has "CON VISA," it means the individual must apply for a $160 visa to then apply for residency, even if they can enter the country without a visa.
Abono: If this column is checked, the person can pay a small fee to avoid obtaining a visa. This fee handling is managed by the immigration agent, so applicants typically do not deal with this payment directly.
Summary of the Visa Changes
South American Citizens: These individuals do not need a visa to enter or apply for residency. Their process is slightly easier and cheaper.
Most Europeans and North Americans: They do not need a visa to enter but must pay the "abono" fee to skip the visa requirement for the residence application.
Africans, Arabs, Asians, and Some Europeans: These individuals need a visa to enter and apply for residency and cannot pay to skip the visa requirement.
Practical Implications
If you are a South American citizen, the process to apply for a Temporary Residence (TR) in Paraguay is straightforward, without needing any visas.
For other nationalities, particularly most Europeans and North Americans, while you may enter Paraguay visa-free, you will need to pay the "abono" fee to avoid the visa process for residency.
For many African, Arab, and Asian nationals, the process includes obtaining a visa to enter and apply for residency without the option to pay the "abono" fee.
Conclusion
The recent changes to Paraguay’s residency program have introduced some new complexities, but understanding the requirements based on your nationality can help streamline your application process. If you have South American citizenship, leveraging it can simplify your application for a Paraguayan residency.
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