In recent years, Paraguay has emerged as one of the leading South American countries in economic development and industrial force. If you’re planning to expand to the country, you’ll need a workforce of dedicated employees. Here’s an overview of key information on work visas in Paraguay.
Types of work visas in Paraguay
All nationals from other countries entering Paraguay must have a visa unless they’re from a visa-exempt country, including all European Union (EU) citizens, many South American countries, and more. Individuals from eligible visa-exempt countries can stay in Paraguay for up to 90 days as long as they have a valid passport.
People from non-visa-exempt countries must obtain a business visa before entering Paraguay. This visa is valid for a 90-day stay and allows multiple entries into the country. Holders may extend their visa for another 90 days if necessary. The Minister of Foreign Affairs, as well as Paraguay’s embassies and consulates abroad, will issue approved visa documents after getting details about the purpose of the visit, the individual’s employment status, and your company.
Paraguay implemented a new immigration law in December 2022, restructuring the previously established immigration categories and requirements. Available work visas are:
- Short-Term Residence: A short-term visa for individuals traveling to Paraguay for a temporary work assignment – valid for up to 90 days and renewable once.
- Temporary Residence: A 2-year, once-renewable permit allowing an individual to live and work in Paraguay, as well as apply for a Paraguayan identity card (previously only available to permanent residents).
- Permanent Residence: A 10-year visa available to individuals who have held a Temporary Residence permit for 2 years.
Keep in mind that any person entering Paraguay for less than 90 days for activities that aren’t paid does not have to obtain a work permit. However, most employees will need a permit that corresponds with their type of job and the length of time they’ll work for your company.
Most companies seeking long-term employees often choose a 2-year temporary permit. This option grants the advantages of living and working in Paraguay and allows employees to apply for a 10-year permanent residence after the initial 2-year period.
Requirements to obtain Paraguay work visas
Typically, employees will need to schedule a time to apply for a visa in person at the consulate or embassy in their country of residence. They’ll need to provide:
- An original passport that’s valid for at least 6 months
- A completed and signed visa application form
- A color, passport-sized photo
- A pre-paid return envelope to mail the visa back when it’s ready
- The required payment
Employees can then apply for a work permit after arriving in Paraguay. They will need:
- A passport
- A clean police record
- A birth certificate
- A certificate showing marriage or divorce
- A medical certificate issued in Paraguay
- A certificate of their life and residence permit from Paraguay, issued by the jurisdictional Police Station where the interested party has their domicile
- An affidavit issued in Paraguay
- A certificate of background for internationals issued by the National Police of Paraguay
Application process
Before employees can apply for a work permit, they’ll need a concrete job offer. The country currently has a shortage of skilled workers in certain sectors, so it may be easier to obtain a permit for certain jobs that will benefit Paraguay’s economy.
The first step to getting a work permit in Paraguay is collecting all the necessary documents. Employers need to provide certain additional documents, including the employee’s passport, CV, employment contract, educational certificates, achievement records, and work history. Then, the applicant should travel to Paraguay, open a bank account, go through a medical exam, obtain the affidavit, and submit their application with the country’s Consulate General.
They will typically get their work permit and permanent residence permit card in 90 days, which is valid for 2 years. After this initial 2-year period, employees will be able to apply for a permanent residence permit, which will be valid for 10 years.
Other important considerations
There’s a different visa application process for minors under 18. These individuals must apply through their parents or legal guardian, and both parents must sign the minor’s application. If the minor is traveling alone or with just 1 parent, Paraguay requires written authorization signed before a notary public.
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