What documents are needed for Residencia Temporal in Paraguay: checklist

In brief: For Residencia Temporal in Paraguay, you need to prepare three documents at home: a passport, a police clearance certificate, and a birth certificate (the latter two must have an apostille). The rest is collected once in Paraguay, and translations into Spanish are only accepted from a certified translator within the country.

Residencia Temporal is the first status that almost everyone who moves to Paraguay receives. To avoid wasting time, some documents should be prepared while still at home.

Three documents to be prepared in your home country

1. International passport. Its validity period on the date of entry must be at least 6 months.
2. Certificate of no criminal record. An apostille is required; the certificate is valid for 3 months from the date of issue, so do not order it too early.
3. Birth certificate. Original or a current duplicate, also with an apostille.

Why the translation must be done only in Paraguay

Migraciones only accepts Spanish translations performed by a certified translator within Paraguay. A translation done at home will not be accepted, so budget time and money for translation after your arrival.

What the process looks like step-by-step

1. Collect documents at home and fly to Paraguay. The application must be submitted in person; it is not possible to process a Residencia Temporal remotely.
2. Translate documents into Spanish locally and, in parallel, collect local certificates.
3. Submit the package to the migration service. The case is reviewed individually: an officer examines the documents and makes a decision.
4. Obtain a Cédula — a local identity card. With it, you can open an account, work, and rent housing.

How long does it take

Processing usually takes 2–3 months. The status itself is valid for 2 years and can be extended once for another 2 years.

What is next

You can apply for permanent status 90 days before the current one expires. Read about the next step in the section "Permanent residence (Residencia Permanente) in Paraguay".

Important

This material is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Requirements and deadlines may change; please verify current rules with the Dirección Nacional de Migraciones of Paraguay (migraciones.gov.py).