1
Combined Written Exam
Elementary
Language Level
Spanish or Guaraní
Your Choice
Unlimited
Retakes Allowed
Quick Answer
The Naturalization Exam
Under Acordada CSJ 464/2007 (Article 46), the Supreme Court administers a single written exam to anyone applying for naturalization. It checks elementary knowledge in four areas, in one sitting.
What it covers
- •Language: elementary Spanish or Guaraní (your choice)
- •History: key events and figures of Paraguay
- •Geography: regions, cities, and neighbors
- •Constitution: the rules on loss of nationality
Practical details
- •Format: written (the Acordada permits oral or written)
- •Set by: the Supreme Court (Corte Suprema de Justicia)
- •Where: Palacio de Justicia, Asunción
- •Retakes: allowed, no limit
- •Level: elementary only, no official CEFR band
One exam, not two
Some older guides describe two oral exams, a language test and a civics test, run by Migraciones. That is outdated. The naturalization exam is a single written test set by the Supreme Court, and it is not administered by Migraciones.
What "Elementary" Actually Means
The Acordada requires only "elementary knowledge" of one official language. It does not define a CEFR level, so any A1-A2 figure you read on expat blogs is an unofficial estimate, not a legal requirement. In practice, you should be able to:
- ✓Introduce yourself (name, origin, age)
- ✓Describe your work or profession
- ✓Talk about your family
- ✓Describe where you live in Paraguay
- ✓Explain why you want citizenship
- ✓Answer simple follow-up questions
- ✓Understand written questions on history and geography
- ✓Ask for clarification if needed
Good News
Spanish vs. Guaraní: Which to Choose?
Spanish (Recommended)
- ✓Abundant learning resources
- ✓Useful for daily life in Paraguay
- ✓Useful across Latin America
- ✓The practical choice for most applicants
Guaraní
- •Limited learning resources
- •Mostly spoken only in Paraguay
- •You will still need Spanish for daily life
Only consider Guaraní if you have a specific cultural connection or already speak it.
History, Geography & Constitution
The same written exam tests basic knowledge of Paraguay's history and geography, and the constitutional rules on loss of nationality. There is no national anthem requirement, despite what some guides say.
Key Topics to Study
| Topic | Date / Reference | What to Know |
|---|---|---|
| Independence | May 14-15, 1811 | Paraguay gained independence from Spain |
| War of the Triple Alliance | 1864-1870 | Conflict against Argentina, Brazil, and Uruguay |
| Chaco War | 1932-1935 | War with Bolivia over the Chaco region |
| Current Constitution | 1992 | Democratic constitution after the Stroessner era |
| Geography | - | Regions, major cities, and neighboring countries |
| Nationality rules | Arts. 146-150 | Constitutional rules on acquiring and losing nationality |
How to Prepare
Language Preparation
Timeline: 3-6 months if starting from zero
- 1.Apps: Duolingo, Babbel, Pimsleur
- 2.Classes: iTalki, local Spanish schools
- 3.Practice: Conversation with locals in Paraguay
- 4.Media: Spanish podcasts, YouTube, Netflix
History, Geography & Constitution
Timeline: 2-4 weeks of focused study
- 1.History: read a short history of Paraguay
- 2.Geography: learn the regions and neighbors
- 3.Constitution: review Articles 146-150 on nationality
- 4.Current events: know the current president
Study Tip
Make flashcards for the key dates and the constitutional articles on nationality. Because the exam is written, practice reading and answering short questions in Spanish or Guaraní, not just speaking.
What to Expect on Exam Day
Location
The Palacio de Justicia in Asunción, where the Supreme Court's Secretaría Judicial II administers the exam.
What to Bring
Cédula de Identidad or passport, and any documents your lawyer instructs you to bring.
Format
A single written exam covering language, history, geography, and the constitutional rules on loss of nationality. You take the language portion in Spanish or Guaraní, your choice.
Atmosphere
The exam is meant to confirm basic competence and a genuine effort to integrate, not to trick you.
Results
Usually communicated through your lawyer. If you do not pass, you can retake the exam.